POCO C61 First Impressions: The New Entry-Level Champion?

HomeReviewsPOCO C61 First Impressions: The New Entry-Level Champion?

Highlights

  • POCO C61 is priced starting at Rs 6,999.
  • Features a 6.71-inch LCD with a 90Hz refresh rate.
  • Equipped with an 8MP AI dual camera setup.
  • Runs on Android 14 with a 5000mAh battery.

Stepping into the competitive budget-friendly smartphone realm, POCO introduces its latest model—the POCO C61.

The company says that the device is engineered to deliver essential features with a touch of modernity.

It definitely does have a distinctive look to it with a large camera ring dominating the phone’s back.

Priced at Rs 6,999, I had a chance to use the device for a while and here are my first impressions of the POCO C61.

Unboxing the POCO C61

Unboxing the POCO C61
Unboxing the POCO C61

Unwrapping the POCO C61 reveals the typical ensemble: the device, a charger and USB Type-C cable for power, necessary documentation for users, a SIM ejector toolkit for immediate setup.

Since this is an entry-level device, POCO has dispensed the inclusion of a clear silicone case, which I think would have been useful for the device.

Unboxing Video POCO C61

POCO C61: Design and Display: A Brief Overview

Up to 12GB RAM and 128GB expandable storage
POCO C61: Design and Display: A Brief Overview

The POCO C61 showcases a glass back design, available in Ethereal Blue, Diamond Dust Black, and Mystical Green.

I have the second one as my review unit and it is a rather annoying fingerprint magnet.

As for the display, the device has a 6.71-inch LCD Dot Drop display with a 90Hz refresh rate and Corning Gorilla Glass 3 protection.

Features a 6.71" HD+ 90Hz display with GG3 protection
Runs on Android 14 with a 5000mAh battery

The phone’s ergonomics are encapsulated in its dimensions and weight, coming in at 168.4mmx 76.3mm x 8.3mm and 193g, respectively.

The display’s brightness can hit up to 500 nits in high brightness mode, alluding to clear visibility even in brightly lit environments.

More will be shared on the display’s real-world performance in the full review, so stay tuned for that.

POCO C61: Cameras: Capturing Moments

POCO C61: Cameras: Capturing Moments
POCO C61: Cameras: Capturing Moments

In terms of optics, the POCO C61 features an 8MP AI dual camera, with a suite of photography features including an AI portrait mode with depth control, Google Lens, and HDR.

Video capabilities include time-lapse recording and full HD shooting at 30fps.

The front houses a 5MP selfie camera, equipped with HDR and screen soft light for better low-light images.

These specifications suggest versatility, but it’s the forthcoming detailed review that will reveal the true capacity of these cameras.

POCO C61: Day Camera Samples

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IMG_20240326_125306 IMG_20240326_125244 IMG_20240326_125216 IMG_20240326_125233 IMG_20240326_125044 IMG_20240326_125150 IMG_20240326_125235 IMG_20240326_125203

POCO C61: Day Video

POCO C61: Performance and Features: The Fundamentals

Features a 6.71" HD+ 90Hz display with GG3 protection
POCO C61: Performance and Features: The Fundamentals

At its core, the POCO C61 carries the MediaTek G36 chipset, supported by up to 12GB of RAM when combining actual and virtual memory.

Storage is equally generous, with options up to 128GB, expandable to 1TB.

These internals hint at a device capable of handling everyday tasks; however, exact performance metrics will be detailed later.

My initial handling of the device was above average with some amount of lag visible while handling the UI.

POCO C61 is priced starting at Rs 6,999
POCO C61 is priced starting at Rs 6,999

There is a side-mounted fingerprint scanner available as well for authentication purposes.

On the software front, the POCO C61 runs on Android 14, suggesting up-to-date features and security.

POCO has not said when it will be updating the C61 to a newer version of Android.

Finally, keeping the lights on is a 5000mAh battery, supported by 10W fast charging—a combination that promises to serve users well throughout the day.

These are merely the basics; more in-depth insights will follow in the full evaluation.

POCO C61: Summary: An Entry-Level Champ?

POCO C61: Summary: An Entry-Level Champ?
POCO C61: Summary: An Entry-Level Champ?

The POCO C61 enters the fray with foundational features set to satisfy the daily needs of a budget-conscious audience.

From its thoughtful design to the promise of sustained performance, the POCO C61 is set to be a contender in its category.

