Price and specifications of Samsung Galaxy J1 mini prime advantages, disadvantages, and a comprehensive explanation

Overview

The Samsung Galaxy J1 mini prime, announced and released in December 2016, is a budget-friendly smartphone designed for basic functionalities and accessibility. Though now discontinued, it still attracts users seeking a simple device for everyday tasks. The device is compact with a user-friendly design, ensuring ease of use for first-time smartphone users or those needing a secondary device.

Design and Build

The Galaxy J1 mini prime offers a simple yet robust design. Measuring 121.6 x 63.1 x 10.8 mm and weighing 126 grams, it fits comfortably in hand, making it convenient for one-handed use. The device features a glass front with a plastic back and frame, available in three colors: Gold, Black, and White. Users can choose between Single SIM or Dual SIM options, offering flexibility to switch between carriers or plans as needed.

Display

This smartphone comes with a 4.0-inch TFT display that supports 256K colors. It sports a resolution of 480 x 800 pixels with a 5:3 ratio, translating to a decent pixel density of around 233 ppi. While the screen size might seem small by modern standards, it is sufficient for basic tasks such as browsing the internet, checking emails, and using common applications without consuming much battery.

Performance

Samsung Galaxy J1 mini prime is powered by a Spreadtrum SC9830 chip and comes equipped with a Quad-core processor. The LTE variant has a frequency of 1.5 GHz, whereas the 3G variant operates at 1.2 GHz. The device's graphics are handled by a Mali-400MP2 GPU, providing acceptable performance for light games and multimedia playback. With 1GB RAM and 8GB of internal storage (expandable via microSDXC), it offers adequate space for apps and files while supporting multitasking to some extent.

Software

The device runs Android OS with different versions based on connectivity models. The 3G model uses Android 5.1 Lollipop while the LTE model enjoys the slightly newer Android 6.0 Marshmallow. Both operating systems offer user-friendly interfaces and access to the Google play services, keeping essential apps and services within reach for users looking for standard smartphone capabilities.

Camera

For photography, the J1 mini prime is fitted with a 5MP rear camera with an f/2.2 aperture and LED flash, allowing users to capture everyday photos and videos at up to 720p@30fps. There is also a VGA front-facing camera suitable for basic selfies and video calls. While not designed for professional photography, the camera setup is enough to meet basic capturing needs for social media or quick snapshots.

Battery and Connectivity

Fitted with a 1500 mAh removable Li-Ion battery, the device allows for convenient battery replacement. With approximately 8 hours of talk time on 3G networks and up to 29 hours of music playback, it offers reasonable battery life for its category. Connectivity options include Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct for easy sharing, Bluetooth 4.0 for wireless peripherals, micro USB 2.0 for charging and data transfer, and GPS with GLONASS for navigation. An FM radio feature adds to its media options, although NFC support is absent.

Network and Communications

The phone supports GSM, HSPA, and LTE networks, covering essential connectivity needs across various regions and carriers. The LTE model supports a range of 4G bands, providing potential access to faster data speeds where available. The device is capable of delivering data speeds up to LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps, allowing quicker browsing and downloads compared to basic 3G models.

Additional Features

In terms of sensors, the device includes an accelerometer, contributing to its responsiveness in terms of screen orientation changes and basic motion sensing. The 3.5mm headphone jack port is available for audio output, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of audio accessories. Its practical design and features make it a dependable choice for users who emphasize essential smartphone functions over advanced specifications.

Price and Availability

At launch, the Samsung Galaxy J1 mini prime was priced at approximately 110 EUR, targeting budget-conscious consumers and those seeking a secondary phone option. Though it has been discontinued, remaining stock or second-hand models can still be found at various retailers and online marketplaces, maintaining its presence as a budget-friendly alternative in certain markets.