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Checking out the Huawei Valiant (pictures)

MetroPCS's 3G-only budget smartphone makes some trade-offs to keep costs low. Get to know this Android 4.1 handset.

Jessica Dolcourt
Jessica Dolcourt is a passionate content strategist and veteran leader of CNET coverage. As Senior Director of Commerce & Content Operations, she leads a number of teams, including Commerce, How-To and Performance Optimization. Her CNET career began in 2006, testing desktop and mobile software for Download.com and CNET, including the first iPhone and Android apps and operating systems. She continued to review, report on and write a wide range of commentary and analysis on all things phones, with an emphasis on iPhone and Samsung. Jessica was one of the first people in the world to test, review and report on foldable phones and 5G wireless speeds. Jessica began leading CNET's How-To section for tips and FAQs in 2019, guiding coverage of topics ranging from personal finance to phones and home. She holds an MA with Distinction from the University of Warwick (UK).
Jessica Dolcourt
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1 of 7 Josh Miller/CNET

Huawei Valiant hands-on

The Huawei Valiant is a pleasant-looking entry-level Android 4.1 smartphone.

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2 of 7 Josh Miller/CNET

Thick, but nice

Although the phone is a bit on the thicker side, it fits well in the hand, feels good on the ear, and is small enough to fit into a looser pocket.

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3 of 7 Josh Miller/CNET

Depth

You can see the phone's 0.45-inch thickness here.

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4 of 7 Josh Miller/CNET

It has the touch

This navy-blue, soft-touch finish makes the phone easy to palm.

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5 of 7 Josh Miller/CNET

Camera action

There's no flash or front-facing camera with the Valiant, but the biggest issue is its fixed-focus shooter. It does have panorama mode and a few filters, and colors are attractive and bright.

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6 of 7 Josh Miller/CNET

Call quality

Audio quality was nice and strong for both standard and speakerphone modes when I tested the phone in San Francisco.

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7 of 7 Josh Miller/CNET

Interface about face

Various themes and wallpapers inside help adjust its look.

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