HTC Desire X smartphone

Photo: Tomiqta via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)

HTC

HTC Desire X

October 2012 6/10 Rating Updated
In brief: The HTC Desire X is a mid-range Android smartphone released in October 2012. It features a 4-inch display, a dual-core 1GHz processor, and a 5MP main camera, running on Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich. It was positioned as an affordable option with design cues from HTC's One series.
Display4.0-inch 480x800 Super LCD
ChipsetQualcomm Snapdragon S4 Play
Main Camera5 MP with LED flash
Battery1650 mAh removable Li-Ion
Starting from $369

💰 HTC Desire X Price

The HTC Desire X lowest price is $369, based on current retailer listings.

📌 Full Specifications

Display

TypeSuper LCD capacitive touchscreen, 16M colors
Size4.0 inches
Resolution480 x 800 pixels
Pixel Density233 ppi

Platform

OSAndroid 4.0.4 (Ice Cream Sandwich), upgradable to 4.1.1 (Jelly Bean)
ChipsetQualcomm Snapdragon S4 Play (MSM8225)
CPUDual-core 1 GHz ARM Cortex-A5
GPUAdreno 203

Memory

Card slotmicroSDHC, up to 32GB
Internal4GB storage, 768MB RAM

Main Camera

Single5 MP
FeaturesAutofocus, LED flash, f/2.0 aperture, 28mm wide-angle lens, BSI sensor, HDR mode, VideoPic, Continuous Shooting
Video480p

Selfie Camera

SingleNo

Battery

TypeRemovable Li-Ion 1650 mAh battery

Body

Dimensions118.5 x 62.3 x 9.3 mm
Weight114 g
SIMMicro-SIM

Comms

WLANWi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, hotspot
Bluetooth4.0, A2DP
GPSYes, with A-GPS
NFCNo
RadioStereo FM radio with RDS
USBmicroUSB 2.0

Launch

AnnouncedAugust 2012
StatusReleased October 2012

⚖ Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Compact and ergonomic design
  • Decent performance for its class (mid-range)
  • Good camera features for a 5MP sensor
  • Built-in Beats Audio for enhanced sound
  • Expandable storage
  • Affordable price point at launch

Cons

  • Low internal storage (4GB)
  • Relatively low RAM (768MB)
  • No front-facing camera
  • Outdated Android version (Android 4.0 at launch)
  • Low screen resolution by modern standards
★ Our Verdict

The HTC Desire X offered a balanced mid-range experience with a compact design and good camera features for its era, but its limited internal storage and RAM were notable drawbacks even then, and it's now significantly outdated.

The HTC Desire X, released in 2012, is now a vintage smartphone and is not recommended for daily use in 2026. Its operating system (Android 4.0/4.1) is severely outdated, meaning it won't support most modern apps, security updates, or current web standards. Performance would be extremely slow, and the camera, while decent for its time, cannot compete with contemporary phone cameras. Battery life would also be a significant concern due to age. This device is primarily suitable for collectors, enthusiasts interested in mobile history, or for very basic, non-internet-dependent functions if you can find one in working condition. Do not purchase this phone expecting it to function as a modern smartphone.

📦 In The Box & Warranty

  • HTC Desire X Handset
  • Battery
  • Charger
  • USB Cable
  • Headphones
  • Quick Start Guide

Typically, a one-year manufacturer's warranty covered defects in materials and workmanship.

❓ Questions & Answers

What is the HTC Desire X?

The HTC Desire X is a mid-range Android smartphone released by HTC in October 2012, featuring a 4-inch display and a dual-core processor.

What operating system does the HTC Desire X run?

It originally launched with Android 4.0.4 Ice Cream Sandwich and was upgradable to Android 4.1.1 Jelly Bean.

Does the HTC Desire X have a good camera?

It features a 5-megapixel main camera with LED flash, autofocus, and several imaging enhancements like HDR mode, which was considered decent for a mid-range phone at its release.

Can I still use the HTC Desire X today?

While technically functional, the HTC Desire X is severely outdated and not recommended for modern daily use due to its old operating system, lack of app support, and security vulnerabilities.

What are the main drawbacks of the HTC Desire X?

Key drawbacks include limited 4GB internal storage, 768MB RAM, no front-facing camera, and an outdated Android version.

When was the HTC Desire X released?

The HTC Desire X was officially released in October 2012, following its unveiling in August 2012.