Alcatel Idol 2 Mini S Complete Specs Pricing & Insightful Review

Display and Design

The Alcatel Idol 2 Mini S features a compact design, with dimensions of 129.5 x 63.5 x 8.5 mm and a weight of approximately 116 grams, making it a lightweight and portable device. The front of the phone is dominated by a 4.5-inch IPS LCD display, providing a decent screen-to-body ratio of about 67.9%. The display has a resolution of 540 x 960 pixels, with a pixel density of around 245 PPI, ensuring that text and images appear relatively sharp. An oleophobic coating helps to reduce fingerprints and smudges on the screen.

Performance and Software

Under the hood, the Idol 2 Mini S is powered by a quad-core 1.2 GHz processor, which provides adequate performance for daily tasks and moderate multitasking. The phone originally runs on Android 4.3 Jelly Bean, with an upgrade path to Android 4.4 KitKat, offering a relatively modern user experience for its time. With 1GB of RAM, the device can handle basic applications, though it may struggle with more demanding software.

Storage and Expandability

The device is available with either 4GB or 8GB of internal storage, depending on the model (6036A, 6036X or 6036Y), which may not be sufficient for users who store a lot of media files or apps. However, the presence of a microSDHC card slot allows for storage expansion, which is a crucial feature for those who require more space.

Camera Capabilities

The Alcatel Idol 2 Mini S is equipped with an 8 MP main camera, featuring auto-focus, LED flash, panorama, and HDR capabilities. It can record video at 1080p resolution at 30 frames per second, offering decent video recording quality for its class. On the front, there is a 2 MP selfie camera that can take basic selfies and assist in video calls.

Network and Connectivity

This device supports a range of network technologies, including GSM, HSPA, and LTE, providing users with reliable connectivity options. It can access 2G, 3G, and specific 4G LTE bands, allowing for relatively fast mobile internet speeds (up to LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps). Connectivity features also include Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Bluetooth 4.0 with A2DP, GPS for navigation, and NFC support in the 6036Y model.

Battery Life

The Idol 2 Mini S is powered by a non-removable 2000 mAh Li-Ion battery, which provides up to 9 hours of talk time on 2G and up to 13 hours on 3G. The standby time is rated at up to 400 hours for both 2G and 3G networks, while music playback can last up to 35 hours. These figures indicate a moderate battery life, suitable for users who do not engage heavily in power-intensive activities.

Audio and Multimedia

The device includes a loudspeaker for audio playback and a 3.5mm audio jack for connecting headphones or external speakers. Additionally, the phone features a stereo FM radio with RDS, allowing users to listen to local radio stations on-the-go.

Sensors and Additional Features

The Alcatel Idol 2 Mini S incorporates basic sensors such as an accelerometer, proximity sensor, and compass. These sensors enable a variety of functions, from screen rotation to basic navigation and orientation applications.

Color Variants and Price

The device is available in an array of colors, including Slate, Chocolate, White, Hot pink, and Cloudy. This variety allows users to choose a device that suits their personal style. Upon release, the phone was priced at approximately 200 EUR, positioning it as an affordable option for a wide range of consumers.

Conclusion

The Alcatel Idol 2 Mini S is a suitable choice for users seeking a compact and affordable smartphone with decent features. While it may not compete with flagship devices in terms of performance or feature set, it provides a balanced experience for basic smartphone needs. Its light weight, expandable storage, and decent camera capabilities make it appealing for budget-conscious consumers and those looking for a reliable entry-level device.