Blackview A96

Blackview A96 Review

Key Features

• Display: 6.5-inch IPS LCD with 120Hz refresh rate, 1080 x 2400 resolution (405 ppi)
• Processor: Mediatek Helio G99 (6nm) Octa-core CPU, Mali-G57 MC2 GPU
• Memory: 8GB or 12GB LPDDR4X RAM
• Storage: 256GB UFS 2.2
• Cameras: 48MP main (Samsung S5KGM2) + 8MP Wide Angle + 2MP Macro rear cameras, 16MP front-facing camera (Hynix HI-1634)
• Battery: 4380mAh with 18W fast charging
• Operating System: Android 13
• Connectivity: Dual SIM, 4G LTE, Wi-Fi ac, Bluetooth 5.0, NFC
• Other: Side-mounted fingerprint sensor, stereo speakers, USB Type-C 2.0 with OTG

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Smooth 120Hz display enhances the user experience.
• The Mediatek Helio G99 chipset provides solid performance for everyday tasks and moderate gaming.
• Generous 256GB of UFS 2.2 storage offers fast read and write speeds.
• Ample RAM options (8GB or 12GB) support efficient multitasking.
• A versatile camera system includes a 48MP main sensor, an 8MP wide-angle lens, and a 2MP macro lens.
• NFC support for contactless payments.
• Stereo speakers offer an enhanced audio experience.
• Fast charging capabilities via 18W charging.
• Side-mounted fingerprint sensor for convenient unlocking.
• Competitive pricing in the medium price range.

Cons:

• The 4380mAh battery capacity, while sufficient, may not be enough for heavy users.
• The phone uses a standard USB Type-C 2.0 port, which lacks DisplayPort functionality.
• The camera system, while versatile, lacks optical stabilization and slow-motion video capabilities.
• No SD card slot for expandable storage.

User Experience

The Blackview A96 provides a fluid user experience thanks to its 120Hz refresh rate display and Mediatek Helio G99 processor. Navigating menus, browsing the web, and using social media apps feels responsive and smooth. The device handles multitasking well, especially with the higher 12GB RAM option. While not a dedicated gaming phone, the A96 is capable of running most mobile games at medium settings, thanks to its Mali-G57 MC2 GPU. The Android 13 operating system offers a clean and customizable interface. The inclusion of NFC is a welcome addition for users who rely on contactless payments. The side-mounted fingerprint sensor is fast and accurate. The stereo speakers provide reasonably good audio quality for watching videos and listening to music.

Hardware & Design

The phone has dimensions of 161.8 x 74.2 x 8.6 mm and weighs 193.9g, making it reasonably comfortable to hold. The 6.5-inch display offers a 20:9 aspect ratio and a pixel density of 405 ppi. The LCD IPS panel is vibrant and has a 120Hz refresh rate. The build features a plastic frame and back. The device includes a USB Type-C 2.0 port, dual SIM card slots, and a side-mounted fingerprint sensor. The inclusion of 802.11ac Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5.0 ensures solid wireless connectivity. The cooling system helps maintain performance during heavy usage. The device comes in Obsidian Black and Provence Purple colors.

Conclusion

The Blackview A96 is a solid mid-range smartphone that balances performance, features, and price effectively. Its 120Hz display, capable Mediatek Helio G99 processor, and ample RAM/storage configuration make it a compelling option for users seeking a smooth experience for everyday tasks and moderate gaming. The device's versatile camera system, along with features like NFC and stereo speakers, further enhance its value proposition. The device does have some limitations like lack of expandable storage, no optical image stabilization, and a moderately sized battery, but overall, it presents a well-rounded package within its price range.