Performance
If you’re interested in passive benchmarks then the common AnTuTu and Quadrant tests reveal expected scores from the MediaTek chip. The B502 scored 18,750 points in AnTutu tests, while it managing 7,105 points in Quadrant, putting it ahead of the old HTC One X by a margin. Things got tougher for the device in 3DMark, though it did eventually come out with a commendable 2,081 points in the Ice Storm Extreme test.
What’s important, ultimately, is how it fares in coping with daily tasks. Possibly attributed to the 2GB RAM, multi-tasking performance is generally smooth even with multiple apps running. Whether you’re browsing the web, checking emails, taking photos, updating social media and playing casual games, the B502 delivers. The light, no-frills Q Home UI keeps things snappy and smooth generally with just occasional choppiness depending on apps you run.
The 13MP main camera is decent, especially when there’s sufficient light. Too bad it doesn’t feature the much-lauded Low Light Sensitivity tech seen in the F5 and T3. The front camera is good for selfies, but as with most front cameras is susceptible to noise in low light situations.
Obviously with a slim profile there’s always a trade-off, especially where battery life is concerned. The 1800mAh is more than decent though, pushing through almost an entire day before needing to be charged.
Sample images
Pros
- Slim profile, good build
- Good display
- Better than average performance
- Generous RAM and storage
- Decent camera
- Dual-SIM
- Cheap!
Cons
- No LTE
- No Low Light Sensitivity camera tech
Verdict
As an entry-level modern smartphone, the B502 delivers on all counts. It’s lightweight, has a slim profile and is packed with generous specs. It should appeal to first time smartphone buyers on a budget or ones who are looking for a cheap second phone. It doesn’t have LTE but let’s not forget how much this baby costs. Perhaps the B502’s big challenge is to convince consumers to consider the relatively unknown BenQ brand amongst the usual suspects in the business.
Pricing and availability
The BenQ B502 is expected to be available in retail channels in mid-March for RM499 (USD138.50). BenQ has partnered with SuperBuy and will kick-off pre-orders from 9-22 March 2015.
- The Crazy RM99 SuperBuy Promo
1x BenQ B502 for only RM99!
Free 1x Screen Protector
Free 1x Earphone
Free 1x Smart Casing worth RM99
Available exclusively via SuperBuy, on dates 11 13, 18 and 20 March, pre-order one unit of BenQ B502 for only RM99! (yes you read that right). For the rest of the days during the pre-order period, retail price is retained at RM499.
Limited units are available. One unit per customer only. Delivery is expected in 2 weeks from date of pre-order.
