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Danny

I think that this review, while generally quite accurate, ignores the most important aspects of the phone as a mobile phone – its bands and reception capability on both SIMs.

1. I bought this phone specifically because it is the only reasonably priced phone I could find which has 4G capability on both SIMs [or 4G and at least 3G on SIM 2], plus the aforementioned separate SD card slot [not a hybrid SIM/SD slot]. I was looking in the A$150-$250 price range, not A$500 and up.

2. Australia has gradually shut down the 2G GSM networks over the last 2 years, so the Dual SIM phones [3 so far] I have used to date became basically single SIM phones, because almost all phones were 3G on SIM 1, and 2G on SIM 2. Until I could find a 4G/3G phone, I had to use my 2 old phones separately, which is awkward.

3. I have found it EXTREMELY DIFFICULT to ascertain the reception capabilities, particularly on SIM 2. In their ads and spec sheets, most manufacturers trumpet “4G/LTE” on SIM 1, but don’t detail or obfuscate the SIM 2 capability, which is usually 2G, or reverting to 2G after determining which SIM is used for 4G. Many don’t answer communications.

4. I bought this from Malaysia, after ensuring that the model purchased was suitable for Australian networks [There are 4 C5A Max models, each with different bandwidth and frequency capabilities]. Luckily, I received the 702B [my desired model], because the retailer told me that they were prepackaged, and they did not know which model was boxed.

So far, it appears to do what it promised, although I still have to transfer 1 existing SIM after data backup, and see how well it works.

4. Another aspect which I am dissatisfied with with is the inability to remove and replace the battery, which, even if of reasonable quality, invariably needs replacement after about 1-1.5 years, whereas my phones have always functionally lasted 2-3 years. Unfortunately, it appears that most manufacturers are trying to force people to “upgrade” their phones when the battery loses charging capacity or dies, and don’t have replaceable batteries.

I hope this helps!

Anonymous

Than you very much Danny for sharing your experience. I’m sure others will find it useful. 😉