HONOR 90 5G Review

The HONOR 90 5G is gathering most of the spotlight this season with big upgrades in different areas of smartphone technology. Priced in a sub-Php 25K category, the device could be your average mid-range phone. But with a feature set that pushes into the flagship territory, I'm afraid I might say otherwise.

It has many highlights. For one, the 200MP main shooter is marketed by the company to be of "flagship camera". On top of that, it intros an important feature that we may not heard of before - a flicker free display that clouds most of the high-end displays in the market.

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HONOR 90 5G Review

We have tested the HONOR 90 5G for almost a month now, and we would be glad to share with you our in depth review. Is the phone worthy of the hype? Should you buy the HONOR 90 5G? Those are the points that we'll answer.

Review Summary

Pros

• Very capable 200MP camera
• Elegant symmetrical design
• Almost Flicker-free display
• 66-watt fast charger
• Snappy chipset

Cons

• No stereo speaker
• Fingerprint magnet

Design

The HONOR 90 5G is something that you'll love the first time you've laid your eyes upon it. It gathers all the design cues from a flagship device with its slick and trendy look. The smartphone utilizes curved edges for easier usage, making it more comfortable to hold despite its large footprint. I have the Black colorway, and we think that it's very exquisite to the point that I always want to use it without a case.

However, doing so would be a bad idea. For one, the black variant is prone to fingerprints; and two, though it's made of high quality plastic, dropping this phone may result to dents and scratches. If you want other color options, it's also available in Emerald Green and Diamond Silver in the Philippines.

Moving on, the HONOR 90 5G is very thin; you can slide it in your pockets without a fuss. The frame is also made of plastic, and comes with a shiny finish just like the back panel.

Speaking of the frame, the ports and buttons are in their no-nonsense placements. We have the power button and the volume rocker on the right; the SIM tray, primary microphone, USB-C port, and speaker grille at the bottom; and a secondary microphone at the top. The front panel uses a hole-punch design; this provision is for the 50MP selfie camera.

Both the front and back are 3D-curved which makes this smartphone a joy to use. The backing, obviously, houses a unique camera module, which is something I haven't seen before. It's designed to be made up of two concentric circle with lenses being covered by an oval-shaped glass; HONOR says the inspiration is the "dynamic beauty of moon phases."

The overall chassis design is quite symmetrical with high degree of ergonomics. It's also a light phone compared to most of its competitors.

Display

This is where the phone flexes its muscle. The HONOR 90 5G frames a wide 6.7-inch AMOLED display with 2664 x 1200p resolution. This display has a peak brightness of 1600 nits and is capable of producing 1.07 billion colors.

What's even more interesting, is the fact that it's supported by 3.84KHz PWM Dimming; this is the technology which allows the smartphone to pulse at this certain frequency. In turn, it gives a comfortable and flicker-free viewing experience.

Flicker Test: HONOR 90 5G vs iPhone 14 Pro Max vs iPhone 13 Pro

We have tested the screen's flicker free feature where we compared the HONOR 90's display with that of the iPhone 14 Pro Max and iPhone 13 Pro. In our setup, we lowered the brightness of the phones to 20 percent, and set our camera's ISO and shutter speed to certain levels where flicker can be seen. The result of our test showed a considerable amount of flicker in both iPhones compared to the HONOR 90 5G. Still, this means that despite the product's marketing claims, flicker is not entirely eliminated. You can check our flicker test in this video.

The display also supports up to 120Hz dynamic refresh rate. This gives the display a perception of smooth visuals especially in playing games or scrolling the phone's interface. On top of that, this feature conserves battery as it trickles down to lower refresh rate when doing less demanding activities like reading an e-book or an article using a browser.

The display also supports HDR10+ technology which provides a higher dynamic range and a wider color gamut for compatible video sources like Netlfix and Amazon Prime Video.

Performance

The HONOR 90 5G is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 7 Gen 1 Accelerated Edition; it means that it's an overclocked version of the standard chipset - from 2.4GHz to 2.5 GHz. It is coupled by 12GB of RAM and a whopping 512GB of storage. Speaking of RAM, you can also harness an additional of 7GB RAM should your system needs it with the HONOR RAM Turbo feature.

In my time testing the HONOR 90 5G, I have no issues keeping up with all the activities I require for a smartphone. It does everything thrown at it with ease - may it be streaming, browsing, taking photos, and more. 

