Smartphone makers love to point out off their newest and biggest flagship telephones with a lot fanfare at product launches. These gadgets usually price practically a thousand {dollars}, however do you actually need to spend that a lot cash on a cellphone?Vivo says no. With the V29 and V29 Pro, the corporate is making an attempt to show you will get an important cellphone with flagship-like options with out spending a fortune. Vivo has been on a roll within the mid-range cellphone class, and it is all due to its telephones’ nice cameras and cheap costs.The firm’s new mid-rangers use the identical formulation as their predecessors, the Vivo V27 and V27 Pro (which I reviewed earlier this 12 months), and add a bit of additional flare to make them interesting to shoppers. So, let’s take a better have a look at these two gadgets and see how they carry out in the actual world.Today’s finest Vivo V29 offersVivo V29 and V29 Pro: Price and availabilityVivo V29 Pro Himalayan Blue (Image credit score: Jay Bonggolto / Android Central)The Vivo V29 is just accessible in a couple of markets proper now, however Vivo says will probably be accessible in practically 40 nations throughout Europe, Asia, and Latin America sooner or later. In Spain, it prices €529. It additionally launched in India on October 4 at a beginning value of ₹32,999.Meanwhile, the Vivo V29 Pro is formally accessible in India for round ₹40,000 (roughly $480).Vivo V29 and V29 Pro: DesignVivo V29 Pro in Himalayan Blue (left) and V29 in Majestic Red and Himalayan Blue (Image credit score: Jay Bonggolto / Android Central)Distinguishing between the Vivo V29 and V29 Pro generally is a bit tough, even in case you have each proper in entrance of you. Let’s begin by testing the one noticeable exterior distinction—the again. The Vivo V29 collection presents vibrant decisions, corresponding to Himalayan Blue, Majestic Red, and Space Black. Just like its predecessors, all these fashions showcase Vivo’s Fluorite AG Glass again, a nifty function that modifications colour when hit by daylight or UV mild.The Majestic Red and Space Black variations rock that signature thermochroic glass again, however the Himalayan Blue one goes with a surprisingly smooth and premium-feeling plastic again.On the opposite hand, the V29 Pro solely has a few hues—Himalayan Blue and Space Black. However, solely the blue variant performs the color-changing recreation. Its design is impressed by mountain peaks, packing round 15 million tiny magnetic particles that make the colour shift and shimmer with each transfer, in keeping with Vivo. Space Black remains to be superior, however the blue one is next-level mesmerizing.I acquired to mess around with each the Himalayan Blue and Majestic Red flavors of the V29, they usually’ve acquired this dazzling factor occurring. The Himalayan Blue retains it chill with a constant colour vibe, whereas the Majestic Red takes you on a journey from a lightweight purple hue to a deeper shade in a single easy, gradient transfer.(Image credit score: Jay Bonggolto / Android Central)When it involves how the Vivo V29 and V29 Pro appear and feel in your hand, they’re virtually twins. Besides the glass (or plastic) again end, there’s not a lot setting them aside. They each rock a considerable digital camera module that takes up a big portion of their backs. But it is not as chunky as those you will discover on another flagship telephones. That means these infants slide into your pocket with ease.Both fashions function the identical curved glass back and front, held collectively by a plastic body. Flip it over, and also you’re greeted by the identical trio of cameras and the fashionable Aura Ring mild.Both the V29 and V29 Pro are just a little slippery to carry, however Vivo has your again with a transparent TPU case it throws within the field. Now, sturdiness is the place the V29 flexes a bit. It boasts an IP68 mud and water resistant tag, which is not your typical function in funds smartphones. It means this cellphone can deal with respectable water publicity, with submersion under one meter. Not that I attempted it myself—I’m not that courageous. On the opposite hand, the Pro mannequin, oddly sufficient, would not sport the identical waterproof bragging rights.Image 1 of 3(Image credit score: Jay Bonggolto / Android Central)(Image credit score: Jay Bonggolto / Android Central)(Image credit score: Jay Bonggolto / Android Central)Down on the backside, you have acquired the standard suspects: a USB-C port, a speaker grill, and the SIM tray. On the precise facet, you will discover the facility button and quantity rockers.Like its V27 siblings, the V29 collection is rocking the Aura Light Portrait System in its digital camera recreation. It’s acquired the principle digital camera sensor, a little bit of software program methods, and the ring mild again flash, all teaming as much as make your topics shine.Now, do not get me