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Unveiling BQ Aquaris M5 Specs Pricing Pros & Cons

Release Date
2015
Camera
13MP
Battery
3120mAh
Processor
Snapdragon 615
Screen
5.0"
Storage
16GB/32GB , microSDXC
Ram
2/3GB RAM
Operating System
Android 5.1.1, up to 7.0

Design and Build

The BQ Aquaris M5 comes with a sleek and compact design, measuring 143 x 69.4 x 8.4 mm and weighing just 144 grams. It features a dual SIM setup, accommodating two micro-SIM cards in a dual stand-by arrangement. The body is sturdy and easy to hold, tailored for modern users who prefer lightweight and manageable smartphones.

Display Quality

The device is equipped with a 5.0 inch IPS LCD display, offering a resolution of 1080 x 1920 pixels. This provides a pixel density of around 441 ppi, ensuring sharp and clear visuals. The screen is protected by Asahi Dragontrail Glass, which offers a durable layer that guards against scratches and minor impacts. The display boasts vibrant colors and wide viewing angles, crucial for media consumption and everyday use.

Performance

The BQ Aquaris M5 is powered by the Qualcomm MSM8939 Snapdragon 615 chipset, which is built on a 28 nm process. The octa-core processor consists of four 1.5 GHz Cortex-A53 cores and four 1.0 GHz Cortex-A53 cores. This combination offers a balanced performance suited for multitasking and running apps smoothly. The GPU, Adreno 405, provides adequate power for graphics rendering, making it sufficient for casual gaming experiences.

Memory and Storage

The device comes in multiple configurations with either 2GB or 3GB of RAM, coupled with 16GB or 32GB of internal storage. Additionally, the storage capacity can be expanded via a microSDXC card, allowing users to store more files, apps, and media. This flexibility makes the Aquaris M5 a suitable choice for users with varying storage needs.

Camera Capabilities

The main camera of the Aquaris M5 features a 13 MP sensor with an f/2.0 aperture, capable of capturing crisp and detailed photos. It includes dual-LED flash support, panorama, and HDR features, enhancing image quality in diverse lighting conditions. The rear camera can record videos at 1080p@30fps. The selfie camera, with a 5 MP sensor and an f/2.0 aperture, also features an LED flash, offering clear shots and video recording at 1080p@30fps.

Battery Life

The device is powered by a non-removable Li-Po 3120 mAh battery. Given its efficient hardware and software optimization, the Aquaris M5 can last a full day on a single charge under normal usage conditions, making it reliable for both work and entertainment.

Software and Updates

Initially, the BQ Aquaris M5 runs on Android 5.1.1 Lollipop. However, it is upgradable to Android 7.0 Nougat, providing enhanced security features and an improved user experience. This upgradeability ensures the device remains relevant and compatible with newer applications and services.

Connectivity Options

The smartphone supports GSM, HSPA, and LTE technologies, ensuring strong network compatibility. It offers Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Bluetooth 4.0 with A2DP, and NFC for contactless transactions. Other notable features include GPS with GLONASS support, FM radio, and microUSB 2.0 with OTG for peripheral connectivity.

Additional Features

The Aquaris M5 is equipped with several sensors, including an accelerometer, gyroscope, proximity sensor, and compass, which enrich the user experience by enabling numerous functionalities in different applications. It also retains the 3.5mm headphone jack, which is appreciated by users who prefer physical audio connections.

Pricing and Availability

The BQ Aquaris M5 was announced and released in 2015 but has since been discontinued. When available, it was priced around 260 EUR. With its combination of solid performance, decent camera capabilities, and a durable build, it offered good value at its price point.

Conclusion

Overall, the BQ Aquaris M5 is a well-rounded smartphone, catering to users who need a reliable device for daily use. Its strengths lie in its vibrant display, respectable performance, upgradable software, and robust design. Though discontinued, it remains a benchmark for mid-range devices from its era, highlighting a successful blend of functionality and affordability.

