Author: Into Droid

Realme 3

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The Realme 3 was a significant release for Realme, a brand that emerged as a strong contender in the budget to mid-range smartphone segment. Here’s an in-depth review of the Realme 3:

Overview:

Launched in early 2019, the Realme 3 was the successor to the Realme 2. It aimed to offer a blend of modern design, decent specifications, and a competitive price, targeting the budget-conscious audience, especially in emerging markets.

Features:

  1. Operating System: Initially came with Android 9.0 (Pie) with ColorOS 6 on top.
  2. Display: 6.2-inch HD+ IPS LCD with a waterdrop notch, boasting a resolution of 720 x 1520 pixels.
  3. Processor: Powered by the MediaTek Helio P70 (Global) or Helio P60 (India).
  4. Memory: Available in configurations of 3/4 GB RAM and 32/64 GB storage, expandable via a microSD slot.
  5. Camera: Dual rear setup with a 13 MP primary sensor and a 2 MP depth sensor. The front camera was a 13 MP shooter.
  6. Battery: Packed a 4230 mAh battery.
  7. Other Features: Included a rear fingerprint sensor, microUSB port, and a 3.5mm headphone jack.

Pros:

  1. Design: The gradient back and modern design made it stand out in its price segment.
  2. Battery Life: The 4230 mAh battery ensured the device lasted through a full day of moderate use.
  3. Performance: The Helio P70/P60 chipset provided decent performance for everyday tasks.
  4. Camera Capabilities: For its price, the camera setup was decent, especially in well-lit conditions.
  5. Value for Money: The device offered a good set of features for its price point.

Cons:

  1. Display Resolution: The HD+ resolution was a bit of a letdown, especially when competitors offered Full HD+ panels.
  2. ColorOS: While improved, ColorOS still had bloatware and ads, which wasn’t to everyone’s liking.
  3. Build Quality: The plastic build, while expected at this price point, didn’t feel as premium as some competitors.

Comparisons to Other Technologies:

In its price bracket, the Realme 3 faced competition from:

  • Redmi Note 7: Which offered a Full HD+ display, Snapdragon 660 chipset, and a more premium glass back.
  • Samsung Galaxy M20: With its bigger battery, dual-camera setup, and Samsung’s brand backing.
  • Asus Zenfone Max M2: Known for its stock-like Android experience and robust battery life.

Launch Date:

The Realme 3 was unveiled in March 2019.

Common Issues/Problems:

  1. Software Optimization: Some users reported occasional lags or stutters, especially when multitasking.
  2. Camera Low-Light Performance: The camera struggled in low-light conditions, producing grainy and less detailed images.
  3. Charging Speed: The device lacked any form of fast charging, which meant longer charging times.

Conclusion:

The Realme 3 was a testament to Realme’s strategy of offering decent specifications and features at a budget-friendly price point. While it had areas that could be improved, the overall package was compelling for those looking for a budget device. The Realme 3 further solidified Realme’s position in the competitive budget smartphone market.

Samsung Galaxy M30

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Overview:

Introduced in early 2019, the Samsung Galaxy M30 was a step up from the M20, offering enhancements in display, camera, and battery. Positioned in the mid-range segment, the M30 aimed to provide a solid set of features at an affordable price point, especially catering to the younger demographic and emerging markets.

Features:

  1. Operating System: Shipped with Android 8.1 (Oreo), upgradable to Android 9.0 (Pie), overlaid with Samsung’s Experience UI.
  2. Display: 6.4-inch Super AMOLED with a resolution of 1080 x 2340 pixels.
  3. Processor: Exynos 7904 (14 nm).
  4. Memory: Options of 3/4/6 GB RAM with 32/64/128 GB internal storage, expandable via microSD up to 1 TB.
  5. Camera: Triple rear camera setup – 13 MP primary sensor, 5 MP ultrawide lens, and a 5 MP depth sensor. A 16 MP front camera.
  6. Battery: 5000 mAh non-removable battery with 15W fast charging.
  7. Other Features: Rear-mounted fingerprint scanner, 3.5mm headphone jack, and a plastic body.

Pros:

  1. Display: The Super AMOLED display offered vibrant colors and deep blacks, which is a standout feature in its price segment.
  2. Battery Life: The large 5000 mAh battery ensured the device lasted through a full day of heavy use, and even more with moderate use.
  3. Expandable Storage: The inclusion of a microSD card slot was a plus, especially for users who need a lot of storage.
  4. Camera Versatility: The triple camera setup, especially with the addition of the ultrawide lens, allowed for varied photography options.

