HONOR X10 Max Ultra: Is This the Largest Screen Phone Worth Buying?, Hey tech enthusiasts! If you’re someone who craves a cinematic smartphone experience—think binge-watching Netflix, gaming like a pro, or just soaking in every pixel of a massive display—then the HONOR X10 Max might have caught your eye. Launched in July 2020, this beast boasts a jaw-dropping 7.09-inch display, making it one of the largest-screen smartphones out there. But is the HONOR X10 Max Ultra (as some might call its hypothetical top-tier variant) worth your hard-earned cash? Let’s dive into the specs, performance, and whether this phablet lives up to the hype for 2025’s tech-savvy crowd.
A Display That Steals the Show
The HONOR X10 Max’s headline feature is its 7.09-inch IPS LCD display with a resolution of 2280 x 1080 pixels and a 19:9 aspect ratio. This isn’t just big—it’s massive. For context, most flagship phones in 2025, like the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra or iPhone 16 Pro Max, hover around 6.7 to 6.9 inches. The X10 Max’s screen size makes it a standout for media consumption, whether you’re streaming 4K content, reading e-books, or multitasking with split-screen apps.
The display’s quality holds up well for its size. With a pixel density of around 356 PPI, it’s sharp enough for most users, though it doesn’t quite match the crispness of QHD+ AMOLED panels on premium devices like the HONOR Magic 7 Pro. The IPS LCD tech means colors are vibrant, but blacks aren’t as deep as AMOLED, and viewing angles are slightly less forgiving. Still, for gaming or watching movies, the sheer real estate is a game-changer. Plus, it supports HDR10, which enhances contrast and color for supported content—a nice touch for a phone in this price range.
One unique perk? The X10 Max features dual 1217 linear stereo speakers with Huawei Histen 6.1 sound technology. Translation: loud, immersive audio that complements the giant screen, making it a portable theater for tech enthusiasts who prioritize entertainment.
Performance: Can It Keep Up in 2025?
Under the hood, the HONOR X10 Max is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 800 5G chipset, paired with up to 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage. In 2020, this was a solid mid-range setup, delivering smooth performance for everyday tasks like browsing, social media, and light gaming. But let’s be real—2025’s tech landscape is a different beast. Compared to modern powerhouses like the Snapdragon 8 Elite in the HONOR Magic 7 Pro or Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra, the Dimensity 800 feels a bit dated.
For casual users, the X10 Max handles apps like YouTube, Spotify, and even Genshin Impact at medium settings without breaking a sweat. However, tech enthusiasts who push their devices with graphically intensive games or heavy multitasking might notice occasional stutters. The chipset supports 5G connectivity (SA/NSA), which is a plus for future-proofing, but don’t expect the blazing-fast performance of newer chips. If you’re a gamer or power user, you might want to consider alternatives like the HONOR 200 Pro or Motorola’s budget-friendly flagships for smoother performance.
Storage-wise, the 128GB capacity is decent, and the inclusion of a microSD card slot is a rare treat in 2025, letting you expand storage for all those 4K videos and high-res photos. The phone runs on Magic UI 3.1 (based on Android 10), which is a significant drawback. Without Google Play Services and with outdated software, you’ll need to rely on Huawei’s AppGallery or sideload apps, which could be a hassle for some.
Camera: Good Enough for Casual Snaps
The HONOR X10 Max sports a triple-camera setup on the back: a 48MP main sensor, an 8MP ultra-wide lens, and a 2MP depth sensor. For selfies, there’s an 8MP shooter in a waterdrop notch. In 2020, this was a respectable setup for a mid-range device, but it’s not competing with 2025’s camera champs like the HONOR Magic 7 Pro’s 200MP telephoto or the iPhone 16 Pro Max’s computational photography.
In good lighting, the 48MP main camera captures detailed shots with decent dynamic range, though colors can lean slightly oversaturated. The ultra-wide lens is handy for landscapes but struggles in low light, and the depth sensor is mostly there for portrait mode bokeh. Video recording tops out at 1080p, which feels underwhelming when competitors offer 4K at 60fps. For tech enthusiasts who love photography, this camera setup is functional but won’t blow you away. If you’re into casual social media posts, it gets the job done.
