HTC EVO 4G smartphone

Photo: Christian Lo via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.0)

HTC

HTC EVO 4G

June 4, 2010 8/10 Rating Updated
In brief: The HTC EVO 4G was a groundbreaking Android smartphone, notable as the first 4G-enabled device released. Launched by Sprint, it featured a large display and dual cameras, setting a new standard for mobile technology at the time.
Display4.3-inch WVGA TFT LCD
ChipsetQualcomm Snapdragon QSD8650
Main Camera8 MP with dual LED flash
Battery1500 mAh Li-Ion
Starting from $408

💰 HTC EVO 4G Price

The HTC EVO 4G lowest price is $408, based on current retailer listings.

📌 Full Specifications

Display

TypeTFT LCD capacitive touchscreen, 16M colors
Size4.3 inches
Resolution480 x 800 pixels (WVGA), 217 ppi density

Platform

OSAndroid 2.1 (Eclair), upgradable to 2.3.5 (Gingerbread) officially; unofficial support up to 4.4 (KitKat)
UIHTC Sense UI
ChipsetQualcomm QSD8650 Snapdragon S1
CPU1.0 GHz Scorpion
GPUAdreno 200

Memory

Internal1GB ROM (approx. 358MB user available), 512MB RAM
Card slotmicroSDHC (dedicated slot), 8GB card included, supports up to 32GB

Main Camera

ModulesSingle
Resolution8 MP, autofocus
FeaturesDual-LED flash, backside illumination, 720p HD video recording
Video720p

Selfie Camera

ModulesSingle
Resolution1.3 MP
FeaturesFixed focus, front-facing

Battery

TypeRemovable Li-Ion 1500 mAh battery
Talk timeUp to 6 hours (3G)

Body

Dimensions122 x 66 x 12.7 mm (4.8 x 2.6 x 0.5 inches)
Weight170 g (6.0 oz)
SIMMini-SIM
FeaturesBuilt-in kickstand

Comms

WLANWi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n
Bluetooth2.1, A2DP, EDR
GPSYes, with A-GPS
RadioFM radio
USBmicroUSB 2.0
HDMImicro-HDMI port

Launch

AnnouncedMarch 2010
StatusReleased June 2010

⚖ Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Pioneering 4G connectivity
  • Impressive 4.3-inch display for its time
  • Capable 8MP camera with HD video recording
  • Includes a front-facing camera for video calls
  • HDMI output and convenient kickstand for media
  • Responsive 1GHz Snapdragon processor

Cons

  • WiMAX 4G network is largely obsolete today
  • Outdated Android operating system (initially 2.1 Eclair)
  • Limited internal storage for modern applications
  • Battery life could be challenging with 4G usage
  • Relatively bulky and heavy by current standards
★ Our Verdict

The HTC EVO 4G was a highly innovative and influential device for its time, pioneering 4G technology and offering advanced features that set a benchmark for future smartphones.

The HTC EVO 4G is a significant piece of smartphone history, ideal for collectors or enthusiasts interested in vintage technology. However, it is not recommended for daily use in 2026 due to its outdated operating system, lack of modern app support, and reliance on the now-defunct WiMAX 4G network. Modern cellular networks and applications are incompatible, making it impractical for contemporary communication or internet access. Consider it a museum piece rather than a functional device.

📦 In The Box & Warranty

  • HTC EVO 4G Handset
  • 1500 mAh Lithium-ion Battery
  • AC Wall Charger
  • Micro-USB Cable
  • 8GB microSD Card
  • Getting Started Guide/Documentation

Original manufacturer warranty applied at the time of purchase, typically one year.

❓ Questions & Answers

What was the significance of the HTC EVO 4G?

The HTC EVO 4G was historically significant as the first 4G-enabled smartphone launched, marking a major leap in mobile internet speeds and capabilities.

What operating system did the HTC EVO 4G run?

The HTC EVO 4G initially ran on Android 2.1 (Eclair) with HTC Sense UI, and was officially upgradable to Android 2.3.5 (Gingerbread).

Does the HTC EVO 4G still work on modern networks?

No, the HTC EVO 4G relied on Sprint's WiMAX 4G network, which has since been decommissioned. It is not compatible with current 4G LTE or 5G networks.

What were the key features of the HTC EVO 4G's camera?

The HTC EVO 4G featured an 8-megapixel main camera with autofocus and dual-LED flash, capable of recording 720p HD video, and a 1.3-megapixel front-facing camera.

Was the HTC EVO 4G considered a powerful phone at its release?

Yes, at its release, the HTC EVO 4G was considered a powerful device, featuring a 1GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon processor and a large 4.3-inch display, which were top-tier specifications for 2010.

Is the HTC EVO 4G suitable for use today?

No, the HTC EVO 4G is not suitable for modern daily use due to its outdated software, incompatible network technology, and inability to run most current applications. It is primarily a collector's item.