Comprehensive Review Archos 45 Helium 4G Features Pricing and Performance

Overview of Archos 45 Helium 4G

The Archos 45 Helium 4G was a mid-range smartphone introduced by Archos in 2014. Situated as an affordable 4G device, it was aimed at users looking for basic smartphone capabilities with the perk of utilizing LTE connectivity within a budget.

Design and Build

The design of the Archos 45 Helium 4G is straightforward and practical. With dimensions of 135 x 67 x 9.8 mm and a weight of 140 grams, it fits comfortably in the hand for easy one-handed operation. The phone features a black plastic body with rounded edges, offering a sleek yet durable appearance.

Display

The device sports a 4.5-inch IPS LCD display with a resolution of 480 x 800 pixels. This results in a pixel density of approximately 207 ppi, providing clear and sharp visuals suitable for everyday tasks like browsing the web, checking emails, and using apps.

Performance

Powered by a Qualcomm MSM8926 Snapdragon 400 chipset, the Archos 45 Helium 4G features a quad-core 1.2 GHz Cortex-A7 CPU and Adreno 305 GPU. Combined with 1GB of RAM, the device handles everyday tasks efficiently, although it may struggle with more intensive applications or multitasking.

Connectivity and Network

One of the standout features of this device is its support for 4G LTE networks, which was a significant selling point at the time of its release. It supports various GSM, HSPA, and LTE bands, offering versatile connectivity options. Additionally, it features Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Bluetooth 4.0, GPS, and FM radio, covering the essential connectivity needs of most users.

Camera

The rear camera is a 5-megapixel shooter with autofocus and LED flash, capable of recording 1080p videos at 30fps. While not groundbreaking, it meets basic photography needs, allowing users to capture acceptable images and videos in favorable lighting conditions. The front-facing VGA camera is minimalistic, aimed at simple video calls rather than selfies.

Storage

Internally, the phone comes with 8GB of storage, expandable via a dedicated microSDHC slot. While the internal storage is limited, the option to expand via a memory card is a practical feature for users needing additional space for apps, media, and files.

Battery Life

The device is equipped with a removable Li-Ion 1850 mAh battery. It offers up to 9 hours of talk time on 2G networks and about 7 hours on 3G, necessitating daily charging for users with moderate to heavy usage patterns. The removable battery design is a benefit for those who appreciate the option of swapping batteries or replacing them independently.

Operating System and Software

Running on Android 4.3 Jelly Bean, the Archos 45 Helium 4G provides a near-stock Android experience, known for its stability and simplicity. However, users may find the older version of Android somewhat limiting due to fewer features and app compatibility, especially considering the development of newer software versions.

Sensors and Other Features

The phone comes with basic sensors like an accelerometer, proximity sensor, and compass. It lacks advanced sensors found in more premium devices, but covers essential functionalities expected from a mid-range smartphone.

Price and Availability

At release, the device was priced around 230 EUR, offering an accessible entry point to 4G connectivity for budget-conscious consumers. As of now, the device is discontinued, but it remains an interesting reference point for how affordable 4G smartphones were positioned in the market a decade ago.

Conclusion

The Archos 45 Helium 4G stands as a representative of mid-range smartphones during its time, balancing performance, connectivity, and affordability. While it may not compete with modern counterparts in terms of specifications or features, it provides insight into the evolution of smartphone technology and consumer expectations from 2014 onwards.