Design and Build
Coolpad’s newest smartphone, the Cool 20s 5G, showcases a sleek, modern aesthetic with a glass-sandwich design. Measuring 164.3 x 75.5 x 8.3 mm and weighing 193 grams, it balances premium feel and ergonomic comfort. The rear panel features a matte AG glass finish, reducing fingerprints while offering gradient color options like Cosmic Black, Dreamy Blue, and Jade Green. A rectangular camera module houses dual lenses with minimalist branding. Durability includes IP52 splash resistance and reinforced corners for shock absorption. The side-mounted fingerprint scanner doubles as a power button, ensuring quick, secure access.
Display Technology
The device sports a 6.58-inch FHD+ IPS LCD with a 120Hz refresh rate, delivering fluid scrolling and responsive touch interactions. With 1080 x 2408 pixel resolution (401 PPI), it offers sharp text and vibrant colors. The display supports DCI-P3 wide color gamut and 500 nits peak brightness, enhancing outdoor visibility. A centered punch-hole cutout houses the front camera, maximizing screen real estate for an immersive viewing experience. Corning Gorilla Glass 5 protects against scratches and minor drops.
Performance and Hardware
Powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 700 5G chipset (7nm process), the Cool 20s 5G handles multitasking and gaming efficiently. The octa-core CPU (2x Cortex-A76 at 2.2GHz + 6x Cortex-A55 at 2.0GHz) and Mali-G57 MC2 GPU enable smooth performance in titles like PUBG Mobile. It ships with 6GB LPDDR4X RAM and 128GB UFS 2.2 storage, expandable to 512GB via microSD. 5G connectivity ensures future-proof speeds up to 2.77Gbps download. Benchmark tests show competitive scores: 350,000+ on AnTuTu v9.
Camera Capabilities
A dual-camera system anchors photography: a 50MP f/1.8 primary sensor with PDAF and a 2MP depth sensor. The main lens captures detailed 12.5MP binned shots, supported by Night Mode for low-light clarity. AI scene detection optimizes settings for 22 scenarios (food, portraits, landscapes). Video recording peaks at 1080p@30fps with EIS stabilization. The 8MP front camera features portrait mode and AI beautification. Additional tools include Pro mode, timelapse, and a dedicated Super Macro setting.
Battery and Charging
A 4,500mAh battery provides all-day endurance, with up to 18 hours of video playback or 8 hours of gaming. The 18W fast charger (included) refuels 50% in 35 minutes. Software optimizations like AI power management extend lifespan by limiting background app activity. Testing yielded 6.5 hours of screen-on time under mixed usage (5G, social media, streaming). Power-saving modes adjust CPU/display usage during critical low-battery scenarios.
Software Experience
Running COOLOS 3.0 based on Android 12, the interface prioritizes simplicity and speed. Key features include Memory Fusion (allocating 5GB virtual RAM), Privacy Guard (app permission controls), and System Turbo (optimizing resource allocation). Bloatware is minimal, with pre-installed essentials like Phone Master for cleanup. Security updates are promised for two years. Gesture navigation, dark mode, and customizable Always-On Display options enhance usability.
Audio and Connectivity
Dual stereo speakers tuned by Dirac deliver balanced sound with enhanced bass, reaching 88dB loudness. A 3.5mm headphone jack supports wired audio. Connectivity spans Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.1, NFC, and USB-C 2.0. Dual SIM 5G slots ensure network flexibility, while GPS with GLONASS provides accurate navigation. Unique additions include FM radio support and “Smart Touch”—a side-panel shortcut for apps and tools.
Pricing and Availability
Priced at $199, the Cool 20s 5G targets budget-conscious buyers seeking 5G capabilities. It launched in Asia and Europe in Q3 2023, with U.S. availability via Amazon and Coolpad’s website. Two variants exist: 4GB+128GB ($179) and 6GB+128GB ($199). Bundled accessories include a silicone case, screen protector, and charger. Coolpad offers a 12-month warranty with service centers in 15 countries.
Special Features
Exclusive software includes “Game Space,” optimizing CPU/GPU during gameplay by blocking notifications and boosting frame rates. “Smart 5G” switches networks based on usage to conserve battery. The phone also supports reverse wired charging (5W) for accessories. A “High-Resolution Audio” mode upscales compressed music via Dirac Virtuo tech.
Competition Comparison
Against rivals like Redmi Note 11 and Realme 9 5G, the Cool 20s 5G competes with superior speakers, a smoother 120Hz display, and COOLOS optimizations. However, it trails in camera versatility (lacking ultrawide) and charging speed. Its 5G band support (n1/n3/n28/n41/n78) covers more global frequencies than entry-level competitors.
Sustainability Efforts
Coolpad emphasizes eco-friendly packaging (100% recycled paper) and a carbon-neutral production pledge. The phone uses 30% recycled materials in internal components. Repair programs offer affordable battery/screen replacements to extend device lifespan.
Final Specifications Overview
- Chipset: MediaTek Dimensity 700 5G
- RAM/Storage: 6GB+128GB (expandable)
- Display: 6.58″ FHD+ 120Hz IPS LCD
- Rear Cameras: 50MP main + 2MP depth
- Front Camera: 8MP
- Battery: 4,500mAh, 18W fast charging
- OS: COOLOS 3.0 (Android 12)
- Audio: Dirac-tuned stereo speakers, 3.5mm jack
- Weight/Dimensions: 193g, 164.3 x 75.5 x 8.3mm
- Colors: Cosmic Black, Dreamy Blue, Jade Green