NEC Terrain Unveiling Specs Prices Pros & Cons

Overview of NEC Terrain

The NEC Terrain is a rugged smartphone that was announced and released in June 2013. Despite being discontinued, it remains noteworthy for its durability, physical QWERTY keyboard, and business-centric features. Let's delve into the comprehensive details of this device to understand its capabilities.

Design and Build Quality

The NEC Terrain stands out with its robust build, designed to withstand challenging environments. Its dimensions are 127.5 x 64.5 x 14.5 mm, and it weighs 171.8 g, making it slightly bulkier than typical smartphones, but this is compensated by its resilience. The QWERTY keyboard is a prominent feature, catering to users who prefer tactile typing over touchscreen input. The use of Corning Gorilla Glass 2 offers an additional layer of protection against scratches and minor impacts.

Display

The device features a 3.1-inch TFT display with a resolution of 640 x 480 pixels, providing a pixel density of around 258 ppi. While not the largest screen on the market, it suits the practical needs of users looking for a compact device with essential functionality. The screen-to-body ratio is around 36.2%, which might seem limited compared to modern devices but aligns with the rugged design purpose.

Performance and Hardware

Under the hood, the NEC Terrain is powered by the Qualcomm MSM8960 Snapdragon S4 Plus chipset, with a dual-core 1.5 GHz Krait CPU and an Adreno 225 GPU. Coupled with 1GB of RAM, the device efficiently handles day-to-day tasks, though it may struggle with more demanding applications by today’s standards. It offers 8GB of internal storage, expandable via a microSDHC card slot, accommodating users who need additional space for apps and media.

Camera Capabilities

The main camera features a 5 MP sensor with autofocus and an LED flash, capable of capturing 720p video at 30fps. This is suitable for basic photography needs, capturing decent images in well-lit conditions. The front VGA camera serves for video calls, although the image quality is modest.

Network and Connectivity

Supporting GSM, HSPA, and LTE technologies, the NEC Terrain offers comprehensive connectivity options. It can operate on various frequency bands, ensuring reliable communication across different regions. Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Bluetooth 4.0, NFC, GPS, and microUSB 2.0 are integrated to enhance versatility in connectivity.

Audio and Multimedia

The device is equipped with stereo speakers providing reasonable audio output quality. A 3.5mm audio jack is included for convenience in using wired headphones. An FM radio feature is available for users who enjoy listening to traditional radio stations.

Battery Life

The NEC Terrain comes with a removable Li-Ion 1900 mAh battery. This offers up to 348 hours of standby time and up to 10 hours of talk time, which is adequate for a day’s usage under moderate conditions. The removable nature of the battery allows users to carry spares for extended periods away from charging points.

Software and Platform

Running on Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich, the Terrain provides a decent user experience with access to a vast array of apps available in the Google Play Store. However, given that it runs an older version of Android, newer applications and updates may not be compatible.

Additional Features

Sensors on the device include an accelerometer, proximity sensor, and compass, enhancing the device's functionality and user interaction. The NEC Terrain was priced at about 330 EUR at launch, which was quite competitive considering its features and rugged design. Available in a classic black color, it appeals to professional users in need of a dependable communication tool.

Conclusion

The NEC Terrain is a device aimed at users seeking durability and practical features over the latest technology trends. Its QWERTY keyboard, robust build, and enterprise-oriented capabilities make it suitable for business use and those working in demanding environments. While it may not suit users seeking cutting-edge specifications, it serves as a reliable and enduring option for its target audience.