Xiaomi Black Shark 3 Unleashing Power Specs Prices Pros & Cons

Design and Build Quality

The Xiaomi Black Shark 3 features an impressive design that speaks to its gaming-centric focus. With dimensions of 168.7 x 77.3 x 10.4 mm and weighing 222 grams, it is a substantial device, perfect for gaming enthusiasts who crave a robust build. The smartphone is crafted with a glass front and an aluminum back, framed by aluminum as well, which ensures durability while maintaining an aesthetically pleasing look. The presence of a Dual SIM slot (Nano-SIM, dual stand-by) adds to its usability, allowing users to manage two numbers simultaneously.

Display

The Black Shark 3's display is a standout feature with a 6.67-inch AMOLED screen that promises vibrant visuals and deep contrasts thanks to HDR10+ support. The screen operates at a 90Hz refresh rate, offering smooth scrolling and an enhanced gaming experience. With a resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels and a 20:9 ratio (~395 ppi density), this display is not only sharp but also wide enough to ensure an immersive gaming experience.

Performance and Hardware

Equipped with the Qualcomm SM8250 Snapdragon 865 5G chipset, the Black Shark 3 guarantees top-notch performance. The octa-core CPU (1x2.84 GHz Cortex-A77 & 3x2.42 GHz Cortex-A77 & 4x1.80 GHz Cortex-A55) is designed to handle intensive tasks with ease. The Adreno 650 GPU further supports high-end gaming graphics and efficient multitasking.

The phone is available with 8GB or 12GB of RAM, coupled with internal storage options of 128GB or 256GB. However, it is important to note that the device does not support expandable storage, which means users need to choose the variant that best suits their needs at the time of purchase.

Camera Performance

Xiaomi has equipped the Black Shark 3 with a versatile triple camera setup. The primary camera features a 64 MP sensor with an f/1.8 aperture, ensuring crystal-clear photography, particularly in well-lit conditions. Accompanying the main sensor is a 13 MP ultrawide camera with an f/2.3 aperture and a 5 MP depth sensor with an f/2.2 aperture. This combination allows for a variety of photography options, from stunning landscapes to detailed portrait shots.

The video capabilities of the main camera are impressive, supporting 4K recording at 30/60 fps and slow-motion videos at up to 240 fps in 1080p and 1920 fps in 720p. The selfie camera is equipped with a 20 MP sensor that features an f/2.2 aperture, capable of capturing detailed self-portraits and supporting 1080p video recording at 30 fps.

Battery and Charging

The Black Shark 3 comes with a powerful 4720 mAh battery. In addition to its large capacity, the device supports 65W wired charging, which promises to fully charge the battery in approximately 38 minutes. This makes it an excellent choice for gamers and power users who require a device that can quickly get back in action. Additionally, the phone offers 30W wired charging in the 128/8 model variant and 18W magnetic wireless charging, catering to different charging preferences.

Network and Connectivity

The device supports a broad range of network technologies, including GSM, CDMA, HSPA, EVDO, LTE, and 5G, ensuring fast and reliable connectivity options suited for various networks around the globe. This makes it a future-proof choice for users who are anticipating a shift to 5G networks.

For other connectivity options, the Black Shark 3 is equipped with Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6, Bluetooth 5.0 with aptX HD, and aptX Adaptive support. The GPS capabilities are robust, with support for GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, QZSS, and BDS. However, the device does not support NFC or radio.

Audio and Multimedia

The Black Shark 3 ensures a top-notch audio experience with its stereo speakers, providing clear and immersive sound for gaming and multimedia consumption. The presence of a 3.5mm headphone jack is a significant plus, catering to audiophiles and users who prefer wired headphones over wireless options.

Software and User Interface

The device runs on Android 10, offering a smooth and intuitive user experience. While some might prefer the stock Android experience, the custom UI provided by Xiaomi caters specifically to enhancing gaming performance and user interaction, adding a layer of thrill to the gaming experience that the Black Shark series is known for.

Additional Features

Sensors, including a fingerprint sensor (optical, under display), accelerometer, gyro, proximity sensor, and compass, complete the package, providing seamless user interaction and security. The phone is available in three attractive color options: Lightning Black, Armor Gray, and Star Silver.

Pricing and Availability

Since its release in March 2020, the Xiaomi Black Shark 3 has been available to consumers globally, with a starting price of approximately 390 EUR. This pricing is particularly appealing for gamers and tech enthusiasts looking for a high-performance device without breaking the bank.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Xiaomi Black Shark 3 is a device that stands out in the gaming smartphone segment. Its exceptional build quality, high-performance specifications, and gamer-centric features make it a worthy consideration for those in search of a reliable gaming phone. While it may lack some features like NFC and expandable storage, the overall package it offers—with its impressive display, long battery life, and robust performance—makes it a formidable choice for gaming enthusiasts and everyday users alike.