Celkon Campus Buddy A404 Specs Pricing Pros & Cons

Overview of Celkon Campus Buddy A404

The Celkon Campus Buddy A404 is a compact smartphone that was released in July 2014. Although it has been discontinued, it remains a noteworthy device for those interested in budget smartphones of the early 2010s. With its modest specifications, the A404 catered to users looking for an economical entry into the world of Android smartphones.

Design and Build

The Celkon Campus Buddy A404 features a practical and straightforward design, fitting comfortably in the hand with dimensions of 126.5 x 64.2 x 9.8 mm and weighing just 131 grams. It is equipped with a 4.0-inch TFT display, offering a modest resolution of 480 x 800 pixels. The design is typical of smartphones from that era, with adequate bezel space that accommodates the 4.0-inch screen. The phone comes in two classic colors: black and white, allowing for a simple and clean aesthetic.

Display

The 4.0-inch display on the Celkon Campus Buddy A404 features a 480 x 800 pixel resolution, which translates to approximately 233 pixels per inch. This TFT screen can display up to 256K colors, providing basic color rendition and clarity suitable for everyday tasks. Given the technology and time of its release, the display is modest and intended for those who prioritize functionality over high-definition visuals.

Performance

Under the hood, the Celkon Campus Buddy A404 houses a dual-core 1.3 GHz processor that provides the requisite power for basic smartphone operations. Coupled with 512MB of RAM, it provides a satisfactory experience for simple tasks such as calling, texting, and using light applications. However, the device may struggle with more resource-intensive applications and multitasking operations.

Operating System

The device runs on Android 4.2.2 Jelly Bean, an older version of the Android operating system, which offers users a streamlined experience with access to a wide range of applications via the Google Play Store. While this version of Android lacks the advanced features of later releases, it nonetheless provides the essentials for users new to smartphones during that period.

Camera

The Celkon Campus Buddy A404 is equipped with a 3.15 MP rear camera, complemented by an LED flash to assist in low-light conditions. This allows for basic photography suitable for casual users. The phone also features a 1.3 MP front-facing camera, designed primarily for video calls, a testament to the growing popularity of selfie cameras at the time. Video recording at 720p is supported by the main camera, reflecting the typical entry-level smartphone capability of the era.

Storage

The device comes with 4GB of internal storage, a modest amount suitable for installing essential apps and storing basic data. There is also a microSDHC card slot available, allowing users to expand the storage capacity significantly. This feature was particularly appealing to users needing additional space for media files and applications.

Connectivity

The Celkon Campus Buddy A404 supports GSM and HSPA connectivity and is capable of dual SIM functionality, a desirable feature for users managing multiple phone lines. Networking capabilities include Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n for wireless internet access, Bluetooth 2.0 for simplified file transfer, and GPS for navigation services. The presence of FM radio provides entertainment options for music enthusiasts, while a microUSB 2.0 port allows for charging and data transfer.

Battery Life

Powering the device is a removable Li-Ion 1500 mAh battery, a standard capacity for smartphones of that era. While not exceptional by modern standards, this battery size provides adequate usage for a day of light activities such as browsing and calling. The removable nature of the battery can be a distinct advantage, allowing users to replace it as needed.

Audio and Media

The presence of a 3.5mm headphone jack allows for the use of wired earphones, providing media-centric users a reliable audio experience. The loudspeaker also offers clear audio output, suitable for hands-free use and media playback without headphones.

Conclusion

In summary, the Celkon Campus Buddy A404 serves as an example of early budget Android smartphones, offering basic functionality in a compact package. Its specifications align with the typical constraints of budget devices from the era, focusing on essential features and affordability. While lacking the high-performance and advanced features of modern smartphones, the A404 provided a practical entry point into smartphone technology for many users at the time of its release.