The Infinix Hot Series has always been the darling of budget-conscious smartphone users across Africa and Asia. With every new release, anticipation runs high—can the latest model deliver on its promises of style, power, and affordability? In 2025, Infinix unveiled its newest Hot Series contender, the Infinix Hot 40 (or Hot 40 Pro, depending on your market). But is it truly worth the hype, or just another flash in the pan? Here’s an in-depth, hands-on review to help you decide.
Unboxing & First Impressions
Straight out of the box, the Hot 40 feels like a significant step up from its predecessor. The packaging is slick, and the device itself sports a glossy finish, available in vibrant colors like Racing Black, Emerald Green, and the fan-favorite Sunset Gold. The phone feels solid in the hand, with a slim profile and subtle curves that make it comfortable to hold. Infinix has kept the headphone jack (a win for music lovers), and the fingerprint sensor is neatly embedded in the power button for easy unlocking.
Display: Big, Bright, and Smooth
- Size: 6.8-inch IPS LCD
- Resolution: FHD+ (2460 x 1080 pixels)
- Refresh rate: 90Hz (Hot 40), 120Hz (Hot 40 Pro)
The screen is massive, ideal for watching Nollywood movies, YouTube, or gaming. Colors are punchy, and the higher refresh rate makes scrolling and animations feel smooth—an impressive feature at this price point. Outdoor visibility is solid, though not flagship-level, but it easily handles daily sunlight.
Performance: Punches Above Its Price
- Processor: MediaTek Helio G88 (Hot 40) / G99 (Hot 40 Pro)
- RAM: 8GB (expandable up to 16GB with memory fusion)
- Storage: 128GB/256GB (expandable via microSD)
For everyday tasks—browsing, social media, streaming, and light gaming—the Hot 40 is a breeze. Apps launch quickly, multitasking is smooth, and the device rarely heats up. The Pro version with the G99 chip handles heavier games like PUBG Mobile or Call of Duty with fewer stutters, especially if you dial down the graphics settings. Multitasking gets a boost from the RAM expansion feature, letting you run several apps without lag.
Camera: More Than Just Megapixels
- Rear: 50MP main, 2MP depth, AI lens
- Front: 16MP selfie
Infinix knows its audience loves snapping photos, and the Hot 40 delivers. Daylight shots are sharp, with decent color balance. The AI mode does a good job with skin tones (a nod to African users) and handles group selfies well. Low-light performance is improved, though you’ll see some grain. The rear camera’s portrait mode can produce pleasing background blur, but struggles a bit in tricky lighting. Video maxes out at 1080p—good enough for TikTok or YouTube, but don’t expect cinematic quality.
Battery Life: Built for the Long Haul
- Capacity: 5,000mAh
- Charging: 33W fast charging (Pro version supports 45W)
This is a phone built for heavy users. With moderate usage (some calls, browsing, a few hours of video, and social media), the Hot 40 easily lasts a full day—and often well into the next. The 33W fast charger gets you from 0 to 70% in about 40 minutes (even faster on the Pro). No wireless charging (expected at this price), but you won’t miss it with this kind of battery endurance.
Software & Extras
- OS: XOS 14 (based on Android 14)
- Features: Game Mode, Kids Mode, Social Turbo (for WhatsApp), and a revamped user interface.
XOS has matured, with fewer ads and improved stability. There are still a few pre-installed apps (bloatware), but most can be removed. The Game Mode optimizes performance, while Social Turbo adds features like call recording and WhatsApp enhancements. Security updates are promised quarterly—a good sign for long-term use.
Connectivity & Sound
- 4G LTE (No 5G yet in most markets)
- Dual SIM
- MicroSD slot
- Dual stereo speakers (surprisingly loud and clear for this segment)
No 5G, but that’s not a dealbreaker in most African markets where 5G isn’t widely available yet. Call quality is crisp, and the speakers are loud enough for music or hands-free calls.
Who Should Buy the Infinix Hot 40?
Perfect for:
- Students and young professionals wanting style and power on a budget
- Content creators (TikTok, Instagram, vlogs) who need decent cameras without breaking the bank
- Gamers looking for smooth performance in the sub-$200 segment
- Anyone who values long battery life and a big, immersive screen
Not for:
- Hardcore gamers or photographers who demand flagship-level specs
- Users who need 5G connectivity now
The Verdict: Is It Worth the Hype?
Absolutely—the Infinix Hot 40 lives up to the buzz. While it doesn’t reinvent the wheel, it ticks all the right boxes for its price: stylish design, strong battery, smooth display, and reliable performance. Infinix has listened to feedback, trimming down the bloatware and adding features that African users actually want. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly phone that feels anything but cheap, the Hot 40 deserves a spot at the top of your list.
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