Comprehensive Review Huawei Y3 2017 Specs Prices & More

Design and Build

The Huawei Y3 (2017) presents a compact design aimed at providing an affordable smartphone experience without compromising on basic functionality. The device measures 145.1 x 73.7 x 9.5 mm and weighs 175g, which gives it a solid feel in the hand while maintaining simplicity. It features a plastic back and frame, with a glass front that reflects its budget-friendly nature. Despite the plastic materials, the build quality gives a satisfactory impression, catering well to those who prefer durability over flashy materials.

Display

The handset is equipped with a 5.0-inch IPS LCD display, offering a resolution of 480 x 854 pixels. This results in a pixel density of approximately 196 ppi, which is adequate for common tasks such as browsing and using apps with less graphic demand. The screen-to-body ratio sits at around 64.4%, which, while not boundary-pushing, is functional for an entry-level device. It provides acceptable color reproduction and viewing angles suitable for typical use, albeit lacking the sharpness found in higher-end smartphones.

Performance

Under the hood, the Huawei Y3 (2017) is powered by a MediaTek MT6737М chipset for most models, featuring a quad-core 1.1 GHz Cortex-A53 CPU. For the CRO-U00 variant, the device uses the MediaTek MT6580M chipset with a 1.3 GHz Cortex-A7 CPU. Along with the Mali-T720MP2 or the Mali-400MP2 GPU depending on the variant, the Y3 (2017) handles basic tasks with efficiency but struggles with more demanding applications or multitasking due to its 1GB RAM. The device is equipped with Android 6.0 (Marshmallow) operating beneath Huawei's EMUI 4.1 Mini.

Storage

Internal storage options for the Huawei Y3 (2017) include 8GB and 32GB models, both versions accompanied by 1GB of RAM. To expand the rather limited internal storage, the device includes a dedicated microSDXC slot, enabling users to increase the available space for apps, media, and other data, facilitating a better balance between needs and function.

Camera

The Y3 (2017) comes with an 8MP rear camera, featuring an f/2.0 aperture and autofocus, accompanied by an LED flash to support photography in low-light conditions. Video capture is supported at 720p@30fps, which is modest but fitting given the phone's market positioning. The front-facing camera is a basic 2MP shooter, sufficient for simple selfies and video calls but not ideal for image perfectionists.

Battery Life

A non-removable Li-Ion 2200 mAh battery powers the Huawei Y3 (2017). Considering the modest specifications of the device, this capacity is adequate to last a full day under normal use cases such as calling, texting, and occasional media consumption. However, users indulging in more intensive activities might find themselves reaching for the charger a bit sooner.

Network and Connectivity

Supporting GSM, HSPA, and LTE networks, the Huawei Y3 (2017) offers comprehensive connectivity options for its users. For wireless communication, it includes Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n and Bluetooth 4.0 with A2DP. GPS support is also built-in, though NFC is absent. Topping off its communication features, the device includes FM radio capabilities and utilizes a microUSB 2.0 port for charging and data transfer.

Sound and Additional Features

The phone is equipped with a loudspeaker and a 3.5mm headphone jack, facilitating traditional audio listening without the need for additional adapters. Various sensors like an accelerometer and proximity sensor provide the basic functionalities needed for a smooth user interface experience.

Variants and Pricing

The Huawei Y3 (2017) comes in several model identifiers, including CRO-L02, CRO-L22, CRO-L03, CRO-L23, and CRO-U00, offering a selection of options catering to different market segments or regions. The smartphone comes in various color options such as Gold, Pink, Blue, White, and Gray, with an attractive price point of approximately 90 EUR, making it an appealing option for those who need practicality without breaking the bank.

Conclusion

Overall, the Huawei Y3 (2017) is a commendable entry-level smartphone that fulfills the basic needs of users looking for a straightforward and reliable mobile experience. While it may not feature the cutting-edge components of flagship devices, its advantageous price and effective performance deliver a fitting solution for budget-conscious consumers or as a secondary phone.