HTC has released a mini version of their flagship phone, appropriately named the HTC One Mini. The One Mini has the same aluminum and plastic frame, 4MP camera and Sense 5 user interface as the HTC One. The screen size of the phone measures in at 4.3 inches and the total weight is 122 grams (4.3 ounces). Most reviewers appreciate the smaller size of the Mini over the full sized sibling. Mat Smith of Engadget notes that “it's arguably a better size…” as he was able to “grasp the device, slip it into pockets, bag side pouches and use it one-handed without any issue.”
Due to its small size, the One Mini does have lower specs than the HTC One. It has a 1.4 GHz dual-core processor, 1GB of RAM and 16GB of onboard storage. Despite the downgrade in hardware, reviewers agree that it still offers decent performance. Engadget notes that “...the phone's responsiveness was mostly on par with the original One. It didn't take any more time to process video highlight clips or capture photos, despite the differences in hardware...the One mini gave...swift page loads and responsive scrolling even on media-heavy sites.”
Aside from the internal hardware, the screen itself is also a downgrade from the HTC One, running at 720p rather than 1080p. Despite this, most reviewers are happy with the quality. Gareth Beavis of TechRadar mentions that the “Super LCD2 screen is a great option that works very well in direct sunlight…”
All reviewers agree that despite some minor drawbacks, the HTC One Mini is an excellent smartphone option. Engadget states that “The HTC One mini is the most appealing non-flagship smartphone we've seen in a while.” TechRadar, while a little more reserved with their assessment due to poor storage and mediocre battery life, states that “the mid-range market renaissance...is an area that HTC is intent on winning - and we think it's managed that with the One Mini.”
The Good: LCD2 screen works well in direct sunlight, easy to handle, fast processing and loading speeds.
The Bad: No expandable storage, mediocre battery life.
What the Critics Are Saying...
- Chris Finnamore, Expert ReviewsA great-looking phone with a fantastic screen and smooth operating system. An Android handset with few compromises
- Samir Makwana, The Mobile IndianHTC One mini is the alluring combination of good design, pleasing display and fairly decent hardware. However, it does miss out on a removable and low capacity battery - one of the crucial components for a smartphone. If the phone's price is adjusted to about Rs 25,000 then it would give fair compet...
- Sharif Sakr, EngadgetThe One Max isn't much of an upgrade over the One and its features don't warrant the excessive volume or weight.
- Ketan Pratap, NDTVThe HTC One mini scores heavily in terms of style and substance, with our biggest quibbles being the lack of processing power and the limited storage, at its price. The device definitely feels like a premium one and includes much of the full HTC Sense 5 experience, such as BlinkFeed, the updated Gal...
- Blake Stimac, IntoMobileWell, what can we say about the HTC One Mini? It's a pint-sized version of HTC's best phone available at a more affordable price, but is that enough to make you want to choose it over its 4.7 inch brother?The HTC One Mini provides most of the same features that we loved about the HTC One in a much m...
Prices (Where to Buy)
Common Questions
We've got you covered! Download a free PDF copy of the HTC One mini user manual here.
HTC backs up the One mini with a 1 Year parts & labour warranty.
If your One mini has problems and is still within its warranty period, you could contact HTC support or the retailer you purchased the phone from. You'll find HTC's contact information here. If your phone is off warranty and needs repair for a physical problem such as a broken screen or bad battery, you should visit an authorized service centre or a local phone repair shop. You can also connect with others in The Informr Community Forum to find and share answers to questions.
Resources
Manuals / User Guides
- HTC One mini Quick Start Guide (PDF)
- HTC One mini Manual (PDF)
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