Budget smartphones have traveled a long way, but every now and again, a tool comes with which shakes things. Poco C71, just unveiled in India, is one such phone. At first glance, it can look like just another entry-level smartphone, but is a standout feature that makes it special-120Hz refresh rate display at an initial price of Rs 6,499. This is something unheard of this price range, and it raises an important question: are the budget phones getting better than before?

For years, high fresh rate displays were exclusive to flagship smartphones. Then, they began to appear in mid-range devices. Now, with Poco C71, a smooth 120Hz fresh rate has made its way to the budget section. Say it simply, it means scrolling through apps, playing games, or just navigating the phone. Other phones of this price range usually come with 60Hz or, best, 90Hz panels, so it is a big thing to be 120Hz for Rs 6,499. It stands out Poco C71 alone. Add that 6.88-inch HD+ screen, 240 Hz Touch Sampling Rate, and 600 NITS peak glow, and suddenly, we are looking at a phone that has the ability to provide a solid visual experience in the entry-level package.

Poco C71 is more than just a great screen. It comes with Android 15 out-of-the-boxes, which is still impressive considering launching many budget devices with old Android versions. Two -year OS updates and a four -year security patch make it a future proof option.

Then there is weight touch technology, which allows users to operate the phone with wet hands. It is usually a feature seen in rugged or premium phone, and it is good to see it making your way for budget devices. The phone also comes with an IP52 rating for dust and splash resistance.

The phone is powered by the Unisoc T7250 chipset, while, while not the most powerful processor, must be decent for everyday tasks. It is paired with 6GB RAM (with virtual RAM expansion up to 12GB) and 128GB storage, which is expandable up to 2TB via microSD. At this price, this is more than enough.

For cameras, it gets a 32-megapixel dual-rear camera and an 8-megapixel selfie camera. The budget phone is not really known for their cameras, but Poco’s tuning can make a difference here.

The 5,200mAh battery should easily run for an entire day, although 15W charging is slightly slightly. Then, there is not much to complain about considering the price. Connectivity-wise, it has all the good features for a phone at 4G, dual-band Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.2, a 3.5 mm headphone jack and a USB-C port-a phone at this price.

Given what Poco C71 provides for Rs 6,499, it is clear that the budget segment is developing rapidly. A few years ago, a phone will not have an FHD display at this price, let the 120Hz refresh rate and latest Android software go alone. Now, we are seeing features that were once considered a premium trickling in the entry-level market. Only one thing is missing here 5G connectivity, but honestly, at this price, it is not a delrekar. Given how fast technology is developing, sub-RS 7,000 phones cannot be 5G away.

Poco C71 goes on sale via Flipkart starting from 8 April. The 4GB RAM + 64GB storage variant is priced at Rs 6,499, while the 6GB RAM + 128GB storage variant is priced at Rs 7,499. Airtel users can buy the device from April 10 at an initial price of Rs 5,999. It comes in three colors: black, blue and gold.