As someone who’s always on the lookout for reliable and affordable tablets, I was excited to get my hands on the Oukitel OT9. In this comprehensive review, I’ll share my honest thoughts on its features, performance, and overall value. Whether you’re considering buying it or just curious, read on to discover the pros and cons of the Oukitel OT9.
Introduction
Overview of Oukitel OT9
The Oukitel OT9 is a budget-friendly tablet that launched in November 2024. With its Model Number 407, it promises a blend of decent performance and affordability. I was eager to explore its dimensions of 258.2 x 169.5 x 8.6 mm and a weight of 520 grams, making it a substantial device in hand.
Purpose of the Review
My goal is to provide an unbiased analysis of the Oukitel OT9, highlighting both its strengths and weaknesses. This way, you can make an informed decision before investing in it.
Authoritativeness and Trust
This review is conducted independently by me, without any influence from Oukitel or retailers. I’ve tested the device thoroughly to ensure you receive a trustworthy and objective evaluation.
Design and Build Quality
Dimensions and Weight
The Oukitel OT9 measures 258.2 x 169.5 x 8.6 mm and weighs 520 grams. It’s a bit hefty, which might be a concern for some users looking for a lightweight tablet.
Material and Aesthetics
The tablet features a grey metal frame with shiny red accents, giving it a modern and stylish look. The metal chassis not only enhances its appearance but also adds to its durability.
Ergonomics and Handling
Despite its size, the OT9 feels comfortable to hold. However, I did notice a clicking noise on the case when twisting it slightly, which affects the overall screen module stability.
Build Quality Assessment
The workmanship is decent for its price range. While it doesn’t match the premium feel of high-end tablets, it offers good value for money with its sturdy build.
Display
Display Specifications
The Oukitel OT9 boasts an 11.0-inch LCD panel with a Full HD resolution of 800 x 1280 pixels. The IPS LCD Display ensures wide viewing angles, which is great for sharing the screen with friends or family.
Protection and Durability
The screen is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass, adding a layer of durability against scratches and minor drops.
Display Performance
- Brightness: The maximum brightness is below 400 cd/m², which makes the display less vibrant, especially in bright environments.
- Color Accuracy: I detected a blue cast, which slightly distorts the color balance, making the colors appear less natural.
- PWM Flickering: Fortunately, there’s no noticeable PWM flickering, ensuring comfortable viewing without eye strain.
- Reflection Issues: The display struggles with reflections, making it hard to see the screen clearly outdoors or in bright settings.
User Experience
The touchscreen sampling rate is 120 Hz, which makes interactions smooth. Even though the display can only show 60 frames per second, the operating smoothness remains decent. However, the blue cast and low brightness are significant drawbacks.
Performance and Hardware
Processor and Chipset
Under the hood, the OT9 is powered by the Unisoc T606 (12 nm) chipset. The Octa-core CPU configuration (2 × 1.6 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6 × 1.6 GHz Cortex-A55) offers basic performance suitable for everyday tasks.
Memory and Storage
- RAM/ROM: It comes with 4 GB RAM and 128 GB ROM, which is adequate for multitasking and storing media.
- Storage Expansion: The microSDXC support allows you to expand the storage, a handy feature for those who need more space.
- Memory Speed: The UFS 2.2 flash provides faster data access, enhancing the overall performance.
Performance Analysis
While the OT9 offers ample RAM and fast internal memory, its performance tier is at the bottom of the comparison field. The graphics performance is low, making it unsuitable for gamers. I experienced occasional delays when unlocking the tablet, which can be frustrating during regular use. However, the device remains stable during prolonged use, showing minimal heating and consistent performance in 3DMark stress tests.
Software
Operating System
The OT9 runs on Android 14, offering a familiar and user-friendly interface. However, it has minimal system changes from Android 13, which means it might lack some of the latest features found in other devices.
Security and Updates
- Security Patches: The last update was in November 2023, making some patches slightly outdated.
- Google DRM Standard: It supports Widevine L1, allowing you to stream content from services like Netflix without resolution restrictions.
User Interface and Experience
The operating smoothness is commendable despite the hardware limitations. However, the lack of pre-installed third-party software means you’ll need to install your favorite apps manually.
Software Limitations
- Stylus Support: The included stylus is a passive model without Bluetooth connectivity, limiting its functionality.
