Xiaomi Black Shark 3

Overview & Display

The Xiaomi Black Shark 3 presents a striking design with a glass front, aluminum back, and sturdy aluminum frame, all contributing to a premium feel in hand. Its dimensions of 168.7 x 77.3 x 10.4 mm and a weight of 222g provide a substantial, yet comfortable grip. The expansive 6.67-inch AMOLED display immediately captures attention, boasting a 90Hz refresh rate for smooth scrolling and animations. With a resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels and HDR10+ support, the screen delivers vibrant colors and excellent contrast, enhancing both gaming and multimedia experiences. The impressive screen-to-body ratio of 82.4% maximizes the viewing area, making it ideal for immersive entertainment.

Powering the Black Shark 3 is the Qualcomm Snapdragon 865 5G chipset, paired with a choice of 8GB or 12GB of RAM and storage options of 128GB or 256GB using fast UFS 3.0 technology. This combination ensures responsive performance, handling demanding games and applications with ease. Running on Android 10, the software promises a familiar and customizable user experience. Daily multitasking is handled effortlessly, with ample resources available for switching between apps and running multiple processes simultaneously. The octa-core CPU, featuring a Cortex-A77 core clocked up to 2.84 GHz, further contributes to the device’s overall speed and efficiency.

Camera & Battery

The Xiaomi Black Shark 3 features a versatile triple-camera system on the rear, headlined by a 64MP wide-angle lens. Alongside a 13MP ultrawide lens and an auxiliary lens, it offers flexibility for capturing various scenes. The camera system supports HDR and panorama modes for enhanced image quality. Video recording capabilities extend to 4K resolution at 30/60fps, and even allows for impressive 1080p recording at up to 1920fps for slow-motion effects. For selfies, a 20MP front-facing camera delivers detailed images and supports HDR functionality, ensuring well-exposed self-portraits.

A substantial 4720 mAh battery provides ample power for all-day usage. The device supports incredibly fast 65W wired charging, promising a full charge in just 38 minutes. Users with the 128GB/8GB model benefit from 30W wired charging. Wireless charging is also supported, offering 18W of power. Overall, the Black Shark 3 prioritizes a reliable battery life coupled with exceptionally quick charging speeds, making it a practical choice for users who demand extended usage and minimal downtime.

Who Should Buy This

The Xiaomi Black Shark 3 is an excellent choice for mobile gamers and power users seeking a blend of performance and features. Its powerful processor, high refresh rate display, and fast charging capabilities cater well to demanding gaming sessions and resource-intensive applications. Individuals who appreciate a premium build quality and a vibrant display will also find this device appealing. However, those prioritizing NFC functionality or a more compact form factor might consider alternative options. Ultimately, the Black Shark 3 is tailored for users who demand top-tier performance in a sleek and modern package.

Pros

• Powerful Snapdragon 865 5G processor
• Smooth 90Hz AMOLED display
• Fast 65W wired charging
• Stereo speakers for immersive audio
• Ample RAM and storage options

Cons

• No NFC support
• No expandable storage (card slot absent)
• Larger size may not suit all users
• Radio functionality is unavailable
• Aluminum back can be prone to fingerprints

Verdict

The Xiaomi Black Shark 3 delivers a compelling package for mobile enthusiasts. Its potent Snapdragon 865 processor and vibrant 90Hz display combine to offer a smooth and immersive experience, particularly well-suited for gaming. The incredibly fast charging is a standout feature, minimizing downtime. While the lack of NFC and expandable storage are notable omissions, the overall performance and features make it a worthwhile consideration. Ultimately, the Black Shark 3 remains a strong contender for those seeking a high-performance smartphone.