HTC Desire X: The New Entry Level Smartphone

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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.