flawed, each fashions do churn out some fairly stellar flash portraits. But the Aura mild is on the smaller facet, so you are not getting that full-blown mild ring impact you see in these fancy skilled pictures.Despite being comparatively inexpensive, the V29 and V29 Pro do not compromise on high quality. With their strong construct and attention-grabbing design, these telephones really feel like high-end gadgets.Vivo V29 and V29 Pro: Display(Image credit score: Jay Bonggolto / Android Central)Now, let’s speak screens. Both variations maintain it according to a 6.78-inch AMOLED show that is a pleasure to make use of. The easy 120Hz refresh charge makes every part really feel further snappy, and the brightness holds its personal in opposition to the solar, so no squinting essential.These fashions keep on with the identical colour replica controls we have seen earlier than, providing you with three fundamental presets to play with. You’ve acquired your Standard, Pro, and Bright presets, plus the choice to tweak the colour temperature of every. It’s just about the identical colour controls you will discover on different telephones from the BBK-owned firm.Whether you are enjoying video games, searching the online, or watching movies, the Vivo V29 is all about making these experiences top-notch. As a bonus, Vivo throws in some nifty show tech to chop down on blue mild and display flickering, giving your eyes just a little further love and safety.While many top-tier Android telephones are going all-in on flatter shows, there’s one thing cool about Vivo’s mid-range fashions rocking these curved edges. It offers these telephones a slick and premium vibe. The facet bezels maintain it minimal, and even the highest and backside ones are enjoying it small.Vivo V29 and V29 Pro: Performance(Image credit score: Jay Bonggolto / Android Central)The spotlight of the present on the subject of efficiency is the Vivo V29 Pro, particularly whenever you pit it in opposition to its common buddy. The Pro variant attracts its energy from MediaTek’s Dimensity 8200 chipset constructed on a 4nm node course of. This similar powerhouse of a chipset can also be the one doing the heavy lifting for the Vivo V27 Pro. When MediaTek rolled this out, it promised some critical gaming upgrades and effectivity boosts. Well, in my testing, it appears like the corporate wasn’t simply speaking the speak—the efficiency positive factors are legit.Sure, it is not rocking that flagship chip standing, so you will not discover it flaunting its stuff on the high of any benchmark charts. But for on a regular basis customers, this chipset holds its personal after which some, particularly on the subject of gaming. I threw Genshin Impact at it, cranked as much as 60fps with excessive settings, and I encountered no hiccups or any noticeable slowdowns.Of course, it is not fairly as highly effective as a cellphone with the most recent Snapdragon chip, however the V29 Pro holds its personal within the efficiency enviornment. Now, if I’m getting choosy, there is a little bit of pre-installed bloatware lurking within the software program. That stated, you possibly can kick it to the curb, however it takes a little bit of effort.Swipe to scroll horizontallyVivo V29 and V29 Pro Specs ComparisonClassVivo V29Vivo V29 ProOSFuntouch OS 13 primarily based on Android 13Funtouch OS 13 primarily based on Android 13Display6.78 inches, AMOLED, 1260 x 2800, 120Hz, HDR10+6.78 inches, AMOLED, 1260 x 2800, 120HzProcessorQualcomm Snapdragon 778G 5GMediatek Dimensity 8200 (4 nm)RAM12GB12GBStorage256GB, 512GB256GBRear digital camera 150MP, f/1.9 (huge), PDAF, OIS50MP, f/1.9 (huge), PDAF, OISRear digital camera 28MP, f/2.2, (ultrawide)8MP, f/2.2, (ultrawide)Rear digital camera 32MP, f/2.4 (macro)12MP, f/2.0, 2x optical zoom (telephoto)Front digital camera50MP, f/2.0 (huge), 22mm, AF50MP, f/2.0 (huge), 22mm, AFConnectivityWi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, NFC, Bluetooth 5.2Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, Bluetooth 5.3AudioMono speaker, 24-bit/192kHzMono speakerSecurityFingerprint sensor (in-display)Fingerprint sensor (in-display)Battery & charging4600mAh, 80W wired charging4600mAh, 80W wired chargingDimensions164.2 x 74.4 x 7.5mm164.2 x 74.4 x 7.5mmWeight186g188gColorsSpace Black, Himalayan Blue, Majestic RedHimalayan Blue, Space BlackThe Pro mannequin can deal with even probably the most demanding video games, however should you push it to the max, you would possibly discover some minor body drops throughout intense motion sequences. Considering the worth, that is nonetheless a outstanding efficiency.When it involves dealing with on a regular basis duties, the V29 Pro can cope with every part I throw at it, from texting and social media to internet searching and emailing. It’s working on Funtouch OS 13 primarily based on Android 13 proper now, however Vivo is promising an replace to Android 14 by the tip of the 12 months.