Kata V4 Hands-on and Initial Impression

JD
0
Kata V4 Hands-on and Initial Impressions
Kata V4 Hands-on and Initial Impression

INTRODUCTION:

Kata's growth in the local scene has been nothing but impressive. From humble beginnings, the company now stands as one of the go-to brands in the Philippines all thanks to a strong market presence and a healthy portfolio of devices that boasts engaging form factors and hardware sheets that are presented in competitive price ranges. What we have here now seems to embody all three traits, the Kata V4, ready to go in for the kill in the budget segment.

Kata V4 CPU-Z Info
CPU-Z Info

The Kata V4 sports a screen that measures 4.5-inch diagonally and has FWVGA resolution powered by a 1.3GHz quad core MediaTek MT6580 processor paired with 1GB of RAM and 8GB of internal storage.


HANDS-ON:

Kata V4 Back
Back

On the front, the Kata V4 looks quite attractive – it has a certain appeal to it that can attract those who are looking for a minimalist style. Its 2.5D curved panel is just a downright gorgeous upfront that it's nice to marvel at. Other than that, the earpiece sits between the front-facing camera and the sensors, and below it are the display and the capacitive keys, which, unfortunately, aren't backlit.

Kata V4 Top
Top

Its side also compliments that 2.5D curved glass, so to speak. Its metallic side trimmings just add up to the premium feel of the device that you won't be questioning its affordable price tag when you look at it. The volume rocker sits on the left side, while the power button is on the right.

See Also: Kata i3L Review, Long Live LTE

On the other hand, the back panel could see some improvements. Kata could have gone with glass or metal material to ramp up its aesthetics, but that would probably just add up to the total costs. However, its special back button sets itself apart from other smartphones. It can wake the device up, launch the camera, and act as a shutter for taking photos.

In terms of aesthetics and handling, the V4 is could top the charts if it only weren't for that back panel that was somewhat off putting due to its plastic material.

As far as the performance goes, the V4 is equipped with a MediaTek MT6580 chipset with a 1.3GHz Cortex A7 quad-core CPU and Mali-400 MP paired with 1GB of RAM. Storage goes at 8GB, which would seem a bit measly now, and even more so if you factor in the OS and bloatware. It's also running Android 5.1 Lollipop, not that we're expecting Marshmallow or anything, but that could be a welcomed feature so to speak. Navigating through the interface is thankfully buttery smooth, but try not to push it too much. For benchmark scores, here's an Antutu test result reaching the 23K mark.

Kata V4 Antutu Score
Antutu Score

Kata tags the V4 as an all-rounder, and it seems that it can also function great as a camera phone. There's an 8MP primary shooter on its back and a 5MP selfie snapper on the front. Shots in this segment are somewhat unappealing, especially if you're looking for a smartphone that can take great shots for your social media. It can do its thing, just not what you're probably expecting. The front-facing camera can produce better results, and it can even be great in poor lighting conditions.

Also Read: Kata M2L Review: More 2 Love

Kata V4 Sample Camera Shot
Sample Camera Shot


INITIAL IMPRESSIONS:

Kata is presenting the V4 with an impressive retail price tag of Php2,699. This is a phone that comes with the average substance for a budget phone, but with a highlight on style through its gorgeous design save for the back panel. It's one of the most affordable smartphones in its range that actually does feature something, and it has the looks to boot.

Kata V4 Specifications:

  • GSM Quad Band
  • 3G: 850/1900/2100MHz
  • Dual SIM, dual standby
  • 4.5-inch FWVGA (480 x 854) touchscreen display
  • Dimensions: 135mm x 67.5mm x 8.9mm
  • Android 5.1 Lollipop
  • 1.3GHz quad core Cortex-A7 CPU, Mali-400MP GPU, MediaTek MT6580 chipset
  • 1GB of RAM
  • 8GB of ROM, expandable up to 32GB via micro SD card
  • 8MP primary camera with LED flash, dedicated shutter button
  • 5MP secondary camera
  • Multimedia player
  • FM Radio
  • 3.5mm audio jack
  • GPS with A-GPS
  • WiFi 802.11 b/g/n
  • Bluetooth v4.0
  • Sensors: light, proximity
  • Battery: 1,800mAh, non-removable
  • Price: Php2,699

Post a Comment

0Comments

Post a Comment (0)