HMD Arc Hands-on Review: Should You Buy It?

HMD Global is back with the HMD Arc, a budget-friendly smartphone offering the essentials for everyday use. With Android 14 Go Edition, a 5000mAh battery, and a sleek design, the device aims to cater to first-time smartphone users or those seeking an affordable secondary phone. But does it deliver enough value for its expected price of ₹11,990? Let’s dive into the details.

Design and Build Quality

The HMD Arc boasts a clean and minimalistic design with a solid build. Weighing just 185.4 grams and featuring a side-mounted fingerprint sensor, the phone feels comfortable and secure to hold. Its IP54 dust and splash resistance (limited to Europe) adds a bit of ruggedness, although it’s not fully waterproof.

Display

The 6.52-inch IPS LCD with a 20:9 aspect ratio is adequate for basic tasks like browsing and streaming. However, the resolution of 576 x 1280 pixels (~215 ppi density) leaves something to be desired, especially for users accustomed to higher-quality displays.

Performance

Powered by the Unisoc SC9863A chipset and paired with 4GB of RAM, the HMD Arc is designed for light usage. Apps load relatively quickly, but multitasking may feel sluggish. The Android 14 Go Edition optimizes performance for low-end hardware, ensuring a smooth experience for basic tasks.

Camera

• Rear Camera: The 13MP main camera does a decent job in well-lit conditions. Photos are clear but lack depth and detail in low light.
• Front Camera: The 5MP selfie camera is adequate for video calls but struggles with quality in dim settings.
• Video Recording: Video capabilities are basic, with no support for high-definition formats.

Battery Life

The 5000mAh battery is a standout feature, easily lasting a full day with moderate use. However, the 10W charging feels outdated and takes a while to fully recharge.

HMD Arc Price in India

HMD Arc 4G phone expected price in India starts from Rs. 11,990, you can buy HMD Arc mobile online at lowest price. You can also buy or sell second hand used HMD Arc mobile phone online on OwnPetz.

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Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Affordable price (expected ₹11,990).
• Long-lasting 5000mAh battery.
• Clean and user-friendly Android 14 Go Edition.
• IP54 dust and splash resistance (Europe only).
• Side-mounted fingerprint sensor for added convenience.

Cons:

• Low display resolution.
• Limited performance for heavy multitasking or gaming.
• Basic camera setup with average results.
• Slow 10W charging.
• No NFC support.

Should You Buy HMD Arc Phone?

The HMD Arc is a practical choice for users on a budget or those looking for a simple smartphone. It’s perfect for light users who prioritize affordability, battery life, and a clean Android experience. However, if display quality or camera performance are crucial to you, other options in the price range might be more appealing.

FAQs

Q1. What is the price of the HMD Arc in India?

The expected price of the HMD Arc in India is ₹11,990.

Q2. Is the HMD Arc good for gaming?

The HMD Arc is not ideal for gaming due to its Unisoc SC9863A chipset and basic GPU, which can handle only light gaming.

Q3. How long does the battery of the HMD Arc last?

The 5000mAh battery can easily last a full day with moderate usage, making it one of the phone's highlights.

Q4. Does the HMD Arc support fast charging?

No, the HMD Arc supports only 10W wired charging, which is slower compared to modern standards.

Q5. Is the HMD Arc waterproof?

No, the HMD Arc has IP54 dust and splash resistance but is not waterproof.