Comprehensive Review verykool s5526 Alpha Specifications Pros and Cons

Overview of Verykool s5526 Alpha

The Verykool s5526 Alpha, released in May 2017, is an affordable smartphone equipped with entry-level specifications aimed at providing basic functionality with a balance between performance and cost-effectiveness. While it has been discontinued, its features remain relevant for users seeking a straightforward device with essential capabilities.

Network and Connectivity

The Verykool s5526 Alpha supports GSM and HSPA network technologies, making it usable on a range of basic mobile networks. It operates on 2G bands GSM 850/900/1800/1900 for both SIM slots and 3G bands HSDPA 850/1900. The device offers HSPA speeds up to 21.1 Mbps for downloading and 5.76 Mbps for uploading, which is sufficient for everyday internet usage such as browsing or streaming music.

Design and Build Quality

With dimensions of 152.9 x 76.8 x 8.2 mm and a weight of 148 grams, the Verykool s5526 Alpha is designed to be a sleek yet lightweight option that fits comfortably in the hand. It features a dual SIM capability with one slot for Micro-SIM and another for Mini-SIM, allowing users to switch networks or manage personal and work numbers easily.

Display Features

The phone sports a 5.5-inch IPS LCD display with a resolution of 720 x 1280 pixels, providing users with a decent visual experience in a 16:9 aspect ratio. The scratch-resistant glass helps protect the display from minor wear and tear, making it a durable choice for everyday use. The screen-to-body ratio stands at approximately 71%, ensuring a decent amount of screen real estate for viewing content.

Performance and Platform

Powered by a MediaTek MT6580 chipset with a quad-core 1.3 GHz Cortex-A7 processor and Mali-400MP2 GPU, the Verykool s5526 Alpha offers essential performance suitable for handling basic tasks such as web browsing, social media, and casual games. The device runs on Android 6.0 Marshmallow, which, despite being outdated, continues to offer a familiar and user-friendly interface for executing essential smartphone functions.

Memory and Storage

The smartphone comes with 1GB of RAM and 8GB of internal storage, which can be expanded through a microSDXC card slot. This combination of memory should handle standard applications, though limitations may be observed when multitasking or installing larger apps. The extendable storage capability is vital for users who require additional space for photos, music, and apps.

Camera Specifications

The main camera is an 8 MP shooter with an f/2.4 aperture and autofocus capabilities. It includes features like LED flash and panorama mode, and it can capture 1080p video at 30fps. While it may not compare to modern smartphones with advanced camera technologies, it offers fundamental photography options for capturing everyday moments.

The front camera is a 5 MP sensor with an f/2.8 aperture, functioning adequately for selfies and video calls. Though not oriented for advanced photography, it fulfills basic needs in capturing notable front-facing moments.

Sound and Audio

For audio, the Verykool s5526 Alpha features a loudspeaker and a 3.5mm headphone jack, a feature that many users appreciate for its compatibility with a wide range of headphones and earbuds. These ensure enjoyable media consumption, whether listening through the phone’s speaker or via personal listening devices.

Communication Interfaces

The device includes Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n capabilities with Wi-Fi Direct support, facilitating wireless internet connectivity and direct device-to-device communication without a router. Bluetooth 4.0 with A2DP and LE (Low Energy) ensures stable connectivity for wireless devices, while GPS functionality supports location-based services. It's worth noting the absence of NFC, which limits contactless payment options. There's also a stereo FM radio feature, catering to users who prefer the traditional radio-listening experience.

Battery Life

Equipped with a Li-Po 2800 mAh battery, the Verykool s5526 Alpha offers decent battery life for daily tasks. It can provide up to 288 hours of standby time on 3G and approximately 9 hours of talk time, which should suffice for a day’s moderate use without tapping into power-saving modes. However, intensive activities may require interim charging.

Sensors and Additional Features

The smartphone comes with basic sensors, including an accelerometer and a proximity sensor, that enable fundamental functionalities like auto-rotate and screen-off during calls. These are what you would expect in an entry-level smartphone with no biometric sensors like a fingerprint reader available.

Miscellaneous Characteristics

The Verykool s5526 Alpha is available in a classic black color. Its SAR value stands modestly at 0.49 W/kg for the head and 1.27 W/kg for the body, conforming to international safety standards concerning radiofrequency emissions.

Conclusion

Overall, the Verykool s5526 Alpha offers a balanced mix of essential features ideal for users seeking a simple, affordable smartphone solution. Its fundamental specifications cater to basic daily requirements, making it a viable choice for users with minimalistic or non-demanding smartphone needs. While it may not satisfy the requirements of those looking for advanced technological capabilities, it stands as a reliable option in the budget-friendly smartphone market, even post-discontinuation.