When weighing up the pros and cons of any device, a few key aspects are always taken into account to surmise a product’s true value. One of the primary concerns is value for money, which in real world terms often determines if a device sinks or flourishes. This is a factor that Acer’s Liquid Z5 smartphone is built around, serving up the best possible Android experience that the Taiwanese manufacturer can muster, at a very enticing price point, namely R2 600.

Surprisingly strong

For that amount of money, users will certainly get a lot of smartphone, with the Z5 sporting a 5” display (480x854), registering a 196 ppi pixel density, quite generous in entry-level smartphone terms. Internally Acer has also kept things spartan and efficient, with the Z5 integrating a dual-core Mediatek MT6572 chipset, clocked at a modest 1.2 GHz. This may not offer the high-end processing and multitasking that some users might demand, but certainly meets the needs of an entry-level user.

Added to this is 512 MB of RAM and 4 GB worth of internal storage, again proving as signs of its entry-level status. Should that not be enough to tide you over, Acer has fitted a microSD slot for up to 32 GB, while a 5 MP back and VGA quality back provides so-so quality imaging.

One of the unique features of the Z5 is its dual-SIM orientation, with separate slots for a micro and mini SIM respectively, should you wish to split, for example, data and voice charges.

Exceeding expectations

All in all, the Z5 gives users far more than expected for a R2 600 entry-level device, with a large bright screen that showcases media assuredly, as well as a solid performing chipset to handle any modest levels of multitasking. If value for money sits atop your list of smartphone needs, the Acer Liquid Z5 is a trusty tool.