Unveiling Microsoft Lumia 535 Dual SIM Specs Pricing & ProsCons

Overview of Microsoft Lumia 535 Dual SIM

The Microsoft Lumia 535 Dual SIM was a notable entry in the Lumia series released in late 2014. Known for its budget-friendly approach, the device catered to users seeking a reliable smartphone experience without a hefty price tag. Focusing on the essentials, the Lumia 535 offered a range of features that were reflective of Microsoft's mobile strategy during that period.

Design and Build

The Lumia 535 measures 140.2 x 72.4 x 8.8 mm and weighs 146 grams, making it a lightweight and ergonomically comfortable phone to hold. Its design follows the signature Lumia aesthetics with vivid color options including orange, green, white, black, gray, and blue. The body is crafted from durable plastic, and while this might not give it a premium feel, it ensures the phone is resilient against daily wear and tear.

Display

Featuring a 5.0-inch IPS LCD screen with a resolution of 540 x 960 pixels, the Lumia 535 delivers a decent display performance. Though not exceptionally sharp due to its ~220 ppi pixel density, the screen is sufficient for regular activities such as browsing, social media, and video viewing. Protection is offered by Corning Gorilla Glass 3, enhancing the display's durability against scratches and minor falls.

Camera Capabilities

Main Camera

Equipped with a single 5 MP rear camera with an f/2.4 aperture and 28mm wide lens, the Lumia 535 is capable of capturing basic photos and videos at 480p@30fps. The autofocus feature helps in achieving moderately clear images, and the LED flash is useful for low-light situations.

Selfie Camera

The front-facing camera, also 5 MP, offers a balance between budget constraints and functionality, making it suitable for video calls and selfies, especially given the focus Microsoft had on social interaction capabilities during the phone's release.

Performance and Software

Running on the Microsoft Windows Phone 8.1 operating system, the Lumia 535 is built with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 200 chipset. Its quad-core 1.2 GHz Cortex-A7 processor and Adreno 302 GPU, while modest by today's standards, provide satisfactory performance for typical smartphone tasks of its time.

Memory and Storage

The device includes 1GB of RAM and 8GB of internal storage, which can be expanded via a microSDXC card slot. While the RAM may limit multitasking capabilities, the storage flexibility ensures users can maintain personal media and apps without significant constraints.

Network and Connectivity

Featuring GSM/HSPA technology, the Lumia 535 supports 2G and 3G bands, with download speeds reaching HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps. Connectivity options include Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Bluetooth 4.0 with A2DP, LE, and aptX support, as well as GPS and GLONASS for location services.

Battery Life

The removable 1905 mAh Li-Ion battery offers a standby time of up to 336 hours, up to 11 hours of talk time on 2G, and up to 13 hours on 3G. For music enthusiasts, the device delivers up to 78 hours of continuous playback, reflecting a strong battery endurance for a budget phone.

Additional Features and Accessories

With a dual SIM capability, it provides flexibility for users requiring separate contact numbers for personal and professional use. The phone also includes sensors such as an accelerometer and proximity sensor. The inclusion of an FM radio and microUSB 2.0 further enhances its functionality.

Market Position and Legacy

Priced around 80 EUR during its release, the Microsoft Lumia 535 Dual SIM was positioned as an affordable option in the smartphone market. Despite being discontinued, it leaves a legacy as one of the early examples of Microsoft's endeavors to capture market share through functional, budget-friendly devices, and remains a point of interest for enthusiasts of mobile phone history.