HMD Fusion review: The HMD Fusion is a standout in the crowded smartphone market, offering a retro-inspired design, modular features, and a focus on repairability. Priced at ₹17,999 (approximately $225), it targets budget-conscious users who value customization and sustainability. While it shines in design and innovation, it falls short in areas like display quality and performance. This review dives deep into its strengths, weaknesses, and overall value proposition.
Design and Build: A Retro Aesthetic with Modern Functionality
Eye-Catching Design
The HMD Fusion boasts a sleek, retro-inspired design that sets it apart from generic-looking smartphones. Its modular back panel, exposed screws, and textured matte finish give it a rugged yet stylish appearance. The phone is lightweight at 202.5 grams and features an IP54 rating for dust and splash resistance, making it durable for everyday use.
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Modularity and Repairability
One of the Fusion’s standout features is its modular design, allowing users to replace components like the battery, display, and charging port with ease. This aligns with the growing trend of sustainable electronics, appealing to eco-conscious consumers. The phone also supports “Smart Outfits,” interchangeable covers that add functionality, such as a ring light for photography or physical buttons for gaming.
Display: A Mixed Bag
Brightness and Resolution
The HMD Fusion features a 6.56-inch HD+ LCD display with a 90Hz refresh rate. While it offers vibrant colors and sharp text indoors, its peak brightness of 403–600 nits struggles under direct sunlight, making outdoor use challenging.
Refresh Rate and Viewing Experience
The 90Hz refresh rate ensures smooth scrolling, but it falls behind competitors offering 120Hz displays. The lack of Full HD resolution is another drawback, especially when compared to similarly priced devices.
Performance: Adequate for Casual Use
Processor and RAM
Powered by the Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 chipset and paired with 8GB of RAM, the Fusion handles day-to-day tasks like browsing and light gaming with ease. However, it struggles with demanding applications, scoring 4,40,793 on AnTuTu and 2,229 on Geekbench’s multi-core test.
Gaming and Multitasking
While casual games like Call of Duty: Mobile run smoothly, resource-intensive titles like Genshin Impact require lowered graphics settings. The phone’s thermal management is efficient, preventing overheating during extended use.
Camera: Decent but Inconsistent
Rear Camera Performance
The 108MP primary camera captures detailed photos in good lighting but suffers from inconsistent color reproduction and slow shutter response. The 2MP depth sensor adds little value, and low-light performance is average at best.
Selfie Camera and Video Recording
The 50MP front camera delivers impressive selfies with natural skin tones. Video recording is capped at 1080p at 30fps, with gyro-EIS ensuring stable footage.
Battery Life and Charging: Reliable but Slow
Battery Capacity
The 5,000mAh battery provides excellent endurance, lasting a full day with moderate use. It supports 33W fast charging, taking approximately 111 minutes for a full charge.
Charging Speed and Efficiency
While the charging speed is slower than competitors, the battery’s efficiency in tasks like gaming (5% drop in 15 minutes) and video streaming (3% drop per hour) is commendable.
Software and Updates: Clean but Limited
Operating System
The Fusion runs on Android 14 with a near-stock interface, free from bloatware. HMD promises two major Android updates and three years of security patches, ensuring software longevity.
User Experience
The software is smooth and intuitive, but occasional bugs, like miscalibrated back gestures, can be frustrating. The inclusion of a “Pro Mode” in the camera app adds creative flexibility.
Public Reviews and Feedback
Positive Feedback
Users praise the Fusion’s unique design, repairability, and battery life. The Smart Outfits, especially the ring light for selfies, are a hit among content creators.
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Criticisms
Common complaints include the underwhelming display, inconsistent camera performance, and lack of premium features like wireless charging. Some users also report software glitches.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Unique retro-inspired design | HD+ display struggles outdoors |
| Modular and repairable build | Inconsistent camera performance |
| Long-lasting 5,000mAh battery | Slow 33W charging speed |
| Affordable price (₹17,999/$225) | Limited software updates |
| Smart Outfits add functionality | Average gaming performance |
The HMD Fusion is a compelling choice for users who prioritize design, customization, and sustainability. Its modular features and repairability make it a standout in the budget segment. However, compromises in display quality, camera performance, and charging speed may deter power users. If you value style and functionality over cutting-edge specs, the Fusion is a solid pick. For those seeking better performance and display, alternatives like the Redmi Note 13 Pro or Samsung Galaxy A14 5G might be more suitable