iQOO Neo 12 Gets Mixed Results in Real-World Gaming Tests

The iQOO Neo 12 has undergone real-world battery and gaming tests, revealing a mixed performance across several categories despite its flagship Snapdragon processor, dedicated gaming chip, and large battery capacity.

The results were shared by the Weibo account Reviewer as part of its Issue 120 real-world smartphone testing series. The device recorded a 60% remaining battery level after five hours of comprehensive testing and achieved a total battery runtime of 16 hours and 4 minutes before shutting down.

Despite its high-end hardware, the iQOO Neo 12 did not secure top positions in every category, although it delivered stronger results in certain demanding gaming scenarios.

iQOO Neo 12 battery and gaming test results

According to Reviewer, the iQOO Neo 12 ranked 21st overall in the five-hour comprehensive battery test, retaining 60% of its battery capacity. Its total battery life reached 16 hours and 4 minutes, placing 26th in the overall ranking.

During three consecutive rounds of Honor of Kings, the device recorded a power consumption of 4.00W, ranking 56th in the corresponding category.

The phone delivered more competitive results in heavier gaming workloads. In the Genshin Impact and video call test, it ranked 43rd in frame rate performance and 19th in temperature control.

Meanwhile, its performance in the Honkai: Star Rail heavy-load test was considerably better, securing 12th place in frame rate performance and 17th in temperature control.

Reviewer noted that despite the phone’s air-cooling capabilities, its overall performance scheduling was not particularly aggressive. This was especially noticeable during the Genshin Impact and video call test, where frame locking was observed.

However, the iQOO Neo 12 performed well in the Honkai: Star Rail test, reportedly outperforming some smartphones equipped with Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 processors.

The Weibo account also highlighted that air-cooled smartphones may consume more power, making a large battery an important consideration for everyday use. It maintained its preference for the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 paired with air cooling, arguing that this combination is more dependable than using a Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 without air cooling.

iQOO Neo 12 specifications

Here are the official specifications and launch prices of the phone as listed on its official iQOO/vivo website:

iQOO Neo 12 pricing in China

The iQOO Neo 12 is offered in five memory and storage configurations, with prices starting at CNY 4,399.

• 12GB + 256GB: CNY 4,399 (approximately ₱42,100)
• 16GB + 256GB: CNY 4,799 (approximately ₱45,900)
• 12GB + 512GB: CNY 5,099 (approximately ₱48,800)
• 16GB + 512GB: CNY 5,499 (approximately ₱52,600)
• 16GB + 1TB: CNY 6,499 (approximately ₱62,200)

Available color options include Shadow Black, Frost Blade Blue, and Striker.

Availability and global release

The iQOO Neo 12 is currently available for pre-order in China, with the official pre-order period beginning on October 28, 2026, following an earlier initial reservation phase. Its official retail release is scheduled for November 4, 2026.

As of now, iQOO has not announced plans to launch the device in international markets. Its potential availability in the Philippines also remains unconfirmed.

With its Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor, 9,000mAh battery, and gaming-focused hardware, the iQOO Neo 12 offers a compelling specification sheet. However, its real-world testing results indicate that its performance varies depending on the workload, with particularly strong results in Honkai: Star Rail but less impressive rankings in other gaming scenarios.

More details about its international availability are expected if iQOO announces a wider release.