OPPO A3x 4G
Starts from RM499
Pros
- Tough build
- Splash resistant
- Super cheap
- Good battery life
- Capable chipset to handle tasks
Cons
- So-so camera
- Only 4G network (but it's good for some users)
Affordable smartphones are often synonymous with basic entry-level devices designed primarily for essential tasks like communication, social media, and light gaming. In my experience testing these budget-friendly options, many tend to lack standout features, offering a no-frills experience that might not excite tech enthusiasts. The design and construction typically mirror this simplicity, often feeling uninspired and overly basic, leaving much to be desired in terms of aesthetics and build quality.
Introducing the new OPPO A3x 4G, a budget-friendly smartphone that caught my attention for all the right reasons. While many entry-level devices are just “okay,” the OPPO A3x stands out as a cut above the rest, making it a solid contender for anyone looking for a reliable and affordable phone. Personally, I’d consider picking one up as a backup device or even as a first phone for my kids.
Here’s why…
The OPPO A3x is the only entry-level smartphone I’ve come across that boasts a “military-grade” shock-resistant body paired with up to 12GB of RAM. With such a durable build, I’d feel confident handing this phone over to my kids without worrying about them breaking it. As an added convenience, OPPO includes a protective silicone case right in the box to keep it safe from scratches and smudges
So, here’s my full review of the OPPO A3x 4G and why I think it’s one of the best entry-level smartphones out there.
First Look and Design
The new OPPO A3x 4G comes in two eye-catching colour options: Ocean Blue and Nebula Red. I’ve been using the Ocean Blue variant, and I have to say, it’s a real treat for the eyes. The back cover features a wavy design that mimics the ocean waves, adding a touch of elegance to the phone’s aesthetic. Despite the back being made of plastic, the phone feels sturdy, thanks to its aluminium body with squared edges, a design trend that’s currently popular in smartphones.
On the right side of the phone, you’ll find the volume rocker and power button, the latter doubling as a fingerprint sensor for quick and easy unlocking. The left side houses the dual SIM slot and MicroSD card support, which is great for expanding storage. Unfortunately, the top edge is completely bare, not even an IR blaster here, which would have been handy for controlling home appliances. But on the bright side, the bottom edge includes a rare 3.5mm audio jack, a USB-C port, and a single bottom-firing speaker, keeping things functional.
Flipping the phone over, the dual-camera setup immediately stands out. The camera bump is subtle and almost flush with the back panel, giving it a sleek look. However, be aware that the phone only has one usable camera—a main 8MP shooter, while the second is a depth sensor. The dual-tone LED flash sits neatly next to the cameras, creating a balanced layout.
One downside is that the glossy back panel is a bit of a fingerprint magnet. However, the ocean-inspired wavy design does a good job of hiding smudges, so you won’t find yourself constantly wiping it clean.
Up front, the phone sports a 6.67-inch LCD display with a 720p resolution of 1604×720, which can reach a refresh rate of up to 90Hz. While the lower resolution is expected at this price point, the display still manages to look sharp and vibrant during everyday use. Plus, with a brightness that peaks at 1000 nits, the screen remains perfectly readable even in bright sunlight.
The front-facing camera is cleverly placed in a punch-hole near the top centre of the display. Unlike most entry-level phones that go for a water drop notch, the punch-hole design adds a premium feel to the OPPO A3x. It’s little touches like these that make this phone feel anything but cheap.
Performance and Daily Use
The new OPPO A3x 4G is powered by the Snapdragon 6s 4G Gen 1 chipset, which is why you’ll see “4G” right in the name. This processor is a solid performer, similar to the older Snapdragon 660 or 665 series but with better power efficiency and speed. While it’s limited to 4G network connectivity, that’s actually a smart move. Most smartphone users still rely on 4G for its reliability and lower power consumption, and OPPO has clearly listened to those users when designing the A3x.
During my testing, the network speed was impressively stable. In Malaysia, especially in urban areas, 4G coverage is extensive, and I consistently saw download speeds reaching up to 200 Mbps, depending on my carrier and location. So, even in 2024, the OPPO A3x’s focus on 4G connectivity remains highly relevant.
Supporting the Snapdragon 6s 4G Gen 1 chipset, the OPPO A3x comes in two variants, one with 4GB of RAM and another with 6GB. My test unit had 6GB of RAM, and it was quick and responsive when browsing apps and websites. If you need more memory, the RAM Expansion feature allows you to add an extra 6GB of virtual RAM. Storage starts at 64GB, but if you’re planning to get one, I’d recommend going for the 128GB option as the extra storage is always a good idea at this price point.
