The Vivo V series has built a reputation for offering a stylish design and capable cameras within the mid-range segment. Just six months after the release of the Vivo V50, the company has introduced its latest model, the Vivo V60. Although the upgrade cycle is short, Vivo has used this time to refresh the design and improve the camera system. One of the key changes is the addition of a telephoto camera. This marks a new step forward for the series, with a stronger emphasis on mobile photography.

With these improvements, the Vivo V60 positions itself as more than just a minor refresh. It reflects Vivo’s ongoing effort to push the V series forward and respond to user expectations. The question is whether these changes are enough to make the V60 a standout choice in the highly competitive mid-range market. Let’s take a closer look at what this new model brings to the table.

Aesthetics

The Vivo V60 continues the series’ focus on sleek and stylish design. It features a minimalist aesthetic with a slim form factor and a refined finish that feels premium for a mid-range device. Vivo offers the V60 in a range of color options to suit different tastes. Summer Blue, Desert Gold, and Mist Grey deliver understated, elegant looks. Berry Purple (the unit used for this review) adds a pop of color for users who prefer a more expressive style. Ocean Blue, which is available only in India, stands out the most with a unique rippling, wave-like pattern that adds depth and movement to the surface.

The back panel of the Berry Purple model has a matte texture that resists fingerprints while reflecting light in subtle and elegant ways. The included case matches the color of the device, which is a nice touch. In terms of design language, the V60’s rear panel looks more similar to the Vivo X200 FE than to the previous V50.

The camera setup is arranged cleanly across the upper-left corner. The main and telephoto cameras are stacked vertically within an oval-shaped camera island, with the Zeiss logo placed neatly between them. Next to this module, the ultra-wide camera and LED flash are aligned vertically in a separate column, keeping the layout balanced and visually distinct.

Ergonomics

Holding the Vivo V60 is a pleasure, thanks to its balanced weight and thoughtfully contoured edges. Vivo has crafted the V60 with dimensions that feel just right for a modern handset, but the experience shifts subtly depending on the color you choose. The Mist Gray edition is the slimmest and lightest of the lineup, measuring 163.29mm tall, 76.72mm wide, and just 7.53mm thick, with a weight of 192 grams. Opt for Dessert Gold, Berry Purple, or Summer Blue, and you’ll find the phone slightly thicker at 7.65mm and a bit more substantial at 200 grams. Those seeking the exclusive Ocean Blue will notice a 7.75mm thickness and a weight of 201 grams.

Regardless of the variant, the phone’s gently curved front and back ensure the V60 nestles comfortably in your palm, with a silhouette that never feels bulky or awkward. Even after a marathon day of scrolling, gaming, or snapping photos, your grip remains secure and natural, with no pressure points digging into your hand.

The power button sits on the right side of the frame, positioned about halfway down the height of the device, with the volume rockers just above it. While this arrangement keeps the buttons within easy reach, some users may find the placement a little too low, especially during one-handed use or when reaching quickly. It is a detail that design-conscious users might notice, particularly if they are accustomed to higher button placements on other smartphones.

The on-screen fingerprint scanner, though fast and accurate, is positioned very close to the bottom edge of the display. This location keeps the visual experience clean but may require users to shift their grip more than expected, especially when unlocking the phone single-handedly. For those with smaller hands, this might feel just right, but users who prefer a scanner placed slightly higher may need a period of adjustment. It is a minor ergonomic trade-off in an otherwise comfortable design.

Performance

Thanks to the updated chipset, everyday use feels smooth and responsive. While the Snapdragon 7 Gen 4 is not the newest or most powerful processor on the market, it delivers solid performance for daily tasks. Paired with 8GB or 12GB of RAM and storage options of 128GB, 256GB, or 512GB, the V60 handles multitasking well. Whether you are switching between social media, messaging, or productivity apps, the phone keeps up without noticeable lag. Even with multiple apps running in the background, performance remains steady.

Gaming performance is respectable for its class. Popular titles like Genshin Impact, Call of Duty: Mobile, and PUBG Mobile run at medium to high settings with stable frame rates, although extended play sessions can lead to some warmth around the back panel. Thermal management is decent, and performance throttling is minimal under sustained load.

