Acer's new Liquid E1 is proof that an Android Jelly Bean handset doesn't have to cost an arm and a leg. At an unsubsidized price of 199 euros, this midrange smartphone comes with a respectable list of components to match its modern software.
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The E1 has only 4GB of internal storage, but that can be expanded to 32GB with the microSD card slot.
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The E1's 4.5-inch screen has a lower than average qHD resolution (960x540 pixels).
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Powered by 1GHz dual-core MediaTek processor paired with 1GB of RAM, the Liquid E1 offers a pleasantly quick if not blisteringly swift Android experience.
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I also like the Liquid E1's funky set of stereo speakers plus built-in DTS sound. Whether they produce better audio than competing device and technologies, however, remains to be heard since a crowded convention hall is not an ideal location for audio testing.
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The 4.5-inch screen is bright, and uses IPS (in-plane switching) technology for acceptably wide viewing angles.