Gaming Performance

When it comes to gaming, I tested this phone in terms of its performance when playing MOBA games like Mobile Legends: Bang Bang; in fact, the phone supports the highest graphics settings possible which is the Ultra graphics. This means I can dive into the virtual battlefield with stunning visuals, incredibly detailed characters, and smooth gameplay.

My gameplay with this MOBA game is very smooth; I also tried multiple shooting type games, Genshin Impact, and Asphalt 9 with no hiccups or app crashes. If you're very particular with processing power, the Snapdragon 7 Gen 1 Accelerated Edition is more than enough.

3DMark Wild Life Stress Test

We put the HONOR 90's gaming performance to the test through 3DMark gaming benchmark, and the results aligned with our actual gaming observations. The test yielded a range of scores, with the highest loop score at 3093 and the lowest at 3084. This means that performance is consistent and stable across multiple runs. This also demonstrates this phone's ability to maintain a high level of gaming performance without significant fluctuations.

The stability of the device during this test is quite impressive, with a 99.7% stability rating. This suggests that the HONOR 90 5G can handle prolonged gaming sessions without experiencing significant drops in performance or crashes.

In terms of battery life, the test showed a modest decrease, going from 100% to 96% over a 20-minute gaming session. Temperature management during gaming is also a crucial factor, and the HONOR 90 5G performed well in this aspect. The temperature ranged from 34°C to 40°C during the test, which falls within normal internal temperature range for cell phones (source: Avast). The HONOR 90's temperature range remains within the safe parameters, which means that the HONOR 90 doesn't overheat during gaming sessions.

In summary, the HONOR 90 5G exhibits good gaming performance, with consistent scores, high stability, minimal battery drainage, and safe temperature management during 3D gaming benchmark test. This makes the HONOR 90 5G a promising choice for gamers looking for a reliable and efficient gaming device without breaking the bank.

Despite being over-pressed with loads of tasks, this phone does not overheat. This is due to HONOR 90's redesigned vapor chamber cooling system. The 5G connectivity is also consistent and stable, when it's available. Other connectivity features include Bluetooth v5.2, USB-C, and Wi-Fi 6.

One thing I wished though is for the phone to have stereo speakers. Just like the popular HONOR X9a, this phone settles with mono speakers which is a missed opportunity in elevating the phone's multimedia prowess. However, it would still not hinder you in enjoying your favorite titles in several streaming platforms.

Benchmark Test

In our benchmarks, we tested the HONOR 90 5G with Geekbench 6; it tallied 1044 single-core and 2900 multi-core scores. The phone got 2611 in GPU OpenCL score and 2955 in GPU Vulkan score. These figures are great for a mid-range smartphone.

Camera

The camera is where the HONOR 90 5G clouds most of its competitors. This smartphone employs a triple-camera system with the 200MP main camera being the marquee feature. This comes with f/1.9 aperture and 1/1.4-inch CMOS size. There's also a 12MP ultra wide sensor which also doubles as the macro camera, which most of the flagship phones do these days. A 2MP depth sensor completes the trifecta of this phone's rear sensors. Flipping the device, there's a whopping 50MP front-facing camera with f/2.4 aperture and it supports wide-angle selfie.

In a bright environment, the main camera shoots consistent bright photos with lots of details, contrast, and accurate colors. Even in low-light conditions, the phone delivers stunning photos even without activating the Night Mode.

The camera relies heavily on AI to process the captured scene, resulting in a well-thought out setting for every frame. However, the AI takes a considerable time to process the final output, I'd say at least two seconds. The main camera supports 2x zoom and 0.6x ultra wide-angle shots.

Sample Main Camera Photo: Daylight 1x Zoom

Sample Main Camera Photos: Lowlight, Night Mode

Sample Ultrawide Camera Photos: Vertical Wide Angle

In terms of the ultra wide camera, the 12MP sensor is also a worker in its own right. This camera is very convenient in taking landscape shots, and if you want wider perspective in your photos. Most of the photos we took with the wide angle camera are actually great, with just the right amount of detail, color accuracy, saturation, and contrast.

Sample Macro Photos: SuperMacro

As mentioned earlier, the HONOR 90 5G integrated its camera's macro capability with the 12MP ultra wide sensor. This opens a more flexible approach in taking close-up shots, and you can access the SuperMacro mode in the "More" section of the camera app. The ones we took gave more details, contrast, and dynamic range. I actually like this integrated macro feature compared to the fixed-focus implementation.

Sample Portrait Photos

The 2MP depth sensor is useful in getting shots with bokeh effects; though from what I have gathered in my portrait shots, it's actually AI who does most of the background blur. Still, the shots are fine with just the right amount of subject-and-background separation.

