Review: ZTE Warp Sync for Boost Mobile
Mar 26, 2015, 7:00 PM by Eric M. Zeman
This Android phone for Boost Mobile covers the basics in a plain, but usable package. Budget shoppers who prefer pre-paid services might enjoy its stick-to-the-basics approach.
Is It Your Type?
ZTE's Warp Sync lands in the middle of the pack over at Boost Mobile. Many might call it an entry-level device, but its specs make it a balanced contender for your hard-earned cash. If you're looking for a no-nonsense device that boasts decent looks, good features, and good performance, the Warp Sync should be on your short list.
Body
The Warp Sync has a vanilla appearance, but I'd count that among its pros. It doesn't have the high-end character of the XMax+, nor does it have the newbie look of the Warp Sequent. The best way to describe it is to call it non-descript. It easily blends in and gets lost in the sea of black slabs available from phone makers near and far.
The Warp Sync's front face is glossy glass and the back is matte plastic. I like the combination of materials and textures, which meet in a distinct seam along the four side edges. Branding and logos are kept to a minimum, leaving the phone almost entirely black.
The Warp Sync has a 5-inch screen, so it's not a dainty device. It's about the same size as the Motorola Moto G. The corners are rounded gently so the phone feels comfortable when gripped. It's just big enough that I have to adjust my grip a little so my thumb can reach the upper portions of the screen. The phone has a weighty feel to it. You can slip it into your pockets without any trouble, despite the somewhat thick girth.
ZTE did a fine job assembling the phone. Everything fits together tightly. The materials aren't top-of-the-line, but nonetheless I was pleased with the overall look, fit, and finish of the phone.
Glass forms the entire front surface of the Warp Sync. It's held in place with a noticeable rim that circles the glass. The rim protects the screen when the device is placed face-down on a flat surface. Some such rims are bothersome; this one is not. ZTE cut a hole in the glass for the earpiece grille, and the user-facing camera is visible next to it. ZTE adorned the Warp Sync with three capacitive buttons below the screen for controlling the phone. They worked without issue.
You'll find the volume toggle perched on the left edge of the phone. It's a long, slim affair that has a decent profile, but offers cheap-feeling travel and feedback. The screen lock button is all by itself on the right edge of the phone. It has the same profile as the volume toggle, but travel and feedback are a smidge better.
The micro-USB port is also located on the left side of the phone, which I find really annoying; I'd prefer to see it on the top or the bottom. The headphone jack is on the top of the phone. The bottom is blank.
The back surface has several nice design elements. The camera module is a glossy, elongated oval. It stands out nicely from the matte surface of the battery cover. There are also four rows of tiny holes forming the grille for the speakerphone. The back cover comes off easily thanks to a generously-sized notch for your thumb. Some will be happy to know that the battery itself is removable. With the rear exposed, you also have access to the memory and SIM cards.
ZTE crafted a fine piece of hardware in the Warp Sync, even if it borders on boring.
About the author, Eric M. Zeman:Eric has been covering the mobile telecommunications industry for 17 years at various print and online publications. He studied at Rutgers Newark and University of Kentucky, and has a degree in writing. He likes playing guitar, attending concerts, listening to music, and driving sports cars.
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ZTE Warp Sync
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