We finally got our hands on the recently launched Lumia 640 smartphone from Microsoft. This fourth generation Lumia device brings features that were previously on the high priced mid tier phones like the 830 and 730 down to more affordable price tier. As with all our reviews, we take extensive time to cover every facet of the device experience. but rather than keep you waiting, please read on to see our initially hands on impressions of the Lumia 640.
Specifications and Price
- Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) – KES 19,999
- 4G (LTE) Single SIM and 3.5G Dual SIM Versions available.
- Height 141.3 mm x Width 72.2 mm x Thickness 8.8 mm
- Weight 145 g
- Windows Phone 8.1 GDR2 with Denim Firmware
- 5” (720×1280) ClearBlack IPS display with Gorilla Glass 3
- Qualcomm Snapdragon 400 Quad Core 1.2 GHz processor
- 1 GB RAM, 8GB internal storage + MicroSD slot (expandable to 128 GB)
- 8MP Auto Focus Rear Camera + LED Flash, 0.9MP Wide Angle Front Camera
- 2500 mAh battery
- NFC
- Lumia Sensor Core (ability to record steps and exercise without impacting battery life)
What’s in the Box
Upon purchasing the Lumia 640 you will find the following included in the box.
- Lumia 640 Phone with removable back.
- 2500 mAh battery
- 240v charger with micro USB plug (output of 5V 750mA)
- Instruction pamphlet.
As with most manufacturers, Microsoft has stopped bundling USB cables and headphones with devices as an effort to reduce cost. This may or may not be an issue for most users as they already have these standardized accessories from previous devices.
Device Build
The Lumia 640 feels reassuring solid in the hand. The straight edges that taper in the back allow a comfortable, secure grip. this is an improvement on the smooth edges of the Lumia 535. The Lumia 640 case also features the dual shot color treatment where the edges of the device have a slightly darker hue than the back of the device. The case can be easily removed to reveal the innards of the device so replacing the battery should not present any problems later on in the life of the device.
The Gorilla Glass 3 covered screen feels smooth to the touch. This is an definite improvement of device like the Lumia 535 that didn’t have the oleo phobic coating. The 720p IPS screen was a pleasant surprise as it offered similar viewing angles and color representation as my daily driver, the Lumia 830 (which costs twice as much). However, unlike the Lumia 830 and like its predecessor, the Lumia 630, the Lumia 640 has onscreen buttons.
Initial Thoughts on Device Performance
Though 3 days into using the Lumia 640, my experience has been typical of a high end Lumia device: Smooth operation with zero lag. The battery life is impressive so far lasting through the day easily. Our final review will have more data on battery usage, performance specs as well as any other issue that may arise during testing.
If there’s anything you would like us to test or if you have any question please let us know in the comment below.
