Looking for an incredibly affordable Android phone? The Spice Mi-354 Smartflo Space and Karbonn A1+ are contenders in the ultra-budget segment. But which one delivers the best experience for the price? Let's dive into a detailed comparison.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Karbonn A1+ likely edges out the Spice Mi-354 Smartflo Space due to potentially slightly better software optimization and a more streamlined experience, despite both having very similar hardware. Both are entry-level devices best suited for basic tasks.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 900 / 1800 - SIM 1 & SIM 2 | GSM 900 / 1800 / 1900 - SIM 1 & SIM 2 |
| EDGE | Class 12 | Yes |
| GPRS | Class 12 | Yes |
| Technology | GSM | GSM |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2013, August | 2012 |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 118.2 x 60.8 x 12.4 mm (4.65 x 2.39 x 0.49 in) | 114.5 x 60.6 x 13.8 mm (4.51 x 2.39 x 0.54 in) |
| SIM | Dual SIM | Dual SIM (Mini-SIM) |
| Weight | 125 g (4.41 oz) | 130 g (4.59 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 320 x 480 pixels, 3:2 ratio (~165 ppi density) | 320 x 480 pixels, 3:2 ratio (~165 ppi density) |
| Size | 3.5 inches, 36.5 cm2 (~50.8% screen-to-body ratio) | 3.5 inches, 36.5 cm2 (~52.6% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | TFT | TFT, 256K colors |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Dual-core 1.0 GHz Cortex-A9 | 1.0 GHz |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6517 | - |
| GPU | PowerVR SGX531u | - |
| OS | Android 4.2 (Jelly Bean) | Android 2.3.6 (Gingerbread) |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDHC (dedicated slot) | microSDHC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | - | 256MB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Single | 3.15 MP | 3 MP |
| Video | Yes | Yes |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 1.3 MP | VGA |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | - |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 3.0 | 2.1, A2DP |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS | No |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | microUSB | microUSB 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, proximity | Accelerometer, proximity |
| | - | Mobile TV |
| Battery |
|---|
| Stand-by | Up to 200 h | Up to 240 h |
| Talk time | Up to 6 h | Up to 4 h |
| Type | Li-Ion 1450 mAh battery | Li-Ion 1500 mAh, removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black/silver, White/silver | Ivory White |
| Price | About 40 EUR | About 50 EUR |
| SAR | - | 0.66 W/kg (head) |
Spice Mi-354 Smartflo Space
- Potentially slightly better processor
- Affordable price point
- Basic smartphone functionality
- Low performance
- Poor camera quality
- Low-resolution display
- Limited storage
Karbonn A1+
- Potentially better software optimization
- Affordable price point
- Basic smartphone functionality
- Low performance
- Poor camera quality
- Low-resolution display
- Limited storage
Display Comparison
Both phones likely feature small, low-resolution displays (likely around 480x800 or similar). Expect limited viewing angles and color accuracy. The Karbonn A1+ *might* have a slightly better panel, but the difference will be minimal.
Camera Comparison
Camera quality on both phones will be very basic. Expect low-resolution sensors (likely 2-5MP) and poor image quality in low light. Don't expect to take stunning photos with either device.
Performance
Performance is the biggest constraint with both devices. The Spice Mi-354's Mediatek MT6517 chipset with a dual-core 1.0 GHz Cortex-A9 CPU is marginally more powerful than the Karbonn A1+'s single-core 1.0 GHz processor. However, both will struggle with demanding apps and multitasking. Expect noticeable lag.
Battery Life
Battery capacity is likely around 1500-2000mAh for both. Expect a day of light usage, but battery life will drain quickly with any significant app usage.
Buying Guide
The Spice Mi-354 Smartflo Space is ideal for users needing a basic phone for calls, texts, and very light app usage. The Karbonn A1+ is a better choice for those who want a slightly smoother experience and potentially a bit more future-proofing, though expectations should remain realistic.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ What operating system do these phones use?
Both phones likely run a very old version of Android (possibly Android 4.4 KitKat or earlier). Don't expect updates.
❓ Can I play games on these phones?
While technically possible, performance will be extremely limited. Simple, lightweight games might be playable, but demanding titles are out of the question.
