The HMD Crest Max, launched on July 25, 2024, and released on August 7, 2024, is a standout device in HMD Global’s lineup, offering a blend of durability, performance, and practicality. It builds upon the strengths of its predecessor, the HMD Crest, with upgraded features that cater to users seeking a more powerful and versatile smartphone.
Design and Build
The HMD Crest Max retains the robust design ethos of the Crest series, with dimensions of 163.9 x 76.4 x 8.4 mm and a weight of 205 grams. This solid build ensures the device is both sturdy and comfortable to handle. A key highlight of the Crest Max is its “repair-it-yourself” capability, allowing users to replace the display, back cover, battery, and charging port. This design philosophy promotes sustainability and extends the lifespan of the device, making it a smart choice for eco-conscious consumers. Additionally, the device is dust and splash resistant, further enhancing its durability.
Display
The Crest Max features a 6.67-inch OLED display with a resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels, delivering a sharp and vibrant visual experience. With a screen-to-body ratio of approximately 85.8%, users can enjoy immersive viewing whether they are watching videos, playing games, or browsing the web. The display offers vivid colors and deep blacks, making it ideal for various multimedia applications.
Under the hood, the HMD Crest Max is powered by the Unisoc T760 chipset, built on a 6 nm process. This octa-core processor, along with 8GB of RAM, ensures smooth performance across a range of tasks, from multitasking to gaming. The device runs on Android 14, providing users with the latest software features and security updates. The Mali-G57 GPU handles graphics duties, offering a decent gaming experience, especially for casual gamers.
Camera
The camera setup on the HMD Crest Max is one of its key selling points. It boasts a triple-camera system on the rear, featuring a 64 MP wide lens with autofocus, a 5 MP ultrawide lens, and a 2 MP macro lens. This versatile combination allows users to capture high-quality photos in various scenarios, from detailed close-ups to expansive landscapes. The rear camera also supports 1080p video recording at 30fps. For selfies, the device is equipped with a 50 MP front-facing camera, ensuring clear and detailed shots.
Battery and Connectivity
The HMD Crest Max is equipped with a 5000 mAh battery, which is user-replaceable despite being non-removable. This large battery ensures extended usage, and with 33W wired charging, the device can be quickly recharged. Connectivity options include dual SIM support, 5G, Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, Bluetooth 5.0, and GPS. The device also features a 3.5mm headphone jack, catering to users who prefer wired audio solutions.
Conclusion
The HMD Crest Max is a well-rounded smartphone that excels in durability, camera performance, and overall usability. Its repairable design and robust feature set make it a compelling choice for users who value longevity and practicality in their devices. Available in Aqua Green, Royal Pink, and Deep Purple, the HMD Crest Max offers both style and substance, making it a strong contender in the mid-range smartphone market.
