The iQOO Z9s 5G is the latest addition to iQOO’s Z-series, known for blending high performance with value pricing. Positioned as a mid-range offering, the Z9s brings improvements in processing power, display quality, and charging speed — all while maintaining a competitive price point. Built for gamers, multitaskers, and users who crave flagship-level speed without breaking the bank, the Z9s is shaping up to be one of the strongest contenders in the under-₹20,000 category.
Highlight Table: iQOO Z9s 5G (Expected/Leaked Specs)
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Processor | Qualcomm Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 (4nm) |
| RAM & Storage | Up to 8GB LPDDR4X RAM, 128GB UFS 2.2 storage |
| Display | 6.67-inch FHD+ AMOLED, 120Hz refresh rate |
| Rear Camera | 64MP OIS Primary + 2MP Depth Sensor |
| Front Camera | 16MP Selfie Camera |
| Battery | 5,000mAh with 44W FlashCharge |
| Operating System | Funtouch OS 14 based on Android 14 |
| Build Quality | Plastic frame, glass back |
| Connectivity | 5G, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.3, USB-C |
| Launch Date | September 2024 (India) |
| Expected Price | ₹16,999 – ₹18,999 (India) |
iQOO Z9s 5G: Built for Speed, Priced for the Masses
The iQOO Z-series has always targeted young, performance-focused users, and the Z9s 5G is no exception. With upgraded internals and a sleek design, it aims to dominate the mid-range smartphone market.
Reliable Mid-Range Performance
Powering the iQOO Z9s 5G is the Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 chipset, built on a 4nm process for better power efficiency and thermal control. It offers notable performance gains over its predecessor, handling multitasking, gaming, and media consumption with ease.
Paired with up to 8GB of RAM and UFS 2.2 storage, the phone ensures responsive UI navigation, quick app loading, and smooth background activity. iQOO also supports virtual RAM expansion for heavy multitaskers.
AMOLED Display for Immersive Viewing
One of the Z9s 5G’s key strengths is its 6.67-inch AMOLED display with Full HD+ resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. The visuals are vibrant and fluid, whether you’re scrolling social media, watching videos, or playing high-frame-rate games.
The AMOLED panel also helps improve battery life and provides better contrast and color saturation compared to LCD counterparts in this price segment.
Capable Camera Setup
On the rear, the 64MP main camera with Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) is a standout feature. It allows for sharper photos, especially in low-light conditions, and helps produce stable video recordings. The secondary 2MP depth sensor supports portrait shots, although it’s more of a supporting component.
The 16MP front camera handles selfies and video calls well, offering decent detail and natural skin tones under good lighting.
Battery and Fast Charging
The iQOO Z9s 5G houses a 5,000mAh battery, enough to last a full day of heavy usage. Whether you’re gaming, streaming, or working, the battery backup remains reliable.
It supports 44W FlashCharge, which can charge the device from 0 to 50% in under 30 minutes — a great addition for users who are always on the go.
Software and User Experience
The device runs on Funtouch OS 14, based on Android 14, and brings several improvements in UI smoothness, customization, and power management. While Funtouch OS includes some pre-installed apps, the experience is generally stable and responsive.
Features like Game Mode, Ultra Game Booster, and RAM Management Tools make this phone particularly attractive to mobile gamers and tech-savvy users.
Design and Build
In terms of design, the Z9s 5G maintains a slim profile with a glossy glass back and flat edges. While the frame is plastic, the phone feels solid and looks modern, available in gradient color options aimed at younger audiences.
The in-hand feel is ergonomic, and the side-mounted fingerprint scanner is quick and reliable.
Pricing and Market Position
Expected to be priced between ₹16,999 and ₹18,999, the iQOO Z9s 5G will compete with phones like the Realme Narzo 60x, Redmi Note 13 5G, and Moto G73. With its balanced feature set and performance-first approach, it’s poised to attract a wide range of users.
Final Thoughts
The iQOO Z9s 5G brings together powerful internals, a high-quality AMOLED display, fast charging, and a capable camera — all under ₹20,000. It’s an ideal choice for students, casual gamers, and everyday users who want snappy performance and modern features without overspending. If you’re in the market for a fast, efficient, and well-rounded 5G smartphone, the Z9s is a strong contender worth considering.