HTC Desire 520 Specs Prices Pros & Cons Unveiled

Network Technology and Connectivity

The HTC Desire 520 supports a variety of network technologies, including GSM, HSPA, and LTE, allowing for a wide range of connectivity options. The device operates on multiple bands: 2G bands (GSM 850/900/1800/1900), 3G bands (HSDPA 850/1900), and LTE bands (2, 4, 5, 17). This enables the device to maintain good speed and connectivity, supporting HSPA and LTE for fast data access and seamless mobile internet browsing experiences.

Launch Details and Availability

The HTC Desire 520 was officially announced in August 2015 and subsequently released in November 2015. Despite its initial popularity, the model has since been discontinued. However, it remains a notable device for its contribution to HTC's lineup during that era, capturing the interest of consumers seeking affordable smartphones with reliable performance.

Body and Design

The HTC Desire 520 is designed with user comfort and convenience in mind. The phone measures 139.8 x 68.9 x 9.1 mm, making it compact enough to fit comfortably in one’s hand or pocket. The phone is equipped with a Nano-SIM slot, although its exact weight remains unspecified. The device was available in a single color, Slate Gray, appealing to those who favor a classic and professional look.

Display Specifications

The device features a 4.5-inch IPS LCD display, encompassing approximately 55.8 cm2 of screen area. With a screen-to-body ratio of ~57.9%, the display provides adequate viewing space for various media. The screen resolution is 480 x 854 pixels, with a 16:9 aspect ratio and a pixel density of ~218 ppi. These parameters help produce clear and vibrant imagery, suitable for daily tasks and light media consumption.

Platform and Performance

Running on Android 5.1 (Lollipop) with HTC’s Sense 7 UI, the HTC Desire 520 offers a user-friendly interface with useful custom features. The phone is powered by the Qualcomm MSM8909 Snapdragon 210 chipset, built on 28nm technology. It features a Quad-core 1.1 GHz Cortex-A7 CPU, coupled with an Adreno 304 GPU. Though primarily designed for budget users, the device delivers satisfactory performance for basic applications and tasks.

Memory and Storage

The internal storage capacity of the HTC Desire 520 is 8GB, coupled with 1GB of RAM. For users requiring more space, the phone provides a dedicated microSDXC card slot, enabling storage expansion. This flexibility addresses one of the common limitations of budget smartphones, offering users the ability to store more photos, videos, and apps according to their needs.

Camera Capabilities

The main camera on the HTC Desire 520 is an 8 MP autofocus unit equipped with an LED flash. It allows users to capture decent quality photos and record videos at 720p@30fps, suitable for everyday photography needs. The front-facing camera is a 2 MP shooter, also capable of recording videos at 720p, making it relatively sufficient for video calls and simple selfies.

Sound and Audio Features

The HTC Desire 520 is furnished with a loudspeaker and a 3.5mm headphone jack, allowing users to enjoy music and audio content either through the built-in speaker or via external headphones. This conventional audio feature set is crucial for users who consume audio media regularly.

Communication and Interface Options

In terms of wireless connectivity, the device supports Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n and can act as a Wi-Fi hotspot. Bluetooth 4.1, with A2DP support, offers seamless wireless connectivity to other Bluetooth-enabled devices. For location-based services, the phone utilizes GPS and GLONASS, enhancing its navigation capabilities. It includes an FM radio for on-the-go access to local radio stations. However, it lacks NFC capabilities and uses microUSB 2.0 for wired connectivity.

Additional Features

The HTC Desire 520 is equipped with essential sensors like an accelerometer and proximity sensor, contributing to the device’s interactivity and functionality. These sensors facilitate various smartphone tasks, including screen rotation and call management.

Battery Life

The phone is powered by a removable Li-Ion 2000 mAh battery. While not exceptionally large, this battery capacity is standard for budget smartphones of its era and provides enough power for a full day of moderate usage, depending on the applications and services used.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the HTC Desire 520 positions itself as a reliable budget-friendly smartphone, providing essential features and adequate performance for everyday use. While it might not cater to users seeking high-end specifications or advanced functionalities, it remains a significant option for individuals prioritizing cost and basic usability in mobile devices.