Sample Front Camera Photos

On the flip side, I'm quite surprised with the 50MP front camera. It supports 0.8x wide-angle selfie, portrait, night mode, and actually most of the modes you'll find using the rear camera. Photos shot by the front camera are bright with good color saturation and contrast. There are also beautification filters at your disposal.

You'll find a handful of interesting modes in the camera app, like the Multi Video wherein you can shoot videos using both rear and front cameras, simultaneously. There are also some staple modes like HDR Photo, HDR Video, Timelapse, Pro mode, and more.

Overall, the 200MP camera of the HONOR 90 5G outperforms majority of smartphone cameras we've tested in the midrange segment. However, HONOR did not reveal the exact information about the camera sensor itself, like its brand, which has been marketed as a "Flagship Camera." While the camera's performance undeniably aligns with flagship-level expectations, there remains a lack of specific technical information regarding this sensor which I think is needed to make more informed decisions when buying this smartphone.

Software

Running the whole show is HONOR's proprietary skin, the MagicOS 7.1, that's based on Android 13. The software supports Google Mobile Services and Google Playstore. This means you can enjoy popular services from Google and get timely updates on these apps.

The icons are flat with squarish design; this makes it pleasing on the eyes. You are also prompted to choose between the button or gesture navigation once you setup the phone. The control center is also clean with notifications settling at the bottom of the interface.

Moreover, this smartphone has multi-device collaboration features like the HONOR Share, which is a proprietary file sharing system across HONOR devices. Other supported cross-device tools are Nearby Share which is an inter-Android file sharing system, Link to Windows wherein you can link your phone to your PC, Device Control, and more.

Another noteworthy feature is the HONOR Connect which is a platform that gives interesting services and features among HONOR devices; you just have to log-in the same HONOR ID to connect them in this platform.

Battery

The HONOR 90 5G packs a 5000 mAh battery. Based on our real-time use, this device can last for almost a day of moderate usage, taking into account my day-to-day power consumption habits of this smartphone. But of course, battery performance could vary based on user's power consumption pattern.

We include below the PCMark Benchmark Test in order to test this phone's battery life based on everyday activities. Please note that this test is a continuous simulation and it only provides an estimate of battery performance. It's quite useful when comparing with other competitor phones as this is a benchmark test, which will subject these phones under same simulation processing. Other variables in the test that we set are as follows: (1) fixed brightness set at mid level, (2) dynamic refresh rate, and lastly, volume set at mid level.

PCMark Battery Life Test

In our PCMark battery life test, this smartphone scored a total runtime of 10 hours and 32 minutes.

Fast Charging Test

It also supports 66W HONOR SuperCharge fast charging technology. In our charging test, the HONOR 90 5G took 1 hour and 2 minutes for a complete battery recharge. For our detailed charging records, check out the data below:

• 15-minute charge: 30%
• 30-minute charge: 55%
• 45-minute charge: 80%
• 1 hour and 2 minutes: 100%

The phone also comes with battery optimizations to extend the battery life like the Battery Saving Mode and other activity-based battery modes.

Some Frequently Asked Questions

Before we wrap up, here are some frequently asked questions about the HONOR 90 5G:

1. Does HONOR 90 5G has IP Rating?

• HONOR did not provide any information about the HONOR 90's ingress protection, which makes it very important for users to handle this phone with care especially in challenging conditions. Additionally, it's prudent to assume that it lacks water resistance, otherwise they would have disclosed this important feature.

2. Does HONOR 90 5G has 3.5mm audio jack?

• The HONOR 90 does not have a 3.5mm audio jack; but HONOR is generous enough to include a USB-C to 3.5 mm headphone jack adapter in the package for users to connect devices that use a standard 3.5 mm audio plug, like headphones or speakers, to this smartphone.

3. Does HONOR 90 5G has Gorilla Glass Protection?

• It's important to emphasize that the HONOR 90 does not feature any Gorilla Glass protection; HONOR also did not specify the use of any form of reinforced glass. The phone comes with pre-installed screen protector out of the box. We strongly recommend that users should use a protective case for added durability.

4. Is HONOR 90's display Flicker Free?

• The HONOR 90's display is supported by 3.84KHz PWM Dimming feature; however it did not entirely eliminate flicker based on our display test. It's still an excellent feature for a comfortable viewing experience on this smartphone; and it's significantly better in terms of minimizing flicker when we compare it with other phones, even flagship phones, in the market.

Verdict: Should You Buy the HONOR 90 5G?