Powering the whole setup is a robust 5100mAh battery, paired with OPPO’s 45W SuperVOOC 2.0 charging technology. In my experience, charging from 10% to full took about 50 minutes, and just 15 minutes of charging boosted the battery by 30%. On a full charge, the battery easily lasted me over 24 hours with regular use.
The OPPO A3x runs on Android 14 with ColorOS 14.0, a stable and feature-packed OS that you can customise to your liking. For a budget phone, it’s nice to see useful features like Split View, Flexible Window (aka floating window), Smart Sidebar, and Kids Mode. If you’re considering this phone for your kids, the Kids Mode is a great addition.
Overall, the OPPO A3x 4G delivers a snappy performance. The display, while not as vibrant as an OLED, is still colourful and sharp enough for light gaming and binge-watching. Speaking of gaming, the Snapdragon 6s Gen 1 can handle popular games like PUBG Mobile, though you’ll need to stick to low or medium graphics settings for the best experience. It’s not a gaming powerhouse, but it’s capable enough for casual play, and I was still able to enjoy a few rounds of chicken dinners.
On benchmarks, the OPPO A3x scored 568 on the 3DMark Wild Life test which is not exactly groundbreaking, but respectable for a budget device. If you’re looking for a phone dedicated to gaming, this might not be the best choice. However, as a second device or for light gaming and everyday tasks, it holds up well.
One cool thing worth mentioning is that the OPPO A3x has some level of splash and liquid resistance. It can handle everyday mishaps like water splashes without any issues, making it a bit more durable than your average budget phone. However, don’t push your luck, this isn’t the kind of phone you want to take for a swim. That said, if you accidentally drop it in the sink, it should survive a quick dip without any major damage.
In summary, the OPPO A3x 4G is an excellent option if you’re on a budget and need a reliable second phone or a backup in case your primary phone gets lost. It’s also a great choice as a first phone for your kids, thanks to its durable, drop-resistant body. Overall, it’s a device that can keep up with your daily needs without breaking the bank.
Camera and Photography
The OPPO A3x 4G comes equipped with an 8MP main camera on the back, complemented by a depth sensor. The 8MP camera features an f/2 aperture, a 78° field of view, autofocus, and an open-loop focus motor. While the hardware isn’t groundbreaking, it performs well enough for an entry-level device. Given that the A3x is a budget smartphone, it’s important to keep your expectations in check when it comes to the camera’s capabilities.
That said, in good lighting conditions, the camera can capture clear and sharp photos. However, when the lighting is less than ideal, the camera struggles to maintain sharp focus, resulting in slightly blurry shots. A software update could potentially improve the camera’s ability to focus in low-light situations, enhancing overall image quality.
On the front, the OPPO A3x sports a 5MP camera for selfies. The selfie camera does an okay job, though it’s not particularly impressive. One thing I found odd is that when you switch to portrait mode in the camera app, it automatically uses the front-facing camera instead of the rear camera. You’d think the depth sensor on the back would assist with portrait shots, but apparently, the portrait mode is reserved for selfies. It’s a bit strange, and I’m hoping a future software update might address this unless, of course, OPPO intended it to be this way.
In general, the camera on the OPPO A3x is just okay, nothing to get excited about, but it’s serviceable for everyday use. If your main focus is taking photos for social media or your personal gallery, it should suffice. As I mentioned earlier, it’s important to manage your expectations when dealing with an entry-level smartphone camera.
If you want to see for yourself, check out the photo gallery below to judge the quality of the shots.
Conclusion
The new OPPO A3x 4G is a versatile device designed to meet the needs of a wide range of users. If you already have a flagship smartphone and are looking for a reliable secondary device, the OPPO A3x is a solid choice. It’s also a fantastic option for those on a budget, offering useful features at an affordable price point. Personally, I’d consider it as my son’s first phone because the build quality and durability really stand out. Kids can be pretty clumsy, and the OPPO A3x’s “military-grade” shock-resistant body gives me peace of mind that it can withstand the inevitable drops and bumps.
As a daily driver, the OPPO A3x is more than capable of handling everyday tasks and multitasking with ease. The battery life is impressive, lasting a full day on a single charge. The display is vibrant, making it great for watching videos or playing light games when you need a break. Overall, it’s a device that delivers great value for its price.
If you’re interested in learning more about the new OPPO A3x 4G, you can check out the details on OPPO’s official website. And if you’re thinking of buying one for yourself or as a gift for someone else, head over to OPPO’s official Shopee page. The OPPO A3x 4G is available starting from just RM499 for the 4GB + 128GB version, and RM599 for the 6GB + 128GB version—a great deal for everything it offers!
