Overview of Samsung Galaxy Core LTE G386W
Released in November 2014, the Samsung Galaxy Core LTE G386W is a mid-range smartphone that offered a balance of features suitable for its time. The device was targeted at users needing reliable connectivity and decent performance without breaking the bank. Despite being discontinued now, it remains a noteworthy mention for those interested in the evolution of mid-range smartphones.
Design and Build
The Galaxy Core LTE sports a compact design typical of mid-range smartphones of its era. It measures 132.9 x 66.3 x 10 mm and weighs 137g, making it a lightweight option that fits comfortably in the hand. Its construction will resonate with users who appreciate straightforward, no-frills design. The phone comes with a Micro-SIM slot and was available in two classic colors: white and black.
Display
The device features a 4.5-inch TFT display with a resolution of 540 x 960 pixels and a screen-to-body ratio of approximately 63.4%. This results in a pixel density of around 245 ppi, adequate for basic tasks such as messaging, browsing, and using standard applications. While it doesn't match the vibrancy of modern AMOLED displays, it was sufficient for daily use during its time.
Performance
Running on Android 4.4.2 KitKat, the Galaxy Core LTE is powered by a quad-core 1.2 GHz processor, allowing it to handle multiple tasks efficiently for casual users. The device is equipped with 1.5GB of RAM, making it capable of running several apps simultaneously without significant lag. Its performance is suitable for basic productivity and entertainment needs like web browsing, social media, and light gaming.
Storage
The phone comes with 16GB of internal storage, which can be expanded via a dedicated microSDXC slot. This provides flexibility for users needing additional space for photos, videos, apps, and more. For many users at the time, this storage capacity was more than adequate to store essential data and media.
Camera
The main camera of the Galaxy Core LTE is a 5 MP shooter equipped with an autofocus system and LED flash, capable of recording 720p videos at 30fps. It's designed to capture decent photos in well-lit conditions and offer a straightforward photography experience for everyday moments. The VGA front camera, however, offers basic performance suitable primarily for video calls.
Battery Life
The device houses a removable Li-Ion 2100 mAh battery, offering up to 13 hours of talk time on 3G and up to 59 hours of music playback. This allows for moderate usage throughout the day without the need for frequent recharges, which was a significant advantage back in 2014.
Connectivity
The smartphone supports GSM, HSPA, and LTE networks, ensuring reliable connectivity across various bands like 1, 2, 4, 5, 12, and 17. It supports network speeds up to LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps. Other noteworthy connectivity features include Wi-Fi a/b/g/n, Bluetooth 4.0, GPS with GLONASS, NFC, FM radio, and microUSB 2.0.
Sensors and Features
The Galaxy Core LTE includes essential sensors such as accelerometer, proximity, and compass. These enable basic smartphone functionality and enhance user experience with features like auto-rotation and navigation.
Audio and Multimedia
Multimedia capabilities include a standard 3.5mm headphone jack and loudspeaker. These provide adequate audio output for music and video playback, meeting the basic entertainment needs of users who enjoyed music and video content on their phones.
Pricing and Availability
Priced at around 180 EUR at launch, the Samsung Galaxy Core LTE G386W was positioned as an affordable yet capable device in the mid-range market. Though discontinued, it represented a solid choice for budget-conscious consumers seeking acceptable performance and connectivity features.
Conclusion
In summary, the Samsung Galaxy Core LTE G386W was a reliable and versatile smartphone for its time. It catered to users who valued stable performance, essential functionality, and the connectivity necessary for modern communication needs. While no longer available on the market, it remains a testament to Samsung's ability to deliver compelling devices in the mid-range segment during the early 2010s.
Key Features of Samsung Galaxy Core LTE G386W
- Network Support: GSM / HSPA / LTE
- 4G Capability with LTE Cat4 up to 150/50 Mbps
- Lightweight Design: 137 g (4.83 oz)
- Display: 4.5 inches TFT with 540 x 960 resolution
- Processor: Quad-core 1.2 GHz
- Memory: 16GB internal storage, expandable via dedicated microSDXC slot
- Main Camera: 5 MP with LED flash, 720p video recording
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi a/b/g/n, Bluetooth 4.0, GPS, GLONASS, NFC, and FM radio
- Battery: Removable Li-Ion 2100 mAh, with up to 13 hours talk time on 3G
- Sensors: Accelerometer, proximity, compass
Drawbacks of Samsung Galaxy Core LTE G386W
- Discontinued model, no longer supported for software updates or repairs.
- TFT display technology offers lower color accuracy and contrast compared to modern AMOLED or IPS screens.
- Low screen resolution (540 x 960 pixels) results in relatively low pixel density (~245 ppi).
- Outdated operating system (Android 4.4.2 KitKat) with no official upgrade path.
- Limited RAM (1.5GB) may lead to suboptimal performance with modern apps and multitasking.
- Basic camera setup with only a 5 MP rear camera and VGA front camera.
- Low internal storage (16GB) considering modern app sizes, although expandable via microSD.
- Micro-USB 2.0 port instead of the newer USB-C, resulting in slower data transfer speeds.
- Plastic build materials may feel less premium compared to contemporary smartphones.
- Relatively bulky design with a thickness of 10 mm.
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