HONOR X5c Plus Hands-on: Back to Basics

The HONOR X5c Plus enters the entry-level segment with a focus on simplicity. Instead of relying on bold styling or oversized camera modules, it leans toward a clean and practical design that feels comfortable for daily use. We got to test the device quickly during the launch yesterday, and here’s our initial thoughts about it.

At 7.89mm thin and weighing around 186 grams, the phone feels balanced in the hand. Despite carrying a large battery, it does not feel bulky or overly heavy. The weight distribution is even, making one-handed scrolling and messaging manageable for extended periods. Its 167mm height and 77mm width give it a tall footprint, but the slightly curved edges help improve grip.

The rear panel keeps things minimal. HONOR uses a smooth matte finish that resists fingerprints better than glossy surfaces. It avoids flashy gradients and instead presents a subdued, straightforward look. The camera module is neatly positioned in the top corner and does not protrude excessively. It blends into the overall design without drawing too much attention.

The plastic build is expected at this price tier, yet the construction feels firm. There is no noticeable creaking or flex during regular handling. The frame curves gently into the back panel, which adds to the ergonomic feel. Overall, the device feels cohesive rather than assembled from mismatched parts.

On the front, the 6.74-inch TFT LCD dominates the experience. The 20:9 aspect ratio makes it suitable for vertical content such as social feeds and messaging apps. While the resolution is 720 x 1600, text remains readable, and visuals appear clear enough for casual streaming and browsing. Bezels are visible, particularly at the chin, but they are consistent with what you would expect in this segment.

HONOR includes Eye Comfort and Dynamic Dimming features, which help adjust brightness gradually in different lighting conditions. During extended indoor use, especially at night, the display feels less harsh on the eyes. It is not the sharpest panel in the market, but for everyday tasks, it performs adequately.

The side-mounted fingerprint sensor, integrated into the power button, keeps the rear panel clean. In testing, unlocking was responsive and consistent. The power and volume buttons are placed within easy reach, allowing quick adjustments without shifting grip.

At the back, the 50MP main camera serves as the primary imaging hardware. In good lighting, quick snapshots show reasonable detail and balanced colors for social sharing. The camera interface is straightforward, with portrait, photo, and video modes easily accessible. The additional QVGA sensor supports basic depth effects, keeping the setup simple.

Up front, a 5MP camera handles selfies and video calls. It performs best in well-lit conditions and includes portrait features. Face recognition is also available as an alternative unlock option.

Inside, the device runs on the MediaTek Helio G81 processor paired with 4GB RAM and 128GB storage. It operates on MagicOS 9.0 based on Android 15. For everyday tasks such as browsing, streaming, and messaging, performance remains stable. It is designed more for essential use than heavy gaming.

Battery life is supported by a 5,260mAh typical capacity, with 15W wired charging. The large battery adds confidence for a full day of moderate use, which aligns with the phone’s practical positioning.

The HONOR X5c Plus is priced at an SRP of PHP 6,999 for the 4GB (+4GB)/128GB variant. During the 3.3 Sale, it will be available for PHP 4,999 online exclusively at Shopee.