- Facial Recognition: The facial recognition feature works without an infrared sensor, making it less secure compared to fingerprint sensors.
Camera
Rear Camera
The OT9 features a 13 MP single-camera setup on the back. The camera module has shiny red accents and an LED flash, adding to its aesthetic appeal. However, the image quality is subpar with dull colors and blurred videos in low light conditions. The autofocus is slow, and the exposure compensation isn’t very responsive.
Selfie Camera
The 5 MP selfie camera is hidden in the frame, giving it a sleek look. While it takes decent pictures, the images have noticeable grain when enlarged, affecting the overall quality.
Video Performance
Recording videos at 1080p @ 30 fps is standard, but the video quality suffers in low light with dull colors and blurred footage. The detail reproduction is acceptable, but the lack of vibrant colors makes the videos less appealing.
Comparative Analysis
Compared to higher-end tablets, the OT9’s camera performance is lacking. Devices like the Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ offer better camera quality and features.
Battery and Charging
Battery Specifications
One of the standout features of the OT9 is its 8800 mAh battery. In my WLAN test, it provided over 18 hours of continuous use, which is impressive for a tablet in this price range.
Charging Capabilities
- Fast Charging: The device supports up to 18 W charging, allowing a full charge in approximately 4 hours.
- Charging Efficiency: Compared to competitors, the OT9’s charging speed is decent, ensuring you spend less time tethered to a charger.
Battery Performance
The battery life is reliable for long-term use, making it suitable for extended periods without needing a recharge. However, the fast charging could be improved to reduce the full charge time further.
Connectivity and Networking
Wireless Connectivity
- WLAN: The OT9 uses the WiFi 5 standard, providing stable connections.
- Bluetooth: With Bluetooth 5.0, it supports high-quality audio codecs like aptX HD and LDAC, enhancing wireless audio experiences.
Mobile Network Support
- 4G Network Support: The tablet supports 4G with LTE compatibility across multiple frequencies.
- Dual SIM Slots: It features 2 SIM slots, allowing you to use dual SIMs or a SIM and a microSD card.
Ports and Interfaces
- USB Port: Standard connectivity for peripherals and charging.
- 3.5 mm Jack: Enables wired audio connections, a useful feature for those who prefer wired headphones.
Audio Connectivity
You can connect external audio devices via the 3.5 mm jack or Bluetooth 5.0, offering flexibility in how you enjoy your media.
Audio Features
Speaker Setup
The OT9 is equipped with four speakers, delivering an immersive sound experience.
Sound Quality
- Loud and Decent Overall: The speakers are loud enough for most environments and provide a decent sound quality.
- Audible Low Mids: The low mids are audible, enhancing the overall audio experience.
Wireless Audio Support
The tablet supports high-quality codecs like aptX HD and LDAC, ensuring superior wireless audio transmission.
User Experience
Compared to other tablets in its price range, the OT9’s audio quality stands out, offering good sound for media consumption and gaming.
User Experience
Stylus Support
The passive stylus included with the OT9 allows for precise entries and navigation. However, it lacks Bluetooth connectivity and pressure level recognition, limiting its use in drawing and painting apps.
Security Features
- Facial Recognition: The facial recognition feature is reliable and reasonably quick, but it lacks an infrared sensor, making it less secure than fingerprint sensors.
- No Fingerprint Sensor: The absence of a fingerprint sensor is a downside for users who prefer biometric security.
Overall Usability
The OT9 is sufficient for basic everyday use, such as browsing, streaming, and light gaming. However, its limitations in advanced applications like drawing and high-end gaming may deter some users.
Performance and Usage
Gaming Performance
While the OT9 is suitable for Free Fire, its low graphics performance makes it unsuitable for high-end games. Gamers looking for a smooth and responsive experience might find it lacking.
Data Transfer and Connectivity
- Data Transfer Rates: The OT9 offers class-leading performance with the Angelbird V60, ensuring fast data transfers.
- Wi-Fi Performance: With speeds between 300-350 MBit/s, the Wi-Fi performance is stable for everyday use but cannot fully utilize gigabit connections.
Network Facilities
The tablet excels in providing good network facilities for everyday use. However, the dual SIM vs. SIM and microSD decision might require users to prioritize based on their needs.
