Price and specifications of Archos 50 Saphir advantages, disadvantages, and a comprehensive explanation

Introduction to Archos 50 Saphir

The Archos 50 Saphir is a smartphone released in 2017 by Archos, designed to cater to users seeking a robust and durable device. Despite its mid-range specifications, the smartphone is known for its rugged build and substantial battery life, making it suitable for users who prioritize durability and longevity over cutting-edge technology.

Design and Build

In terms of design, the Archos 50 Saphir is built to withstand harsh environments. The phone is encased in a rugged body measuring 146.6 x 75.9 x 13.9 mm, providing a durable grip. The device is equipped with Corning Gorilla Glass 4, enhancing its resistance to scratches and shocks. However, the phone is relatively bulky compared to other smartphones, which may be a downside for those who prefer sleek and lightweight devices.

Display

The Archos 50 Saphir features a 5.0-inch IPS LCD screen with a resolution of 720 x 1280 pixels. Offering a pixel density of approximately 294 ppi, the display provides decent clarity and color reproduction. While the display quality may not compare to modern high-definition screens, it provides an adequate visual experience, especially for everyday tasks and media consumption.

Performance

Under the hood, the Archos 50 Saphir houses a Mediatek MT6737 chipset built on a 28 nm process. It includes a quad-core 1.5 GHz Cortex-A53 CPU and a Mali-T720MP2 GPU. While the device's 2GB RAM might be considered modest by today's standards, it can handle basic multitasking and run standard Android applications without significant slowdowns.

Storage

Internally, Archos 50 Saphir comes with 16GB of storage. For those needing more space, the device supports microSDXC cards, allowing users to expand storage for apps, media, and files. This expansion capability is a welcome feature for anyone requiring additional space for multimedia content.

Camera

Photography enthusiasts might find the camera system of the Archos 50 Saphir basic yet functional. The main camera is a single 8 MP shooter with autofocus and an LED flash, capable of recording video at 1080p@30fps. For selfies and video calls, the device offers a basic 2 MP front camera. While the camera setup may not feature advanced capabilities like those found in modern smartphones, it is sufficient for casual photography and basic video recording.

Battery Life

One of the standout features of the Archos 50 Saphir is its impressive battery capacity. It is equipped with a non-removable 5000 mAh Li-Ion battery. This large battery promises excellent longevity, with standby times up to 740 hours on 2G and 550 hours on 3G. Additionally, the phone offers substantial talk time of up to 37 hours on 2G and 27 hours on 3G. The device can be charged via a 10W wired charger, ensuring users can power up the phone reasonably swiftly despite its large battery capacity.

Operating System

Running on Android 6.0 Marshmallow, the device provides a user-friendly interface consistent with mid-2010s smartphones. Although it may lack the features and optimizations of more recent Android versions, the system is stable and supports basic functionalities efficiently.

Connectivity and Features

The Archos 50 Saphir supports multiple connectivity options. It includes GSM, HSPA, and LTE capabilities, with a dual-SIM function (Nano-SIM, dual stand-by) for managing two networks simultaneously. Other connectivity options include Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Bluetooth 4.0, GPS, and FM radio, though it lacks NFC functionality. The device also features a 3.5mm headphone jack and a microUSB 2.0 port with OTG support for external devices.

Sensors and Multimedia

The smartphone is also equipped with basic sensors, including an accelerometer, proximity sensor, and compass. The inclusion of these sensors facilitates various functionalities, such as screen rotation and location tracking, enhancing the overall user experience.

Conclusion

In summary, the Archos 50 Saphir is a rugged and durable smartphone aimed at users who need a dependable device capable of withstanding challenging environments. While its specifications are not groundbreaking, its design, battery life, and robust build set it apart as a reliable choice for specific market segments, such as outdoor enthusiasts or those working in tough conditions. Despite being discontinued, the Archos 50 Saphir continues to be a viable option for users who prioritize endurance and practicality over technological bells and whistles.