The Micromax X510 (PIKE) is cheaper by about Rs. 500, than its elder sibling X550 (QUBE). But, that hardly justifies it to make a decent buy. The X510 lost out both in terms of performance and ergonomics in comparison to the X550. Lack of a hardware keypad, does not help its cause with unfriendly and ageing touch-screen interface. Hence, we would not recommend it for a best buy or value for money option.
The flexible battery cover can be removed using the marked nail grip, located at the bottom surface of the X510. Removing the battery cover and the battery reveals dual-SIM card slots and a microSD slot. Also, there is a groove within the battery compartment, which holds a retractable stylus. The stylus comes in very handy, while working with the inaccurate and sluggish touch-screen interface. In addition, the narrowly spaced keys on the touch-screen keypad, hinders the movement of fingers and strongly emphasises the need for the stylus. Although, we would appreciate if it shipped with a hardware keypad, as it would help a novice user to overcome the shortcomings of the touch-screen interface.
Unlike its sibling Micromax X550 (QUBE), the X510 does not incorporate touch sensitive wallpapers or application widgets. However, the only saving grace is the touch sensitive media player interface, which allows the user to drag the icons across the screen while navigating through the menu options. The home screen and the menu interface is not well organised and intuitive. The most interesting part of the bundled accessories, are the five interchangeable colourful back-panels (Red, White, Black, Yellow and Orange), meant to match your changing moods.
Performance:
The Micromax X510 (PIKE) delivered a modest performance in the signal reception and voice clarity test. It yielded a mediocre performance in the device loudspeaker clarity test, and failed to compete with the likes of its sibling Micromax X550 (QUBE). However, it did well in the Bluetooth test, outscoring the X550 by a margin of 18.67 seconds, while transferring a 5MB file. The X510 performed poorly in the captured video quality test and was no match to the consistently performing Micromax X550 (QUBE) in the overall ratings.
Verdict:
The Micromax X510 (PIKE) is cheaper by about Rs. 500, than its elder sibling X550 (QUBE). But, that hardly justifies it to make a decent buy. The X510 lost out both in terms of performance and ergonomics in comparison to the X550. Lack of a hardware keypad, does not help its cause with unfriendly and ageing touch-screen interface. Hence, we would not recommend it for a best buy or value for money option.
Specifications: Dual-SIM (GSM GSM); 2.8-inch TFT resistive touchscreen (240×400); microSD slot expandable up to 16GB; 2MP integrated camera (1600×1200); Battery – up to 8 hrs talk-time and up to 384 hrs standby-time;
Accessories: AC adapter/battery charger, battery, handsfree headset, USB cable, PC Sync driver CD, user manual, leather pouch, stylus and 5 interchangeable colourful back-panels.
Ratings:
Features: 6
Performance: 5.5
Build Quality: 6.5
Value for money: 6
Overall: 6
Contact: Micromax informatics Ltd.,
Phone No.: 011-45082591/92
E-mail: Info@micromaxinfo.com
Website: www.micromaxinfo.com
Price: Rs. 5, 499