ZTE Blade A601 Full Specs Price Pros & Cons

Overview and Design

The ZTE Blade A601 is a budget-friendly smartphone released in 2016 by the Chinese manufacturer ZTE. It is aimed at users who require basic smartphone functionality without the frills of more expensive devices. The phone measures 145 x 71.2 x 9.5 mm and weighs 152 grams, making it a compact and lightweight device suitable for daily use. It supports dual SIM functionality with Micro-SIM, allowing users to manage two phone numbers simultaneously, which is an advantage for those who wish to separate personal and work contacts.

Display

The Blade A601 features a 5.0-inch IPS LCD screen, with a resolution of 720 x 1280 pixels and an aspect ratio of 16:9, resulting in a pixel density of approximately 294 ppi. Although this resolution may seem modest compared to modern high-end devices, it provides adequate clarity for everyday activities such as browsing the web, checking emails, and using social media platforms. The IPS technology ensures decent color reproduction and viewing angles, making it functional even when viewed under direct sunlight.

Performance and Software

Under the hood, the ZTE Blade A601 is powered by a quad-core 1.0 GHz Cortex-A53 processor. While not designed for high-performance tasks, this processor is sufficient for basic operations and running fundamental applications smoothly. The device comes with 1GB of RAM, which limits its multitasking abilities. It runs on Android 6.0 (Marshmallow), an older version of Android that nonetheless provides a user-friendly interface and compatibility with a wide range of apps available on the Google Play Store. The operating system includes standard features like Google Now and Doze, which help improve user experience and battery management.

Storage

Storage options on the ZTE Blade A601 include 8GB of internal memory. However, considering the size of modern apps and media files, this storage capacity can be quite limiting. To mitigate this, the device supports microSDHC cards, allowing users to expand storage as needed for additional apps, photos, and multimedia files. This flexibility in storage is a positive feature for users who prefer to keep music or photo libraries on their device without needing constant network connectivity.

Camera Capabilities

The Blade A601 is equipped with an 8 MP rear camera, featuring autofocus and LED flash, with additional features such as HDR and panorama modes. While the camera's specifications may seem modest, it is capable of capturing decent images in well-lit conditions. The device supports video recording at 720p at 30fps, which is sufficient for simple video capture needs. On the front, there is a 2 MP selfie camera, intended for video calls and basic selfies. Although not designed for photography enthusiasts, the cameras serve the needs of users looking for straightforward imaging solutions.

Battery Life

This device stands out in its category due to its robust battery, a non-removable Li-Ion 4000 mAh unit. Large battery capacity is a significant advantage, as it ensures extended usage without frequent recharging. This makes the ZTE Blade A601 particularly appealing to users who prioritize battery life and need their device to last throughout the day for calls, messaging, and internet use.

Connectivity and Additional Features

The Blade A601 provides essential connectivity options, including GSM/HSPA/LTE network support, which ensures reliable communication and fairly fast mobile internet speeds. It also features Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Bluetooth 4.0 with A2DP, GPS, and FM radio. However, it lacks more advanced features such as NFC. A microUSB 2.0 port is available for charging and data transfer, and a 3.5mm headphone jack is included for audio connectivity. The phone's sensors include an accelerometer and proximity sensor, adding to its basic functionality.

Conclusion

In summary, the ZTE Blade A601 is a practical choice for users who need a simple, cost-effective smartphone with day-to-day usability. Its strong battery life, expandable storage options, and dual SIM capability make it a versatile option for individuals who do not require the latest high-tech specifications but still need reliable communication and media access. While its hardware may seem dated by today's standards, it meets the core needs of budget-conscious consumers, providing satisfactory performance for everyday smartphone tasks.