Micromax Q5

It’s quite a relief to see a QWERTY handset that seems to have its own ‘personality and doesn’t look like some random Blackberry. Micromax’s previous model, the Q3 was definitely not one of the devices I’d recommend for users looking for this particular style of handset. This, the Q5 or ‘ezpad’ as it’s been dubbed, was apparently designed to be true bliss for the avid social networker and here’s how it fared.

Form Factor:
The handset’s prime focus is around the keypad and not the screen. Hence we’re once again witness to the slightly awkward Micromax LCD panel. Although this one is a less skewed than the Q3’s it’s nevertheless the handset's biggest drawback. Thankfully the large QWERTY keypad is fantastic. The buttons are easy to use and well spaced and will take no more than a couple of attempts to get used to. Navigation is a breeze thanks to the Track Ball. To ensure that the Q5 is branded a social networking handset, Micromax has incorporated two dedicated shortcut buttons for Facebook and the MSN app. A standard mini USB and a 3.5m socket are conveniently located at the base of the handset.

The Q5 is not a good looking handset but it’s well constructed for ease of use. It also packs quite a bit of weight, which is a little unusual, but somehow that manages to balance the handset quite well. Micromax has also included a rubberized case for the handset as well as a comfortable handsfree kit amongst the accessories.

Features and performance:
Interface:
The UI is a non issue. The handset seems to be designed for speed and there’s no lag whatsoever. It’s the same Java OS though so features-wise it’s all the same. There’s only the cosmetic change to make it look different. Another plus point is that everything is very neatly categorized. The only issue is the weird LCD panel that makes it a bit difficult to stare into for prolonged periods.

Media:
The music player is superb. Thanks to Yamaha’s contribution, the audio quality and decibel level is in plentiful. The Q5 comes with a Bass enhancement setting, EQ presets that include 3D surround modes as well as Reverb effects, both of which make no sense to have in a mobile handset but they’re there. Through the settings menu the sound quality can be further adjusted via an 8 band graphic EQ option. If the bundled handsfree doesn’t do it for you, I’d suggest investing in a good set of earphones for a better audio experience.

The FM radio that has a recording option as well has really good reception. In almost all areas including places where handsets in this range usually come up just average, the Q5 somehow managed to provide really good reception. The voice recorder is quite handy for memos but don’t keep the mic too far. A distance of about 2.5 feet will be sufficient for clear voice recordings. There’s also an image editor feature that allows you to make a few adjustments to photos post capture.

Another very pleasant surprise was the fact that all of my test videos in 3GP and MPEG4 formats played without a hitch, including the higher resolution ones. If it weren’t for the display again, it would make for easy viewing of even full length movies.