Battery Life: Built for the Long Haul
With a 5,000mAh battery, the HONOR X10 Max is built to last. This capacity is still competitive in 2025, especially for a phone with such a large display. In real-world use, you can expect a full day of heavy use—streaming, gaming, and browsing—with juice left to spare. The 22.5W fast charging isn’t the fastest (compared to 66W or 120W on newer HONOR models), but it gets you from 0 to 50% in about 40 minutes, which is respectable.
The phone also supports reverse charging, letting you juice up other devices like earbuds or a friend’s phone. For tech enthusiasts who value endurance, this battery is a strong selling point, especially for long commutes or travel.
Design and Build: A Giant That Feels Premium
At 232 grams and measuring 174.4 x 84.9 x 8.3 mm, the X10 Max is a hefty device. It’s not one-handed operation territory, but the slim bezels and sleek design make it feel less bulky than expected. Available in Racing Blue, Black, and Silver, it has a premium look with a glass back and aluminum frame. The side-mounted fingerprint sensor is fast and reliable, and the inclusion of NFC for contactless payments is a nice bonus.
One thing to note: the large size makes it less pocket-friendly, so if portability is a priority, you might prefer something like the HONOR 400 Lite with its 6.7-inch display. But for those who love the phablet vibe, the X10 Max feels like a tablet-phone hybrid done right.
How Does It Stack Up in 2025?
Let’s put the HONOR X10 Max in context. Priced around ₹19,990 in India (roughly $240 USD), it’s a budget-friendly option compared to flagships like the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra ($1,200+) or even the HONOR Magic 7 Pro. Its closest competitors in 2025 include the Samsung Galaxy M32 5G and Realme P1 5G, which offer similar pricing but smaller screens (around 6.5–6.7 inches) and sometimes better chipsets.
The X10 Max shines for niche users who prioritize screen size above all else. If you’re a tech enthusiast who loves watching movies, reading comics, or playing mobile games on a tablet-like display, this phone delivers. However, its aging chipset, lack of Google Play Services, and mid-tier cameras hold it back from being a true flagship killer. For comparison, the HONOR 400 Lite offers a vibrant 6.7-inch OLED display and a more modern MediaTek Dimensity 7025 Ultra chipset for just £249.99, making it a compelling alternative for budget-conscious buyers.
Is It Worth Buying?
So, is the HONOR X10 Max Ultra (or rather, the X10 Max, as no “Ultra” variant exists) worth buying in 2025? If you’re a tech enthusiast obsessed with massive screens and don’t mind sideloading apps or using Huawei’s ecosystem, this phone is a steal for its price. Its display, battery life, and audio quality make it a multimedia powerhouse, perfect for Netflix marathons or casual gaming. However, if you need cutting-edge performance, top-tier cameras, or the latest software, you might want to look at newer models like the HONOR 200 Pro or Samsung’s budget offerings.
For those who want a unique, larger-than-life smartphone experience without breaking the bank, the X10 Max still has a lot to offer. Just be prepared to embrace its quirks and limitations.
FAQs
Q: Does the HONOR X10 Max support 5G?
A: Yes, it supports 5G (SA/NSA) thanks to the MediaTek Dimensity 800 chipset, making it suitable for fast network speeds where available.
Q: Can I use Google apps on the HONOR X10 Max?
A: No, it doesn’t come with Google Play Services due to Huawei’s restrictions. You’ll need to use Huawei’s AppGallery or sideload apps, which may require some tech know-how.
Q: Is the 7.09-inch display good for gaming?
A: Absolutely! The large screen and stereo speakers create an immersive gaming experience, though the Dimensity 800 chipset may struggle with high-end games at max settings.
Q: How long does the battery last?
A: The 5,000mAh battery typically lasts a full day of heavy use or up to two days with lighter use, depending on your activities.
Q: Is there a newer version of the HONOR X10 Max in 2025?
A: As of May 2025, there’s no direct successor like an “X10 Max Ultra.” HONOR has shifted focus to models like the Magic V3 and 200 Pro, but the X10 Max remains a unique offering in its class.
Q: Does it support expandable storage?
A: Yes, it has a microSD card slot, allowing you to expand storage beyond the 128GB internal capacity.
Thanks for joining me on this deep dive into the HONOR X10 Max! Are you tempted by its massive screen, or are you holding out for something newer? Drop your thoughts in the comments, and let’s geek out over tech together!