HTC Desire 530

Low price ; Solid build ; Android 6.0 Marshmallow

Drab display ; Slow performance ; Limited storage

The HTC Desire 530 is a sluggish, entry-level Android phone that simply cuts too many corners to be worth considering.

Neat-looking dotty back ; 16GB storage ; Decent-enough screen

Feels slow ; Mediocre cameras ; Non-stereo speakers ; Disappointing stamina for its size

A phone that cheaps-out too often and ends up being little fun to use

Aside from the interesting design, there's nothing particularly outstanding going on with this entry-level smartphone. We’re actually pretty disappointed with the spec, as the Qualcomm Snapdragon processor and GPU used are featured in smartphones 2-3...

T-Mobile currently sells the Desire 530 for $159.99. In addition the carrier offers various subscriptions, like 24-months contract for $6.67 a month and a free phone. Soon the phone will also be available through Verizon. New device purchase requires a...

micro-SD card can be used as system storage ; latest Android Marshmallow ; accurate touchscreen ; reliable GPS module ; LTE support ; good call quality via earpiece ; good sound via headset jack ; decent battery life ; smooth to use Android user interface

total performance below average ; relatively big casing ; primary camera quality middling ; quiet microphone in hands-free mode ; WiFi only in 2.4 GHz band ; no Miracast, MHL or USB OTG support ; no notification LED ; non-removable battery ; screen's...

Whether HTC's attempt at making a unique design statement with the Desire 530 has been successful is probably a matter of taste. Regardless of that, the casing pleases with its decent build and good hardware buttons. However, it hardly conveys a...

The Desire 530 feels solid and dependable in your hand, thanks to a smooth, well-machined plastic shell.

Its processor is a travesty in this day and age, so slow that even basic scrolling through text is a laggy, frustrating experience.

HTC kept the Desire 530’s price down by sacrificing its display and processor, the two critical components you need for a remotely decent phone experience. You’re better off buying a refurbished flagship than you are a new 530.

Normally, I'd end a review by stating whether or not I'd recommend purchasing the device. For the HTC Desire 530, there are a couple conditions that you must meet for me to recommend this phone.

I’m usually pleased with HTC devices for the most part but the Desire 530 is a disappointing affair. Its display is pretty weak outdoors, its processing power is abysmal and it just seems to take long to upload anything. Its true saving grace is its...