A new entry into the midrange phones is the latest Samsung Galaxy Axiom. The design equation of the phone is similar to that of Samsung’s previous models and most notably, Samsung Galaxy S3 and its Mini counterpart. Though the size is the same as that of Samsung Mini, the hardware and software configurations are not in par with these models.

Samsung Galaxy Axiom

This does not mean you don’t include Axiom in your wish list. Axiom is an excellent buy for the money you pay. If you could get a smartphone that comes within $80 will make a great buy, wouldn’t it? For a mid-range smartphone, it comes packed with features. It has two cameras, a High Definition video, IceCream Sandwich processor (the 4.0 version from Android) and NFC.

The features combined with the price tag make it a good option for those who wish to keep a watch on their tight budget. This is not an option for those who wish to buy a power-packed phone.

The design

The phone has the Samsung design stamped on it with its grayish metallic looks with rounded edges. With a home button in the center, the Axiom looks every bit the S3 Mini. Axiom has the same 4 inch screen as the Mini as well as the metal finish. However, this is where the similarities between the two phones end. The mid-range phone is a little thicker and does have an AMOLED screen. Instead, it has an LCD touch screen with 800*480 pixel resolution.
The phone fits comfortably into your hand and weighs around 4.8 pounds. It does not weigh down your pockets when you walk around.

The software

The phone is powered by Ice Cream Sandwich, which is not Android’s latest version. Though it does not have the trending Jelly Bean, the processor is backed by the TouchWiz interface from Samsung. Using this interface, you can customize the various options available on your phone. You can personalize the home screen, access notifications directly from the menu, use the virtual keyboard to trace words and pinch to zoom in to see all your screens.

Similar to all the Android phones of today, you will be able to multi-task, manage all your social networking accounts, file manager, music player, built-in browser and sync calendars and contacts if required. In addition to all this, you also get access to myriad Google services. Through the Play Store, you will be able to have access to hundreds of apps, games, etc. You can find anything you want in the Play store.

The camera

So, far there have never been any complaints on cameras offered by Samsung. Axiom is no exception. The phone is bundled with a 5 mega pixel camera which is pretty good for a midrange phone. The outdoor shoots generate good photos while the low-lit backgrounds tend to produce blurry pictures. The 720 dp is awesome. However, the audio is not the best feature available.
Overall, Axiom is a good buy for its price, design and battery life. The performance is not the best in the market. But, if you are going for a mid-range phone, you have to compromise on something.

Andrea Walters, a freelance writer for satellitesales.com – The Lowest-Priced Satellite TV in America.