Camera and Internal Storage
Nokia is offering a 5 MP auto focus rear shooter with support for panorama shooting mode. Notably, when the entry level and mid-range market is obsessed with selfie focused smartphones, this one lacks a front facer that is a major downside. Also, the rear snapper is not backed by support for LED flash for better low light performance. Imaging wise, the handset way too dated for its pricing and cannot be comparable to its rivals in this segment. Internal storage is standard at 8 GB and there is support for expandable storage space up to 128 GB using a micro SD card slot onboard. Also, as the device runs on Windows Phone 8.1, it gets free 15 GB of OneDrive cloud storage support.
Processor and Battery
Lumia 638 employs a 1.2 GHz quad core Qualcomm Snapdragon 400 processor aided by 1 GB RAM. We have seen this hardware combination in many other smartphones in the mid-range segment and it is known for its performance that will cater to the moderate users without any clutter or lag. Battery capacity is 1,830 mAh and though the exact backup rendered by this unit is not disclosed, we believe that it should let the phone last for decent hours under moderate usage.
Display and Features
Lumia 638 makes use of a ClearBlack LCD display measuring 4.5 inches that will eliminate reflections as it employs a sequence of polarizing layers. This display carries a FWVGA screen resolution of 854×480 pixels that translates to a pixel density of 221 pixels per inch. With an average pixel count, this screen should be capable of handling the basic tasks that are expected from a smartphone of its pricing at ease. Software running on the Nokia offering is latest Windows Phone 8.1 OS with Lumia Denim update. Also, the smartphone arrives preloaded with Microsoft Enterprise feature pack, Microsoft Office, OneDrive, HERE Maps and Drive+. Connectivity aspects of the Lumia 638 include 4G LTE, 3G, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GPS and dual SIM functionality. Furthermore, Airtel is providing free 5 GB of 4G data for 2 months for postpaid subscribers in Bengaluru till March 31, 2015.
Comparison
The Nokia Lumia 638 would be a stiff challenger to Asus Zenfone 4.5, Sony Xperia E3, Xiaomi Redmi Note 4G and LG G3 Beat to mention a few.
Key Specs
What we Like
Support for 4G LTE connectivityCompetitive pricing
What we Dislike
No rear flash and lack of front facing camera
Price and Conclusion
The Nokia Lumia 638 priced at Rs 8,299 is definitely a pocket friendly phone with a reasonable pricing. The device takes advantage of 4G LTE connectivity that is hardly a part of the entry level and mid range offerings. However, while the Indian and Chinese brands have dominated the market with their solid devices, the Lumia 638 comes with pretty average specifications and lags behind its challengers in terms of photography. If the imaging department is definitely not your first preference, you can opt for the Nokia smartphone for its super fast connectivity support.
