Comprehensive Review BQ Aquaris U Plus Specs Pricing Pros & Cons

Network and Connectivity

The BQ Aquaris U Plus offers a robust set of network technologies, supporting GSM, HSPA, and LTE. It provides versatile connectivity options suitable for various users worldwide. The 2G bands include GSM 850, 900, 1800, and 1900 for SIM 1 & SIM 2. For 3G, it operates on HSDPA 900/2100. Its 4G capabilities cover bands 1, 3, 7, and 20, providing ample speed with HSPA and LTE capabilities for fast data transmission and reliable network performance.

Launch and Availability

The device was announced in September 2016 and swiftly released within the same month. However, it is currently discontinued, meaning it might be challenging to purchase new but can still be found in secondary markets or as refurbished units.

Design and Build

The BQ Aquaris U Plus offers a sleek and modern aesthetic. It has dimensions of 143.2 x 72.2 x 8.7 mm, making it a compact choice that fits comfortably in the hand. At a lightweight of 139 grams, the device is convenient for daily use. It features a Hybrid Dual SIM system (Nano-SIM, dual stand-by), adding flexibility for users managing multiple lines.

Display

This smartphone features a 5.0-inch IPS LCD which delivers clear and vibrant visuals. The screen-to-body ratio is about 66.7%, with a resolution of 720 x 1280 pixels and a pixel density of approximately 294 ppi. This combination offers a decent visual experience for everyday tasks. It also includes a Dinorex glass for added protection against scratches and minor impacts.

Platform and Performance

The device originally came with Android 6.0.1 (Marshmallow) and is upgradable to Android 7.0 (Nougat), allowing users to enjoy enhanced features and better security. At the hardware's core is the Qualcomm MSM8937 Snapdragon 430 chipset built on a 28 nm process, housing an octa-core 1.4 GHz Cortex-A53 CPU and an Adreno 505 GPU. This setup provides solid performance for typical use cases, including app usage, web browsing, and multimedia consumption.

Memory and Storage

The BQ Aquaris U Plus offers options for 16GB with 2GB RAM or 32GB with 3GB RAM, catering to varying user storage needs. It also includes a slot for microSDXC, which utilizes a shared SIM slot, allowing for expanded storage if necessary.

Camera Capabilities

The smartphone is equipped with a 16 MP main camera with an aperture of f/2.0, featuring phase detection autofocus (PDAF) for quicker focus times. Additional camera functionalities include an LED flash, HDR, and panorama mode. This camera setup can record videos in 1080p at 30fps. For selfies, the device has a 5 MP front-facing camera with an f/2.4 aperture, also capable of recording 1080p videos at 30fps.

Audio and Sound

Audio capabilities on the BQ Aquaris U Plus include a loudspeaker and a standard 3.5mm headphone jack, accommodating a range of audio peripherals for personal listening preferences.

Communication and Ports

The phone supports Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n standards and Bluetooth 4.2 with A2DP and LE for efficient wireless connectivity. Positioning is handled by GPS and GLONASS systems, though NFC is not supported. For radio listeners, the device includes an FM radio feature. Charging and data transfer are managed through a microUSB 2.0 port, also supporting OTG for connecting other devices.

Sensors and Additional Features

Important sensors available in the BQ Aquaris U Plus include a rear-mounted fingerprint sensor, accelerometer, gyro, proximity, and compass, which enrich the user experience by offering added functionality and security measures.

Battery Life

The device contains a Li-Po 3050 mAh non-removable battery, providing sufficient power for a day of standard usage. It balances adequately between capacity and device weight, contributing to the phone's overall portability.

Colors and Market Position

The BQ Aquaris U Plus was available in two color options: Black and Gold. It was priced around 220 EUR at launch, placing it as a competitive option in the mid-range smartphone market. Its balance of features, performance, and price made it an attractive choice for budget-conscious consumers looking for reliable performance without the high cost.

Conclusion

Overall, the BQ Aquaris U Plus stands as a solid mid-range smartphone option from 2016, offering a reliable set of features for users who require a dependable device for everyday tasks. While it might be discontinued now, it holds value as a secondary option or a backup device owing to its build quality, reasonable performance, and decent camera capabilities.