The Vivo T2 5G has officially launched in India, vying for a spot in the competitive sub-Rs. 20,000 smartphone market. Priced at Rs. 18,999 for the base 6GB RAM/128GB storage variant, the Vivo T2 5G offers a compelling combination of features, including a faster charging system, improved camera setup, and a compact design, all while aiming for affordability. But does it have what it takes to stand out amongst its rivals? This first impressions piece takes a deep dive into the phone’s design, display, performance, and camera features, providing a glimpse into what the Vivo T2 5G has to offer.
A Lighter, Sleek Design with a Premium Feel
The Vivo T2 5G boasts a polycarbonate body that contributes to its lightweight design weighing just 172g, making it 10g lighter than its predecessor. The sleek 7.8mm profile further enhances its comfortable grip. The flat frame design and curved corners provide a premium feel and ergonomic hold. Adding to its stylish appeal, the phone is available in two color options: the vibrant Nitro Blaze and the more subtle Velocity Wave.
The Nitro Blaze variant, which we had the opportunity to test, features a glossy finish with a gradient sunset color that catches the light beautifully, giving it a premium look. However, if you prefer a more subdued look, the Velocity Wave trim with its sleek black finish might be more appealing.
Performance and Display: A Solid Combo
The Vivo T2 5G is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 SoC which has proven its worth in several other smartphones like the OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite 5G and the iQoo Z6 5G. While this might not be the most powerful chip available, it offers a balance of performance and efficiency, capable of handling everyday tasks and mid-range gaming with ease. The phone runs on Funtouch OS 13 based on Android 13, which promises a smooth user experience and access to the latest features.
The 6.38-inch full-HD+ AMOLED display offers a vibrant and immersive viewing experience. With a 90Hz refresh rate and 360Hz touch sampling rate, the display delivers responsive scrolling and smooth animations. The 1,300 nits of peak brightness ensures good visibility even under direct sunlight. While the display is impressive overall, the small waterdrop notch at the top might feel dated compared to more modern designs with punch-hole cameras. The bezels are relatively narrow on the sides and top, but the chin remains somewhat thick, which might be a minor aesthetic drawback.
Camera Features: A Step Up, But Could It Do More?
The Vivo T2 5G’s camera setup is a significant upgrade over its predecessor. Its twin circular camera modules on the back house a 64-megapixel primary sensor with optical image stabilization (OIS) and a 2-megapixel depth sensor for enhanced bokeh effects. The 16-megapixel front camera handles selfies and video calls.
The inclusion of OIS is a notable addition, as it helps stabilize images, especially in low light conditions. The camera system is capable of capturing detailed and vibrant images, but it lacks an ultra-wide lens, a feature becoming increasingly common in the price range. The absence of an ultra-wide camera limits photographic versatility when capturing landscapes or architectural shots.
Battery and Charging: An Improvement, but Could Be Better
The battery capacity of the Vivo T2 5G is 4,500mAh, slightly smaller than the 5,000mAh battery in the T1. However, the 44W fast charging support compensates for this difference. Vivo claims that the phone can be charged from 0 to 50 percent in just 25 minutes, making it practical for everyday use.
While the faster charging is a welcome addition, the smaller battery capacity might be a concern for users who rely heavily on their phone throughout the day.
Conclusion: A Promising Start, But Questions Remain
The Vivo T2 5G emerges as a strong contender in the budget segment. Its lightweight design, premium feel, and a fast charging system are attractive features. The AMOLED display with the high refresh rate provides a great viewing experience, but the waterdrop notch might feel dated. While the camera system offers improvements, the lack of an ultra-wide lens remains a noticeable drawback.
Overall, the Vivo T2 5G’s compelling combination of features suggests it could be a fantastic phone for those seeking a well-rounded budget device. However, it’s crucial to consider the trade-offs, such as the slightly smaller battery and the absence of an ultra-wide camera. Our full review will delve deeper into the phone’s performance and camera capabilities, providing a comprehensive assessment of its strengths and weaknesses.
