Samsung Galaxy S4 Mini review: Powered by a 1.7 GHz Snapdragon 400 dual-core Krait processor, the mini version of the Galaxy S4 sports a 4.3-inch Super AMOLED capacitive touchscreen, 1.5 GB RAM, 5 or 8 GB internal storage (expandable up to 64 GB), Android OS, v4.2.2 Jelly Bean (upgradable to v4.4.2 KitKat), and a 8 MP primary camera—definitely a downgrade from its predecessor, but as a mid-range handset, it’s worth a shot.

After the release of the Galaxy S4, the South Korean manufacturer had extended its range. The company produced the Samsung Galaxy S4 Zoom, Samsung Galaxy S4 Active and the smaller Samsung Galaxy S4 Mini.

It is no surprise that S4 would have a mini-me. However, will it be like the S3 Mini that will be another namesake mid-range smartphone? Here is a quick rundown of its specs to help you decide for yourself.

DESIGN. With a dimension of 4.91 x 2.41 x 0.35 inches and a weight of 107 grams, the S4 Mini has the spitting image of the Galaxy S4, but with a smaller and lighter body. It has the same glossy, plastic body, thin bezel and metal band separating the screen from the battery cover that its older brother has. What it boasts about is its portability. The S4 Mini fits snuggly in one hand in spite of its slippery back.

DISPLAY. The handset’s has no Full HD display. However, with a resolution of 540 x 960 pixels and a pixel display of 256 ppi, its 4.3-inch Super AMOLED capacitive touchscreen is impressively bright, colorful, and crisp enough for viewing files or playing games.

In terms of performance, the screen is pretty responsive and accurate. Although it is not as advanced as its older brother, it is still handy for everyday use.

PERFORMANCE. Some critics, however, are saying that the handset sometimes lags when playing games. This is probably because of the drastic downgrade of the S4’s quad-core processor to a dual-core.

Trusted Reviews says that the S4 Mini’s 1900 mAh battery can last for an entire day after “making calls, browsing, playing games, watching videos on YouTube and streaming music from Spotify.”

CAMERA. With a decent 8 MP primary and 1.9 MP secondary camera, the S4 Mini makes for a reliable shooter.

If you are really after the Galaxy S4 but without the extra size and weight and of course, the high-powered processor, then the Galaxy S4 Mini will do just fine. Its specs may not stand out, but for its price, it appears as a worthy mid-range option.