Vivo S20 Pro Review: A Detailed Look After Extensive Use
If you're in the market for a new smartphone, the Vivo S20 Pro is a device that deserves your attention. After using it for several weeks, I can confidently say that it offers a great balance of performance, design, and camera capabilities. In this review, I'll break down my experience with the Vivo S20 Pro and compare it with its sibling, the Vivo V29 Pro, to help you decide which one suits your needs better.
Design and Build Quality
The Vivo S20 Pro boasts a sleek and modern design that feels premium in hand. The device features a 6.44-inch AMOLED display with a smooth 90Hz refresh rate, making scrolling and gaming a delight. The back panel has a glossy finish that catches the light beautifully, but it’s also a fingerprint magnet. If you prefer a more understated look, the Vivo V29 Pro offers a matte finish that’s less prone to smudges.
Both phones are lightweight and easy to handle, but the Vivo S20 Pro feels slightly more compact due to its curved edges. The placement of buttons and the in-display fingerprint sensor are ergonomic and responsive, ensuring a seamless user experience.
Performance and Software
Under the hood, the Vivo S20 Pro is powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 1100 chipset, which delivers smooth performance for everyday tasks and gaming. Multitasking is a breeze, thanks to the 8GB or 12GB RAM options. The phone runs on Funtouch OS based on Android 11, which is feature-rich but comes with some pre-installed bloatware.
Vivo S20 Pro Vs V29 Pro Comparison
In comparison, the Vivo V29 Pro is equipped with a Snapdragon 778G processor, which is slightly less powerful but still capable of handling most tasks efficiently. Both devices offer 5G connectivity, ensuring future-proof performance. However, if you’re a heavy gamer or demand top-tier performance, the Vivo S20 Pro has a slight edge.
Camera Performance
The camera setup is where the Vivo S20 Pro truly shines. It features a 64MP primary sensor, an 8MP ultra-wide lens, and a 2MP macro lens. The photos taken in daylight are vibrant and detailed, with accurate colors and excellent dynamic range. The night mode is impressive, capturing well-lit images even in low-light conditions.
On the other hand, the Vivo V29 Pro comes with a 50MP primary sensor, an 8MP ultra-wide lens, and a 2MP depth sensor. While it takes good photos, the Vivo S20 Pro’s camera system is more versatile, especially for macro and low-light photography. Both phones excel in video recording, offering 4K capabilities and stable footage.
Battery Life and Charging
The Vivo S20 Pro is equipped with a 4,000mAh battery, which easily lasts a full day with moderate usage. The device supports 44W fast charging, allowing you to recharge from 0 to 70% in just 30 minutes. This is a significant advantage for users who are always on the go.
The Vivo V29 Pro, however, takes the lead in this department with a larger 4,500mAh battery and 66W fast charging. It can fully charge in under an hour, making it a better choice for those who prioritize battery life and quick charging.
Display and Multimedia
Both phones feature stunning AMOLED displays with vibrant colors and deep blacks. The Vivo S20 Pro’s 90Hz refresh rate ensures smooth scrolling and an enhanced gaming experience. The Vivo V29 Pro, however, steps it up with a 120Hz refresh rate, making it the better option for gamers and multimedia enthusiasts.
The audio quality on both devices is decent, with clear sound output from the speakers. However, neither phone includes a 3.5mm headphone jack, so you’ll need to rely on wireless headphones or a USB-C adapter.
Storage and Pricing
The Vivo S20 Pro comes with 128GB or 256GB of internal storage, which should be more than enough for most users. The Vivo V29 Pro offers similar storage options, but it’s slightly more affordable, making it a better value for budget-conscious buyers.
In terms of pricing, the Vivo S20 Pro is positioned as a mid-range flagship, while the Vivo V29 Pro is more budget-friendly. If you’re looking for premium features without breaking the bank, the Vivo V29 Pro is a solid choice. However, if you want the best performance and camera capabilities, the Vivo S20 Pro is worth the extra investment.
Vivo S20 Pro vs Vivo V29 Pro: Which One Should You Buy?
Choosing between the Vivo S20 Pro and Vivo V29 Pro ultimately depends on your priorities. If you want a phone with a superior camera, faster performance, and a compact design, the Vivo S20 Pro is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prioritize battery life, a higher refresh rate display, and a more affordable price tag, the Vivo V29 Pro is the better option.
Both phones offer excellent value for money and cater to different segments of users. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast, a gamer, or someone who needs a reliable daily driver, Vivo has you covered with these two impressive devices.
Final Thoughts
After using the Vivo S20 Pro extensively, I can confidently say that it’s one of the best mid-range smartphones in its category. Its combination of performance, design, and camera capabilities makes it a standout choice. While the Vivo V29 Pro offers some compelling features at a lower price point, the S20 Pro’s overall package is hard to beat.
If you’re still unsure, consider your usage patterns and budget. Both phones are excellent in their own right, and you can’t go wrong with either. Let us know in the comments which one you’d choose and why!