Nokia Lumia 525 price, review: Powered by a 1 GHz dual-core processor, the Lumia 525 features a 4-inch IPS LCD capacitive touchscreen, 8 GB internal storage (upgradable to 64 GB), 1 GB RAM, Windows Phone OS, and a 5 MP camera—and its specs are all wrapped up in a neat $173 price tag.

Because of its low price, the Lumia 525 is already one of the best-selling Windows phones in the market. But still, are its features worth it? Here is a quick rundown to help you decide.

DESIGN. There is no denying that the Lumia 525 is the spitting image of its predecessor, the Lumia 520. In fact, both have exactly the same measurement and weight of 4.72 x 2.52 x 0.39 inches and 124 grams. The Lumia 525 has a slightly better design because of its edged curves, making it fit in the hand better. Although it is labelled as a “chubby” or bulky handset, it has kept its thick plastic back in order to stick to Nokia’s trademark solid feel.

DISPLAY. Here is TechSpot’s take: “The Nokia Lumia 525 packs the exact same display as the Lumia 520, meaning that we’re getting year-old budget-centric technology in what’s being marketed as a new device.” Indeed, its 4-inch IPS LCD capacitive touchscreen that has a resolution of 480 x 800 pixels and a pixel density of 233 ppi is no top-class model. However, it still provides good color, okay viewing angles, and a fairly bright screen for basic functions.

PERFORMANCE. It is good that Nokia has finally tweaked the Lumia 520’s low RAM by doubling its successor’s. But aside from that, nothing has changed. It is still powered by a 1GHz dual-core Snapdragon S4 Plus, with integrated Adreno 305 graphics.

CAMERA. Considering the price, it isn’t really much of a surprise that the Lumia 525 doesn’t have a front camera. However, it is a bit disappointing that the 5 MP camera hasn’t improved and lacks image stabilization and a flash.

So is it a worthy budget smartphone?

For TechSpot, “the Lumia 525 simply isn’t worth it. The entry-level smartphone has a decent design that has aged well, but nevertheless packs year-old hardware that’s starting to compare unfavorably against other budget minded competitors.”