Note: I describe the new (March 2015) version of the S4 Mini with the number GT 9195i ('i-version'; also referred to as S4 mini Plus, S4 mini Value Edition). This is the GT 9195 version very similar, the biggest difference is that a quad-core processor (4x1,2 Ghz) instead of a dual-core (2x1,7 Ghz) is installed.
DESIGN: What is not so clearly visible in the photos, is the mini compared to S3 and also to most other smartphones extremely elongated design due to the 16: 9 screen format changed and the narrow margins. In the beginning it gave me did not like, but you get used to it fairly quickly. What also quickly noticed is that the home button is significantly loftier than the S3 mini, but only positively noticeable after a short use. The 'Options' button at the bottom left was a' replaces active Anwendungen' button. (The latter only in the new version!)
Positive fall on the metallic-looking frame, but also the cover on the back, which in comparison to the S3 mini less bulbous (and 1 mm thin) and thereby looks noble.
SCREEN: Even if the resolution of 960x540 compared to 800x480 the smaller displays of S3 mini sounds not necessarily much better, you can tell the difference, even if it amounts to 233 in the DPI (pixel density) 256. In fact, the screen dissolves with considerable 35% more pixels. So it is with regard to the pixel density, although below the average of current models, for me, it is quite sufficient.
The screen format was 1.66: 1 changed the S3 Mini to 1.77: 1 (16: 9). Mir does have the old format much better liked, but 16: 9 screens in smartphones have become standard nunmal today (Thanks, Apple!). However, this is a matter of taste, I have already got used to me.
The screen size has been increased from 4 to 4.3 inches. However, this increase concerns only the length, the display of the S4 mini is made only in 1mm wide.
PERFORMANCE: Performance-wise, the difference with the S3 mini (the 2x1 Ghz version) is clearly visible. The S4 mini runs noticeably more fluid, apps like the camera to start faster. The RAM has been increased to 0.5 GB 1.5 GB, of which 1.35 GB are available. However, this increase was also necessary, as ever about 850 MB of operating system and background functions are occupied.
CAMERA: The camera has a resolution of 8 MP (5 MP at S3 mini). The difference can be seen clearly at maximum zoom. However, default is 6 MP with an aspect ratio of 16: 9 to use the full 8 MP, the picture format must be set to 4: 3 changed.
Battery: The battery appears as it did when S3 Mini to last very long. Very positive is the Android 4.4.4 contained in ultra-energy-saving mode, in which you can reduce the functions of the device automatically to a minimum. Very convenient if you want to use the alarm function of the phone: With only the ultra-power-saving mode and offline mode, it consumes only 1-4% battery at night.
OPERATING SYSTEM: The new S4 mini version GT 9195i is (contrary to the information) delivered the same with Android 4.4.4. Although I rate here really only the hardware, since Android OS is not so directly in Samsung's responsibility. But as hardware and software represent a total package, I'm shortly thereafter: What immediately catches the eye, are in comparison to version 4.1 (the S3 mini) very bright and bright colors (whether Google because Apple has been inspired?) , At the beginning gave me the did not like, but you get used to it. There are some meaningful new features added (camera on lock screen, more customization options, etc.), but unfortunately a lot of small, but useful functions away, which I find very annoying. But I can live with it.
Conclusion: The main advantages / disadvantages of the S4 mini
+ Beautiful design
+ Slightly thinner and lighter
+ Good display
+ Good working speed
+ Better Camera
o Android 4.4.4 (a matter of taste)
EDIT after 1 month use:
I am completely satisfied with the device. Just the look and the design are an absolute treat!
I also now have a few comparison photos to S3 mini (white and black) uploaded.