Pricing and Availability
Price Point
The Oukitel OT9 is priced at BDT 25,000, making it an affordable option in the tablet market.
Available Variants
It is available in a 4 GB RAM / 128 GB ROM variant, catering to users who need ample storage without breaking the bank.
Market Availability
Priced under 200 euros, the OT9 targets users seeking affordable tablets with ample storage and battery life. Its high storage and RAM for the price and long battery runtime are significant selling points.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Large and Fast Mass Storage: With 128 GB ROM and microSDXC support, storage is ample and expandable.
- Ample RAM (6 GB): Ensures smooth multitasking for most applications.
- Pure Android Experience: No bloatware, offering a clean and user-friendly interface.
- Stylish Metal Casing: Adds durability and a premium feel.
- Good Sound Quality with Four Speakers: Enhances media consumption and gaming.
- Long Battery Life and Fast Charging: 8800 mAh battery with 18 W fast charging provides reliable performance throughout the day.
Cons
- Limited System Performance and Graphics: The Unisoc T606 chipset places it at the lower end of performance, making it unsuitable for high-end gaming.
- Dull Display Colors and Low Brightness: The blue cast and maximum brightness < 400 cd/m² diminish the visual experience.
- Camera Quality Not Up to High-End Standards: Dull colors and blurred videos in low light reduce camera performance.
- No Fingerprint Sensor: Limits biometric security options.
- Passive Stylus Without Advanced Features: Lacks Bluetooth and pressure sensitivity, restricting its use in creative applications.
- Limited Performance Reserves: Minimal capacity for handling intensive tasks beyond basic use.
Market Positioning
Competitive Edge
The Oukitel OT9 stands out as the best 4G smartphone under 30K Taka with its high storage and RAM for the price and long battery runtime. These features make it an attractive option for budget-conscious users.
Target Audience
It is ideal for users seeking affordable tablets with ample storage and battery life. Students, casual gamers, and media consumers will find it particularly useful.
Comparative Decision Factors
When choosing between dual SIM and SIM and microSD card, users need to consider their priority—whether it’s having two active SIMs or expandable storage.
Comparative Analysis
Competitors
- Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+
- Xiaomi Tablets
Comparison Points
- Performance: The Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ is faster, offering better overall performance.
- Updates: Samsung provides longer update support, up to 4 years, ensuring the device stays current longer.
- Memory: While Oukitel offers more RAM and storage, it relies on slower swap files, which can affect performance.
Additional Information
Manufacturer Details
The Oukitel OT9 is manufactured by Oukitel in China, ensuring a blend of quality and affordability.
Additional Features
- Lack of NFC: Limits functionalities like contactless payments.
- SIM Slot Sharing with microSD: Users must choose between dual SIM support and expandable storage, adding a layer of decision-making.
Editorial Integrity
This review is conducted independently by Notebookcheck, an independent media company, ensuring objectivity and trustworthiness. There was no influence from manufacturers or retailers, and no compensation was accepted in return for this review.
Conclusion
Final Verdict
The Oukitel OT9 offers a decent set of features for its price, making it a viable option for budget-conscious users. Its ample storage, long battery life, and good sound quality are significant advantages. However, the limited performance, dull display, and subpar camera quality are notable drawbacks that potential buyers should consider.
Recommendation
If you need a tablet for basic everyday use, such as browsing, streaming, and light gaming, the OT9 is a solid choice. However, if you require a device for high-end gaming or creative applications like drawing and painting, you might want to explore other options with better performance and camera quality.
FAQs
When will the Oukitel OT9 be available?
The Oukitel OT9 was launched in November 2024 and is currently available in the market.
What is the price of the Oukitel OT9?
The Oukitel OT9 is priced at BDT 25,000, making it an affordable option for many users.
Does the Oukitel OT9 support dual SIM?
Yes, the Oukitel OT9 supports dual SIM with 2 SIM slots, allowing you to use two SIM cards simultaneously.
How is the battery life of the Oukitel OT9?
The tablet boasts an 8800 mAh battery, providing over 18 hours of usage in WLAN tests. It also supports fast charging up to 18 W, charging fully in about 4 hours.
What are the main drawbacks of the Oukitel OT9?
The primary drawbacks include limited system performance, dull display colors, low brightness, subpar camera quality, absence of a fingerprint sensor, and a passive stylus without advanced features.