iQOO Z10R vs CMF Phone 2 Pro: Which Budget 5G Powerhouse Wins the Midrange?

The sub-₹25,000 smartphone market in India is a battleground of innovation, where brands are constantly pushing the limits of what budget-conscious consumers can expect from their devices. Two of the latest contenders, the iQOO Z10R and the CMF Phone 2 Pro, represent very different philosophies in the midrange segment. The iQOO Z10R is a no-nonsense performance beast, while the CMF Phone 2 Pro is a design-forward experience machine. Both pack 5G connectivity and premium features, but which one truly delivers the best value?

The Performance Showdown: Raw Power vs. Efficient Execution

At the heart of both devices lies the Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 chipset, a midrange powerhouse that delivers solid performance for everyday tasks. Whether you’re scrolling through social media, streaming videos, or running basic productivity apps, both phones will handle these tasks with ease. However, the differences become apparent when we dig deeper into the hardware configurations.

The iQOO Z10R offers a clear advantage in the RAM department, with options for both 8GB and 12GB configurations. This extra memory translates to smoother multitasking, especially for users who frequently switch between multiple apps or engage in demanding tasks like gaming or video editing. The 12GB variant, in particular, is a rare find in this price segment and gives the iQOO Z10R a significant edge for power users.

The CMF Phone 2 Pro, on the other hand, sticks with a more conventional 8GB RAM setup. While this is more than enough for casual users, it may feel limiting for those who push their devices to the limit. The Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 is an efficient chip, but when paired with only 8GB of RAM, it may struggle with heavy workloads compared to the iQOO’s higher-capacity configurations.

Battery Life: The iQOO Z10R’s Unfair Advantage

One area where the iQOO Z10R absolutely dominates is battery life. With a massive 7,300mAh battery, this device is built to last. In real-world usage, this translates to a full day of heavy use or even longer with moderate consumption. The CMF Phone 2 Pro, while still respectable, simply can’t match this endurance. Its battery is more in line with what we’ve come to expect from midrange devices, which means users may find themselves reaching for the charger more frequently.

The iQOO Z10R also supports fast charging, allowing users to quickly top up their battery when needed. While the CMF Phone 2 Pro also supports fast charging, the sheer capacity of the iQOO’s battery means it can be charged to a usable level more quickly, minimizing downtime. For users who are always on the go, this is a significant advantage.

Design and User Experience: Where the CMF Phone 2 Pro Shines

While the iQOO Z10R excels in raw specifications, the CMF Phone 2 Pro carves out its own niche with a distinctive design and user experience. CMF by Nothing has built a reputation for creating devices that stand out, and the Phone 2 Pro is no exception. Its transparent design showcases the internal components, giving it a unique, almost futuristic look. The back panel features a series of customizable LED lights known as the glyph interface, which can be programmed to display notifications, alerts, and even personalized animations.

This level of customization and attention to detail is something the iQOO Z10R simply can’t match. The iQOO device sticks to a more conventional design language, which, while functional, lacks the visual flair of the CMF Phone 2 Pro. Additionally, the CMF Phone 2 Pro integrates seamlessly into Nothing’s ecosystem, offering a cohesive experience for users who already own other Nothing products. The software experience is also noteworthy, with a clean and minimalist interface that prioritizes usability.

The Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?

The choice between the iQOO Z10R and the CMF Phone 2 Pro ultimately comes down to what you value most in a smartphone. If raw performance and battery life are your top priorities, the iQOO Z10R is the clear winner. Its optional 12GB RAM configuration and massive 7,300mAh battery make it an excellent choice for power users who demand longevity and smooth multitasking.

However, if you’re looking for a device that stands out from the crowd, the CMF Phone 2 Pro is the way to go. Its unique design, customizable glyph interface, and seamless ecosystem integration make it a compelling option for users who prioritize aesthetics and user experience. The clean software experience is also a significant plus, offering a refreshing alternative to the often bloated interfaces found on other budget devices.

In the end, both phones represent excellent value in the sub-₹25,000 segment, and the “better” choice depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re still on the fence, it might be worth considering other alternatives like the Vivo T4 or the upcoming Nothing Phone (3a), as the smartphone landscape is constantly evolving, offering consumers an ever-expanding range of choices.