We score some hands-on time with Cherry Mobile’s newest octa-core handset!
Whenever Cherry Mobile announces a new handset on its Facebook page, we’ve learned not to judge the appearance of the device until we actually see it firsthand. That was the case with the Omega Spectrum and countless other devices, and it rang true for the Magnum S. While the device looked a bit meh on the provided photo for the official announcement, it’s very, very different in person.
Cherry Mobile Magnum S specs
- 1.7GHz octa-core processor
- Mali-450MP GPU
- 1GB of RAM
- 5-inch HD IPS display with Gorilla Glass 3, 1280 x 720 resolution
- 16GB of storage
- 18-megapixel rear camera with LED flash
- 8-megapixel front camera with LED flash
- WiFi, Bluetooth, USB OTG
- Android 4.4 KitKat
- 2300mAh non-removable battery
- Php 9,999
Initial Impressions: Very premium, metallic looking body
When we first spied the Magnum S being held by one of the Cherry Mobile execs present during yesterday’s launch, we (politely) wrestled it from his hands to properly admire it. The photo of the Magnum S does not do the device justice – this is a very handsome looking smartphone. While we’re tempted to say that the Magnum S uses a metal back, it’s actually plastic, coated with a metallic finish, kind of like the one used in the LG G3. If you probably saw this phone without the Cherry Mobile logo on the back, you would have probably mistaken it as a device made by an international brand.
The device was nice and hefty, though it wasn’t necessarily that heavy. The edges of the Magnum S are curved, which makes it easier to hold in the hands. The volume rocker is located on the left side, while the power button is on the top of the device, along with the 3.5mm jack. Both sides of the device hold SIM card slots. There’s only 16GB of storage on tap, and is non-expandable. The 2300mAh battery is also non-removable as well.
The Cherry Mobile Magnum S is equipped with KitKat out of the box, and sports a 5-inch HD display. While some people prefer full HD displays, we’ve noticed that MediaTek’s octa-core offering still has a bit of trouble powering a full HD phone, which leads to instances of lag (however minute).
A HD display is better in terms of smoothness, and between the octa-core processor, HD resolution and KitKat, the Magnum S performed well during navigation, without any hint of lag whatsoever.
We’re excited to get our review unit of this device so we can do a more in-depth look at it as well as unbox the device for you guys. Keep tuned, we’ll be getting one in the next few days.