As we gear up for an extensive review, stay tuned to uncover every aspect of the POCO C61 in detail, where its capabilities and limitations will be thoroughly assessed.

5 Reasons to Buy

5 Reasons to Buy
5 Reasons to Buy
  • Budget-Friendly Performance: MediaTek G36 SoC and up to 12GB RAM make it a top pick for budget-conscious users seeking smooth performance.
  • Durable and Stylish Design: Premium glass back and Corning Gorilla Glass 3 display protection combine durability with aesthetics.
  • Expansive Storage Options: With 128GB built-in and expandable storage up to 1TB, space is never an issue.
  • Versatile Camera Setup: The 8MP AI dual rear camera and 5MP front camera are equipped for all your photography needs.
  • Reliable Battery Life: The 5000mAh battery with 10W fast charging ensures your phone keeps up with your lifestyle.

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Poco C61 Specs

GENERAL

Sim Type Dual Sim, GSM+GSM
Dual Sim Yes
Sim Size Nano+Nano SIM
Device Type Smartphone
Release Date March 21, 2024(Expected)

DESIGN

Dimensions

DISPLAY

Type Color IPS LCD Screen (16M Colors)
Touch Yes, 180 Hz Touch Sampling Rate
Size 6.71 inches, 720 x 1650 pixels, 90 Hz
Aspect Ratio 20.6:9
PPI ~ 269 PPI
Screen to Body Ratio ~ 89%
Glass Type Gorilla Glass 3
Features 500nits Brightness
Notch Yes, Water Drop Notch

MEMORY

RAM 4 GB
Expandable RAM Upto 4 GB Extra Virtual RAM
Storage 64 GB
Card Slot Yes, upto 1 TB

CONNECTIVITY

GPRS Yes
EDGE Yes
3G Yes
4G Yes
VoLTE Yes
Wifi Yes, with wifi-hotspot
Wifi Version Wi-Fi 5 (802.11 a/b/g/n/ac), Dual Band
Bluetooth Yes, v5.3, A2DP, LE
USB Yes, USB-C v2.0
USB Features USB Tethering, USB on-the-go, USB Charging
IR Blaster No

EXTRA

GPS Yes, with A-GPS, Glonass, Beidou
Fingerprint Sensor Yes, Side
Face Unlock Yes
Sensors Accelerometer, Gyro, Proximity, Compass
3.5mm Headphone Jack Yes
Splash Resistant Yes

CAMERA

Rear Camera 8 MP f/1.8 (Wide Angle)
0.08 MP (AI Lens) with autofocus
Features Photo Mode, 50MP Mode, Timelapse, Night Mode, Portrait Mode, Document Mode, Movie Frame, Voice Shutter, Tilt Shift, Timed Burst
Video Recording 1080p @ 30 fps FHD, 720p @ 30 fps HD
Flash Yes, LED
Front Camera 5 MP f/2.2 (Wide Angle) with Screen Flash
Front Video Recording 1080p @ 30 fps FHD

TECHNICAL

OS Android v13
Custom UI MIUI 14
Chipset Mediatek Helio G36
CPU 2.2 GHz, Octa Core Processor
Core Details 4x Cortex-A53@2.2 GHz & 4x Cortex-A53@1.7 GHz
GPU PowerVR GE8320
Java No
Browser Yes, supports HTML5

MULTIMEDIA

Email Yes
Music Yes
Video Yes
FM Radio Yes
Document Reader Yes

BATTERY

Type Non-Removable Battery
Size 5000 mAh, Li-Po Battery
Fast Charging Yes, 18W

FAQs

What is included in the POCO C61 box?

Upon unboxing the POCO C61, users will find the smartphone itself, alongside a charger, a USB Type-C cable, user documentation, and a SIM ejector tool.

This package provides everything needed to get started, although the absence of a clear silicone case in the box is noted.

How does the design of the POCO C61 stand out?

The POCO C61 features a distinctive glass back design available in Ethereal Blue, Diamond Dust Black, and Mystical Green colors. The design is both modern and functional, but it’s worth noting that the glossy finish can attract fingerprints.

What are the camera capabilities of the POCO C61?

The POCO C61 sports an 8MP AI dual camera on the rear, capable of features such as AI portrait mode, HDR, and Google Lens integration. For videos, it supports up to 1080p at 30fps. The front camera is a 5MP sensor, offering HDR and AI beautify for selfies.

