The budget smartphone segment in India is one of the most competitive markets in the world, and few brands understand this battlefield better than POCO. The POCO M6 Pro 5G, launched in August 2023, continues to remain a strong contender even into 2026. With a dependable Snapdragon chipset, a smooth high-refresh display, and a large 5000mAh battery, the phone has managed to age gracefully while keeping its price firmly under control. For students, gig workers, and first-time 5G users, the M6 Pro 5G still represents solid value in a crowded market.
Practical Design With a Sturdy Feel
The POCO M6 Pro 5G does not chase flashy aesthetics, but it delivers a design that feels reliable and functional. Its plastic frame is well-built and offers a reassuring grip, especially for users who spend long hours on their phones. The flat edges and balanced weight make it comfortable for daily use, whether commuting or working long shifts.
The front is dominated by a tall display with a punch-hole selfie camera, while the rear keeps things simple with a clean camera layout. IP53 splash resistance adds peace of mind against light rain or accidental spills, a practical bonus at this price point. The side-mounted fingerprint scanner is fast and dependable, even with slightly wet fingers, making it suitable for real-world Indian conditions.
Display Experience Focused on Smoothness
One of the biggest highlights of the POCO M6 Pro 5G is its large IPS display paired with a high refresh rate. Scrolling through social media, reading articles, or watching short videos feels noticeably smoother compared to standard 60Hz panels. This smoothness enhances everyday usability, especially for users who consume a lot of content.
Brightness levels are sufficient for outdoor use, and the display remains readable under harsh sunlight. The Full HD resolution ensures text and visuals look sharp, which is still a rarity in many phones under the ₹10,000 mark. While it may not match AMOLED panels in contrast, the display delivers excellent clarity and responsiveness for its segment.
Snapdragon Performance That Still Feels Relevant
Powering the POCO M6 Pro 5G is the Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 chipset, built on an efficient manufacturing process. This processor focuses on stability and power efficiency rather than raw gaming performance, making it ideal for everyday tasks. App launches are quick, multitasking remains smooth, and background apps stay active without aggressive reloads.
For casual gaming, the phone performs reliably. Popular titles run at stable frame rates on balanced settings, and the device manages heat well during extended sessions. Connectivity performance is also strong, with stable 5G reception on supported bands, reliable Wi-Fi, and consistent Bluetooth connections during daily commutes.
Camera Performance Built for Casual Use
The camera setup on the POCO M6 Pro 5G is designed for simplicity rather than photography enthusiasts. The 50MP main rear camera delivers decent daylight shots with vibrant colors and acceptable detail. Photos taken outdoors look social-media ready, especially for casual users capturing everyday moments.
Low-light photography is understandably limited, with softer details and some noise creeping in, but night mode helps improve visibility in dim conditions. Video recording remains steady for basic usage, making it suitable for short clips and social media uploads. The front camera handles video calls and selfies adequately, though it leans towards softer processing.
Battery Life That Matches Daily Hustle
Battery endurance is one of the strongest aspects of the POCO M6 Pro 5G. The 5000mAh battery comfortably lasts a full day and often stretches into the second day with moderate use. Streaming, navigation, messaging, and occasional gaming do not drain the battery aggressively, making it a dependable choice for users who are frequently on the move.
Charging speeds are modest but practical. While it may not be the fastest in its class, the charging experience is consistent and reliable. Overnight charging easily prepares the phone for a full day ahead, which aligns well with its target audience.
Everyday Features That Add Real Value
POCO has included several thoughtful features that enhance the phone’s overall appeal. Stereo speakers provide loud and clear audio, which is useful for media consumption and hands-free calls. The presence of a headphone jack ensures compatibility with wired earphones, a feature still valued by many users.
Expandable storage via microSD is a major advantage, allowing users to store large amounts of media without worrying about internal space. The IR blaster adds convenience by turning the phone into a universal remote, a surprisingly useful feature in daily life.
Software Experience and Long-Term Use
The POCO M6 Pro 5G runs on a customized Android interface that offers extensive personalization options. While pre-installed apps can feel excessive during initial setup, most can be removed or disabled. Once optimized, the software experience feels smooth and responsive.
POCO’s update cycle has improved over time, with stability updates ensuring the phone remains usable well into 2026. For users willing to spend a little time customizing the software, the device offers a clean and efficient experience.
Final Verdict
The POCO M6 Pro 5G proves that a well-balanced smartphone does not need to be expensive. Its smooth display, dependable performance, long battery life, and practical features make it a strong option for budget-conscious buyers even years after launch. While it does not aim to impress with premium cameras or flashy design, it excels at delivering reliability where it matters most.
For students, gig workers, and users seeking a durable 5G smartphone under a tight budget, the POCO M6 Pro 5G remains a smart and sensible choice in 2026.
