The vivo X300 Pro is here, and it’s a device that boldly walks the line between tradition and innovation. But here’s where it gets controversial: while it stays true to its lineage, it also introduces changes that might divide opinions. Let’s dive into what makes this smartphone a standout—and where it might leave you scratching your head.
Design, Build Quality, and Handling
At first glance, the X300 Pro is unmistakably part of the vivo family. The iconic large camera island takes center stage, proudly sporting the Zeiss badge, a nod to its premium optics. But this isn’t just a rehash of last year’s model. Both the front and back panels are now entirely flat, aligning with the latest design trends. And this is the part most people miss: the step-down ring around the camera cluster has vanished, possibly to accommodate the telephoto extender kit—or maybe just a bold design choice. Either way, the large black glass circle remains a defining feature.
Controversy alert: Some might find the camera island too obtrusive, especially when paired with lighter color options. vivo addresses this with a classic black variant, alongside our review unit’s elegant brown hue. Interestingly, the baby blue and white versions seem exclusive to China—though we can’t confirm that just yet.
The flat rear panel, crafted from frosted glass, feels premium but is undeniably slippery. The upside? It resists fingerprints like a champ. The aluminum frame is equally well-thought-out: flat for a secure grip, yet subtly rounded at the edges to avoid any scratchy feel. Along the frame, you’ll find the usual controls, plus an extra button vivo calls a “shortcut button.” It’s versatile, letting you launch tools or the camera, but don’t expect a dedicated camera control area like the X200 Ultra—maybe next time.
On the bottom, you’ll spot the dual nano SIM slot, which also supports eSIM. Up front, the display is framed by a uniformly thin bezel, and the flat Armor Glass is a welcome change from the X200 Pro’s curved edges. This means glass screen protectors should fit seamlessly—though the ultrasonic fingerprint reader might not appreciate extra layers. Thankfully, the factory-applied plastic sheet doesn’t interfere, delivering fast and reliable unlocks.
And here’s the kicker: The X300 Pro boasts an IP68/IP69 rating, meaning it can survive a 1.5-meter dunk for 30 minutes or a pressure wash at up to 80°C. Yes, you read that right—pressure wash. Who does that? Apparently, vivo thinks someone might.
Overall, the X300 Pro feels like a premium handset that’s easy to handle. But there’s one oddity: it weighs 226g, which isn’t unusual for its class. The catch? You’re carrying dead weight in the form of an underutilized battery—a move vivo uses to sell different battery capacities in different markets. The EU gets the weight but not the full capacity. Is this a fair trade-off? Let us know in the comments.
