The HMD Fusion is making waves in the smartphone world with its innovative modular design. Priced at $299.99, this device offers a unique approach to customization and sustainability through its “Outfits.” While it boasts exceptional battery longevity and repairability, it falls short in display quality and overall performance.
The industrial design of the HMD Fusion stands out, featuring exposed screws and modular Outfits that cater to repairability and customization. The phone’s rugged build ensures durability, although its IP54 rating limits water resistance to splashes and dust, not submersion. Comparatively, it offers a more rugged aesthetic than competitors like the Fairphone 5.
The display, however, is a mixed bag. While the 90Hz adaptive refresh rate provides smooth scrolling, the low brightness and resolution detract from the viewing experience, especially outdoors. The large bezels add to the phone’s dated feel, impacting multimedia consumption compared to sleeker devices.
Performance-wise, the Fusion runs on Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 chipset, delivering satisfactory performance for daily tasks. However, the Adreno 613 GPU struggles with graphically intensive tasks, making it less suitable for gaming enthusiasts. The device excels in battery life, lasting nearly two days with moderate use, but its 33W wired charging may feel slow to some users.
The Fusion’s cameras offer a mixed bag of results. The 108Mp main camera performs well in daylight conditions, while the 50Mp selfie camera shines in bright settings. However, low-light performance and limited zoom capabilities may disappoint some users. The software experience, based on Android 14, is clean with minimal bloatware, but occasional bugs and limited OS upgrade promises may deter some buyers.
In conclusion, the HMD Fusion appeals to enthusiasts and eco-conscious users seeking a customizable and sustainable device. While it has its strengths in battery life and repairability, its shortcomings in display quality and performance may steer mainstream users towards other options. For those looking to experiment with modular smartphones, the Fusion offers a compelling platform for creativity and innovation.