The subject of our today's review will be Ace 4 Neo, reviews of which can be found at the end of this article. We will not delve into the history of the creation of the device and look for the prerequisites that contributed to this. Let us only note the fact that the smartphone does not stand out from the general background especially with its hardware. Perhaps, first, let's create an overall picture of the Ace 4 Neo, reviews of which are rapidly spreading across the Internet. And we will do this by listing technical characteristics.

Smartphone data. operating system

On board the subject of our today's review, an Android operating system, version 4.4, is installed. This is the favorite “KitKat” of many users.

Hardware part. Chipset

The processor is a Spreadtrum model SC7715 chip. It should be noted that this budget solution. And if so, you obviously don’t have to expect sky-high performance from the device. But users who are considering samsung smartphone Galaxy Ace 4 Neo, reviews of which you’ve probably already read as an option for purchase, you would have guessed this yourself. The maximum frequency to which the processor can accelerate is 1.2 MHz. In principle, this is a lot, but, as they say, you won’t be satisfied with just the chipset. The processor has two cores.

Graphics accelerator

Smartphone Samsung Galaxy Ace 4 Neo, reviews of which readers can study using this article, is equipped GPU type Mali, model 400 MP1. It has an operating frequency estimated at approximately 500 megahertz.

Memory

To store various user information, the owner of the device is allocated almost 4 gigabytes. You can download music, videos, e-books and texts, games. In general, everything your heart desires will be available. However, it has been noted more than once that this amount of built-in memory is modest enough to store a large amount of information.

The Ace 4 Neo Duos, reviews of which have flooded the international network, has a small amount of RAM installed. It is only 512 megabytes.

Screen

The display diagonal is four inches. The matrix of the Samsung Galaxy Ace 4 Neo Duos, reviews of which will be given at the end of the review, is made using a technology called TFT. With such a screen diagonal, its resolution is 480 by 800 pixels. The color reproduction quality is average, the display displays up to 16 million colors. The touch screen belongs to the capacitive category and supports a function called “multi-touch”.

Modules and Interfaces

Samsung Galaxy Ace 4 Neo G318H, reviews of which highlight both negative and positive aspects of the device, is equipped with a set of all necessary communication standards. We are talking about Wi-Fi support (works in ranges b,g,n). Present bluetooth module version 4.0. Navigation in space is carried out using GPS technology. The phone works with third generation networks. Of course, there is no LTE technology.

Cameras

Fans of selfie shots may pass by the model, since the Samsung Galaxy Ace 4 Neo, which continues to be discussed among users, does not have a front camera. The main camera is located on the rear side and is complemented by an LED flash. However, its resolution is only 3 megapixels. It would be naive to expect good pictures from such a device.

Memory cards

The user can expand the storage capacity of their data using external MicroSD drives. Memory cards up to 32 gigabytes are supported. The device will not accept any more.

Embedded devices

The design of the device integrates a speaker, microphone, and sensors. The latter are represented mainly by a gyroscope and an accelerometer. Mobile phone Samsung Galaxy Ace 4 Lite is unlikely to surprise anyone with the stereophonic sound of melodies.

Ports

You can connect a wired stereo headset to the device. For this, a 3.5 mm standard socket is used. To recharge the device, as well as to synchronize it with personal computer, a MicroUSB port is provided.

Autonomous operation

The phone's battery capacity is 1500 mAh. Not so much. Most likely, it will only be enough for 6-8 hours battery life with careful handling.

Package

Apparatus for salons cellular communication arrives in a cardboard box. It is, so to speak, disguised as wood. The dimensions of the package in all three planes are 75 by 135 by 50 millimeters. Moreover, its weight does not exceed 254 grams. The sizes are not much different from similar packages, that’s a fact. Standard dimensions for boxes in which devices with a screen diagonal of 4 inches are sold.

Above you can see an image of the subject of our today's review. Nearby there is an icon that will tell us that the device is equipped with a function for working with two SIM cards. Brief ones are listed on the side. specifications smartphone. They contain information about the display, its diagonals and matrix manufacturing technology.

It tells about what networks are supported, what the hardware is, including the processor, RAM and camera. Just below you can find a text footnote that talks about the method of making the packaging. From there we can learn the not-so-interesting information that the box is made from recycled paper. When printing the images, special (seemingly environmentally friendly) soy ink was used. In general, the box will be recycled after use. Everything is very, very boring, the information is rather for those who are concerned about the environment.

