Samsung Galaxy S4 Mini review: Specs of the former Android flagship’s compact version, the Samsung Galaxy S4 Mini, is well loved. Thanks for it’s handy 4.3-inch size and display, this unit is one that’s definitely in the book’s as the tech giant’s most popular.

The recent Android 4.4 KitKat enhancements it has received has only improved its favored image, but as rumors swirl on a coming Samsung Galaxy S5 Mini, it may have a competition for attention.

Also since the game has changed with the Nexus 5, being sold at a highly competitive price and other handsets like the Moto G and even the newest range of Windows Phone 8 handsets being extremely affordable, the Samsung Galaxy S4 Mini is becoming more and more challenging. Reports of a much cheaper Android handset by Motorola dubbed the Moto E will only decrease the appeal of a former model.

According to Engadget writer Brad Molen, one of their biggest gripes with the device is the lackluster 4.3-inch Super AMOLED display with qHD (960 x 540) resolution. The display specs translates to a pixel density of 256 ppi, which is a drop in quality compared to the Samsung Galaxy S4.

Storage-wise, the Samsung Galaxy S4 Mini starts at a limited 8GB storage, but does have MicroSD support to expand it if necessary. In terms of camera, it has an 8MP rear camera and a 2MP front-facing camera. Video capture is at 1080p and it’s 1.7GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon 400 processor is coupled with 1.5GB of RAM.

One advantage for the Samsung Galaxy S4 Mini is that the camera has a full suite of adjustable settings, such as white balance, ISO, exposure, HDR and a large number of filter and modes. As Engadget notes, the camera’s highest resolution are 4:3, though a 16:9 option is available using 6MP. Most of the shots taken with the S4 Mini with the tech site’s test were detailed.

The Samsung Galaxy S4 Mini has the look and feel of an S4, except with a smaller size. But the main issue with it, aside from the display is the price. The unit is roughly around $500 or more (a quick look at Staples shows one priced at $549.99) and the recently launched Nexus 5 with its $350.00 tag could easily beat this smartphone in terms of price.