Price and specifications of Acer Liquid M320 advantages, disadvantages, and a comprehensive explanation

Network

The Acer Liquid M320 supports GSM and HSPA network technologies, providing decent connectivity options for standard mobile communication and moderate data usage. Users have access to 2G bands GSM 850/900/1800/1900 for both SIM 1 and SIM 2 in the dual-SIM model configurations, along with 3G HSDPA band support. The device offers HSPA speeds of up to 42.2/5.76 Mbps, supplemented by GPRS and EDGE connections for areas with less robust network infrastructure.

Launch and Availability

The Acer Liquid M320 was announced in September 2015 as part of Acer’s lineup to reach users seeking affordable smartphones with the functionality and ease of Microsoft Windows 10. It was made available to the public in November 2015. However, it has since been discontinued, allowing it to cement its place as a representation of the transitional smartphone era to modern-day expectations.

Body and Build

With dimensions of 136 x 66.5 x 9.6 mm and weighing 142 grams, the Acer Liquid M320 sports a compact design, well-suited for one-handed use and portability. It provides the option of a single SIM (Micro-SIM) or a dual SIM (Micro-SIM, dual stand-by) configuration, appealing to users requiring flexibility in network management. The ergonomic design in Mystic Black and Pure White color schemes gives it a simple yet effective aesthetic appeal.

Display

The device features a 4.5-inch IPS LCD display, filling approximately 61.7% of its front surface. With a resolution of 480 x 854 pixels and a pixel density of about 218 ppi, the display is adequate for basic tasks, offering accurate color reproduction and a comfortable viewing experience within its constraints. Despite being modest compared to contemporary standards, it functions effectively for everyday smartphone tasks.

Platform and Performance

Running on Microsoft Windows 10, the Acer Liquid M320 blends seamlessly into the productivity-focused ecosystem Microsoft is renowned for. The Qualcomm MSM8909 Snapdragon 210 chipset, built on a 28 nm process, powers the device with a Quad-core 1.1 GHz Cortex-A7 CPU and Adreno 304 GPU. This configuration, complemented by 1GB RAM, handles entry-level tasks, such as browsing and light app usage, relatively smoothly. However, multitasking and graphically demanding applications might not perform optimally.

Memory

The smartphone comes with 8GB of internal storage, which might seem limited for today's standards but can be expanded via a dedicated microSDXC card slot. This feature significantly increases the storage space, making it more versatile for users needing access to various applications and media files without worrying about space constraints.

Main Camera

The Acer Liquid M320 is equipped with a 5 MP autofocus rear camera, supported by an LED flash for better low-light performance. Suitable for capturing simple photos, the camera meets the basic requirements of capturing everyday moments. Video recording is also supported, albeit without the advanced features found in high-end models.

Selfie Camera

On the front, there is a 2 MP camera, sufficient for video calls and basic selfies. While it lacks sophisticated features like image stabilization or high-resolution capability, it fulfills the basic expectations from a frontline camera on a budget smartphone.

Sound

For audio capabilities, the device features a loudspeaker and includes a standard 3.5mm headphone jack, enabling users to enjoy music, calls, and media consumption with convenience. While not exceptional in sound quality, it ensures that the basic audio needs are met effectively, whether through earphones or the built-in speaker.

Communication and Connectivity

The Acer Liquid M320 includes essential communication tools with Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n capabilities, allowing hotspot functionality for connectivity sharing. Bluetooth 4.0 with A2DP support ensures quick and easy wireless connection to other devices. While lacking NFC capabilities, GPS is included for location services. Users can also enjoy FM radio, and the microUSB 2.0 port supports charging and data transfer functions.

Sensors and Additional Features

The smartphone incorporates essential sensors, including an accelerometer and proximity sensor, to enhance user interaction with intuitive operation and power management. However, lacks more advanced sensors such as gyroscope or fingerprint recognition found in current smartphones, focusing instead on practical use and cost-effectiveness.

Battery Life

Powering the Acer Liquid M320 is a removable 2000mAh Li-Ion battery, providing adequate power to see the phone through a day of typical use, with variability depending on the usage intensity. The advantage of a removable battery lies in the user’s capacity to replace it, prolonging the device's overall lifespan.

Conclusion

The Acer Liquid M320, while discontinued, serves as an example of a budget-friendly, functional smartphone catering to users who prioritize essential features and the familiarity of the Windows 10 ecosystem. Though it does not come loaded with modern high-end specs, it offers a practical alternative to those seeking connectivity and basic smartphone capabilities without the demand for high performance or heavy multitasking.