Gadget review: Le Max smartphone

What: Le Max

At a glance: 6.3-inch screen, 21MP primary camera and Snapdragon 810 processor

Best buy: ₹6,999 (on flipkart.com)

USP: Flagship phone with a gigantic screen

Last month, Apple went small with its iPhone 5SE. Its latest offering is a rarity in the world of smartphones, where screen sizes seem to have gotten bigger, model after model, year on year. In fact, manufacturers seem to have all but abandoned the sub-4-inch phone. So, with a 6.3-inch screen, LeEco's Le Max attempts to go one size up on its competitors.

What's good: The Le Max is a flagship device with an eye-catching design. Even the gold variant does not seem too loud or gaudy. The big screen size ensures that you get value for money in terms of entertainment — games come to life, pictures look great and watching videos or reading books is an enjoyable experience.

The device is powered by a Snapdragon 810 processor, making multi-tasking on the phone a smooth experience. Regular apps and games function well, and the device does not heat up even after continuous use.

Another plus is the battery (3400mAh battery), which easily lasts for a day and a half with moderate usage. The phone did not let us down when we had to use the device extensively for seven hours over the course of an event.

The phone comes with a 21MP primary camera, which works well outdoors and in well-lit conditions. The fingerprint sensor is on par with other competitive devices while the phone's pixel resolution (2560x1440) ensures that you get a sharp, colourful display. The phone's EUI (Eco User Interface) comes with a learning curve, but is not too difficult to pick up.

What's not: We did have an issue with the size, which is the phone's USP. It was difficult to get our small fingers around the phone. This also meant that we were extra cautious while using the device for the fear of dropping it. The camera was not up to the mark in low-light conditions. Also, at `36,999, the price is on the steeper side, especially if you consider its flagship Chinese counterparts offering as many features at a lower price.

Verdict: While the phone's size does work to its advantage at times, it can also act as a deterrent. Buyer discretion is advised.