Can a smartphone under 150,000 naira deliver a solid experience in 2025? That’s the question I set out to answer when I spent an entire week using the new Infinix Smart 10 as my main device. Packed with Android 15, AI features, and a 120Hz display, the Smart 10 promises a lot for its tiny price tag.
Spoiler alert: this phone doesn’t just meet expectations—it surpasses them.
First Impressions: Clean Design with a Premium Feel
The Infinix Smart 10 might be an entry-level phone, but its design doesn’t give that away. The version I tested came in a striking galaxy white, with subtle curves, a glossy back, and a minimalist camera module that resembles the iPhone 16.
The phone is slim, easy to grip, and feels solid in hand thanks to its 190g weight. While the frame and back are plastic, the build quality feels far from cheap.
Display: 120Hz on a Budget? Yes, Really.
One of the biggest surprises was the 6.6-inch IPS LCD display with a 120Hz refresh rate—a feature you’d expect from a #500,000+ device. Out of the box, it’s set to 60Hz, but switching to 120Hz in settings makes scrolling noticeably smoother.
The 720p resolution is sharp enough for browsing and video playback. And with 700 nits peak brightness, visibility outdoors is solid—even under direct sunlight.
Performance: Smooth for Everyday Use
Powered by the UNISOC T7250 chipset with either 3GB or 4GB of RAM (mine had 3GB), the Smart 10 handles day-to-day tasks with ease. From chatting on WhatsApp to switching between Chrome tabs, everything felt responsive.
The 128GB storage is generous, and there’s a microSD slot for expansion. With Memory Fusion, you can convert storage into extra RAM(+3GB) for better multitasking.
Gaming: Okay for Casuals, Not Hardcore Gamers
If you’re hoping to play Call of Duty: Mobile at high settings, this isn’t the phone for that. But it runs smoothly on low graphics settings. For casual games like Subway Surfers, 8 Ball Pool, or Candy Crush, performance was smooth and top-notch.
The phone did warm up slightly after 30 minutes or more of gameplay, but it never lagged or crashed.
Camera: Better Than Expected
With dual 8MP cameras (front and rear), both supporting 2K video at 30fps, the Smart 10 exceeded my expectations. Photos taken in daylight were vibrant, clear, and ready for social media. Low-light shots weren’t perfect, but they’re definitely usable.
Selfies were clean, and skin tones looked natural. Video calls via WhatsApp and Zoom also looked sharper than what I’m used to on budget phones.
Battery Life: Easily Lasts 1.5 Days
Equipped with a 5,000 mAh battery and 15W fast charging although it has a 10W charger in the box. the Smart 10 comfortably lasts over a day and a half with mixed use. I routinely got 9–10 hours of screen-on time.
Infinix’s AI battery manager also kicks in with brilliant suggestions to improve longevity, such as closing background apps and adjusting brightness.
Folax AI Assistant: Surprisingly Useful
Meet Folax, Infinix’s AI assistant built into the Smart 10 powered with DeepSeek-R1. I used it to schedule reminders, generate Instagram captions, get weather updates, and even summarize news articles. What I appreciated most was how Folax proactively suggested actions based on my habits.
Dual Speakers: Loud and Clear
Infinix claims that the Smart 10’s dual speakers deliver a volume boost of up to 300%. While I can’t measure that precisely, I can confirm that the sound is loud, clean, and doesn’t distort even at high volume. Watching Netflix or YouTube without headphones is totally doable.
IR Blaster: A Handy Bonus Feature
One feature that pleasantly surprised me during the week was the inclusion of an IR blaster—a rarity in smartphones at this price point. With the built-in IR sensor, the Infinix Smart 10 can double as a universal remote for TVs, air conditioners, fans, and other home appliances. I tested it with two different TVs and an LG sound system, and the setup was seamless using the pre-installed remote control app. For users in regions where traditional remotes are still the norm, this feature is incredibly useful, especially when remotes go missing (as they often do). It’s a small but thoughtful addition that boosts the phone’s everyday practicality, making it not just a communication tool, but a versatile gadget for home use.
Ultra Link & Connectivity: A Smart Touch for Low-Signal Areas
The Ultra Link feature blew me away. It allows Bluetooth calling by tethering to another device in areas with weak or no network signal. I tested it in a rural area, and it worked perfectly—great for users in low-coverage regions.
It also supports 4.5G, dual-band Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth 5.0, ensuring stable connectivity across the board.
IP64 Rating: Real Protection in Real Conditions
The IP64 water and dust resistance might not sound impressive next to flagship IP68 ratings, but it’s meaningful for this price. I got caught in a light rain with the phone in hand — no damage, no glitches, no worries.
Final Verdict: A Budget King in 2025
After seven full days with the Infinix Smart 10, here’s my honest verdict: this is the best phone under $100 you can buy right now. It delivers big where it counts:
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Smooth Android 15 performance
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Beautiful 120Hz display
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Solid battery life and AI power saving
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Dual 8MP cameras with 2K video
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Game-changing Ultra Link connectivity
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Durable, stylish design
- IR Blaster(Remote control)
Sure, it doesn’t have 5G or top-tier gaming chops. But for everyday users, students, and first-time smartphone owners, this phone is more than enough—and at this price point, it’s unbeatable.
Rating: 4.2/5
Would I recommend it?
Without hesitation. The Infinix Smart 10 proves that entry-level phones don’t have to mean entry-level experiences.
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