Photography is a major selling point for the V60, and Vivo’s engineering team has delivered a camera system that punches well above its weight. The triple camera setup includes a 50MP main camera, a 50MP telephoto camera, and an 8MP ultra-wide camera.

The 23 mm equivalent main camera uses a 1/1.56-inch Sony IMX766 sensor with an f/1.9 aperture and optical image stabilization. It captures vibrant, detailed images in daylight and performs well in low-light environments, producing balanced exposures with minimal noise.

The standout is the 73mm equivalent periscope telephoto lens. It features a 50MP Sony IMX882 sensor with a 1/1.95-inch size, an f/2.7 aperture, and optical image stabilization. It delivers excellent results. The camera app supports up to 10x digital zoom, though image quality starts to drop off beyond 4x, as expected.

Overall, both the main and telephoto cameras are impressive for a device in this category. However, one limitation is the relatively long minimum focusing distance, and there is no dedicated macro mode. If you enjoy taking close-up shots of flowers, insects, or small objects, this may not be the ideal phone for that purpose.

The 8MP ultra-wide camera is a step down from the 50MP sensor found in the previous model, but it still adds useful versatility for capturing landscapes and group shots. However, it falls short of the main and telephoto lenses in terms of sharpness and overall image quality.

In terms of video recording, the V60 supports up to 4K resolution at 30 FPS with the main, telephoto, and front-facing cameras. When recording in 1080p, all three can shoot at 60 FPS. The ultra-wide camera is more limited, offering a maximum of 1080p at 30 FPS.

The Vivo V60 features a 6.77-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate and a resolution of 1080 × 2392 pixels (FHD+). Vivo claims a peak brightness of up to 5,000 nits. While real-world conditions rarely reach that number, the screen remains easily visible even in bright sunlight.

Battery life is another area where the Vivo V60 stands out. Its large 6,500mAh battery easily powers the device through a full day of heavy use and often stretches into a second day for lighter users. In testing, the phone performed exceptionally well in active usage scenarios, backing up Vivo’s endurance claims. It also supports 90W wired charging, which delivers fast top-ups, though it lacks wireless charging support.

Sustainability

Vivo makes no claims about using recycled or sustainable materials in the V60, which may disappoint eco-conscious users. However, the phone is built with long-term durability in mind. It features IP68 and IP69 ratings, offering strong resistance to dust, submersion, and high-pressure water. Diamond Shield Glass and an internal cushioning structure improve drop resistance, while platinum-plated ports and a One-Tap Water Ejection feature enhance protection against moisture and corrosion.

On the software side, Super Battery Saver and Bypass Charging work to reduce heat during charging and preserve battery health. These optimizations help the device maintain consistent performance over time. According to Vivo, the V60 is built to last up to four years without noticeable slowdowns, making it a durable option within its class, even if not the most sustainable.

Value

The Vivo V60 is available in several international markets, including India, Malaysia, and Vietnam. Pricing varies by region, but Vivo aims to keep the phone under the equivalent of $500 USD, making it a strong contender in the mid-range segment. Its sleek design and premium feel help it stand out among competitors at this price point.

In addition to its stylish look, the V60 offers impressive camera performance and excellent battery life, making it a great choice for users who prioritize photography and all-day usage. However, if you are looking for a phone specifically geared toward gaming, there are better options available with more powerful hardware and gaming features. Overall, the V60 strikes a good balance between design, functionality, and affordability for most everyday users.

Verdict

The Vivo V60 is a thoughtfully designed mid-range smartphone that continues the V series’ tradition of stylish aesthetics and capable cameras. With a refreshed look, a new triple-camera setup, and a battery that easily lasts through a full day or more, the V60 offers meaningful improvements over its predecessor. It may not reinvent the category, but it certainly pushes the series forward in the right ways.

Performance is solid for everyday use, and while it may not be the top pick for hardcore gamers, it handles most tasks with ease. The addition of a dedicated telephoto lens gives the V60 a real edge in mobile photography at this price point, although the lack of a macro mode and a downgraded ultra-wide camera are small trade-offs. For under $500, the Vivo V60 presents an appealing mix of style, substance, and endurance, making it a strong contender for anyone seeking a well-rounded mid-range smartphone.

The post Vivo V60 Review: Premium Looks, Great Camera, and Long Battery Life for Under $500 first appeared on Yanko Design.

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