The competitive world of smartphones is constantly evolving. Brands like Living have burst onto the scene in recent years, winning over millions of users around the world thanks to a combination of technological innovation, thoughtful design, and affordable prices. The brand, originally from China and present in many international markets, has managed to position itself as a solid alternative to giants like Xiaomi, Samsung, realme, and OnePlus. But what do users and critics really say about the Vivo mobilesWhat makes them stand out from the competition? Which models are their most highly rated, and what should you know before choosing one? Let's delve into all the key aspects, incorporating expert opinions and real user testimonials, as well as an overview of the most current catalog and its most significant advantages and disadvantages.
Why are Vivo phones on everyone's lips?
Since its arrival on the international market, Living has opted for differentiation. Its strategy combines state-of-the-art technology –such as cameras developed in collaboration with ZEISS, high-refresh-rate AMOLED displays, and high-capacity batteries– with a sensible pricing policy, which makes them very attractive options within the mid-range and mid-premium range. Furthermore, the brand belongs to the BBK Electronics group, which endorses it alongside others such as OPPO, realme, and OnePlus, although it maintains its own management and development, which influences the identity of its devices. If you want to know in detail all the important aspects of these devices, you can consult our full article on Everything you need to know about Vivo mobiles.
Advantages of Vivo smartphones according to users and experts
- Camera quality: The collaboration with ZEISS and the commitment to high-resolution sensors make Vivo phones stand out especially in the photography department. Their cameras, both rear and front, offer sharpness, detail and good performance even in low-light conditions. Portrait modes and bokeh effects, as well as intelligent processing options, have been acclaimed by both consumers and specialized media. Additionally, premium models include optical image stabilization (OIS) and various lenses for different scenarios. If you want to delve deeper into the photography capabilities, check out our review at Is the Vivo Y04 worth buying? Review and opinions.
- Long battery life and fast charging: One of the great strengths is the autonomy. Terminals like the Vivo V40 offer up to 5.500 mAh, even surpassing direct rivals in its price range. Users note that, with average use, they can go up to two days without needing to charge it. Added to this is the fast charging of up to 80 90-W in some models, allowing the phone to be recharged in just one hour.
- Premium design and finishesDespite maintaining competitive prices, Vivo puts great care into the design of its phones. Its devices feature glass or aluminum finishes, highly fingerprint-resistant matte textures, curved frames for improved grip, and striking, modern colors. Furthermore, recent models include certification. IP68K against dust and splashes.
- Superior quality screens: In most of its ranges, Vivo is betting on AMOLED or P-OLED panels with high refresh rates (120 Hz), offering vivid colors, good contrast and excellent outdoor visibility thanks to maximum brightness which can exceed 1.800 nits. The multimedia experience is outstanding, complemented by powerful stereo speakers.
All of this makes Vivo a brand to consider for those looking for a balanced phone in every sense, both for everyday use and for those who demand the maximum in photography, battery life, and performance.
Disadvantages and criticisms of Vivo mobile phones according to users and critics
- Non-simultaneous system updates across all rangesAlthough Vivo commits to multiple updates, they don't always arrive at the same pace for all models and regions. Some users have reported delays or occasional issues on older devices.
- Customization layers and pre-installed applications: Although Funtouch OS is lighter and closer to pure Android than other Chinese layers, it includes some pre-installed apps (bloatware), although many can be easily uninstalled.
- Limited availability in some marketsVivo isn't yet as present in all countries as other brands, making it difficult to find its phones, official accessories, or technical services in certain regions.
- Uneven camera quality depending on the modelWhile premium and high-end smartphones impress with their photographic quality, budget models can lag somewhat behind the competition in low-light conditions, although they often make up for this with AI and automatic modes.
- Processors in the entry-level range: In the more affordable ranges, the chosen processors may be somewhat limited for demanding users in multitasking or very heavy games.
- Screen curvature and ergonomics: Some users find the curved screen on models like the V40 unnecessary and makes it difficult to use with one hand or apply screen protectors.
- Charger is not always included in the boxFollowing the trend of other brands, some models only include the charging cable but not the fast charger, forcing you to purchase it separately to take advantage of the maximum charging speed.
In any case, these disadvantages are usually linked to specific models or specific situations, and most users highly value the overall balance that Vivo offers, especially compared to its direct competition.
Real user and expert reviews of Vivo phones
Opinions about Vivo can be divided into several profiles:
- Users seeking autonomy and photography: Many users agree that battery life and camera quality are key reasons for their purchase. Devices like the V50 Lite or V40, according to testimonials, allow users to forget about the need for a charger for several days and even take professional photos in any lighting conditions. Portrait mode, ZEISS collaboration, and AI effects are particularly noteworthy.
- Experts and technology press: Independent reviews highly value the price-performance ratio, battery life, smooth software, and customization. For example, prominent media outlets such as Xataka, Topes de Gama, and El PaĂs have praised the balance between battery life, premium design, brilliant display, and image quality, while only expressing concerns about the camera quality of the cheaper models or small details of the Funtouch OS layer.
