What's good
- Large display
- Decent processor performance for price point
What's bad
- Bad network connectivity
- No tethering capabilities
- Poor battery life
- No front camera
- No HDMI port
Like many of ZTE's smartphones, the Solar is an entry level device. Its 4.5-inch LCD display offers a fairly low resolution of 480 x 800 pixels and a pixel density of 218ppi. The phone itself weighs a hefty 157 grams and measures 5.24 x 2.6 x 0.39 inches.
Behind the plastic display is a 1.2GHz dual-core processor, 768MB of RAM, 4GB of internal memory and a 2,070 mAh battery. As a lesser known model, there are very few expert opinions on the Solar. Non-expert reviews note the phone's speedy performance when opening and using apps.
The biggest complaint among users is the phone's poor network connectivity. Although it offers both 2G and 3G connectivity, many consumers had problems utilizing their data plan. Far too often they would not be able to connect to the network despite having full reception. Other times they would not have any reception at all for nearly a full day. The issue also affected user's ability to make and receive calls and texts though it didn't hamper Wi-Fi connection. Phone Rated also mentions that the phone does not allow tethering to other devices.
Another major issue was battery life. One user recounts his experience and states, "I used it once and it went from 100% to 85%."
Included with the device is a 5MP rear camera. The camera can record high-resolution 2592 x 1944 resolution movies. Despite allowing high quality video, the camera does not include an HDMI port so these movies cannot be directly viewed on HDTVs. There is no front camera, which makes using video conferencing apps awkward as one informal review states.
Despite the low cost of entry, actual user experience has been fairly negative and most do not recommend the product. One consumer states, "Horrible phone, not worth your time."
Prices (Where to Buy)
Common Questions
We've got you covered! Download a free PDF copy of the ZTE Solar user manual here.
ZTE backs up the Solar with a 1 Year parts & labour warranty.
If your Solar has problems and is still within its warranty period, you could contact ZTE support or the retailer you purchased the phone from. You'll find ZTE's contact information here. If your phone is off warranty and needs repair for a physical problem such as a broken screen or bad battery, you should visit an authorized service centre or a local phone repair shop. You can also connect with others in The Informr Community Forum to find and share answers to questions.
Resources
Manuals / User Guides
- ZTE Solar Quick Start Guide (PDF)
- ZTE Solar Manual (PDF)
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