(Image credit score: Jay Bonggolto / Android Central)On the opposite hand, the Vivo V29 runs on the Qualcomm Snapdragon 778G 5G (6nm) processor, a chip that is been round for about two years. Interestingly, the common V27 is powered by MediaTek’s Dimensity 7200, which was solely launched earlier this 12 months. I reached out to Vivo to ask why the corporate selected an older processor for the V29, and here is what the corporate’s product growth group needed to say:”With V series, we want to deliver an all-around carefree package at an attractive price point. A product is always as good as the selection and the combination of its individual parts. We believe that the V-Package is a good match for our consumers’ needs, with which they can fully rely on stable and good performance for everyday tasks. Together with advanced features such as the Aura Light with Smart Color Temperature Adjustment and 88W FlashCharge, V29 offers an unparalleled combination of stylish design, studio-level imaging capabilities, powerful performance, and value for money.”Having stated that, the chipset saved up with my each day duties with none main hiccups. While there have been a couple of cases of minor slowdowns and one transient freeze, the cellphone usually felt responsive and easy.(Image credit score: Jay Bonggolto / Android Central)But whenever you fireplace up sure video games, you actually discover the distinction in efficiency. With the Pro mannequin, I may easily play PUBG Mobile at excessive body charges. On the V29, although, I needed to tone it down for a good gaming expertise. There’s a flowery recreation enhance mode that is speculated to make every part run like butter, however even with it turned on, I could not get 60fps except I cranked the graphics method down.Vivo V29 and V29 Pro: Cameras(Image credit score: Jay Bonggolto / Android Central)The V collection is the place Vivo exhibits off what it may possibly do when it is flying solo. Unlike the X flagship collection, which groups up with Zeiss for the cameras, the V29 collection is all Vivo’s personal work. And similar to previous V collection telephones, the digital camera is the actual star of the present.The digital camera setup on the V29 and V29 Pro is just about the identical, besides the Pro ditches the common depth sensor for a beefier telephoto lens. This means you possibly can zoom in additional on the Pro with out issues getting blurry. Both telephones have a 50MP primary digital camera that packs sufficient element, so you possibly can zoom in twice with out dropping any high quality.As is at all times the case with Vivo’s mid-range lineup, the principle digital camera steals the highlight right here. It takes wonderful pictures with tons of element and sharpness. The colours are vibrant, leaning just a little in direction of the livelier facet, however they don’t seem to be overblown. The photographs come out crisp, boasting a large dynamic vary and virtually no seen noise. Even in tough lighting, the V29 and V29 Pro one way or the other handle to seize a ton of particulars, which is one thing that the majority funds Android telephones battle with.Image 1 of 18(Image credit score: Jefferson Mangubat)(Image credit score: Jefferson Mangubat)(Image credit score: Jay Bonggolto / Android Central)(Image credit score: Jay Bonggolto / Android Central)(Image credit score: Jay Bonggolto / Android Central)(Image credit score: Jay Bonggolto / Android Central)(Image credit score: Jefferson Mangubat)(Image credit score: Jefferson Mangubat)(Image credit score: Jefferson Mangubat)(Image credit score: Jefferson Mangubat)(Image credit score: Jefferson Mangubat)(Image credit score: Jefferson Mangubat)(Image credit score: Jay Bonggolto / Android Central)(Image credit score: Jefferson Mangubat)(Image credit score: Jefferson Mangubat)(Image credit score: Jay Bonggolto / Android Central)(Image credit score: Jay Bonggolto / Android Central)(Image credit score: Jay Bonggolto / Android Central)Even when it will get darkish or the lights are bizarre, the digital camera nonetheless holds its personal. It picks up sufficient mild even with out the flamboyant ring mild, due to the built-in stabilizer. But should you’re actually in a pinch, the ring mild involves the rescue. It evens out the lighting in your topic and robotically adjusts the colour so that you look your finest.This cellphone’s digital camera has a secret weapon known as Aura Light Portrait. That large circle subsequent to the cameras is not a flash, however a bi-color mild supply.Image 1 of two(Image credit score: Jay Bonggolto / Android Central)(Image credit score: Jay Bonggolto / Android Central)This good mild adjusts itself to match your scene’s lighting, providing you with a gentle fill mild that blends proper in together with your environment. As far as I do know, it is the one cellphone available on the market with this cool function.Image 1 of