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Comprehensive Review HTC Desire 820q Dual Sim – Specs Pricing & Verdict

Release Date
2014, October
Camera
13MP
Battery
2600mAh
Processor
Snapdragon 410
Screen
5.5"
Storage
16GB , microSDXC
Ram
1GB RAM
Operating System
Android 4.4.2, Sense UI 6

Design and Build Quality

The HTC Desire 820q Dual SIM sports a sleek and modern design, which was quite appealing at the time of its release. With dimensions of 157.7 x 78.7 x 7.7 mm and weighing only 155 grams, the device offers a comfortable grip and ease of use, especially for an average-sized hand. The plastic build, although less premium than metal or glass, helps keep the weight down. Offered in Santorini White, Tuxedo Gray, and Milky-way Gray, it caters to different style preferences.

Display

The device features a 5.5-inch TFT display, which was relatively large for its time, providing users with a 720 x 1280 pixels resolution and an approximate pixel density of 267 ppi. While not the most high-definition display available, it offers decent clarity and viewing angles. The inclusion of Corning Gorilla Glass 3 protection helps protect the screen against scratches and minor abrasions, enhancing durability over time.

Performance

At the heart of the HTC Desire 820q is the Qualcomm MSM8916 Snapdragon 410 chipset, paired with a Quad-core 1.2 GHz Cortex-A53 CPU and Adreno 306 GPU. This configuration, while modest by today's standards, was capable of handling everyday tasks such as browsing, social media, and moderate gaming during its time. The device includes 1GB of RAM and 16GB of internal storage, which can be expanded using a microSDXC card, allowing users to store more media and applications.

Camera Capabilities

The main camera on the HTC Desire 820q is a single 13 MP sensor with autofocus. This camera is supported by an LED flash and capable of shooting 1080p video at 30fps and 720p at 60fps, which makes it a decent option for photography and video recording in well-lit conditions. The selfie camera features an 8 MP sensor that also supports 1080p video recording, catering to the needs of selfie enthusiasts and video callers.

Sound and Audio

The device comes with stereo speakers, providing a more immersive audio experience compared to mono setups. The HTC BoomSound experience was a key selling point, as it delivered clearer and louder sound. Additionally, the inclusion of a 3.5mm audio jack allows users to easily connect their preferred headphones without additional adapters.

Connectivity and Network

The Desire 820q supports GSM, HSPA, and LTE networks, giving users a range of connectivity options. The dual SIM capability allows users to manage two numbers, which is particularly beneficial for balancing work and personal communication. The device includes Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n, Bluetooth 4.0 with A2DP and aptX, GPS with GLONASS, and even an FM radio for broader connectivity and entertainment options. However, it lacks NFC, which was becoming increasingly popular at the time.

Software and User Interface

Running on Android 4.4.2 KitKat with HTC's Sense UI 6, the phone provides a user-friendly experience. Sense UI is known for its clean design and useful widgets, such as BlinkFeed, which brings social media and news updates directly to the home screen. However, it's important to note that newer apps and updates may not be compatible with this older version of Android, potentially limiting some functionality.

Battery Life

The device is equipped with a non-removable Li-Po 2600 mAh battery, which is capable of lasting a full day with moderate use. However, with more intensive use such as gaming or video streaming, users might need to recharge before the day ends. The battery is efficient enough for day-to-day tasks, but not exceptional by modern standards.

Sensors and Other Features

The HTC Desire 820q comes with an accelerometer, proximity sensor, and compass, providing essential functionalities for various apps and services. These sensors enhance user interaction and provide a smoother experience when switching between different phone functionalities such as orientation change and automatic screen dimming.

Conclusion

The HTC Desire 820q Dual SIM, although discontinued, represents a period where HTC was producing some of the more innovative and user-friendly smartphones in the mid-range segment. Its mix of adequate performance, dual SIM capability, and respectable camera specifications made it a competitive choice at its release. However, given the advancements in technology and newer software updates, users today may find it challenging to keep up with current app demands and performance expectations.

Key Features of HTC Desire 820q Dual Sim

  • Supports 4G LTE, ensuring high-speed mobile internet connectivity.
  • Sleek design with a slim body (7.7 mm thickness) and lightweight (155 g).
  • Dual SIM capability (Nano-SIM, dual stand-by), offering flexibility in network usage.
  • Large 5.5 inch TFT display with Corning Gorilla Glass 3 protection.
  • Powered by Qualcomm Snapdragon 410 processor for efficient performance.
  • 13 MP main camera featuring autofocus and LED flash, capable of 1080p video recording.
  • 8 MP front camera, also capable of 1080p video recording, ideal for selfies.
  • Equipped with stereo speakers for enhanced audio experience.
  • 16GB internal storage, expandable via microSDXC slot for additional memory space.
  • Wi-Fi with dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct, and hotspot features.
  • FM radio support for listening to local stations.
  • Long-lasting 2600 mAh battery for extended usage.

HTC Desire 820q Dual Sim Disadvantages

  • Discontinued model, which may result in limited support and updates.
  • Runs on an outdated Android 4.4.2 (KitKat) OS.
  • 1GB RAM can be insufficient for modern apps and multitasking.
  • TFT display technology, which is inferior in color accuracy and viewing angles compared to more recent technologies like IPS or AMOLED.
  • Low screen-to-body ratio (~67.2%), offering less display area compared to newer models.
  • No NFC support, which limits the device's ability to perform contactless payments and connections.
  • Lacks USB Type-C, which is the modern standard for connectivity.
  • Non-removable 2600 mAh battery may lead to inconvenient battery replacements.
  • No advanced sensors such as a fingerprint sensor for added security.
Network
Technology GSM / HSPA / LTE
2G bands GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 - SIM 1 & SIM 2
3G bands HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100
4G bands 1, 3, 7, 8, 38, 39, 40, 41
Speed HSPA, LTE
Launch
Announced 2014, October. Released 2014, October
Status Discontinued
Body
Dimensions 157.7 x 78.7 x 7.7 mm (6.21 x 3.10 x 0.30 in)
Weight 155 g (5.47 oz)
SIM Dual SIM (Nano-SIM, dual stand-by)
Display
Type TFT
Size 5.5 inches, 83.4 cm2 (~67.2% screen-to-body ratio)
Resolution 720 x 1280 pixels, 16:9 ratio (~267 ppi density)
Protection Corning Gorilla Glass 3
Platform
OS Android 4.4.2 (KitKat), Sense UI 6
Chipset Qualcomm MSM8916 Snapdragon 410 (28 nm)
CPU Quad-core 1.2 GHz Cortex-A53
GPU Adreno 306
Memory
Card slot microSDXC (dedicated slot)
Internal 16GB 1GB RAM
Main Camera
Single 13 MP, AF
Features LED flash, HDR
Video 1080p@30fps, 720p@60fps
Selfie camera
Single 8 MP
Video 1080p@30fps
Sound
Loudspeaker Yes, with stereo speakers
3.5mm jack Yes
Comms
WLAN Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct, DLNA, hotspot
Bluetooth 4.0, A2DP, aptX
Positioning GPS, GLONASS
NFC No
Radio FM radio
USB microUSB 2.0
Features
Sensors Accelerometer, proximity, compass
Battery
Type Li-Po 2600 mAh, non-removable
Misc
Colors Santorini White, Tuxedo Gray, Milky-way Gray
Price About 260 EUR

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