The Huawei Y3 (2018), launched in May 2018, was designed as an affordable entry-level smartphone that provided essential features for everyday use. Built with a 5.0-inch IPS LCD screen, a lightweight design, and running Android 8.0 Oreo (Go edition), it aimed to offer reliable functionality at a budget-friendly price. It was targeted at first-time smartphone users and those who needed a simple, easy-to-use device for basic tasks.
With its Mediatek MT6737M processor, 1GB RAM, and 8GB storage, the Y3 (2018) catered to users looking for a phone to handle essential functions like calls, browsing, and light apps. The device also featured a 13MP rear camera, a 2MP selfie camera, and a 2280mAh battery for reliable daily use.
Let’s explore the full specifications of the Huawei Y3 (2018) and see how it performed as an affordable smartphone.
Huawei Y3 (2018) Full Phone Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category | Phone |
| Network | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch | Announced May 2018, Released May 2018 |
| Status | Discontinued |
| Body Dimensions | 145.1 x 73.7 x 9.5 mm, 175 g (5.72 x 2.90 x 0.37 in) |
| Build | Glass front, Plastic back & frame |
| SIM | Single Micro-SIM or Dual Micro-SIM (dual stand-by) |
| Display Type | IPS LCD |
| Display Size | 5.0 inches, 196 ppi (~66.9% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Resolution | 480 x 854 pixels, 16:9 ratio |
| OS | Android 8.0 Oreo (Go edition) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6737M (28nm) |
| CPU | Quad-core 1.1 GHz Cortex-A53 |
| GPU | Mali-T720 MP2 |
| Memory / Storage | 8GB storage, 1GB RAM, microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Rear Camera | 8 MP, f/2.0, PDAF, LED flash, HDR, Panorama, 720p@30fps video |
| Front Camera | 2 MP |
| Sound | Loudspeaker, 3.5mm jack |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Bluetooth 4.0, GPS, FM radio, microUSB 2.0 |
| Sensors | Accelerometer, Proximity |
| Battery | Li-Ion 2280 mAh, non-removable |
| Charging | microUSB 2.0 |
| Colors | Gold, White, Gray |
| Models | CAG-L02, CAG-L22, CAG-L23, CAG-L03 |
| Price at Launch | About 90 EUR |
Design and Build Quality
The Huawei Y3 (2018) featured a simple yet durable design. With a 5.0-inch display and a lightweight build of 150g, it was comfortable to hold and use for long periods. The phone’s plastic back and frame provided practicality while offering a glass front for added aesthetic appeal.
Its 18:9 aspect ratio display made it look more modern for a budget phone, while the device’s compact size made it easy to handle. Available in Gold, White, and Gray, the Huawei Y3 (2018) catered to users who preferred simple but stylish designs.
Display and Multimedia
The 5.0-inch IPS LCD display offered 480 x 854 pixels resolution, which was basic but sufficient for web browsing, social media, and video streaming. At a 196 ppi pixel density, it wasn’t as sharp as Full HD displays, but it still performed well for basic usage.
The phone included a 3.5mm headphone jack for users who preferred wired audio solutions and also supported FM radio, providing extra entertainment options for music lovers.
Camera System
The 8MP rear camera with PDAF (Phase Detection Autofocus) allowed for decent photography in well-lit environments. The addition of HDR and Panorama modes made the camera versatile for different shooting conditions, though it wasn’t as powerful as more premium phones.
The 2MP front camera was basic, but it served well for selfies and video calls. It was paired with a LED flash, enabling users to capture clearer photos in low-light conditions.
Performance and Software
The Mediatek MT6737M chipset combined with 1GB or 3GB RAM powered the Huawei Y3 (2018). While it wasn’t the most powerful chip, it was more than adequate for basic apps like messaging, social media, and web browsing. The Adreno 308 GPU handled light gaming, but heavy apps might not run as smoothly.
The device ran on Android 8.0 Oreo (Go edition), providing a lightweight experience with optimized apps and a clean UI. The phone had 8GB of internal storage, which was expandable via a dedicated microSD slot, a feature not often seen in budget devices.
Battery and Charging
The 2280mAh battery was sufficient for light daily use. The Huawei Y3 (2018) could comfortably last a day under normal conditions, such as browsing, calls, and light social media usage. The phone did not support fast charging, but the battery life was decent for its category.
Charging was handled via the microUSB 2.0 port, which was typical for budget smartphones.
Connectivity
The Huawei Y3 (2018) supported dual SIM functionality, allowing users to use two networks simultaneously, which is a helpful feature for managing work and personal numbers. It also included Wi-Fi b/g/n, Bluetooth 4.0, GPS, and FM radio, ensuring solid connectivity for various daily needs.
Conclusion
The Huawei Y3 (2018) was a budget-friendly smartphone designed for entry-level users who needed an affordable device for basic tasks. Its 5.0-inch display, 13MP rear camera, and solid performance made it a great choice for those who wanted a simple smartphone without breaking the bank.
While it lacked advanced features like fast charging and high-end specs, it offered a reliable experience for basic use and still delivered a modern design with an 18:9 aspect ratio. The Huawei Y3 (2018) is a good option for users seeking a basic, durable smartphone at an affordable price.