two(Image credit score: Jefferson Mangubat)(Image credit score: Jefferson Mangubat)Sure, the night time mode is strong, so that you may not end up utilizing this good lighting trick too usually in actual life, however it’s a cool choice to have anyway. In my checks, it did an important job of robotically adjusting to the lighting round me, however you possibly can tweak it manually if you’d like.On the flip facet, the ultra-wide and macro cameras are sort of a let-down. The ultra-wide, although, has its moments and will be helpful every so often. Regardless, you are higher off sticking to the principle digital camera and the selfie shooter for the best-quality pictures.Meanwhile, the V29 Pro’s 2x zoom lens is an actual game-changer, as you possibly can see from the pattern pictures under. The photos are tremendous sharp and detailed, and the colours match completely with the principle digital camera.Image 1 of two(Image credit score: Jefferson Mangubat)(Image credit score: Jefferson Mangubat)Taking pictures with the common V29 feels simply as easy and quick because the Pro mannequin. There’s barely any delay, even whenever you’re snapping tons of images, which is superior contemplating the V29 would not have the identical powerhouse processor.Vivo V29 and V29 Pro: Battery life(Image credit score: Jay Bonggolto / Android Central)The V29 and V29 Pro pack a 4,600mAh battery, which could not sound big in comparison with another mid-range telephones, however do not let that idiot you. This battery has at all times lasted me via the day, even once I was touring and utilizing my cellphone like loopy with navigation and tons of display time. I constantly acquired greater than six hours of screen-on-time on a single cost, which is fairly spectacular.If you are taking it straightforward in your cellphone, you can in all probability stretch that single cost to cowl two days. The solely small bummer is that there is not any wi-fi charging, which is likely to be a dealbreaker for some. But truthfully, the battery life is so good that I by no means actually felt the necessity for it.When the battery lastly runs dry, the V29 collection juices again up at lightning pace due to the included 80W wall charger. It’s not fairly as quick because the loopy 120W charging on some Redmi Note telephones, however it’s nonetheless a lot fast for many of us. You’re taking a look at hitting round 50 p.c in simply 20 minutes.Vivo V29 and V29 Pro: The competitorsThe Vivo V29 collection stands out as a fairly strong midrange possibility, particularly should you’re all about that digital camera life. However, it is value noting that though they maintain their very own for on a regular basis duties, the V29 and V29 Pro do not high the charts as probably the most highly effective midrange smartphones on the market.The Google Pixel 7a has extra energy with its Tensor G2 chipset, higher video, and longer software program assist, whereas the Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro Plus has sooner charging and a greater display. That stated, the V29 is the most suitable choice for individuals on the lookout for a camera-first cellphone at a value that doesn’t break the financial institution.Vivo V29 and V29 Pro: Should you purchase them?(Image credit score: Jay Bonggolto / Android Central)You can purchase them if…You need a cellphone that is straightforward on the load and feels snug to carry.You’re right into a killer show paired with software program that meshes completely with it.You’re a fan of telephones that may actually flex their digital camera muscle tissue.You mustn’t purchase them if…Wireless charging is your jam.The absence of stereo audio system in smartphones is a little bit of a letdown for you.You’re not a fan of utilizing instances, as a result of each fashions have a tendency to slide out of your fingers.If you are on a decent funds, the Vivo V29 already offers you a strong possibility. It handles your on a regular basis stuff like scrolling via socials, watching movies, jamming to music, and a few mild gaming with out breaking a sweat. But, should you’re a critical gamer otherwise you’re considering of doing picture and video enhancing in your cellphone, it is likely to be value splurging a bit extra for the V29 Pro.In the images showdown, every of those telephones has its personal strengths and weaknesses. The V29 Pro nails vibrant colours and handles difficult lighting, however the V29 edges forward within the high-quality particulars recreation, particularly in macro mode. Despite that, my vote goes to the V29 Pro for images, primarily due to its beefier processing energy.
Take your portraits to the following degree
The Vivo V29 Pro is a surprisingly nice cellphone powered by a really succesful MediaTek chip. It options a powerful digital camera system with a hoop mild which you could regulate for higher lighting when taking pictures of topics.
Vivo V29: Price Comparison