Cons:

  1. Processor Performance: The Exynos 7904 was decent for daily tasks but could struggle with more intensive applications or heavy multitasking.
  2. Plastic Build: The device lacked a premium feel due to its plastic construction.
  3. Software Experience: While Samsung’s UI offered many features, it wasn’t as streamlined or as fast as some competitors’ offerings.

Comparisons to Other Technologies:

In 2019, the Galaxy M30 faced competition from various mid-range devices:

  • Redmi Note 7 Pro: Offering a 48 MP primary camera, Snapdragon 675 chipset, and a glass back.
  • Realme 3 Pro: Known for its performance, VOOC fast charging, and competitive pricing.
  • Asus Zenfone Max Pro M2: With a large battery, Snapdragon 660 chipset, and stock Android experience.

Launch Date:

The Samsung Galaxy M30 was announced in February 2019 and released in March 2019.

Common Issues/Problems:

  1. Software Lags: Some users reported occasional stutters or lags, especially when running multiple apps.
  2. Camera Performance: While the camera setup was versatile, the actual image quality, especially in low light, left room for improvement.
  3. Fingerprint Scanner Speed: The rear-mounted fingerprint scanner, though generally reliable, was not the fastest in its class.

Conclusion:

The Samsung Galaxy M30 was an attempt by Samsung to strengthen its position in the mid-range segment, especially against brands like Xiaomi and Realme. While it had its strengths, especially in display and battery life, there were areas where competitors had an edge. Nonetheless, for users seeking a reliable brand with a solid display and battery experience, the M30 was a viable option.

Redmi Note 7 Pro

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The Redmi Note 7 Pro was a significant release in Xiaomi’s Redmi lineup, known for offering high-value devices at budget-friendly prices. Here’s an in-depth review of the Redmi Note 7 Pro:

Overview:

Launched in early 2019, the Redmi Note 7 Pro was a major upgrade over its predecessor, the Redmi Note 6 Pro. It brought in a new design language, improved internals, and a standout camera for its price segment. The device aimed to redefine what users could expect from a mid-range smartphone.

Features:

  1. Operating System: Shipped with Android 9.0 (Pie), overlaid with Xiaomi’s MIUI 10.
  2. Display: 6.3-inch IPS LCD with a resolution of 1080 x 2340 pixels, protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 5.
  3. Processor: Qualcomm SDM675 Snapdragon 675.
  4. Memory: Options of 4/6 GB RAM with 64/128 GB internal storage, expandable via microSD up to 256 GB.
  5. Camera: Dual rear camera setup – 48 MP primary sensor (Sony IMX586) and a 5 MP depth sensor. A 13 MP front camera.
  6. Battery: 4000 mAh non-removable battery with 18W fast charging (though it came with a 10W charger in the box).
  7. Other Features: Rear-mounted fingerprint scanner, P2i splash-resistant coating, and a glass back with gradient finishes.

Pros:

  1. Camera Performance: The 48 MP primary camera was a major highlight, capturing detailed and vibrant shots, especially in good lighting conditions.
  2. Build and Design: The glass back with gradient finishes gave the device a premium look and feel, which was rare in its price segment.
  3. Performance: The Snapdragon 675 chipset ensured smooth performance for daily tasks and even handled gaming reasonably well.
  4. Value for Money: The device offered a compelling package of features and performance for its price point.
  5. MIUI Features: While MIUI was polarizing for some, it offered a plethora of customization options and features.

Cons:

  1. MIUI Ads: One of the major criticisms was the presence of ads in the UI, which could be intrusive for users.
  2. Software Updates: While the device received updates, the frequency and timeliness were sometimes inconsistent.
  3. Low-Light Camera Performance: Despite the impressive primary camera, low-light performance was not always up to the mark.

Comparisons to Other Technologies:

In 2019, the Redmi Note 7 Pro faced competition from various mid-range devices:

  • Samsung Galaxy M30: Offering a Super AMOLED display and a larger 5000 mAh battery.
  • Realme 3 Pro: Known for its performance, VOOC fast charging, and competitive pricing.
  • Asus Zenfone Max Pro M2: With a stock Android experience, large battery, and Snapdragon 660 chipset.

