Micromax Funbook Alfa P250 Specs Price Pros & Cons Unveiled

Overview of Micromax Funbook Alfa P250

The Micromax Funbook Alfa P250 is a tablet that was launched in the latter part of 2012. Aimed at budget-conscious consumers, it offers a decent array of features for a low cost. Though it has been discontinued, it's a device that remains of interest due to its affordability and functional specifications at the time of its release.

Launch and Availability

Announced in September 2012, the Micromax Funbook Alfa P250 hit the market the following month in October. It was targeted primarily at educational and entertainment purposes, signifying Micromax’s attempt to merge learning with leisure. However, the device has since been discontinued and is no longer available from primary retailers.

Design and Build

The design of the Funbook Alfa P250 is practical if somewhat basic, with dimensions that are not explicitly highlighted in the available data. It does not feature a SIM slot, which indicates no cellular connectivity, focusing primarily on Wi-Fi as its connection medium. This places it squarely in the realm of Wi-Fi-only tablets meant for home or hotspot use.

Display Characteristics

Sporting a 7-inch TFT display, the resolution of 480 x 800 pixels with a density of approximately 133 pixels per inch offers a modest visual experience. While it may not compare to modern high-definition displays, it was adequate for basic tasks and media consumption at the time of its release.

Hardware and Performance

Under the hood, the Funbook Alfa P250 is powered by a 1.0 GHz Cortex-A8 CPU, coupled with a Mali-400 GPU. These specifications permitted sufficient performance for simple tasks, web browsing, and media playback, though it struggled with demanding applications even by 2012 standards. The inclusion of 512MB RAM further places limits on multitasking capabilities and performance.

Storage Options

Internally, the device houses 4GB of storage and supports external expansion via a dedicated microSDHC card slot. This was an essential feature for users looking to store more music, videos, documents, and educational content without investing heavily in expensive gadgets.

Operating System and Software

The tablet operates on Android 4.0.3, also known as Ice Cream Sandwich. This version of Android includes features such as refined multitasking, customizable home screens, and a new interface design. The system, although outdated by today's standards, provided a stable and user-friendly experience for users at the time.

Camera Features

The Funbook Alfa P250 is equipped with a VGA rear camera. While this may not serve well for photography enthusiasts, it was suitable for basic needs like video calls or scanning documents. The absence of a front-facing camera was a significant drawback for those interested in taking selfies or making higher-quality video calls.

Audio and Connectivity

The device includes a loudspeaker and a 3.5mm audio jack, maintaining standard connectivity options in audio devices. On the communication front, it supports Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n and Bluetooth, ensuring elementary wireless connectivity solutions. However, it lacks advanced data features like NFC and does not include a radio function.

Sensors and Multitasking

This tablet possesses an accelerometer sensor that allows it to detect the orientation of the device and changes in motion—one of the few sensors included, and interestingly enough, this provides the basic capability for certain gaming and utility applications.

Battery Life

Powered by a non-removable Li-Ion 2800 mAh battery, the Funbook Alfa P250 can provide up to 5 hours of multimedia usage. This makes it moderately reliable for short trips or school projects without immediate access to charging points.

Pricing and Market Position

Initially priced at around 90 EUR, the Funbook Alfa P250 was positioned as an affordable solution for consumers seeking a balance of entertainment and education. Its pricing made it accessible to a broad audience looking for a cost-effective tablet for casual use.

Conclusion

The Micromax Funbook Alfa P250 stands as a testament to the evolving landscape of budget tablets in the early 2010s. While it certainly lacks the sophisticated technology found in modern-day alternatives, it served its intended purpose well and provided many users an accessible entry point into the world of digital technology.