In a market saturated with high-end smartphones boasting cutting-edge features, the HMD Key stands out by offering a straightforward, reliable, and affordable option for users seeking essential functionalities without the hefty price tag. As noted in the first impressions post a couple of weeks ago, my daughter Jenny has been testing the phone and providing a lot of very useful feedback.
The HMD Key features a 6.52-inch IPS LCD display with a resolution of 576 x 1280 pixels and a 20:9 aspect ratio, providing clear visuals suitable for everyday tasks. Its compact dimensions (166.4 x 76.9 x 8.95 mm) and lightweight build (185.4 g) make it comfortable to hold and use with one hand. The device’s design is practical, with an IP52 rating for dust and splash resistance, ensuring durability in various environments.
Under the hood, the HMD Key is powered by a Unisoc SC9832E chipset, coupled with 2GB of RAM and 32GB of internal storage, expandable up to 128GB via a MicroSD card. While the hardware is modest, the device runs on Android 14 (Go edition), a streamlined version of Android optimised for entry-level smartphones. This combination ensures smooth performance for basic tasks such as calling, texting, browsing, and using lightweight apps.
The HMD Key is equipped with an 8MP rear camera and a 5MP front-facing camera. Despite its budget status, the device offers various camera modes, including Portrait, Night, Pro, Slow Motion, Time Lapse, and Panorama, allowing users to capture diverse shots in different settings.
While there are plenty of features in the camera, it doesn’t provide any particular highlights; but it also doesn’t try to be a highlight of the experience. This is about a solid, reliable experience at a budget that anyone can afford, and that is delivered very well.
One of the standout features of the HMD Key is its impressive battery life. The 4000mAh battery provides up to 47 hours of usage on a single charge, making it ideal for users who need a dependable device throughout the day without frequent recharging. In the case of my daughter who is time restricted — I know I’m a horrible parent restricting her screen time daily — she was getting around 3 days between charges.
The HMD Key supports 4G LTE, Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Bluetooth 4.2, GPS, and FM radio. It also includes a 3.5mm headphone jack and a USB Type-C port for charging and data transfer. The device’s dual SIM capability and expandable storage further enhance its practicality for everyday use.
While the HMD Key offers numerous advantages, it’s essential to acknowledge its limitations. The device’s relatively low-end hardware may struggle with resource-intensive applications or multitasking. Additionally, while efficient, the Android Go edition lacks some features found in the standard Android version. The cameras, though functional, may not deliver the high-quality images expected from more expensive smartphones.
The HMD Key is a commendable choice for users seeking a reliable, straightforward smartphone without unnecessary complexities. Its combination of essential features, impressive battery life, and affordable price point make it an attractive option for first-time smartphone users, those needing a secondary device, or individuals prioritising functionality over frills.
Thanks to my young lady for her help in completing this review, and well done for providing such great feedback.