Right there, on the side, just a little to the side, you can find a sticker with the device’s barcode on it. In general, the packaging certainly has a good style compared to similar items from other manufacturers. And no matter how boring it is to read all this about protection environment, we still have to appreciate the fact that the South Korean manufacturer pays attention to this and cares about the environment.

Equipment

The delivery package for the Samsung Galaxy Ace 4 Neo smartphone includes the device itself, an AC adapter, a cable for synchronization and charging, quick guide user, as well as documents for warranty repair. In general, the required minimum for every beginner (and not only) user. A wired stereo headset is not included in the package, which may upset some buyers. By the way, the charger is presented network adapter. A MicroUSB cable can only be used for charging from a laptop or personal computer.

Design

The appearance of the device is classic. This is the same rectangular smartphone that has rounded edges. A classic of the genre, and that's all. Well, whether this is for better or for worse is up to the user to figure out, since everyone’s tastes are individual.

Dimensions

The smartphone has the following dimensions in all three planes: height is 121.4, width is 62.9, and thickness is 10.7 millimeters. At the same time, the mass of the device does not exceed 123 grams. The device is covered on both sides with a special protective film. This is how the South Korean manufacturer took care of its customers. The film ensures safety appearance smartphone until it is removed.

Front Panel

The front part is equipped touch screen, the diagonal of which is four inches. There is a silver edging along the perimeter. There is a metal insert on top. She takes away the speaker. At the same time, it is additional protection and a decorative element. Below, under the screen, we can find buttons. One of them is metal, the other two are sensory.

Top end

There is a connector into which a wired stereo headset standard 3.5 millimeters is connected. We won't find anything else.

Bottom end

Here is the connection port microUSB cable. With its help, the device is synchronized with a personal computer.

Right side

It was distinguished by the presence of a lock button and power control. A little higher than it there is a special recess. This is needed to quickly remove the back cover.

Left side

On the opposite side there is a volume rocker for adjusting the volume of the device. This is the location of the device controls.

Review of the Samsung Galaxy Ace 4 Neo smartphone

It's time to take stock. What can buyers who purchased this device say?

IN positive traits can be written down good quality assemblies that distinguish the creations of the South Korean manufacturer. Not bad for the price and design. You could say stylish. Well, and, of course, the function of supporting the operation of two SIM cards.

The obvious drawback of the device is the low battery capacity. The device discharges very, very quickly, especially with active use. Another disadvantage is the lack of a front camera, and we are generally silent about the quality of the main one. Perhaps, these are the moments that can be highlighted in the review of this phone model.

Regular model

Phone experience: less than a month

Advantages of the phone 1) Better and louder sound in the speaker and audibility during a call compared to teXet X-basic 2 TM-4272 and Lenovo A328.
2) The bell can be clearly heard in a car/transport.
3) Low price for Samsung - 3999 rubles.
4) There are no interface lags noted. Android 4.4 KitKat.
5) The standard Samsung TouchWiz shell is familiar and intuitive.
6) Durable case with a wide metal rim.
7) High display brightness, color rendition.
8) GPS, GLONASS, 3G (HSPDA, HSUPA), etc.
9) There is a flashlight.
10) Good auto white balance of the built-in camera. Disadvantages of the phone: 1) Like all phones for this price of 3999 rubles, the lack of a proximity sensor (contactless sensor) is disappointing. During calls, the screen is locked and you cannot hang up by pressing the red on-screen button.
2) The black color of the display is not black enough (TFT matrix).
3) There is no backlighting of soft keys.
4) In the Contacts directory, the field for searching by name has been halved.
5) In the notification window (under the curtain), the size and contrast of the icons is insufficient. Small icons are also in the Camera app.
6) Few wallpapers (2 pieces) and unlocking effects.
7) Not a very beautiful screen saver when turned on (flashing letters).
8) There is no "Calendar" widget for the month.
9) The battery is the same as the Ace3: original Samsung B100AE battery with a capacity of 1500 mAh, which is partially compatible with the common cheap Samsung GB/T18287-2000 battery (capacity 1300 mAh). Based on experience, the battery charge only lasts for 1 day with careful use.
10) No front camera, 512 kB RAM, body thickness is almost 11mm, no S-Voice.

