Released in 2022, the Oppo Reno8 Pro is positioned as a stylish mid-range phone that includes flagship-like features. With its 6.7-inch AMOLED display, fast charging, and advanced camera system, the Reno8 Pro balances aesthetics and performance. Running Oppo’s ColorOS on top of Android, the device is known for its customization options and smooth user interface.
Key Specifications of the Oppo Reno8 Pro:
- Display: 6.7-inch AMOLED, FHD+ resolution (1080 x 2412 pixels), 120Hz refresh rate
- Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 8100-Max
- RAM: 8GB or 12GB LPDDR4X
- Storage: 256GB UFS 3.1 (no expandable storage)
- Battery: 4500 mAh, 80W SuperVOOC fast charging
- Operating System: Android 12, upgradable to Android 13, with ColorOS 12.1
- Camera: 50MP main sensor (Sony IMX766), 8MP ultra-wide, 2MP macro, 32MP front camera
1. Battery Life and Charging Concerns
The 4500 mAh battery in the Reno8 Pro supports 80W SuperVOOC fast charging, which can deliver up to 50% charge in just 10 minutes. Despite this rapid charging speed, some users encounter issues that affect overall battery experience:
- Battery Draining Quickly: While the battery lasts a full day for average use, it can drain more quickly under heavy usage, especially when gaming or using the camera intensively.
- Heating During Charging: Rapid charging can produce significant heat, which may be uncomfortable to hold and concerning over extended periods.
- Battery Calibration Issues: After a few months, some users report inconsistent battery readings or inaccurate battery percentages.
Possible Solutions:
- Optimize Background Apps: Reducing the number of background apps and switching off unnecessary notifications can help prolong battery life.
- Avoid Using Phone While Charging: Using the phone while it’s plugged in can exacerbate heating, so it’s advisable to avoid this for better battery health.
- Recalibrate Battery: Occasionally letting the battery drain completely and then fully charging it can recalibrate the battery, potentially providing more accurate readings.
2. Camera Quality and Performance Limitations
Equipped with a 50MP main camera, the Reno8 Pro is capable of capturing sharp and detailed images in well-lit conditions. However, users have pointed out some limitations, especially in specific scenarios:
- Low-Light Photography: While the main camera performs well in daylight, it struggles slightly in low-light conditions, producing photos that sometimes appear grainy or lacking detail.
- Inconsistent Focus: Autofocus can be slow or inaccurate, especially with close-up or fast-moving subjects.
- Underwhelming Macro Lens: The 2MP macro camera is seen as a weak point, as its performance does not match the main and ultra-wide lenses in terms of detail and color accuracy.
Possible Solutions:
- Use Night Mode: Switching to Night Mode for low-light photography can improve image quality by adjusting brightness and reducing noise.
- Utilize Pro Mode: For challenging shots, using Pro Mode allows you to manually adjust settings, offering better control over exposure, focus, and ISO.
- Rely on Main and Ultra-Wide Cameras: For the best results, stick with the main and ultra-wide cameras and avoid using the macro camera unless necessary.
3. Display Issues and High Refresh Rate Impact on Battery
The Reno8 Pro’s 6.7-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate provides a smooth, visually immersive experience. Despite these strengths, some display issues have been noted by users:
- Adaptive Brightness Challenges: The adaptive brightness feature may not adjust correctly in various lighting environments, occasionally making the screen too dim or too bright.
- Ghost Touches and Edge Sensitivity: Some users experience ghost touches or reduced sensitivity near the edges of the screen, which can be disruptive, especially when gaming.
- High Refresh Rate Battery Drain: While 120Hz enhances smoothness, it can also contribute to faster battery drain, particularly when paired with brightness set to maximum.
Possible Solutions:
- Manually Adjust Brightness: Disabling adaptive brightness and setting it manually can provide a more consistent visual experience.
- Use 60Hz When Not Needed: In settings, switch to 60Hz refresh rate to conserve battery life when high refresh isn’t necessary.
- Recalibrate Touch Sensitivity: Oppo’s settings allow adjustments for touch sensitivity, which can be useful for customizing the screen’s response.
4. Software Bugs and ColorOS Optimization Issues
Running on ColorOS 12.1 atop Android 12 (upgradable to Android 13), the Oppo Reno8 Pro offers a range of features, but users have reported some software bugs and optimization issues:
- Occasional Freezing and Lag: While generally smooth, some users experience lagging or freezing, especially when multitasking with many apps open.
- Delayed Notifications: ColorOS’s aggressive battery optimization can delay notifications from certain apps, which is inconvenient for timely messaging and alerts.
- Customization Glitches: Icons and widgets may occasionally disappear or reset due to glitches in the ColorOS customization options.
Possible Solutions:
- Disable Optimization for Key Apps: Turning off battery optimization for essential apps can prevent notification delays.
- Clear Cache Regularly: Regularly clearing the system and app cache can help maintain smoother performance.
