Poco has unveiled two contenders in the M series: the Poco M6, which launched globally on June 10, 2024, and the Poco M6 5G, which debuted in India on December 22, 2023.
While the names might suggest close cousins, these devices cater to distinct user needs. This in-depth comparison dives into the key differences between the Poco M6 and the Poco M6 5G, empowering you to make an informed decision based on your priorities and budget. Without any further ado, let’s start.
1. Network Connectivity
The most significant distinction lies in their network capabilities. The Poco M6 is a 4G LTE phone, suitable for areas with reliable 4G coverage. On the other hand, the Poco M6 5G boasts next-generation 5G connectivity, offering blazing-fast data speeds in areas with 5G infrastructure. If you prioritize future-proofing and live in a 5G-enabled region, the M6 5G is the clear winner.
2. Processor
The POCO M6 packs a MediaTek Helio G91-Ultra processor, a reliable chip for everyday tasks and casual gaming. However, the Poco M6 5G features the MediaTek Dimensity 6100+, a 6nm processor built for better efficiency and potentially smoother performance, especially for multitasking and more demanding games.
3. Camera
The Poco M6 takes the lead in the camera department. It boasts a powerful 108MP rear camera with a large Samsung ISOCELL HM6 1/1.67″ sensor and 9-in-1 pixel binning technology for capturing sharper, brighter images in low-light conditions.
The Poco M6 5G settles for a more modest 50MP primary sensor. Both phones offer a front-facing camera, with the M6 featuring a higher resolution 13MP sensor compared to the M6 5G’s 5MP sensor.
4. Display
While both phones offer a similar 6.7-inch display size with a 90Hz refresh rate, the Poco M6 boasts a sharper Full HD+ (1080 x 2400) resolution compared to the M6 5G’s HD+ (1600 x 720) resolution. This translates to a crisper viewing experience on the M6, especially for watching videos and browsing text.
5. Battery Life and Charging
Poco M6 features a 5030mAh battery while the M6 5G features a similar 5000mAh battery. However, the Poco M6 edges out with faster 33W fast charging, allowing you to quickly top up the battery when needed. The M6 5G offers a slower 18W fast charging solution.
6. Design and Build
The Poco M6 flaunts a sleek 8.3mm glass back design, available in Black, Purple, and Silver. The Poco M6 5G opts for a plastic back with a “Premium Sky Dance” design that shifts colors, offered in Galactic Black and Orion Blue. Ultimately, the design choice boils down to personal preference for a premium glass feel (M6) or a more playful, color-shifting aesthetic (M6 5G).
7. Storage and RAM
Both phones offer similar storage options, ranging from 128GB to 256GB. However, the Poco M6 provides RAM (LPDDR4X) options of 6GB and 8GB, while the M6 5G offers 4GB, 6GB, and 8GB variants. If multitasking is crucial for you, the additional RAM options on the M6 might be a deciding factor. Although the M6 5G storage utilizes UFS 2.2, which is significantly faster compared to the eMMC 5.1 used in the standard M6.
8. Software
The M6 4G variant runs on Android 14 with Xiaomi’s latest HyperOS on top, while the M6 5G runs on Android 13-based MIUI 14 out of the box. The M6 5G is expected to get the HyperOS update in the future.
9. Price
Both phones start at the same price point of $129, but the M6 comes with 6GB RAM and 128GB storage, compared to the M6 5G which has 4GB RAM and 128GB storage. However, the $129 pricing for the standard M6 is part of an early bird offer. We will have to wait until tomorrow for the full pricing details.
The standard M6’s 8GB + 256GB model is priced at $149, while the M6 5G’s other variants are priced at Rs. 11,499 ($138) for the 6GB + 128GB version and Rs. 13,499 ($162) for the 8GB + 256GB version.
10. Conclusion
Choosing between the Poco M6 and Poco M6 5G boils down to prioritizing your needs. The POCO M6 reigns supreme for camera quality, display resolution, and faster charging.
However, if you crave the future-proofing benefits of 5G and are content with a slightly less powerful processor and camera, the Poco M6 5G offers a compelling option at a potentially more attractive price point depending on the storage and RAM configuration you choose.
