HONOR has established itself as one of the strongest mid-range smartphone brands in Malaysia, consistently delivering devices that balance affordability with high-end features. The new HONOR X9d 5G continues that trend, but this time the company has raised the bar in durability, endurance, and improved intelligent functionality.
As the direct successor to the HONOR X9c, the X9d not only improves on design and performance but also introduces a massive battery upgrade and enhanced AI experiences that set it apart from many competitors in its price bracket. We put the device through its paces to see if it truly deserves to be called one of the best all-rounders in the mid-range category.
Unboxing
Design and Durability
At first glance, the HONOR X9d looks elegant and modern with its premium flat-screen design. Unlike curved displays that can be harder to protect, the flat display makes it easier to apply tempered glass or protective films. HONOR offers the device in four stylish colors: Reddish Brown, Sunrise Gold, Forest Green, and Midnight Black, each giving the phone a unique personality.
Where the X9d really shines is in its toughness. The device is one of the very few in its class to boast IP69K, IP68, and IP66 certifications, ensuring protection against dust, high-pressure water, and even full water submersion. This makes it a reliable companion for users with active lifestyles, whether you’re traveling, working outdoors, or simply prone to the occasional accident.
On top of that, HONOR has added its Ultra-Bounce Anti-Drop technology, designed to absorb shocks from accidental drops. Compared to the X9c, which was already known for its toughness, the X9d pushes the envelope further, positioning itself as a mid-range phone that can take on the elements without compromise.
Display & Audio Experience
The 6.79-inch HONOR FullView AMOLED display is one of the best features of the X9d. With an incredible 6000 nits peak brightness, it’s currently one of the brightest panels in its class, making outdoor visibility excellent even under Malaysia’s harsh midday sun.
The AMOLED screen supports 1.07 billion colors and 100% DCI-P3 coverage, ensuring vibrant and accurate color reproduction for movies, photos, and games. The 120Hz refresh rate provides smooth scrolling and fluid animations, while the 3840Hz PWM dimming reduces flicker, making it more comfortable on the eyes during long hours of use.
Compared to rivals in the same price segment, the HONOR X9d’s display feels more premium. It’s also a step above the X9c, which already had a decent screen but lacked this level of brightness and color depth.
The HONOR X9d comes equipped with dual speakers that can reach up to 400% maximum volume, delivering loud and clear sound. While it doesn’t quite match the depth of flagship-level stereo systems, it’s more than sufficient for casual media consumption and gaming without headphones.
Connectivity is also up to date, with support for Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.2, and a range of audio codecs including LDAC, AptX HD, and AptX Adaptive. This ensures strong wireless performance, whether you’re streaming music to headphones or transferring files.
Hardware and Performance
Under the hood, the HONOR X9d is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 6 Gen 4 processor with the Adreno 810 GPU, a combination that delivers noticeable improvements in speed and efficiency compared to its predecessor. Available in two configurations, that is 12GB RAM + 256GB storage or 12GB RAM + 512GB storage which the device offers both multitasking power and ample room for apps, games, and media.
In everyday use, the X9d feels quick and responsive. Opening apps is smooth, switching between multiple tasks is lag-free, and gaming performance is respectable for a mid-range device. Popular titles like Call Of Duty Mobile and Mobile Legends run with stable frame rates at medium to high settings, while lighter games fly effortlessly.
HONOR’s optimization also ensures that heat management remains controlled, preventing the device from getting uncomfortably warm even after extended sessions. This is a marked improvement over the X9c and helps the X9d compete more effectively against other Snapdragon-powered mid-range phones.
Benchmark Results
Camera Capabilities
The HONOR X9d features a dual-camera setup on the back: a 108MP Ultra-Sensing main camera (f/1.75) and a 5MP ultra-wide lens. On the front, there’s a 16MP camera for selfies and video calls.
In daylight, the 108MP sensor captures highly detailed images with good dynamic range, while the ultra-wide lens performs adequately for landscapes and group shots, though the 5MP resolution limits its sharpness. However this time around, the Low-light photography benefits from HONOR’s AI-driven software processing, which enhances brightness and reduces noise without overexposing. Though being said, there is still room for improvement via software update to further make the colors more balanced, especially over darker shots.
What makes the X9d’s camera suite stand out, however, is its AI-enhanced editing tools. These includes:
- AI Erase and Remove Reflection for cleaning up shots
- AI Outpainting and Cutout for creative photo edits
- AI Upscale for increasing resolution
- AI Face Tune (Eyes Open) to fix closed-eye selfies
- Moving Photo Collage & Share for fun, animated edits
These features are practical and user-friendly, especially for casual users who don’t want to spend time editing with third-party apps. While the lack of a telephoto or macro lens may disappoint photography enthusiasts, the main camera still delivers solid results for most users.
Battery and Charging
The biggest upgrade from the X9c is undoubtedly the 8300mAh silicone-carbon battery. This is one of the largest batteries you’ll find in a mainstream smartphone and translates into real-world endurance that’s nothing short of impressive.
HONOR claims up to 52.5 hours of music playback and nearly 24 hours of video streaming on a single charge. In everyday use, the X9d comfortably lasts two days with moderate to heavy use, making it ideal for power users or those constantly on the go.
When it does need a top-up, the 66W HONOR SuperCharge quickly brings the phone back to life, that means you spend less time tethered to a charger. Compared to competing mid-range devices, the X9d’s battery life is a clear standout, making it a reliable choice for travelers, students, and professionals alike.
AI and Productivity Features
Beyond hardware, HONOR is leaning heavily on AI to keep in on par with the competition. The phone comes with several built-in AI-powered tools that boost productivity and convenience, such as:
- AI Translate with real-time face-to-face translation and subtitles
- AI Notes and AI Recorder for capturing and transcribing meetings or classes
- Magic Portal 2.0 and Circle to Search for faster, smarter multitasking
- Gemini AI Assistant for personalized assistance
These features make the HONOR X9d more than just a communication device, it doubles as a digital assistant that enhances both work and leisure.
Verdict
The HONOR X9d 5G does more than just an incremental upgrade, and it’s a bold step forward in the mid-range smartphone segment. By combining rugged durability, a massive battery, a brilliant display, and meaningful AI tools, HONOR has created a device that caters to users who want reliability, endurance, and modern features without paying flagship prices.
Pros
- Ultra-tough build with IP69K certification and drop resistance
- Massive 8300mAh battery with 66W fast charging
- Vivid AMOLED display with 6000 nits peak brightness
- Practical AI-powered photo editing and productivity tools
- Strong day-to-day performance with Snapdragon 6 Gen 4
Cons
- Secondary camera limited to 5MP ultra-wide
- Slightly heavier than some rivals at 193g
- Lacks telephoto or macro camera options
Final Take
If you’re looking for a durable, long-lasting smartphone that balances power with practicality, the HONOR X9d 5G is one of the available compelling choices in the mid-range market today. It’s not only tougher and longer-lasting than many of its rivals but also smarter, thanks to HONOR’s thoughtful integration of AI features.