Key Features of BQ Aquaris M5

  • Supports GSM, HSPA, and LTE technology for versatile connectivity.
  • Dual SIM capability with dual standby mode (Micro-SIM).
  • Compact design with a thickness of 8.4 mm and a weight of 144 g for easy handling.
  • 5.0-inch IPS LCD display with a resolution of 1080 x 1920 pixels for crystal-clear visuals.
  • Protected by Asahi Dragontrail Glass for enhanced screen durability.
  • Powered by Qualcomm MSM8939 Snapdragon 615 chipset and an Octa-core processor for efficient performance.
  • Expandable storage with microSDXC and multiple internal memory options (16GB/2GB RAM, 32GB/2GB RAM, 32GB/3GB RAM).
  • 13 MP main camera with features like Dual-LED flash, panorama, and HDR for high-quality photos.
  • Front camera with 5 MP resolution and LED flash for great selfies.
  • Includes essential connectivity features such as NFC, GPS, GLONASS, and FM radio.
  • Long-lasting, non-removable Li-Po 3120 mAh battery.
  • Available in classic Black and White color options.

Disadvantages of BQ Aquaris M5

  • Outdated Operating System: Originally comes with Android 5.1.1 (Lollipop), and although it is upgradable to 7.0 (Nougat), it lacks modern software features.
  • Discontinued Status: The device is no longer in production, which might affect availability of parts and support services.
  • Limited LTE Band Support: Supports only a few 4G bands (1, 3, 7, 20), which might limit connectivity options in certain regions.
  • No Fast Charging: The 3120 mAh battery does not support fast charging technology, leading to longer charging times.
  • MicroUSB Port: Uses a microUSB 2.0 port instead of the more modern USB-C, which offers faster data transfer and charging capabilities.
  • Average GPU Performance: Adreno 405 GPU may not perform well with more graphically intense modern apps and games.
  • Basic Display Protection: Features Asahi Dragontrail Glass, which may not offer the same level of protection as other technologies like Gorilla Glass.
  • Low RAM Options: Limited to 2GB or 3GB RAM, which may not handle heavy multitasking smoothly.
Network
Technology GSM / HSPA / LTE
2G bands GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 - SIM 1 & SIM 2
3G bands HSDPA 900 / 2100
4G bands 1, 3, 7, 20
Speed HSPA, LTE
Launch
Announced 2015. Released 2015
Status Discontinued
Body
Dimensions 143 x 69.4 x 8.4 mm (5.63 x 2.73 x 0.33 in)
Weight 144 g (5.08 oz)
SIM Dual SIM (Micro-SIM, dual stand-by)
Display
Type IPS LCD
Size 5.0 inches, 68.9 cm2 (~69.4% screen-to-body ratio)
Resolution 1080 x 1920 pixels, 16:9 ratio (~441 ppi density)
Protection Asahi Dragontrail Glass
Platform
OS Android 5.1.1 (Lollipop), upgradable to 7.0 (Nougat)
Chipset Qualcomm MSM8939 Snapdragon 615 (28 nm)
CPU Octa-core (4x1.5 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.0 GHz Cortex-A53)
GPU Adreno 405
Memory
Card slot microSDXC
Internal 16GB 2GB RAM, 32GB 2GB RAM, 32GB 3GB RAM
Main Camera
Single 13 MP, f/2.0, 1/3.1", 1.12µm, AF
Features Dual-LED flash, panorama, HDR
Video 1080p@30fps
Selfie camera
Single 5 MP, f/2.0
Features LED flash
Video 1080p@30fps
Sound
Loudspeaker Yes
3.5mm jack Yes
Comms
WLAN Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, hotspot
Bluetooth 4.0, A2DP
Positioning GPS, GLONASS
NFC Yes
Radio FM radio
USB microUSB 2.0, OTG
Features
Sensors Accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass
Battery
Type Li-Po 3120 mAh, non-removable
Misc
Colors Black, White
Models Aquaris M5
SAR EU 0.45 W/kg (head)     0.44 W/kg (body)
Price About 260 EUR

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