- Criticism of the entry models and updates: Some users warn that, on very affordable phones, the camera or performance may lag somewhat behind alternatives from Xiaomi, Realme, or Samsung, especially with lower-end processors or in demanding lighting conditions.
Comparison of Vivo mobile phones by range and family
Vivo's catalog is structured into several families and ranges, to suit all audiences and budgets. If you'd like to learn more about this classification, you can visit our article on the best high-end ranges and their featured models.
- Series Y: : Oriented to the entry and middle range, with very tight prices and focus on autonomy, usability and sufficient performance for everyday use. An example of this is the Vivo Y28, with 8GB of RAM, 256GB of storage, a 50MP main camera, and a large HD+ display. These devices are designed for those looking for functionality without frills or high demands in photography or gaming.
- V-series: The brand's authentic premium mid-range. Here we find devices like the Vivo V40 or V50 Lite 5G, which feature large AMOLED panels, cameras co-developed with ZEISS, latest-generation processors, and high-capacity batteries. They offer a premium in design, finish, and performance, placing them in an ideal segment for demanding users who don't want to spend the price of a high-end smartphone.
- Series XVivo's top-of-the-line flagship. Here, the brand competes directly with models from the Samsung Galaxy S, Xiaomi 13T Pro, OnePlus 11, and Google Pixel 8 Pro. The X90 Pro is a flagship of this series, with a total focus on advanced photography, ultra-high-resolution displays, maximum connectivity, and premium materials.
Most recommended Vivo models and their distinguishing features
- Live V40: A model that has revolutionized the mid-premium range. It incorporates a 6,78-inch curved AMOLED screen with 120 Hz, Snapdragon 7 Gen 3, up to 12 GB of RAM, ultra-fast storage and a 5.500 mAh battery with 80 W charging. The triple camera, developed with ZEISS, includes a 50 MP Samsung main sensor, a 50 MP ultra-wide angle and a 50 MP front camera. It especially stands out in portrait and night photography, as well as in autonomy, screen and sound quality.
- Vivo V50 Lite 5G: Mid-range terminal with a 6,77-inch P-OLED display, 120 Hz refresh rate, and 1.800 nits maximum brightness. Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 processor, 8 or 12 GB RAM options, and a large 5.000 mAh battery with 90 W charging. It is ideal for those looking for extreme autonomy and a good multimedia experience without having to go to the premium ranges.
- Live Y28: An affordable option for entry-level users, with a 6,68-inch display, 50 MP main camera, 8 GB of RAM, and 256 GB of storage. Perfect for those who prioritize storage and simplicity.
- Vivo X90 Pro: The flagship. A high-resolution Super AMOLED LTPO display, high-end processor, advanced ZEISS cameras, 120W fast charging, premium materials, and every connectivity option imaginable. It's the model of choice for professional users and mobile photography enthusiasts.
News and trends in the Vivo catalog
The brand continues to launch new products that set trends: if you want to stay informed about upcoming smartphone trends, you may be interested in checking out our section on What's new in Android 13 and future releases.
- Ongoing collaboration with ZEISS, which extends to models beyond the X range.
- Ever-larger batteries and ultra-fast charging which exceed 80 and even 90 W in some terminals.
- Curved, brighter and more resistant screens, with reduced frames and better protection against falls.
- Bet on total connectivity: eSIM, WiFi 6, Bluetooth 5.4 and 5G support as standard even in mid-range models.
- Artificial intelligence integration for photography Advanced: processing, automatic editing, object erasing, portrait and video enhancement, etc.
What is the actual experience of using it on a daily basis?
Testimonials from tech critics and users agree that using a Vivo phone is a very satisfying experience on all levels. If you'd like to learn more, you can also check out our guide on How to share screen with Discord on mobile.
- AutonomyVivo phones excel in battery life, ranking among the best in their category. Even with intensive use (gaming, video, social media), the battery lasts for over 24 hours without a problem, and fast charging allows the phone to be recharged in less than an hour.
- Screen and multimediaAMOLED displays offer color, fluidity, and authenticity, with good outdoor brightness and night vision quality. Stereo speakers deliver immersive, powerful audio, ideal for consuming multimedia content or listening to music.
Detailed comparison: Vivo vs. its direct competition
Vivo competes head-to-head with brands like Xiaomi, realme, OPPO, OnePlus, and Samsung, especially in the mid-to-high-end and premium ranges. What makes it stand out against them? You can check out a full comparison in our article on .
- Value for moneyVivo models are usually better equipped in terms of display, camera, and battery for the same price range as their Xiaomi or Samsung counterparts.
- Advanced photographyThe collaboration with ZEISS brings a boost to both camera hardware and software. Along with the Google Pixel and the latest Xiaomi, it's the brand that scores highest in portrait and night photography.
