TC Review: Samsung Galaxy Grand 2

Can Rate like 4 out of 5 stars

Specifications: 5.25-inch (1280x720 pixels) LCD, dual SIM, 1.2Ghz quad core processor, 1.5GB RAM, 8GB + microSD slot, 8MP + 1.9MP camera, Android 4.3, 2,600mAh, 163 grams.

Pros: Build quality, good still and video camera performance, great battery life, smart dual SIM manager.

Cons: Feels a bit bulky, no USB host function, loudspeaker volume could be fancy.

Even though smartphones from homegrown manufacturers are getting better day-by-day, many people it seems would rather sacrifice some features and get a device from a global brand.

This was one of the reasons for the success of Samsung Galaxy Grand last year, even though there were so many better options. This year, Samsung has made a number of impovements to its successor — Galaxy Grand 2. Samsung has used a Qualcomm Snapdragon 400 1.2Ghz quad core processor with Adreno 305 GPU and 1.5GB RAM to power the phone.

The hardware delivers a smoother user experience compared to the earlier Grand. The phone also comes with features usually found on Samsung's premium devices. You get Multi Window, Group Play, S-voice assistant, blocking mode, handsfree mode and a suite of Samsung's premium apps. Also included is a smart dual SIM manager that lets you set the phone to receive calls from the second SIM card during an ongoing call. However, the lack of USB host (to connect flash drives) is a disappointment.

The Grand 2 fits comfortably in one hand but feels heavy for a phone with a 5.25-inch display (1280 x 720 pixels). It looks premium though, thanks to the faux leather removable rear panel — similar to the Galaxy Note 3. The 8MP rear camera delivers great results in daylight and has a user interface similar to Note 3 and Galaxy S4 .

The pictures suffers from visible noise indoors but they are good enough to share on social networks. With its 2,600mAh battery, we easily got a backup of over a day and half — impressive. At this price, the Grand 2 is an excellent device for those who prefer to stick with global brands.

Keep in mind that for a lower price you can get devices from brands such as Micromax, Gionee, Karbonn, Spice and Xolo with full HD displays, slimmer and lighter designs, better camera and better battery life. For the same price, the LG G Pro Lite is another option you can consider.