- Restart the Device: Periodic restarts can reduce the likelihood of minor bugs and keep the device running efficiently.
5. Connectivity Issues: Wi-Fi, 5G, and Bluetooth
The Reno8 Pro supports 5G, Wi-Fi 6, and Bluetooth 5.2, yet connectivity issues are common complaints among users:
- Weak Wi-Fi Connection: Some users experience inconsistent Wi-Fi, with frequent disconnections, particularly on the 5GHz band.
- Unstable 5G Signal: In certain areas, maintaining a consistent 5G connection can be challenging, leading to frequent drops to 4G.
- Bluetooth Connectivity Problems: Issues with Bluetooth arise during pairing with specific devices like earbuds or car systems, causing occasional dropouts.
Possible Solutions:
- Reset Network Settings: Going to Settings > System > Reset > Reset network settings can help resolve connectivity issues.
- Switch Wi-Fi Bands: Switching to the 2.4GHz band can improve Wi-Fi stability in crowded or challenging network environments.
- Update Firmware: Oppo may release patches that improve connectivity, so ensuring the phone is up-to-date is recommended.
6. Audio Quality and Speaker Performance
The Reno8 Pro features stereo speakers that deliver decent sound quality, but a few audio-related concerns have been noted:
- Distortion at High Volume: At maximum volume, the audio can become distorted, especially when playing bass-heavy tracks or watching action movies.
- Inconsistent Volume Levels: Some users report that the volume fluctuates unexpectedly between apps or during calls.
Possible Solutions:
- Lower Volume Slightly: Keeping the volume below maximum can help avoid distortion.
- Adjust Audio Settings: Oppo’s ColorOS includes audio customization options that allow users to tailor the audio profile for optimal performance.
- Use Quality Earphones or Headphones: For a better audio experience, high-quality headphones are recommended over the phone’s built-in speakers.
Additional Minor Issues and Annoyances
- Fingerprint Sensor Reliability: The in-display fingerprint sensor can occasionally fail to recognize fingerprints, especially if the screen is dirty or damp.
- Screen Orientation Lag: Some users experience delays when rotating the screen between portrait and landscape modes, which can disrupt certain activities.
- Occasional Restarting: Rare but noted, the phone may restart randomly, which can usually be resolved with a factory reset if it persists.
User Reviews and Real-World Feedback
The Oppo Reno8 Pro is largely well-received, with users appreciating its design, display, and fast charging. Here’s a summary of some common user feedback:
- “The design is elegant and the display is smooth, but I wish the battery life were a bit longer.”
- “The main camera is good in daylight, but low-light performance needs improvement.”
- “ColorOS offers great features, but sometimes it’s glitchy, and app notifications get delayed.”
- “It’s a great phone for everyday tasks, but Wi-Fi connectivity can be unstable at times.”
Comparison with Similar Phones
The Oppo Reno8 Pro competes with several other mid-range devices, including the Xiaomi 12 Lite, Realme GT Neo 3, and Samsung Galaxy A73. Here’s how it compares:
- Display: The Oppo Reno8 Pro’s AMOLED and 120Hz refresh rate matches well with competitors like the Realme GT Neo 3, offering smooth visuals and vibrant colors.
- Camera: While the 50MP main sensor is capable, the Galaxy A73 provides slightly better low-light performance, whereas the Xiaomi 12 Lite excels in color accuracy.
- Battery: The Reno8 Pro’s fast charging stands out, although the Realme GT Neo 3 offers a similar battery experience with rapid recharging.
- Software: ColorOS customization options are extensive but may feel bloated compared to the cleaner UI of Samsung’s One UI.
Is the Oppo Reno8 Pro Worth Buying?
The Oppo Reno8 Pro offers a premium mid-range experience, excelling in display quality, design, and fast charging. It is particularly appealing for users who prioritize screen quality, style, and a responsive camera system. However, it does have certain limitations, such as inconsistent connectivity, minor software bugs, and slightly limited low-light camera performance.
Pros of Buying Oppo Reno8 Pro:
- High-Quality Display: 120Hz AMOLED screen provides a smooth and immersive viewing experience.
- Stylish Design: With a sleek, premium look, the Reno8 Pro is visually appealing.
- Fast Charging: The 80W charging technology is among the fastest in the mid-range category.
Cons of Buying Oppo Reno8 Pro:
- Battery Life: While fast charging compensates, the battery drains faster with high refresh rates.
- Camera Limitations in Low Light: For avid photographers, low-light performance may fall short.
- Connectivity and Software Bugs: Minor bugs in ColorOS and occasional connectivity issues can affect the experience.
In summary, the Oppo Reno8 Pro is a solid choice for users seeking an attractive, mid-range device with strong multimedia capabilities. Its premium design, fast charging, and vibrant display make it stand out, while its few limitations are unlikely to be deal-breakers for casual users.