HTC Desire 12 Comprehensive Review Specs Pricing Pros & Cons

Overview of HTC Desire 12

The HTC Desire 12 is a mid-range smartphone that was announced in March 2018 and released in May 2018. Designed to offer a balance between affordability and basic smartphone features, it targets users who are looking for a practical device without all the bells and whistles of high-end models. Let's delve into the detailed specifications and features of this smartphone.

Design and Build

In terms of design, the HTC Desire 12 sports a modern look with its dimensions measuring 148.5 x 70.8 x 8.2 mm, making it a compact and ergonomic device. Weighing in at just 137 grams, it's lightweight and easy to handle, catering to users who prefer a more portable device. The phone is available in two classic colors: Cool Black and Warm Silver, providing options that are both stylish and understated. The body features a glossy finish that mimics the look of glass while being made of acrylic, offering durability without the additional weight or fragility of glass.

Display

The Desire 12 comes with a 5.5-inch IPS LCD display. This screen size hits a sweet spot for users who want adequate screen space for media consumption without the bulkiness. The display sports a resolution of 720 x 1440 pixels with an 18:9 aspect ratio which is approximately 293 pixels per inch. This resolution ensures vibrant colors and decent clarity, suitable for viewing multimedia content and everyday app use.

Performance

Under the hood, the HTC Desire 12 is powered by a Mediatek MT6739 chipset, a quad-core processor clocking at 1.3 GHz Cortex-A53. While it may not compete with higher-end processors, it performs adequately for day-to-day activities such as browsing, social media, and basic apps. The GPU is the PowerVR GE8100, which provides satisfactory graphics performance for mild gaming and video playback.

Memory and Storage

The device offers two memory configurations: one with 2GB RAM paired with 16GB of internal storage, and another with 3GB RAM and 32GB of storage. The inclusion of a microSDXC card slot means users can expand their storage further, accommodating their growing needs for apps, photos, and videos. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for users who download a lot of media or use multiple apps.

Camera

The HTC Desire 12 features a single 13 MP main camera with an f/2.2 aperture, providing decent photography capabilities with features like PDAF (Phase Detection Autofocus), LED flash, HDR, and panorama. It can shoot videos at 1080p at 30 frames per second, making it serviceable for capturing moments on the go. On the front, the selfie camera is 5 MP with an f/2.4 aperture, capable of recording 720p video. While it might not satisfy the needs of avid photographers or vloggers, it is well-suited for general photo-taking and video calls.

Battery

The device is equipped with a non-removable Li-Ion 2730 mAh battery. Although not the most powerful battery on the market, it provides enough power for a full day of moderate use. The battery's performance is complemented by HTC's power-saving features, which help extend usage time when necessary.

Network and Connectivity

When it comes to connectivity, the HTC Desire 12 supports GSM, HSPA, and LTE technologies, making it versatile for users across different regions. It covers multiple 2G, 3G, and 4G bands, ensuring robust network support for global users. The device offers standard connectivity features such as Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Bluetooth 4.2, GPS, GLONASS, and a microUSB 2.0 port for charging and data transfers. Additionally, it includes a 3.5mm headphone jack, staying true to traditional headphone users.

Software

Out of the box, the HTC Desire 12 runs on Android 7.x Nougat. While it might be outdated compared to more recent Android versions, it still includes essential Android features like split-screen multitasking, customizable quick settings, and Doze mode for battery saving. Despite lacking the latest software innovations, it still provides a cohesive and intuitive user experience for everyday tasks.

Sensors and Additional Features

The phone is equipped with essential sensors including an accelerometer, proximity sensor, and compass, which enhance user experience with functionalities like auto-rotate and location services. However, it lacks more modern features such as a fingerprint sensor or NFC, which are commonly found in higher-tier devices.

Conclusion

The HTC Desire 12 is a straightforward and practical choice for users seeking a reliable, budget-friendly smartphone. It combines necessary features with a user-friendly design, making it suitable for individuals who prioritize simplicity and efficiency over cutting-edge technology. Though it may not cater to power users or those looking for advanced functionalities, it serves perfectly as a dependable everyday smartphone for light to moderate users.