Comment about the phone:

I bought the phone for my wife to replace a broken one in the middle price range. I chose it based on price. In my opinion, the Ace4 Neo is inferior in convenience to the Ace3 S7272 and even more expensive Samsung models due to the lack of a proximity sensor. But the Samsung GalaxyAce 4 Neo SM-G318H is superior in connection quality to models from second- and third-tier companies for the same price and is suitable as a phone for conversations.

Contents of delivery:

  • Telephone
  • Battery 1500 Li-Ion mAh
  • Charger with USB cable
  • Instructions
  • Wired stereo headset

Positioning

At the dawn of appearance touch phones Samsung saw them as their ticket to the first league, that is, it was an opportunity to overtake Nokia and other companies and make a leap upward. In fact, the company's first device designed for the mass market was Samsung Corby, which, together with Samsung Star created a win-win duet that has no analogues in terms of price/quality ratio. Later they were joined by such a device as Ace, which also became very popular. All this happened at a time when Samsung’s market share was still much inferior to Nokia and the company was just making its way to first place, and flagships Galaxy lines didn't exist. Then there was a sharp jump in sales in the upper price segment, the company was able to build high-quality devices, and this happened due to the profits that were received from inexpensive devices.

In 2014, the situation is such that Samsung has no competitive models in the budget and mid-range price segments, the company got too carried away with flagships. A whole scattering of budget new products comes out not because of market needs and not based on the real situation, but simply because this is the way it is in the company. These are models that hang in airless space. It is unclear for whom they were created, why they appeared, and only one thing is clear that you can buy such a device in a narcotic stupor, when you do not compare prices and specifications at all, but take what is offered to you. In my opinion, it is precisely in this ignoring mass market, on which Samsung grew in the past, lies the main problem of today. The company still has time to change the situation and turn it around, it is possible that the lineup 2015 will be created taking into account feedback from the market and current sales. We need to talk about this, otherwise nothing will change, and then the company’s share of the smartphone market will continue to decline.

This device does not have any clear positioning - it was simply created as a continuation of the previous Ace. No calculations, no research - this is an inadequately priced model designed for a random sale. However, let's take a closer look at what kind of device this is and what shortcomings it has in order to understand why Samsung started having problems. If for some reason you suddenly decide to consider purchasing this product, then I am frankly dissuading you from doing so - you will simply throw away your money.

Design, dimensions, control elements

Externally, this is a typical touchscreen candy bar from Samsung - a mechanical button in the middle, a front camera, rear end made of plastic with texture. Nothing special.


The size of the device is 121.4x62.9x10.8 mm, weight is 124 grams. A small device that is a bit thick for its size and has a rather small battery by modern standards (1500 mAh). The small width and noticeable thickness make it not very comfortable in the hand.


The arrangement of elements on the case is also traditional: the top end has a 3.5 mm headphone jack, the bottom has a microphone and a microUSB connector. On the left side there is a paired volume key, on the right there is an on/off button.

The build quality is excellent, there can be no complaints here. Inside the case under back cover The slot for memory cards is hidden, and under the battery there is a slot for full-size SIM cards.




Display

The screen has a diagonal of 4 inches, which by modern standards is typical budget models, while the screen resolution is 480x800 pixels (TFT, 233 dpi). The quality of the screen leaves much to be desired, the colors are shifted to blue, the picture fades in the sun. This is the screen we saw in the Ace line a few years ago. There is a feeling that nothing has changed over the years - in the current product this screen looks like a very budget solution that has not changed at all. There is no light sensor, the backlight can only be adjusted manually.

The keyboard on such a screen is not very convenient, due to the size and overall slowness of the device.

Battery

The device has a 1500 mAh battery; according to the manufacturer, it is capable of providing up to 12 hours of talk time and up to 5 days in standby mode. The time to fully charge the battery is about 1.5 hours. In real conditions, the device works for about 2 days, taking into account an hour of calls, up to two hours of using other functions. But this is largely due to the very low performance of the phone.


Memory, memory cards, performance

The phone has 512 MB random access memory, which by modern standards is quite a bit, but we have examples of the MediaTek platform, which runs quite quickly in budget devices and with so much RAM. But everything is not so good in Ace 4, since the device uses a platform from Broadcom, just like the previous model (the LTE version of Ace 4 has 1 GB of RAM and a different platform, so it is a slightly different device - you can’t compare them head-to-head) .

