Network Capabilities

The Gigabyte GSmart Rey R3 is equipped with GSM and HSPA network technologies, making it versatile in terms of connectivity. It supports a wide range of 2G bands (GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 - SIM 1 & SIM 2) and 3G bands (HSDPA 900 / 2100), allowing users to stay connected while on the move. The device can achieve speeds up to HSPA 21.1/5.76 Mbps, ensuring decent data transfer rates for browsing and streaming.

Launch and Availability

Announced and released in March 2014, the Gigabyte GSmart Rey R3 was part of the company's effort to provide affordable smartphones with reasonable performance. However, the device has since been discontinued, as the market for budget smartphones continues to evolve rapidly with new models offering better specifications at more competitive prices.

Design and Build

The GSmart Rey R3 possesses dimensions of 136 x 66 x 10.5 mm and weighs approximately 138 grams. These dimensions suggest a device that fits comfortably in the hand, with manageable weight for daily use. The phone supports dual SIM functionality, which is particularly beneficial for users who need to manage separate work and personal numbers.

Display Features

The device boasts a 4.5-inch IPS LCD display, providing a decent visual experience for its price range. With a resolution of 480 x 854 pixels and an approximate pixel density of 218 ppi, the screen offers reasonable clarity for viewing images, videos, and text. The screen-to-body ratio of ~62.2% suggests moderate bezels, typical of smartphones from this period.

Platform and Performance

Under the hood, the GSmart Rey R3 runs on the Android 4.2 Jelly Bean operating system. It is powered by a Mediatek MT6572 chipset, featuring a dual-core 1.3 GHz Cortex-A7 CPU and a Mali-400 GPU. While these specifications may not enable the device to run the most demanding apps, they are adequate for basic tasks such as browsing the web, using social media apps, and playing simpler games.

Memory and Storage

The phone provides 1GB of RAM, which supports multitasking to a basic degree. In terms of storage, the internal memory is limited to 4GB, but users have the option to expand this via a dedicated microSDHC card slot. This expansion capability is crucial for users who need more space for apps, photos, and other media.

Camera Capabilities

Photography on the GSmart Rey R3 is facilitated by an 8 MP rear camera featuring autofocus and an LED flash, which aids in low-light conditions. The camera is capable of recording videos, allowing users to capture various moments. On the front, there is a VGA camera which is suitable for basic selfies and video calls, though the quality will be less compared to more modern devices.

Audio and Communication

The phone is equipped with a loudspeaker and a 3.5mm headphone jack, providing users with multiple audio output options. Communication features include Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n with hotspot capability, Bluetooth 4.0 with A2DP for wireless audio streaming, GPS for navigation, and an FM radio for live broadcasts. However, the device does not support NFC technology.

Sensors and Additional Features

The Gigabyte GSmart Rey R3 includes basic sensors like an accelerometer and proximity sensor, which aid in screen rotation and power conservation during calls, respectively. These sensors contribute to an enhanced user experience, providing functional advantages with everyday smartphone use.

Battery Life

Powered by a removable Li-Ion 1800 mAh battery, the GSmart Rey R3 offers a standby time of up to 320 hours and talk time of up to 8 hours. This battery life expectancy is moderate and should suffice for users engaging in regular daily activities without heavy media consumption or gaming.

Market Position and Final Thoughts

The Gigabyte GSmart Rey R3 was introduced as a budget-friendly option, appealing to users looking for a reliable smartphone without breaking the bank. While the device lacks the high-end specifications found in newer models, it serves its purpose for users interested in using basic functionality with the added benefit of dual SIM support. The removable battery remains a favored feature among users who value the ability to carry spares and change batteries on the go.