Launch Date:

The Redmi Note 7 Pro was announced in February 2019 and released in March 2019.

Common Issues/Problems:

  1. Battery Optimization: Some users reported faster battery drain after certain MIUI updates.
  2. Heating Issues: Under intensive tasks or prolonged gaming, the device sometimes exhibited heating.
  3. Camera Bugs: Occasional bugs or glitches were reported in the camera app, though many were addressed in subsequent updates.

Conclusion:

The Redmi Note 7 Pro was a testament to Xiaomi’s strategy of offering high-end specifications and features at a mid-range price point. It successfully combined many of the features and qualities that users sought, such as a robust camera and premium design, while making minimal compromises. The device was well-received and further solidified Redmi’s reputation for delivering value-packed devices in the mid-range segment.

Samsung Galaxy S10

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The Samsung Galaxy S10 was a significant release, marking the 10th anniversary of Samsung’s flagship S series. Here’s an in-depth review of the Samsung Galaxy S10:

Overview:

Launched in early 2019, the Samsung Galaxy S10 was part of Samsung’s flagship lineup, sitting between the more compact S10e and the larger S10+. The S10 aimed to offer a blend of premium design, top-tier specifications, and innovative features.

Features:

  1. Operating System: Shipped with Android 9.0 (Pie), overlaid with Samsung’s One UI.
  2. Display: 6.1-inch Dynamic AMOLED with a resolution of 1440 x 3040 pixels, featuring HDR10+ and an in-display fingerprint scanner.
  3. Processor: Qualcomm SM8150 Snapdragon 855 (for USA & China) or Exynos 9820 (for other regions).
  4. Memory: Options of 8 GB RAM with 128/512 GB internal storage, expandable via microSD up to 512 GB.
  5. Camera: Triple rear camera setup – 12 MP primary sensor with variable aperture, 12 MP telephoto lens, and a 16 MP ultrawide sensor. A 10 MP front camera.
  6. Battery: 3400 mAh non-removable battery with 15W fast charging, 15W fast wireless charging, and 9W reverse wireless charging.
  7. Other Features: IP68 water and dust resistance, stereo speakers, 3.5mm headphone jack, and Gorilla Glass 6 protection.

Pros:

  1. Display: The Dynamic AMOLED display was among the best in the industry, offering vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent brightness levels.
  2. Camera Versatility: The triple camera setup allowed for a range of photography options, from ultrawide landscapes to zoomed-in shots.
  3. Design: The device featured a nearly bezel-less design with a punch-hole camera, giving it a modern and premium look.
  4. One UI: Samsung’s revamped software experience was more user-friendly and intuitive, with a focus on one-handed use.
  5. Expandable Storage: The inclusion of a microSD card slot was a plus for those needing additional storage.

Cons:

  1. Battery Life: While decent, the battery life wasn’t the best in its class, especially for power users.
  2. Fingerprint Scanner: The ultrasonic in-display fingerprint scanner, while innovative, was sometimes slower and less consistent than traditional scanners.
  3. Price: Being a flagship, the S10 came with a premium price tag, which might not have been within everyone’s budget.

Comparisons to Other Technologies:

In 2019, the Galaxy S10 faced competition from various flagship devices:

  • iPhone XS: Apple’s flagship with its Super Retina OLED display, A12 Bionic chip, and iOS ecosystem.
  • OnePlus 7 Pro: Known for its 90Hz Fluid AMOLED display, Snapdragon 855 chipset, and competitive pricing.
  • Huawei P30: Offering impressive camera capabilities, including a periscope zoom lens.

Launch Date:

The Samsung Galaxy S10 was announced in February 2019 and released in March 2019.

Common Issues/Problems:

  1. Software Bugs: As with any device, some users encountered occasional software glitches, though Samsung was relatively quick with updates to address reported issues.
  2. Fingerprint Recognition: Some users reported issues with the in-display fingerprint scanner not recognizing their fingerprints consistently.
  3. Battery Optimization: Some users felt that the battery drain was faster than expected, especially when using certain apps or features.

Conclusion:

The Samsung Galaxy S10 was a testament to a decade of Samsung’s smartphone innovation. It combined a beautiful design with powerful hardware and a versatile camera system. While it had its shortcomings, it was a well-rounded flagship that catered to a wide range of users, from tech enthusiasts to everyday consumers. The S10 solidified Samsung’s position in the premium smartphone market and set the bar high for its successors.