The Vivo V25e is a mid-range smartphone that strikes a balance between performance, design, and affordability. With its sleek aesthetics and capable hardware, it aims to cater to users who want a reliable device without breaking the bank. Let’s dive deeper into what this phone has to offer and whether it lives up to expectations.

Design and Build Quality

The Vivo V25e boasts a premium design that belies its mid-range positioning. The device features a glossy glass back with a gradient finish that shifts colors under different lighting conditions, giving it a dynamic and eye-catching appeal. The frame is made of plastic, but it’s well-finished and doesn’t feel cheap. At 7.7mm thick and weighing around 183 grams, the phone feels lightweight and comfortable to hold, making it suitable for prolonged use.

The placement of buttons and ports is ergonomic, with the power button and volume rocker on the right side. The bottom houses a USB-C port, a speaker grille, and a 3.5mm headphone jack—a rarity in modern smartphones. The in-display fingerprint sensor is fast and accurate, adding to the convenience. Overall, the V25e’s design is one of its strongest selling points, offering a premium look and feel at an accessible price.

Display Quality

The Vivo V25e sports a 6.44-inch AMOLED display with a Full HD+ resolution (2400 x 1080 pixels). The screen delivers vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent contrast, as expected from an AMOLED panel. Brightness levels are adequate for indoor use, though outdoor visibility could be better under direct sunlight. The 90Hz refresh rate ensures smooth scrolling and animations, enhancing the overall user experience.

Watching videos or playing games on this display is a pleasure, thanks to the rich color reproduction and sharp details. The inclusion of HDR10 support further elevates the viewing experience for compatible content. While it doesn’t match the high refresh rates of flagship devices, the 90Hz panel is a welcome addition in this price segment.

Performance and Software

Under the hood, the Vivo V25e is powered by the MediaTek Helio G99 chipset, paired with 8GB of RAM. This combination delivers smooth day-to-day performance, handling multitasking and moderate gaming with ease. Apps open quickly, and switching between them is seamless, though heavy gaming or intensive tasks may cause occasional stutters.

The phone runs on Funtouch OS 12, based on Android 12. While the software is feature-rich, it comes with a fair amount of bloatware, which can be a downside for users who prefer a cleaner experience. Customization options are plentiful, allowing users to tweak the interface to their liking. Software updates have been inconsistent in the past, so long-term support remains a question mark.

Camera Performance

The Vivo V25e features a triple-camera setup on the rear, headlined by a 64MP primary sensor, an 8MP ultra-wide lens, and a 2MP macro camera. The primary camera captures detailed and well-exposed shots in good lighting, with accurate colors and decent dynamic range. The ultra-wide lens is serviceable but tends to struggle with edge distortion and softer details.

Low-light performance is average, with the Night mode helping to brighten shots but introducing some noise in the process. The 32MP front-facing camera takes sharp selfies with good skin tones, though beautification effects are applied by default. Video recording tops out at 4K 30fps, with electronic stabilization that works reasonably well for casual use.

Battery Life and Charging

Equipped with a 4,500mAh battery, the Vivo V25e delivers solid battery life, easily lasting a full day of moderate to heavy use. The 44W fast charging support is a standout feature, allowing the phone to recharge from 0 to 50% in just about 30 minutes. This makes it convenient for users who are always on the go and need quick top-ups.

Audio and Connectivity

The single bottom-firing speaker is loud but lacks depth, making it adequate for casual media consumption but not ideal for immersive audio experiences. The inclusion of a headphone jack is a plus for wired audio enthusiasts. Connectivity options include 4G LTE, Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.2, and NFC for contactless payments. The absence of 5G might be a dealbreaker for some, but it’s understandable given the price point.

Vivo V25e Full Specifications

Display: 6.44-inch AMOLED, 2400 x 1080 pixels, 90Hz refresh rate, HDR10

Processor: MediaTek Helio G99

RAM: 8GB

Storage: 128GB (expandable via microSD)

Rear Cameras: 64MP primary, 8MP ultra-wide, 2MP macro

Front Camera: 32MP

Battery: 4,500mAh, 44W fast charging

OS: Funtouch OS 12 (Android 12)

Connectivity: 4G LTE, Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.2, NFC, 3.5mm jack

Dimensions: 159.9 x 73.6 x 7.7 mm

Weight: 183 grams

Colors: Diamond Black, Sunrise Gold

Final Verdict

The Vivo V25e is a well-rounded mid-range smartphone that excels in design, display quality, and battery life. While its performance and camera system are decent, they don’t stand out significantly in a crowded market. The lack of 5G and the presence of bloatware in the software are notable drawbacks. However, if you prioritize aesthetics and fast charging in a budget-friendly package, the V25e is a compelling choice.