Premium looks, efficient processor and decent cameras are packed into the new mid-range Micromax device—the Canvas Nitro 4G. But it still falls short of our expectations. Here’s why:
Key Specifications: Micromax Canvas Nitro 4G
- Display: 5-inch 720p IPS with Corning Glass 3
- Operating System: Android 5.0
- Processor: 1.4GHz octa-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 415
- RAM: 2GB
- Storage: 16GB expandable up to 32GB
- Rear Camera: 13MP
- Front Camera: 5MP
- Battery: 2500mAh
- Price: Rs 10,360
What’s Good?
Micromax Canvas Nitro 4G looks every bit a premium device. The phone has a very slim construction, which is embellished with dual chrome strips running around the edges. On the back, the phone has a faux-sandstone texture—which looks like what we first saw on the OnePlus One, but feels like Yu’s Yureka phone.
Micromax Canvas Nitro 4G gives a pure Android experience on Android 5.0 Lollipop, without any additional skins or custom modes layered. It has also provided respite from the gazillions of bloatware, that is usually pre-installed on a range of Micromax devices. There are a few here too, but they can be easily deleted.
The 5-inch phone’s 720p HD IPS panel has been reinforced with Gorilla Glass 3 protection. The brightness levels and color reproduction strength should suffice for most users. The device supports dual-SIM, both with 4G compatible. The phone comes with a 16GB built-in storage, expandable to 32GB.
Gaming on the phone is really smooth, with clean graphic rendering and no frame drops. It handled games such as Real Racing 3 quite easily, that too, without uncomfortably burning the hands.
The 13-megapixel rear camera clicked slightly over-saturated photographs but without compromising on detail. The front-facing 5-megapixel fixed-focus camera showed no signs of weakness when it comes to clicking selfies.
What’s Bad?
Micromax Canvas Nitro 4G has 2 GB of RAM working with a 1.4 GHz octa-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 415 processor. Though the processor is better than its other close competitor Moto G (3rd Gen), it doesn’t manage to rank any better than its predecessor with respect to multi-tasking. The screen occasionally lags as well, mostly while switching between the front and rear cameras.
Another aspect which is a big criterion for smartphone purchases nowadays is the battery count. The phone comes loaded with 2,500mAh battery to support two 4G SIMs, play HD videos, surf the internet and engage in usual social tasks. Tall order? Probably yes, and therefore it falls short with just around 7-8 hours of life on single charge.
To keep the phone slim on the dimensions front, Canvas Nitro 4G has opted for the small set power button and volume rockers on the side. The awkward placement of the buttons can be confusing for the first couple of weeks and the touch experience leaves you wanting more.
Why Buy It?
Micromax Canvas Nitro 4G is good to hold, and offers decent performance too. What works against the device right now is the intense level of competition like Xiaomi’s Mi4i and Motorola G 3rd generation to name a few. With Snapdragon 415, 720p display and 2500 mAH battery, Nitro 4G is already fighting a battle half-lost.
Now, should you buy it? Well, that depends on if you are ‘smart’ or trying to be ‘smart’
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