LeEco Le S3 A Comprehensive Dive into Specs Pricing Pros and Cons

Introduction to LeEco Le S3

The LeEco Le S3, released in November 2016, was a smartphone positioned in the mid-range market but equipped with competitive specifications aimed at delivering excellent performance and usability for its price. Before its discontinuation, this model was appreciated for its robust configuration and premium build quality at an affordable price point.

Design and Build

The LeEco Le S3 boasts a sleek design with dimensions measuring 151.1 x 74.2 x 7.5 mm, and a relatively light weight of 153 g, making it comfortable to handle and carry. The smartphone exhibits a tasteful aluminum back and frame, complemented by a Corning Gorilla Glass 3 front. This build provides a sophisticated look and a durable exterior capable of withstanding minor falls and scratches.

The device includes a dual SIM slot supporting Nano-SIM, with a dual standby feature, catering to users who need to separate work from personal life without the hassle of carrying two phones.

Display

The LeEco Le S3 features a 5.5-inch IPS LCD display, with a screen-to-body ratio of approximately 74.4%, offering users an expanded viewing area suitable for media consumption and gaming. The screen resolution is set at 1080 x 1920 pixels, resulting in a pixel density of ~401 ppi, which assures crisp and detailed visuals. The adoption of Corning Gorilla Glass 3 adds an additional layer of screen protection, minimizing the risk of damage from everyday handling.

Performance

Under the hood, the LeEco Le S3 is powered by the Qualcomm MSM8976 Snapdragon 652 chipset, a 28nm process featuring an Octa-core CPU split between 4x1.4 GHz Cortex-A53 and 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A72 cores. The Snapdragon 652 is a proven performer in the mid-range segment, capable of handling multitasking and medium to heavy applications with ease.

The GPU used is an Adreno 510, suitable for managing graphics-intensive tasks, thus providing smooth visuals and enhancing the gaming experience. It runs on Android 6.0 Marshmallow, coupled with the eUI, providing users with a user-friendly interface.

Memory and Storage

The device incorporates 3GB of RAM, providing an ample capacity for switching between applications smoothly. It also provides an internal storage of 32GB. However, it does not support external microSD card expansion, which requires users to mediate their storage needs and manage space effectively through cloud storage options and regular maintenance.

Camera

Photography on the LeEco Le S3 is supported by a single 16 MP rear camera, equipped with PDAF (Phase Detection Autofocus) for faster focus speeds. The camera includes features like a dual-LED dual-tone flash, HDR, and panorama, expanding the possibilities for creative shooting in varied lighting conditions. It offers video recording capabilities of 4K@30fps, 1080p@30fps, and 720p@120fps, catering to high-definition video content needs.

The front-facing camera is an 8 MP unit, which provides decent performance for selfies and video calls.

Audio and Connectivity

The LeEco Le S3 is fitted with a loudspeaker but notably lacks a 3.5mm headphone jack, which aligns with the then-emerging trend toward wireless audio solutions. The inclusion of a USB Type-C provides faster charging and file transfer capabilities.

The device supports Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac and dual-band, ensuring strong internet connectivity. Bluetooth 4.1 facilitates wireless connections for other devices, and the inclusion of GPS provides navigational support. Though it lacks NFC capability, it does include an infrared port which allows the phone to function as a remote control for various appliances.

Battery and Charging

The energy requirements of the device are managed by a non-removable Li-Ion 3000 mAh battery. The battery life is sufficient for a day's worth of moderate to heavy use, and the provided 18W wired charging with QC3.0 ensures rapid replenishment of battery levels, allowing users to spend more time on the go and less time tethered to a power outlet.

Additional Features

Sensors on the LeEco Le S3 include a rear-mounted fingerprint sensor, accelerometer, proximity, and compass, all of which enhance user interaction and security features. The fingerprint sensor contributes to the security and convenience of unlocking the device rapidly.

Colors and Market Positioning

The LeEco Le S3 was available in various colors such as Gray, Gold, and Rose Gold, providing consumers with multiple choices to fit their personal style preferences. At the time of its launch, priced around 200 EUR, it presented a highly competitive option in the mid-range smartphone market, delivering significant specs and features for its cost.

Conclusion

The LeEco Le S3 stood out as an impressive contender among mid-range smartphones in 2016. Despite its discontinuation, it is remembered for its balance between performance, design, and price. Its blend of robust hardware and meticulously crafted aesthetics offered a satisfactory user experience for those looking for a reliable and stylish device without breaking the bank.