Discover the Full Spectrum Gionee Ctrl V4 Specs Prices Pros & Cons

Overview of Gionee Ctrl V4

Gionee Ctrl V4, launched in 2013, is a smartphone that was recognized for its affordability combined with decent specifications for its time. Although it has been discontinued, this device offered a good balance between performance and cost-effectiveness, appealing largely to entry-level smartphone users.

Design and Build

The Gionee Ctrl V4 features a compact design with dimensions of 136 x 67 x 9.7 mm, making it relatively easy to hold and use with one hand. This device was available in classic color choices of black and white. It comes with a dual SIM capability, which was a desirable feature, especially for users who manage multiple phone numbers for work and personal use.

Display

The smartphone comes with a 4.5-inch TFT display, with a resolution of 480 x 854 pixels. Although the pixel density of ~218 PPI might not compete with modern high-definition screens, it was adequate for general usage during its release. The display serves well for basic viewing needs like browsing and watching video clips.

Performance

Under the hood, the Gionee Ctrl V4 is equipped with a Quad-core 1.2 GHz Cortex-A7 processor and a PowerVR Series 5XT GPU. This hardware configuration allowed for smooth performance for everyday tasks like web browsing and running applications designed for Android 4.2 Jelly Bean, the operating system on which this device operates.

Memory and Storage

The device offers 4GB of internal storage and 512MB of RAM, which was typical for smartphones of that genre during its time. For users needing more space, the phone provides a microSDHC card slot for storage expansion, thus offering flexibility. However, the RAM might limit multitasking capabilities severely by today's standards.

Camera

In terms of photography, the Gionee Ctrl V4 features a 5 MP autofocus rear camera with LED flash, allowing it to take straightforward and reasonable quality photos. Video recording is supported but with basic performance. On the front, there is a VGA camera primarily meant for video calls rather than high-quality selfies.

Battery Life

Packing a removable Li-Ion 1800 mAh battery, the Gionee Ctrl V4 could comfortably last a day with moderate usage. The benefit of a removable battery is significant for those who like to carry extra batteries for extended usage beyond regular charging cycles.

Network and Connectivity

The device supported GSM / HSPA technology with 2G and 3G network bands, suitable for browsing and basic data services at the time of its release. Wireless connectivity includes Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n with hotspot capability, alongside Bluetooth 4.0 with A2DP support. Notably, it lacks NFC capabilities, which were becoming popular around its release time.

Additional Features

Another key feature is its FM radio reception, which is a good addition for users who enjoy listening to radio broadcasts without using data. Moreover, the device is equipped with essential sensors such as the accelerometer, proximity, and compass to support basic smartphone functionalities.

Market Position and Pricing

With an initial price of about 110 EUR, the Gionee Ctrl V4 was positioned as an affordable option in the smartphone market. This price point, combined with its features, made it attractive for budget-conscious customers as well as those looking for reliable secondary devices.

Conclusion

While the Gionee Ctrl V4 may not stand out in today's market against high-end smartphones, it represents a segment of devices that played a crucial role in making smartphone technology accessible to a broader audience. Its balance of functionality and simplicity appeals to users prioritizing cost over high-performance technology.