Vivo X300 Ultra Arrives with 200MP Camera and Enhanced Battery

Key facts

• The Vivo X300 Ultra features a new 200MP main camera sensor.
• Its telephoto camera also utilizes a 200MP HP0 sensor with faster autofocus.
• The device has a larger 6,600 mAh battery, up from 6,000 mAh.
• It is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset.
• The display boasts a 144Hz refresh rate.
• Available memory configurations include up to 1TB storage with 16GB RAM.
• The X300 Ultra has an IP68/IP69 dust and water resistance rating.

Vivo Refines Flagship with X300 Ultra

The smartphone market is increasingly populated by devices bearing the "Ultra" moniker, but few arguably embody the term as effectively as Vivo's latest flagship. The new Vivo X300 Ultra builds upon its predecessor, the X200 Ultra, introducing a suite of refinements, particularly in its photographic capabilities and power management. With both Chinese and global variants available for examination, the X300 Ultra presents a familiar yet updated design. The European version, like others, retains the same battery capacity, a key consideration for many users. The device aims to elevate the user experience through iterative improvements on a successful formula. This iteration sees significant upgrades in the camera department, a focal point for Vivo's premium offerings. The company has pushed the boundaries with a new 200MP main camera, a substantial leap from the 50MP unit on the X200 Ultra. This upgrade promises enhanced detail and imaging performance, setting a new benchmark for mobile photography.

Camera Hardware Sees Notable Enhancements

The primary camera sensor has been upgraded to a 200MP unit, boasting a larger sensor size compared to the previous generation. While the lens aperture has shifted to f/1.9, a dimmer setting than the X200 Ultra's f/2.3, the increased resolution and sensor size are expected to compensate for low-light performance. The telephoto camera also receives a significant boost, adopting the latest HP0 200MP sensor. Although visually identical to its predecessor, this new sensor promises a two-times improvement in autofocus speed and enhanced stabilization. However, like the main camera, the telephoto lens features a dimmer f/2.7 aperture, a notable step back from the f/2.3 aperture found on the X200 Ultra. These camera advancements underscore Vivo's commitment to mobile imaging. The focus on higher resolution and faster autofocus suggests a strategy aimed at capturing sharper, more detailed images with greater speed and precision, even with the slight trade-off in lens brightness.

Design and Display Upgrades

Measuring 163.0x76.8x8.2mm and weighing 232g, the X300 Ultra features a durable construction with a glass front and back, complemented by an aluminum frame. It maintains a robust IP68/IP69 rating for dust and water resistance, capable of withstanding immersion up to 1.5 meters for 30 minutes. While the overall design remains similar to the X200 Ultra, Vivo has opted for a flatter aesthetic this year. The middle frame has been widened, which, despite the X200 being nominally thicker, gives the X300 Ultra a more substantial feel in hand. These subtle design shifts contribute to a refined user interface and ergonomics. Display technology has also seen an upgrade, with the refresh rate now pushed to 144Hz. This higher refresh rate ensures smoother scrolling and more fluid animations, enhancing the overall visual experience. This, combined with the new chipset, positions the X300 Ultra as a powerful device for both productivity and entertainment.

Performance and Memory Configurations

Under the hood, the X300 Ultra is powered by the latest Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset, promising a significant leap in processing power and efficiency. This upgrade ensures that the device can handle demanding applications and multitasking with ease. Memory options are generous, catering to a wide range of user needs. Configurations include 256GB with 12GB RAM, 512GB with 12GB RAM, 512GB with 16GB RAM, and a top-tier 1TB variant paired with 16GB RAM. All models utilize UFS 4.1 storage for rapid data access. The front camera is a 50MP unit with an f/2.5 aperture, designed for high-quality selfies and video calls. Miscellaneous features include an under-display ultrasonic fingerprint reader and stereo speakers. Notably, the 16GB RAM and 1TB storage model offers Emergency SOS via satellite for calls and messages, a feature increasingly found on premium devices.

Photography Kit and Packaging

Alongside the X300 Ultra, Vivo has also introduced a new Photography Kit, though its availability varies by region. The kit includes two teleconverter lenses: a 400mm and a 200mm. The 200mm lens is exclusive to Asian markets, while the European bundles will not include it. The kit also comprises a protective case, a detachable grip with integrated shutter button and camera controls, various filter rings, lens caps, and a new leather strap with quick-release attachments. This comprehensive accessory set aims to enhance the device's appeal to photography enthusiasts. In terms of packaging, the X300 Ultra arrives in a standard rectangular cardboard box, a familiar presentation for Vivo. However, the company continues to use a substantial plastic cradle for securing the phone and its accessories, a practice that deviates from a growing trend towards eco-friendly packaging in the industry.

Battery and Charging Improvements

Battery capacity has seen a welcome increase, growing from 6,000 mAh in the X200 Ultra to 6,600 mAh in the new model. This larger battery capacity should translate to extended usage times, addressing a common concern for power users. The international version of the X300 Ultra includes an updated 100W Vivo charger. This charger features a Type-C port, offering fast and efficient charging capabilities to minimize downtime. These battery and charging enhancements, coupled with the more efficient Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset, suggest a focus on delivering a more robust and reliable user experience throughout the day.

The bottom line

• The Vivo X300 Ultra introduces a significant camera upgrade with a 200MP main sensor and an enhanced 200MP telephoto lens.
• It features a larger 6,600 mAh battery and is powered by the latest Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset.
• The device offers a high refresh rate display at 144Hz and up to 1TB of storage.
• A dedicated Photography Kit with teleconverter lenses and camera accessories is available, though regionally varied.
• The X300 Ultra maintains a premium build with IP68/IP69 water and dust resistance.
• Vivo continues its tradition of including a high-wattage charger, with a 100W adapter provided in international versions.