The mid-range smartphone market in 2025 is a fiercely competitive battleground, with consumers increasingly demanding flagship-level features without the premium price tag. Into this arena steps the iQOO Neo 10, launched on May 26, 2025, in India, aiming to redefine what’s possible in the mid-range segment. With its impressive specifications and aggressive pricing, the Neo 10 is poised to set a new standard for performance in its class.
The Powerhouse Within: Snapdragon 8s Gen 4
The most significant differentiator for the iQOO Neo 10 is its Qualcomm Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 SoC. This chipset, announced in April 2025, is a game-changer for the mid-range. While not Qualcomm’s absolute top-tier offering (that distinction belongs to the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 with custom Oryon cores), the 8s Gen 4 leverages a powerful 1+3+2+2 core configuration with a Cortex-X4 prime core clocked at up to 3.21GHz.
What does this mean for the user? According to Qualcomm, the 8s Gen 4 delivers a 31% increase in CPU performance and a 49% improvement in GPU capabilities over its predecessor, the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3. Benchmark scores exceeding 2.42 million on AnTuTu further underscore its raw power. This isn’t just about numbers; it translates to:
- Seamless multitasking: Switching between apps, running demanding productivity tools, and managing multiple processes will be effortlessly smooth.
- Unrivalled gaming: Paired with iQOO’s dedicated SuperComputing Q1 gaming chip and a 144Hz refresh rate display, the Neo 10 is built for mobile gaming. Expect high frame rates, stable performance, and efficient thermal management even during extended gaming sessions.
- Future-proofing: The 8s Gen 4’s advanced architecture ensures the phone can handle upcoming applications and technologies for years to come.
Beyond the Processor: A Holistic Performance Package
While the chipset is the star, the iQOO Neo 10 doesn’t skimp on other performance-enhancing features:
- Display Excellence: The 6.78-inch 1.5K AMOLED display with a 144Hz refresh rate and a staggering peak brightness of up to 5,500 nits provides a visually stunning and ultra-responsive experience. Whether you’re gaming, streaming, or simply Browse, the display is a joy to behold.
- Mega Battery & Ultra-Fast Charging: A 7,000mAh battery paired with 120W wired fast charging is a combination rarely seen in this price segment. This promises not only extended usage but also incredibly quick recharges, alleviating battery anxiety for even the heaviest users.
- Ample RAM & Storage: With configurations offering up to 16GB of LPDDR5X Ultra RAM and 521GB of UFS 4.1 storage, the Neo 10 ensures plenty of space for apps, games, and media, along with rapid data access.
- Efficient Cooling: The integrated 7,000mm vapor cooling chamber is crucial for maintaining optimal performance during intense use, preventing throttling and ensuring sustained power delivery.
Setting a New Mid-Range Benchmark?
In a market where many mid-range phones compromise on certain aspects to hit a price point, the iQOO Neo 10 stands out by prioritizing raw performance and user experience. Its early adoption of the Snapdragon 8s Gen 4, combined with a large, fast-charging battery and a high-refresh-rate display, creates a compelling package.
The question then becomes, does it truly set a new standard? For performance enthusiasts and mobile gamers on a budget, the answer is a resounding yes. It pushes the boundaries of what’s expected from a smartphone in its price category, offering a taste of flagship power without the exorbitant cost.
While other mid-range contenders in 2025 like the OnePlus 13R or Motorola Edge 50 Pro might offer their own unique strengths in camera or design, the iQOO Neo 10’s emphasis on the core performance metrics makes it a serious contender for the “best mid-range performer” title. Its arrival signals a clear intent from iQOO to lead the charge in delivering exceptional value and power to the mass market, potentially reshaping consumer expectations for the rest of 2025 and beyond.