HTC Evo 4G Comprehensive Review Specs Prices & More

Network and Connectivity

The HTC Evo 4G was a revolutionary device, marking one of the first 4G smartphones in its era. Based on CDMA and EVDO technology, the device supported 2G bands CDMA 800/1900 and 3G bands CDMA2000 1xEV-DO. The speed capabilities included EV-DO Rev.A of up to 3.1 Mbps, offering faster than typical data throughput for its time, allowing users to stream content and browse the internet more efficiently than on many contemporaneous devices.

Launch and Availability

Announced in March 2010 and subsequently released in June of the same year, the HTC Evo 4G quickly became a favorite among technology enthusiasts. Despite its popularity, it has since been discontinued but remains a significant milestone in the evolution of smartphone technology.

Design and Body

With dimensions of 122 x 66 x 13 mm and weighing 170 g, the HTC Evo 4G was both substantial and robust. It sported a Mini-SIM configuration, typical of its time. The balance of weight and size made it pocketable, yet significant enough to feel sturdy and well-built in hand. The design positioned it as a high-end device, which was reflected in its performance and feature set.

Display

The display was one of the standout features of the HTC Evo 4G. Equipped with a 4.3-inch TFT screen supporting 65K colors, the phone provided vibrant and clear visuals at a resolution of 480 x 800 pixels. Its bright and sharp display was protected by Corning Gorilla Glass, ensuring greater durability against scratches and breaking. With a screen-to-body ratio of about 65.4%, it managed to effectively maximize screen space relative to the size of the device.

Platform and Performance

Operating on Android 2.1 (Eclair) initially, the HTC Evo 4G could be upgraded to Android 2.3 (Gingerbread) with the integration of the HTC Sense UI, enhancing user experience with intuitive interfaces and a range of customization options. Powered by a Qualcomm QSD8650 Snapdragon S1 chipset, coupled with a 1.0 GHz Scorpion CPU, and an Adreno 200 GPU, the device offered smooth performance. While not the fastest in today's context, back in 2010, these specs were quite impressive, allowing for efficient multitasking and smooth handling of apps.

Memory

Internal memory was somewhat limited with 1GB of storage and 512MB RAM. However, the inclusion of a dedicated microSDHC slot, with an 8 GB card included, meant users could expand their storage significantly, allowing for more apps, photos, and media to be stored without issue. This expansion capability made it versatile, adapting to the storage needs of various users.

Camera Capabilities

The main camera was an impressive 8 MP shooter equipped with autofocus and dual-LED flash, which at the time provided some of the best photography experiences available on a mobile device. It supported 720p video recording, enabling users to capture high-quality videos. The front-facing camera was a 1.3 MP sensor, primarily used for video calls, setting a new standard for smartphones having a dual-camera setup to support FaceTime-equivalent experiences back in 2010.

Audio and Sound

The HTC Evo 4G featured a built-in loudspeaker and a 3.5mm audio jack, catering to traditionalists who desired to use their preferred wired headphones. The sound quality was quite decent, with a capability to handle a range of audio inputs and outputs effectively, making it suitable for both casual music listening and hands-free calls.

Connectivity Options

The device supported Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g and WiMAX 802.16 e, operating effectively as a Wi-Fi router, which meant it could act as a hotspot for other devices. Bluetooth 2.1 with A2DP supported wireless connectivity for audio and file transfers. GPS with A-GPS provided location services, while the presence of Stereo FM radio with RDS added a traditional entertainment option for users who preferred broadcast radio.

User Interface and Sensors

With the HTC Sense UI, users enjoyed a refined and customizable interface. Additionally, the HTC Evo 4G came equipped with smart sensors such as an accelerometer, proximity sensor, and compass, supporting a range of functions from screen orientation changes to navigation applications. The browser capability included HTML and Adobe Flash support, allowing for a rich internet browsing experience on mobile.

Battery Life

The device was powered by a removable Li-Ion 1500 mAh battery, which offered a standby time of up to 146 hours and a talk time of around 5 hours and 12 minutes. This battery performance was acceptable at the time, although heavy users often carried an extra battery or charged throughout the day.

Miscellaneous Features

The HTC Evo 4G was available in classic colors of Black and White, appealing to a wide audience. Its SAR values stood at 1.03 W/kg for the head and 0.96 W/kg for the body, adhering to safety standards of the time. Originally sold at approximately 90 EUR, it was a competitive offering that matched its range of high-end features with a reasonable price point.