For the price of Php 24,990, HONOR has included a slew of remarkable flagship-grade features in this smartphone. For one, the 200MP fantastic camera is a remarkable feat in this segment. Plus, its elegant, almost flicker-free display is a testament that you can enjoy flagship-grade viewing experience that can lessen eye strain and eye fatigue. Of course, the premium design and processing speed complete the list of the things that we love about this smartphone.

HONOR 90 5G Specs

• 6.7-inch 1200 x 2664 pixels AMOLED display, 1.07B colors, 120Hz, HDR10+, 1600 nits (peak)
• Qualcomm Snapdragon 7 Gen 1 Accelerated Edition 5G (4 nm)
• 2.5GHz Octa-core CPU
• Adreno 644 GPU
• 12GB RAM + 512GB ROM
• Triple rear cameras: 200MP, f/1.9 (main) + 12MP, f/2.2, 112˚ (ultrawide) + 2MP, f/2.4 (depth)
• 50MP, f/2.4, wide front camera
• up to 4K@30fps, gyro-EIS
• Dual SIM (nano)
• 5G, 4G LTE
• Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth v5.2, GPS, NFC
• USB Type-C 2.0, OTG
• Fingerprint (under display, optical)
• MagicOS 7.1, based on Android 13
• 161.9 x 74.1 x 7.8 mm, 183 grams
• Li-Po 5000 mAh battery w/ 66W wired charging
• 5W reverse wired charging
• Midnight Black, Emerald Green, Diamond Silver
• HONOR 90 5G Price: SRP Php 24,990. Buy it via Shopee.

What's the Best HONOR 90 5G Alternative?

Choosing the right smartphone can be a daunting task, so we delve into two formidable contenders in the midrange segment in the Philippines – the HONOR 90 5G and the realme 11 Pro+. This smartphone comparison sheds light on their key features, specifications, and capabilities in order to help consumers make an informed decision as to which smartphone to purchase. Let's explore how these two smartphones stack up against each other in this head-to-head showdown.

Smartphone Comparison: ● HONOR 90 5G vs ● realme 11 Pro+

Comparison	HONOR 90 5G	realme 11 Pro+
Display	● 6.7-inch AMOLED, 120Hz, 1B colors, HDR10+, 1600 nits (peak)	● 6.7-inch AMOLED, 120Hz, 1B colors, HDR10+, 950 nits (peak)
Resolution	● 1200 x 2664 pixels	● 1080 x 2412 pixels
Rear Design	● Glossy Plastic	● Vegan leather design
Chipset	● Qualcomm Snapdragon 7 Gen 1 Accelerated Edition (4 nm)	● Mediatek Dimensity 7050 (6 nm)
CPU	● 1x2.5 GHz Cortex-A710, 3x2.36 GHz Cortex-A710, 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A510	● 2x2.6 GHz Cortex-A78, 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55
GeekBench 6 CPU Benchmark	● 1044 single-core, 2900 multi-core	● 956 single-core, 2347 multi-core
GPU	● Adreno 644	● Mali-G68 MC4
GeekBench 6 GPU Benchmark	● 2955 GPU Vulkan score, 2611 GPU OpenCL	● 2358 GPU Vulkan score, 2342 GPU OPenCL
Memory	● 12GB RAM + 512GB ROM	● 12GB RAM + 512GB ROM
RAM Expansion	● up to 7GB	● up to 12GB
Main Camera	● 200MP, f/1.9	● 200MP Samsung ISOCELL HP3, f/1.69 with OIS
Ultrawide	● 12MP, f/2.2, 112˚	● 8MP, f/2.2, 112˚
Depth / Macro	● 2MP, f/2.4, depth	● 2MP, f/2.4, macro
Front Camera	● 50MP, f/2.4, 100˚	● 32MP, f/2.5, 22mm (wide)
Videos	● up to 4K@30fps (rear/front)	● up to 4K@30fps (rear), 1080p@30fps (front)
Connectivity	● 5G, WiFi 6	● 5G, WiFi 6
OS	● MagicOS 7.1, Android 13	● Realme UI 4.0, Android 13
Battery Life	● 5000 mAh, PCMark: 10 hours and 32 minutes	● 5000 mAh, PCMark: 13 hours
Fast Charing	● 66W wired: 100% for 1 hour and 2 minutes	● 100W wired: 100% for 27 minutes
Colors	● Midnight Black, Emerald Green, Diamond Silver	● Sunrise Beige, Oasis Green
Price	● SRP ₱24,990	● SRP ₱24,999