The performance of this solution is low - even the Android interface is very slow, I haven’t had such a slowdown for many years (dual-core processor, maximum clock speed up to 1 GHz, but this is Broadcom!). It's not just slow, it's very, very slow, as if in a special effect where they show how the window opens and every movement is drawn frame by frame, I showed it in the video for this review, watch it.

In synthetic tests, the device also does not shine with any results; you can look at them below.

Built-in memory 4 GB, of which 1.8 GB is occupied pre-installed programs and system, you can install memory cards with a capacity of up to 32 GB, and the writing/reading speed on them is quite low, which does not create problems for the camera or when recording video, but makes watching movies difficult (on the other hand, watching a movie on such a screen is little pleasure).

I especially want to emphasize that you can safely forget about launching not only “heavy” toys, but also quite ordinary things - it’s slow, difficult and often doesn’t work. This model simply cannot be compared even with budget devices from other companies; it comes from some ancient past.

Camera

The 5 megapixel module is very slow, since the chipset does not allow you to quickly process pictures, often the picture is blurry because of this - you press a key and wait until the picture is taken. Record video in HD resolution. Look at examples of pictures and videos below, everything is expected for a budget device. LED flash can be used as a flashlight, in this capacity it is much more interesting than for its main purpose.







Communication capabilities

The first thing that surprises is availability of NFC There is zero practical use in such a device, but for some reason it is present here. For what? I don't have an answer to this question. Everything else is typical - Wi-Fi b/g/n, support Wi-Fi Direct, the presence of Bluetooth 4.0 without LE, but with all profiles. USB 2.0 version, which is a little unusual, but understandable in the budget segment.

Software features

The device is built on Android 4.4.2, which is unusual for the budget segment. But it is impossible to assume that it will receive any updates - I think that the version will remain this one. The phone has a built-in FM radio, this is the only possible difference from other models.

You can find a description of Android in a separate material; there is no point in repeating it.

Impression

I will not talk about the quality of the connection, since this is not very important in terms of this model. I doubt that it could have customers who actually use this device every day. During the week of communicating with the phone, I wanted only one thing - to smash it against any wall or asphalt. This is not just a brake, it is a very big brake. A budget screen that is several generations behind the market, an incomprehensible processor from a manufacturer that has left this market, and latest version Android. Plus there is little RAM. All together it creates a kind of monster that cannot even be called conventionally comfortable. This device can be given to an enemy with a curse - use it for life, suffer.

But as you know, there is always such a parameter as price, it can change everything overnight. I don’t know how you can change the platform and similar brakes, since they are not seen in devices costing 1,500 – 2,000 rubles, but the price can somehow affect the perception and make you forgive many rough edges.

No, wait, before moving on to the tastiest part, I’ll dwell on the price of the Ace 3, which this device is replacing. In the previous model, everything is similar, only 1 GB of RAM, that is, there is even a deterioration in performance. So, in this moment Ace 3 in Russia is sold at a price of 7,990 rubles! More precisely, it is not for sale, since it is presented in those retail networks that they are not focused on sales, but rather on the presentation of the product; the effectiveness of their own sales is of little concern to them.

Now attention, drum roll, for Europe the cost of Ace 4 is stated to be 219 euros. A simple analogy with other models will give us a cost for Russia of 9,990 rubles, or even higher. Do you have words? I personally don't have them. This is not just indecent, it is a break from reality, which can be called complete, absolute and unconditional.

Models with similar characteristics cost 3-4 thousand rubles, but they do not have the word Samsung on them. Devices costing 8-10 thousand rubles belong to a fundamentally different class; there are many of them on the market. It’s unclear to me who Samsung was going to compete with when releasing the Ace 4. This is a fabulous smartphone that simply cannot exist at this price, but here it is, lying in front of me. I hope you won't be so crazy as to look in the direction of this device. It perfectly demonstrates why Samsung's sales in the budget segment are falling, but it's definitely not worth buying an example of. Spend your money wisely and meaningfully.

Update. The Russian price of this model has become known, it is 5490 rubles, this is a model with two SIM cards. The price is not as crazy as in Europe, but still not particularly interesting. Analogues are noticeably cheaper.