Huawei Y9s

Nowadays, you really don’t need a flagship smartphone to get the best mobile experience. There’s a plethora of mobile devices that offer the performance and technologies available in high-end models but at half or even a third of the price. Add to that, midrange phones are also now almost if not on par with premium phones in terms of looks, built, and design. Case in point: the Huawei Y9s.

- PAT CALICA

The cameras on this phone offer great clarity and detail. Images and videos look great when taken in well-lit situations, although they can still be improved with a little boost on the colors. As for photos taken indoors or in low light, it’s a hit or miss. Video stabilization is also available on this device.

The side-mounted fingerprint is a special favorite of mine as it feels natural to access given that you already rest your thumbs on the side of the phone when holding it. Plus, it’s fairly accurate and fast so unlocking the phone is easy.

The images and videos come out with great details on the Huawei Y9s’ Full HD+ screen. The colors are vibrant, text looks crisp, and pictures and videos offer good contrast all throughout. Thanks to the IPS panel, the screen provides great viewing angles and enough brightness. To complement this, the Y9s is also equipped with a good audio system—there’s not enough bass, but it can go loud enough to fill a room.

The front shooter takes social media-worthy selfies as they are detailed and bright—although the colors are a bit washed out. I don’t recommend turning on the beauty mode; the filters and beautification can look unnatural at times.