Infinix Note 50 Pro 4G review

The competition

At the time of writing, an 8GB/256GB base model Infinix Note 50 Pro 4G is selling for around NGN 368,800.00, which is about €205. We are not sure what Infinix plans are for the regional availability, so far we've only found it for sale in Nigeria.

The Note 50 Pro 4G offers a pretty good value for this price point. Sure, the Note 50 Pro 4G is an LTE device that is missing a few bells and whistles, but it is surprisingly well-equipped for the price.

There are some interesting alternatives to consider, like the Galaxy A16 4G, which is still cheaper. However, you can even afford the Galaxy A16 5G variant at this price. Just like the Infinix, it has an AMOLED display, though it refreshes at just 90Hz. There are a few other compromises as well, like the lack of stereo speakers and the lower-resolution ultrawide and selfie cameras. Also, the slower 25W charging. The Galaxy A16 5G does, however, have one major advantage: Samsung intends to support it for up to six major OS updates.

Xiaomi has at least a few interesting offers, among which is the ever-popular Redmi Note 14 series. And again, just like Samsung, you could save a few bucks and go for the Redmi Note 14 4G, or you could also likely fit a Redmi Note 14 5G into your budget. Some of its highlights include an IP64 ingress protection rating, HDR10+ certification on its 120Hz AMOLED display, a microSD expansion slot and a 108MP main camera.

Samsung Galaxy A16 5G • Xiaomi Redmi Note 14 5G (Global) • Motorola Moto G85 • Nothing CMF Phone 1

Motorola has an interesting offer in the Moto G85. It also has a microSD expansion slot, stereo speakers, a pretty good 120Hz OLED display, a Snapdragon 6s Gen 3 chipset, and an autofocusing ultrawide camera.

A slightly "out there" suggestion would definitely be the Nothing CMF Phone 1. Its price has nicely depreciated in pricing, and while you definitely have to be partial to the particular look to consider it, it is not a bad overall package with its bright, 120Hz AMOLED display, MediaTek Dimensity 7300 chipset that supports 4K video capture and a microSD slot.

Our verdict

In keeping with its pedigree, Infinix has managed to craft a very interesting package with the Note 50 Pro 4G. Externally, the device really punches above its price. It not only looks very premium thanks to its sandblasted finish, but it also feels the part thanks to the metal frame and other details. You don't really get this build quality level at this budget price point. You also get IP64 ingress protection and even an RGB light on the back to tie the design together. The OLED display is also arguably a highlight here. Sure, it lacks HDR video support, but it can get quite bright and has 144Hz support.

We were also very impressed with the camera system. The 50MP main camera and selfie camera, in particular, offer great overall quality and, again, arguably, punch above their class. Infinix hasn't skimped on little extras either, like a stereo speaker system, NFC, an IR blaster, or an FM radio. 90W wired and 30W wireless charging are also impressive additions. There is even a heartrate and SpO2 monitor on board.

Honestly, there are very few corners cut here. One of the most major ones is the chipset selection. The Helio G100 Ultimate is not only pretty modest in the performance department, but it also lacks modern connectivity like 5G. Plus, its ISP limits video recording to 1440p. Infinix could also offer a longer software support as well.

Honestly, if you can get over these two shortcomings, the rest of the phone is very likeable. We generally enjoyed our time with the Infinix Note 50 Pro 4G, and we're sure it's well worth considering.

Pros

• Glass-metal body, IP64 rating.
• Very rich retail package.
• Heart rate sensor and LED illuminator on the back.
• Very fast charging; wireless is also an option, complete with a MagSafe-like solution.
• XOS packs a ton of features, plenty of AI stuff, too.
• Very good camera system - great zoom action, nice closeups, solid primary camera.

Cons

• Limited regional availability.
• Average battery life overall, pretty bad at gaming.
• No eSIM support.
• Modest performance.