Huawei GR5 2017 Review: A Balanced Mid-Range Contender with Dual Cameras

The Huawei GR5 2017 presents itself as a compelling option in the mid-range smartphone market, particularly for those prioritizing camera performance and an all-round capable device under NPR 30,000. Boasting a dual-camera setup, solid processing power, and a reliable battery, it aims to stand out against competitors such as the Samsung Galaxy J7 Prime and Xiaomi Redmi Note 3.

Design-wise, the GR5 2017 adopts a classic yet premium appearance, with a curved metal back and rounded edges that lend a comfortable grip. While its smooth finish can make the device a bit slippery, the overall build quality feels robust. The vertically aligned dual cameras and well-positioned fingerprint sensor add to its modern aesthetic.

Equipped with a 5.5-inch IPS LCD display offering FullHD+ resolution, the screen delivers vibrant colors and wide viewing angles. Users appreciate the customizable white balance and blue light filtering options, enhancing both comfort and visual accuracy.

Under the hood, the smartphone is powered by Huawei's Kirin 655 octa-core processor paired with 3GB of LPDDR3 RAM and 32GB of internal storage, expandable via microSD up to 128GB using the secondary SIM slot. This configuration ensures smooth everyday performance and decent multitasking, although gaming can cause slight overheating.

The GR5 2017's standout feature is its dual-camera system, comprising a 12-megapixel primary lens and a 2-megapixel secondary lens. This combination enables faster focus and attractive bokeh effects in portraits, though the artistic impact can vary. The phone supports various creative modes, including light painting and pro video recording, allowing users to experiment with advanced photographic techniques.

Connectivity options include dual nano-SIM support for 4G, 3G, and 2G networks, Bluetooth 4.1, and Wi-Fi 802.11b/g/n (single-band). Notably, NFC is absent from this model.

The device houses a substantial 3340mAh battery, providing reliable endurance for typical use. While Huawei claims up to two days of usage under normal conditions, real-world testing typically yields around one and a half days, with accelerated drain when using continuous 4G connectivity. Quick charging support further enhances the battery experience.

In conclusion, the Huawei GR5 2017 emerges as a strong all-rounder in the sub-NPR 30,000 category, particularly appealing to users who value camera capabilities without sacrificing overall performance and durability. While it lacks groundbreaking design innovations, it matches closely with peers in specifications and delivers a well-balanced package for everyday users.