Micromax A104 Canvas Fire 2 Specs Prices Pros & Cons Unveiled

Overview

The Micromax A104 Canvas Fire 2 is an entry-level smartphone that was initially released in the fourth quarter of 2014. It was designed to meet the essential needs of smartphone users, offering basic features suitable for everyday use. Although it is no longer in production, it remains a relevant choice among budget-conscious users seeking fundamental functionality.

Design and Build

The device has a sturdy build and measures 136 x 67.4 x 9.6 mm, weighing in at 163 grams. Its dimensions and weight make it a compact and portable device that fits comfortably in the hand. The design is simple yet elegant, available in a stylish black and gold color option. It features a dual SIM slot, which is beneficial for users who need to manage two numbers simultaneously.

Display

The Micromax A104 Canvas Fire 2 sports a 4.5-inch TFT display with a resolution of 480 x 854 pixels, providing a modest pixel density of approximately 218 ppi. The screen size is adequate for users who prefer not to deal with larger devices. While it may not offer the high-resolution experience of more modern smartphones, it is sufficient for viewing basic content like texts, images, and simple apps.

Operating System and Performance

Powered by Android 4.4.2 KitKat, the Canvas Fire 2 accommodates a user-friendly interface suitable for basic smartphone users. Under the hood, it features a quad-core processor clocked at 1.3 GHz, which allows it to handle fundamental tasks and applications without significant lag. However, it may not perform well with demanding games or multi-tasking between numerous apps.

Memory and Storage

The phone is equipped with 1GB of RAM and 4GB of internal storage, expandable via a microSDHC card slot. This memory configuration is typical for entry-level devices of its generation, providing just enough storage for essential apps and a few multimedia files. Users requiring more storage are advised to utilize an external microSD card to increase capacity.

Camera

The Micromax A104 Canvas Fire 2 features a 5 MP rear camera with autofocus and an LED flash, capable of HDR and panorama shots. It also supports 1080p video recording at 30fps. While not meant for high-end photography, the camera serves well for casual snapshots and video recording. The VGA front camera is basic, best suited for video calls rather than selfies.

Sound

The device stands out with its dual loudspeakers, offering a better audio experience than many peers in its category. It also includes a 3.5mm headphone jack, a feature that is gradually becoming rare in smartphones. This means users can enjoy music and other audio content using wired headphones or earphones.

Connectivity and Sensors

In terms of connectivity, the Canvas Fire 2 supports Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n with hotspot capabilities, Bluetooth 4.0, GPS for navigation, and microUSB 2.0 for charging and data transfer. It does not support NFC, which is standard for many budget phones from its release period. Sensor-wise, it includes an accelerometer and proximity sensor, which fulfill the basic interactive functionalities like auto-rotate and call-related features.

Battery Life

The phone is fueled by a removable Li-Ion 1900 mAh battery. It provides standby time of up to 180 hours and talk time of up to 6 hours, which is adequate for a day of sporadic use such as messaging, calls, and light internet browsing. The removable battery is appreciated by users who prefer the option to swap out batteries as needed.

Conclusion and Market Position

Overall, the Micromax A104 Canvas Fire 2 is a functional choice for those in need of a basic smartphone for minimal use. At its market price of approximately 80 EUR, it delivers an affordable entry point into mobile connectivity. Although its production has been discontinued, the device can still offer utility for users prioritizing cost over cutting-edge features, serving as a reliable backup phone or a first device for young or technologically moderate users.