Vivo X9 Plus Complete Specs Pricing Pros & Cons Unveiled

Overview

The vivo X9 Plus, released in December 2016, is a smartphone that stands out for its solid build quality and well-rounded performance features. Though it has been discontinued, the device aimed at delivering premium functionalities for its time. The X9 Plus carries a blend of decent specifications that competed well with contemporaneous mid-range to high-end devices.

Network and Connectivity

The vivo X9 Plus offers comprehensive network support with technology covering GSM, HSPA, EVDO, and LTE. It supports 2G bands (GSM 900/1800 for both SIMs), 3G bands (HSDPA 850/900/1900/2100), and 4G bands (1, 3, 4, 5, 8, 38, 39, 40, 41). For internet connectivity, the device provides HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps and LTE (2CA) Cat6 300/50 Mbps speed options. On the connectivity front, the phone features Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, and Bluetooth 4.2, A2DP, LE. However, it lacks NFC and does not include a radio. It supports microUSB 2.0 and OTG, making it practical for data transfers and peripheral connections.

Design and Build

The vivo X9 Plus is built with a focus on aesthetics and ergonomics. Measuring 162 x 79 x 7.5 mm and weighing 199 g, the phone manages to feel both sturdy and comfortable in hand. The front is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 5, adding to the device's durability. Its design features a dual SIM (Nano-SIM, dual stand-by) slot, allowing users the flexibility of managing personal and work contacts simultaneously.

Display and User Interface

Fitted with a 5.88-inch IPS LCD display, the vivo X9 Plus boasts a screen-to-body ratio of ~74.5%, giving ample viewing area while maintaining a sleek profile. The screen resolution of 1080 x 1920 pixels ensures vibrant and crisp visuals with a pixel density of ~375 ppi. The device originally shipped with Android 6.1 (Marshmallow) and is upgradable to Android 8 (Oreo), personalized with Vivo's Funtouch 3 UI, which provides an assorted range of customization and ease-of-use features.

Performance and Hardware

Under the hood lies the Qualcomm MSM8976 Pro Snapdragon 653 processor, a mid-range octa-core processor divided into 4x1.95 GHz Cortex-A72 and 4x1.44 GHz Cortex-A53 cores. This combination offers a balance of power efficiency and performance, suitable for multimedia consumption and moderate multitasking. The graphics handling is supplied by the Adreno 510 GPU, which offers competent performance for most graphics-heavy apps and games of its time.

Combined with 6GB of RAM, the vivo X9 Plus ensures smooth multitasking capabilities. However, the device does not feature an expandable memory slot, offering a fixed internal storage of 64GB. This limitation might impact users seeking ample storage for media and applications, especially in an era where 256GB or more is becoming standard in high-end devices.

Camera and Photography

The camera system on the vivo X9 Plus is one of its standout features. The primary camera at the back is a 16 MP shooter with an f/2.0 aperture, featuring PDAF, LED flash, panorama, and HDR capabilities, making it a strong contender for photography enthusiasts. The rear camera is capable of shooting 1080p videos at 30fps.

On the front, a dual-camera setup comprising a 20 MP (f/2.0, wide, 1/2.8", 1.0µm) main sensor and an 8 MP secondary sensor, allows for high-quality selfies and video calls. Both front and rear cameras can record videos at 1080p@30fps, expanding the phone's versatility in capturing detailed and vibrant moments.

Audio and Multimedia

The vivo X9 Plus provides a well-rounded audio experience with its built-in loudspeaker, and it retains the beloved 3.5mm audio jack, which is cherished by audiophiles. This inclusion comes in handy for those who prefer conventional wired headphones over wireless alternatives.

Battery Life and Efficiency

Powering the device is a non-removable Li-Ion 4000 mAh battery, which offers significant usage time given the device's power profile and screen size. With 18W wired charging support, users can expect reasonably swift recharging to keep up with their daily routines.

Sensors and Additional Features

The vivo X9 Plus comes equipped with a range of sensors to support user experience and device functionality. The fingerprint sensor is front-mounted, providing quick access and enhanced security. Additional sensors include an accelerometer, proximity sensor, and compass, delivering comprehensive interaction feedback and navigation capabilities.

Color Variants and Market Position

The device was available in two attractive color options: Gold and Rose Gold, appealing to users who prefer devices with a sophisticated and classic aesthetic. Originally priced at approximately 580 EUR, the vivo X9 Plus catered to mid-range consumers seeking advanced features under a lid of elegance and strong build quality.

Summary

In summary, the vivo X9 Plus stands as a testament to the brand's commitment to delivering impactful and well-rounded smartphones. While newer models have eclipsed its feature set and performance metrics, the X9 Plus remains a worthy device for those who prioritize strong photographic capabilities, a premium design, and reliable processing power in their smartphone experience.