HTC Desire X: The New Entry Level Smartphone

HTC expands its range of entry level smartphones with the new HTC Desire X.

Specifications

From the outset, we observe that the device is equipped with a Snapdragon, dual-core MSM8225 processor from Qualcomm, clocked at 1GHz. The device is supported by 768 MB of RAM, a Super LCD WVGA screen at 4 inches and a resolution of 800 x 480 pixels. The graphics chip is an Adreno 203 also from Qualcomm with quite satisfactory performances.

The device also sports a 5 MP LED flash camera at the rear and the Desire X is sadly lacking a front facing camera, so video calls won’t be possible. There are also three sensors present: an accelerometer, a proximity sensor and an ambient light sensor. All of which are pretty standard by today’s specs.

Regarding networks, there is GSM / GPRS / EDGE support at 850/900/1800/1900MHz frequencies and HSPA / WCDMA compatibility as well. A GPS antenna and FM receiver are also present.

If you are having trouble with signal in your area and family are living close by why not get yourself a set of 2 way radios at DCS2Way and keep in contact in bad signal areas.

Storage is provided by 4GB of internal memory, which is expandable through a Micro SD slot. Owners will also find bluetooth 4.0, a 3.5mm stereo audio jack, Wi-Fi b/g/n and finally DLNA support which allows the transfer of multimedia content from the phone to a TV or compatible computer.

A variety of multimedia formats are supported out of the box on the Desire X. The audio player supports: .aac, .amr, .ogg, .m4a, .midi, .mp3, .wav & .wma. With the video player supporting: .3gp, .3g2, .mp4, .wmv & .avi. Not many devices can make that claim, never mind “entry level” ones.

The sound quality seems improved by the integrated Beats Audio ™ system and the whole package is run by a Li-Ion 1650 mAh removable battery. The dimensions are 118.5 x 62.3 x 9.3 mm and it weighs 114g with the battery included.

Software & Price

Android 4.0.4 Ice Scream Sandwich is pre-installed with the HTC Sense standard overlay, as with most OEM overlays, some people love and other hate them. Personally I really like the HTC overlay.

The HTC Desire X is available for around £179 (around $285). This price puts is firmly in the same price bracket as the lower end Nexus 4 devices, but on the face of things it really doesn’t compare in terms of specifications. So if you’re happy putting a bit more cash into your investment then we would recommend the Nexus 4 over the Desire X.

 

HTC make fantastic phones and if you’re in the market for an excellent starter phone or don’t want to break the bank with something like a Samsung Galaxy S then you really can’t go far wrong with the HTC Desire X.