Mid-range smartphones have become increasingly competitive, with brands pushing to deliver premium features at more accessible prices, but few manage to strike the right balance between design, performance and everyday usability.
The HONOR 600 Lite enters that space with a clear intent, to offer a device that looks and feels high-end, while integrating smart features that make a real difference in daily use. Before you even power it on, the Sprout Green finish stands out. It’s stylish, fresh and clearly intentional.
The phone looks expensive, and more importantly, it feels that way too. Subtle details, like the flash ring around the camera with the 108MP branding, add to that premium feel without overdoing it.
In this edition of The Star, we took a closer look at the HONOR 600 Lite to see whether it’s just about looks or if it actually delivers where it matters.
Once you start using it, the camera quickly becomes the main attraction. The 108MP AI camera, paired with a dedicated camera button, makes capturing moments feel quick and effortless. There’s no digging through apps, it’s just press and shoot. I found myself using this more than expected, especially for quick selfies and everyday moments. The images come out sharp, colours are well balanced, and it handles social media content with ease.
Beyond that, the camera offers more than just point-and-shoot. Portrait mode holds up well, night shots are decent for this range, and there are AI enhancements working quietly in the background to improve your images. It’s not trying to be overly technical, it’s built for real-life use.
As someone who enjoys innovative gadgets and is often on the move, one feature that stood out was how the phone handles its AI tools. Features like AI Eraser and AI Outpainting are genuinely useful in everyday situations.
Removing unwanted objects or adjusting a frame takes seconds. It’s not perfect every time, but it’s quick, convenient, and cuts out the need for extra editing apps, making the overall experience feel smoother.
Outside of the camera, the phone delivers where it counts. The display is large and comfortable to use, whether you are watching videos, scrolling, or just browsing. Battery life keeps up with a full day, and the 45W HONOR SuperCharge makes a noticeable difference. You do not have to plan your day around charging, a short top-up gets you going again.
With HONOR positioning itself as a trendsetter and pushing to make innovation more accessible, the HONOR 600 Lite feels like a clear example of that approach. It brings in AI features and everyday usability in a way that doesn’t feel forced or complicated.
That said, it’s not perfect. The camera, while strong, can be slightly inconsistent in certain lighting conditions, you will get a great shot, then one that feels a bit flat right after. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it’s something you notice with regular use.
Overall, the HONOR 600 Lite strikes a balance that many devices in this category miss. It looks good, feels good, and adds just enough smart features to stand out without overcomplicating things.
The HONOR 600 Lite is now available in stores nationwide in Sprout Green and Velvet Black, retailing at R8,999, with contract options from R399 per month over 36 months.
The Star
masabata.mkwananzi@inl.co.za