Micromax Bolt Q338 Specs Pricing & Performance Revealed

Overview of Micromax Bolt Q338

The Micromax Bolt Q338 is a smartphone released by Micromax in September 2015. Known for delivering value for money devices, Micromax aimed at providing a balance between features and affordability with this model. Although it has since been discontinued, the Micromax Bolt Q338 still holds relevance for those interested in understanding budget smartphones from the mid-2010s.

Design and Build

The Micromax Bolt Q338 features a compact and sturdy design, typical of devices released in its time. It measures 142.5 x 71 x 9.3 mm and weighs around 157 grams, which makes it relatively comfortable to hold and operate single-handedly. The phone supports dual SIM functionality, which is a useful feature for users wanting to manage two numbers in one device. Design-wise, it presents a basic aesthetic, primarily available in black, which should appeal to users looking for a sophisticated and minimalist look.

Display Characteristics

Equipped with a 5.0 inch IPS LCD display, the Micromax Bolt Q338 aims to provide a reasonable viewing experience with a resolution of 720 x 1280 pixels. With a pixel density of approximately 294 ppi, the visuals are quite decent for everyday tasks such as reading and browsing. Additionally, the inclusion of Corning Gorilla Glass enhances its durability against scratches and minor falls, a crucial feature for longevity in smartphones.

Hardware and Performance

The device is powered by a Mediatek MT6580 chipset, featuring a quad-core 1.3 GHz Cortex-A7 CPU. Although fundamentally an entry-level chipset, it supports basic multitasking and smooth operation of less demanding applications. The Mali-400MP2 GPU caters to the graphical requirement of the day-to-day tasks but is not suited for graphic-intensive gaming.

The Bolt Q338 includes 1GB of RAM and 8GB of internal storage, which can be expanded via a microSDHC card. While 1GB RAM may limit high-end app performance, it suffices for basic functions. The storage capacity can be expanded as needed, providing flexibility to users who require more space for media and apps.

Camera Functionality

In terms of camera capabilities, the Micromax Bolt Q338 packs an 8 MP autofocus primary camera with an LED flash, which serves to capture decent quality photos in well-lit environments. For video calling and selfies, a 5 MP front camera delivers basic performance but is sufficient for low-demand users or casual photography.

Battery Life

The device is equipped with a 2000 mAh removable Li-Ion battery, which could power the device throughout a day of moderate use. The removable battery feature offers an added advantage, allowing users to carry a spare battery for extended usability, especially useful when power sources are not readily available.

Software and User Interface

The Micromax Bolt Q338 runs on Android 5.1 Lollipop, which was a significant upgrade at the time of its release. Lollipop's user-friendly interface and enhancements such as improved notifications and battery saver mode contribute to a satisfactory user experience even in a budget device.

Connectivity Options

Connectivity on the Bolt Q338 includes GSM / HSPA network technology support with speeds up to HSPA 21.1/5.76 Mbps. Other connectivity features include Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Bluetooth 4.0, microUSB 2.0, and FM radio. While it lacks advanced connectivity options like 4G LTE or NFC, it caters to basic communication needs adequately.

Additional Features

Additional features on the Micromax Bolt Q338 include standard sensors like accelerometer and proximity sensors. It also retains a 3.5mm audio jack, allowing for connection to a wide range of audio accessories without requiring adapters.

User Experience and Reception

The Micromax Bolt Q338 was generally well-received in its market segment. Customers appreciated the balance between performance and cost, particularly in markets where affordability is a significant decision factor. With its basic yet competent specs, it catered well to users with fundamental smartphone needs.

Conclusion

In summary, the Micromax Bolt Q338 represents a class of budget smartphones that managed to deliver essential features without the burden of high costs. With a decent display, satisfactory performance for its category, and a design that valued practicability, it served its target demographic effectively. While not designed for high performance or modern-day demanding applications, it remains a noteworthy model for those exploring the evolution of affordable smartphones.