Comprehensive Review Panasonic Eluga Z Specs Prices Pros & Cons

Design and Build Quality

The Panasonic Eluga Z sports a sleek and modern design that was quite impressive at its release in 2015. With dimensions of 141.3 x 70.6 x 6.9 mm, it is slim and comfortably light, offering ease of use. The phone features a dual SIM slot which is appealing for users who need to balance work and personal calls or manage multiple numbers efficiently. The device comes in two classic colors, black and white, adding to its sophisticated look.

Display

The Eluga Z features a 5.0-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 720 x 1280 pixels, which translates to a pixel density of approximately 294 ppi. The screen-to-body ratio is about 69.1%, making for an immersive viewing experience. The AMOLED technology provides vibrant colors and deep blacks, which enhances the quality of media consumption whether you're viewing images, videos, or playing games.

Camera Performance

The device is equipped with a 13 MP rear camera complete with autofocus and an LED flash, allowing for decent photography even in low-light conditions. The camera supports video recording at 1080p@30fps, which was quite competitive during its time. For selfie enthusiasts, the 5 MP front camera offers standard quality that captures clear and satisfactory images suitable for social media sharing.

Hardware and Performance

Under the hood, the Panasonic Eluga Z is powered by an octa-core 1.4 GHz processor, accompanied by a Mali-450MP4 GPU. This combination ensures smooth performance for daily tasks and moderate multitasking. The device comes with 2 GB of RAM and 16 GB of internal storage, which can be expanded via a dedicated microSDHC slot. This allows users to store their apps, photos, and files conveniently without frequently managing space.

Operating System and User Interface

Out of the box, the Eluga Z runs on Android 4.4.2 KitKat, with the option to upgrade to Android 5.0 Lollipop. This gives users access to improved features and functionalities, such as a refined UI, better notifications, and enhanced performance. The operating system is intuitive, making it user-friendly for beginners and satisfying for seasoned smartphone users.

Battery Life

The phone is fitted with a removable Li-Po 2050 mAh battery. It provides a standby time of up to 375 hours and a talk time of up to 15 hours and 18 minutes on 3G networks. While this may seem modest compared to today's standards, it was reasonable for devices in its class at the time. The ability to remove the battery provides extra convenience for users who prefer carrying a spare battery for emergencies.

Network and Connectivity

The Panasonic Eluga Z supports GSM and HSPA networks, with 2G and 3G capabilities making it suitable for basic mobile data activities and standard call quality. For connectivity, the device supports Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct, and hotspot functionalities. It also includes Bluetooth 4.0 for pairing with other devices, GPS for navigation, and microUSB 2.0 with OTG support for data transfer and peripheral connections. However, it lacks NFC capabilities, which is a minor setback if you rely heavily on contactless payments and data exchanges.

Audio and Media

Media consumption can be enjoyed through its loudspeaker or the traditional 3.5mm headphone jack, which remains a popular feature among users for its versatility with various audio accessories. The phone also includes FM radio, offering users an additional entertainment option without relying on internet data.

Additional Features and Sensors

The device includes basic sensors such as an accelerometer and proximity sensor, which are essential for day-to-day functionality like auto-rotation of the screen and automatic screen shut-off during calls. While it might lack more advanced sensors found in high-end smartphones, the inclusion of these basic sensors fulfills the needs of the average user effectively.

Conclusion

The Panasonic Eluga Z, with its elegant design, acceptable camera capabilities, and reasonable performance, served as a competitive option in the mid-range smartphone market during its release. While it has been discontinued, it reflects Panasonic's commitment to creating aesthetically pleasing devices that balance functionality and style. It certainly holds nostalgia for users who appreciated its design and usability during its time in the market.