Can the POCO C61 handle daily tasks efficiently?

Powered by the MediaTek G36 chipset and up to 12GB of combined actual and virtual RAM, the POCO C61 is positioned as a capable device for everyday tasks. Detailed performance analysis will be provided in the full review, examining how it handles various applications and games.

What makes the POCO C61 a good choice for budget-conscious buyers?

Priced at Rs 6,999, the POCO C61 offers a compelling mix of features for its price point, including a large 90Hz display, a solid camera setup, generous storage options, and the latest Android OS. The combination of these specifications with a 5000mAh battery makes it a strong contender in the budget segment.

Does Poco C61 have a Stylish Design & has an Affordable Price?

POCO has Launched POCO C61 at just 6,999.

Committed to striving for excellence in technological innovation, POCO, a leading technology brand today announced the launch of its latest device, POCO C61. Designed to deliver exceptional performance, design and display, POCO C61 embodies POCO’s vision of offering exciting features at a compelling price to enhance the overall smartphone experience.

The smartphone comes with a segment best stylish design 6.71-inch dot drop display with a 90 Hz refresh rate, a side fingerprint sensor, and a 5000 mAh battery.

Commenting on the launch, Himanshu Tandon, Country Head, POCO India said, “”POCO has remained dedicated to providing top-tier technology at an accessible price, and we’re thrilled to introduce our newest addition to the C series, the POCO C61.

Boasting a premium design and impressive features, the POCO C61 is tailored to meet our consumers’ needs. We are confident that the POCO C61 will redefine expectations for budget smartphones, and we eagerly anticipate our customers’ firsthand experience with it.”

Is Poco C61 have a Premium Design?

The POCO C61 is designed to be the ultimate budget smartphone with a premium design at an affordable price point. It boasts glass back design with radiant ring design, POCO C61 is a stylish device that is sure to turn heads.

The fast side fingerprint sensor ensures quick and secure access to the phone, while the compact size of 168.4mm*76.3mm*8.3mm and lightweight build of 193g make it easy to carry.

Does Poco C61 have an Immersive Display?

The POCO C61 boasts a 6.71″ LCD Dot Drop HD+ display, providing sharp and vibrant visuals. With a refresh rate of 90Hz and touch sampling rate of 180Hz, the display is responsive and smooth.

The Corning® Gorilla® Glass 3 provides protection against scratches and cracks, while DC dimming technology reduces eye strain.

The screen-to-body ratio of 89.5% (AA/CG) and side bezel size of just 1.15mm maximizes the viewing area. With a brightness of up to 500nits in High Brightness mode, the POCO C61’s display is easy to read even in bright sunlight.

How is the Battery life of Poco C61?

The POCO C61 is equipped with a powerful 5000mAh battery that provides all-day battery life.

The device comes with a 10W inbox charger that makes the charging easy and quick. With USB Type-C connectivity, the POCO C61 supports fast data transfer speeds and quick charging.

How is the camera capabilities of Poco C61?

Dual Camera System

The POCO C61’s dual camera system is designed to capture stunning photos and selfies. The rear camera boasts an 8MP AI Dual camera with a 1.12 μm pixel, f/2.0 aperture and AF, while the front-facing 5MP Selfie camera features an f/2.2 aperture.

With AI portrait mode with depth control, Film Filters, Timed burst, HDR, and more, both cameras provide users with a range of options to capture every moment in stunning detail.

How is the performance & storage capacity of Poco C61?

Powerful performance and storage

The POCO C61 is powered by the MediaTek G36, based on 12nm process technology and Octa core processor with up-to 2.2GHz clock speed for fast and efficient performance.

With LPDDR4X + eMMC 5.1 memory, the POCO C61 comes in two variants: 4+64GB and 6+128GB, providing ample storage space for all your apps, photos, and videos. The POCO C61 also supports expandable storage of up to 1TB.

What is Market Availability and Price of Poco C61?

POCO C61 will be accessible in the Indian market starting 12 PM on 28th March, available in 3 attractive colors – Mystical Green, Ethereal Blue, and Diamond Dust Black at an appealing price of INR 6,999 for 4+64GB and INR 7,999 for 6+128GB.

These prices are inclusive of the INR 500 coupon consumer offer for 1st day, ensuring a compelling deal for tech enthusiasts.

Also Read: POCO C61 Launched in India With MediaTek G36, 6GB RAM: Pricing, Features, Specs

 

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