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ZTE Star 1 Unveiling Specs Price & Performance Insights

Release Date
2014, April
Camera
8MP
Battery
2300mAh
Processor
Snapdragon 400
Screen
5.0"
Storage
16GB , microSDXC
Ram
2GB RAM
Operating System
Android 4.4.2

Introduction to ZTE Star 1

The ZTE Star 1 was introduced in April 2014 and made an immediate impact on the market with its blend of capabilities paired with an attractive price point. It is especially noteworthy for people who appreciate a device that offers a perfect blend of aesthetics and usability. The device was discontinued, having left its mark as a budget-friendly smartphone offering many of the features found in more expensive phones.

Design and Build

The ZTE Star 1 is remarkably slim, with dimensions of 139 x 69 x 6.6 mm, and it weighs just 130 grams, which makes it not only stylish but also highly portable. It features an IPS LCD display, and the design optimally balances the screen-to-body ratio of approximately 71.9%. With a choice of colors such as pink, black, and white, this phone was attractive to a wide range of users. However, it uses a Mini-SIM which is a bit outdated by today's standards.

Display

The ZTE Star 1 sports a crisp 5.0-inch display, with a resolution of 1080 x 1920 pixels rendering clear and vibrant visuals. The IPS LCD technology provides broad viewing angles, making the screen easy to read under various lighting conditions. Its pixel density of approximately 441 PPI ensures that images and text appear sharp and detailed.

Performance

Under the hood, the ZTE Star 1 is powered by a Qualcomm MSM8928 Snapdragon 400 chipset, featuring a Quad-core 1.6 GHz Cortex-A7 processor, and an Adreno 305 GPU. While not considered powerful by today's standards, at its launch, this configuration was adequate for handling everyday tasks smoothly. Alongside 2GB of RAM, it provided the bandwidth necessary for general smartphone activities without significant slowdowns.

Camera

Photography enthusiasts appreciated the ZTE Star 1's camera capabilities. The main camera is an 8 MP shooter with autofocus and dual-LED dual-tone flash which enhances its ability to capture quality photos in a balanced light. For video, the device's capacity to record is reliable if basic by modern standards. The 5 MP front-facing camera was also a desirable feature for video calls and selfies.

Storage

With 16GB of internal storage, the ZTE Star 1 provides enough space for a fair amount of apps, media, and documents. The addition of a dedicated microSDXC card slot afforded users the flexibility to expand this storage according to their needs, which is a crucial feature for those who plan to store large amounts of media or files on their phone.

Battery Life

The ZTE Star 1 is equipped with a non-removable 2300 mAh Li-Po battery. Despite its moderate capacity, the phone performs well regarding standby and talk time, offering up to 460 hours of standby and up to 20 hours of talk time. This performance was adequate for users looking for a phone that would last a working day without frequent recharging.

Software and Connectivity

Running Android 4.4.2 KitKat, the ZTE Star 1 supports many essential applications and services needed. While not up-to-date with the latest Android releases, it was standard for the time and provided a user-friendly experience. In terms of connectivity, it covers GSM / HSPA / LTE networks, fitted for use in environments where basic telecommunication services are a necessity. The addition of Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.0, GPS, and micro USB 2.0 OTG ensures that it can fulfill multiple connectivity needs.

Sound and Sensors

The ZTE Star 1 addresses audio needs with a loudspeaker and the presence of a 3.5mm headphone jack, which provides versatility in sound output. Sensory features include an accelerometer and proximity sensor, forming the standard for basic smartphone functions at the time of its release.

Conclusion

The ZTE Star 1, sold at around 200 EUR, demonstrated an attractive proposition for those seeking solid smartphone functionality coupled with approachable design and reasonable performance. While technology has progressed since its release, the ZTE Star 1 remains a notable example of a smartphone that struck a balance of features at its price point during its time in the market.

Key Features of ZTE Star 1

  • Supports GSM, HSPA, and LTE network technologies for versatile connectivity options.
  • Slim and lightweight design with dimensions of 139 x 69 x 6.6 mm and a weight of 130 g.
  • 5.0-inch IPS LCD display with a high resolution of 1080 x 1920 pixels, offering ~441 ppi density for a sharp visual experience.
  • Packed with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 400 chipset and a Quad-core 1.6 GHz Cortex-A7 processor for reliable performance.
  • Internal storage of 16GB paired with 2GB RAM, and expandable memory via microSDXC card slot.
  • 8 MP rear camera featuring autofocus and Dual-LED dual-tone flash for capturing detailed photos.
  • 5 MP front camera for quality selfies and video calls.
  • Equipped with essential connectivity options such as Wi-Fi a/b/g/n, Bluetooth 4.0, GPS, and FM radio.
  • Includes useful features like an accelerometer and proximity sensors.
  • Powered by a non-removable Li-Po 2300 mAh battery, supporting up to 20 hours of talk time.
  • Available in attractive colors: Pink, Black, and White.

Disadvantages of ZTE Star 1

  • The operating system is outdated, running on Android 4.4.2 (KitKat).
  • The processor, Qualcomm Snapdragon 400, is old and might not handle modern demanding applications efficiently.
  • The battery capacity is relatively low at 2300 mAh, which might not be sufficient for heavy usage.
  • Lacks NFC support, which limits modern connectivity options like contactless payments.
  • The device uses a Mini-SIM, which is larger compared to the more common Nano-SIM used in newer devices.
  • Market availability is discontinued, which could make it difficult to find parts or support.
  • The internal storage is limited to 16GB, which may not suffice for users who need considerable space for apps and media.
  • The microUSB 2.0 for connectivity and charging is considered outdated compared to newer USB-C ports.
Network
Technology GSM / HSPA / LTE
2G bands GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900
3G bands HSDPA 900 / 2100
4G bands LTE (unspecified)
Speed HSPA, LTE
Launch
Announced 2014, April. Released 2014, April
Status Discontinued
Body
Dimensions 139 x 69 x 6.6 mm (5.47 x 2.72 x 0.26 in)
Weight 130 g (4.59 oz)
SIM Mini-SIM
Display
Type IPS LCD
Size 5.0 inches, 68.9 cm2 (~71.9% screen-to-body ratio)
Resolution 1080 x 1920 pixels, 16:9 ratio (~441 ppi density)
Platform
OS Android 4.4.2 (KitKat)
Chipset Qualcomm MSM8928 Snapdragon 400 (28 nm)
CPU Quad-core 1.6 GHz Cortex-A7
GPU Adreno 305
Memory
Card slot microSDXC (dedicated slot)
Internal 16GB 2GB RAM
Main Camera
Single 8 MP, AF
Features Dual-LED dual-tone flash
Video Yes
Selfie camera
Single 5 MP
Video
Sound
Loudspeaker Yes
3.5mm jack Yes
Comms
WLAN Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n, dual-band, hotspot
Bluetooth 4.0, A2DP
Positioning GPS
NFC No
Radio FM radio
USB microUSB 2.0, OTG
Features
Sensors Accelerometer, proximity
Battery
Type Li-Po 2300 mAh, non-removable
Stand-by Up to 460 h
Talk time Up to 20 h
Misc
Colors Pink, Black, White
Price About 200 EUR

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