Microsoft

Microsoft Lumia 530: Pros and Cons

Microsoft Windows 8.1
Qualcomm Snapdragon 200 MSM8212
Adreno 302
512 MB / 4 GB
4 inch (480 x 854 px)
5 MP, 2592 x 1936 px

Microsoft announced the launch of the Lumia 530 smartphone in 2014. The manufacturer is offering this smartphone with 4 inch TFT display, Qualcomm Snapdragon 200 MSM8212 SoC, and 512 MB of RAM. The Lumia 530 comes with Microsoft Windows 8.1 pre-installed. This phone uses a 4 inch TFT display. This phone has only one rear-camera (5 MP, 2592 x 1936 px) on its back for photos and videos.

Table of Contents

This article shares our personal experiences and thoughts about using the Microsoft Lumia 530 smartphone. We hope to offer helpful insights to others interested in this device. The specifications below are from the official manufacturer data, but we also consider user reviews. If you've seen any mistakes or things missing in these specifications, please let us know.

Microsoft Lumia 530 / 1

Microsoft Lumia 530 specifications

BrandMicrosoft
NameLumia 530
ModelL530
Release date2014

Weight, dimensions, colors

Weight4.55 oz
Dimensions4.71 x 2.45 x 0.46 inch
Colorsbright green, bright orange, dark grey, white
SIM typeMicro SIM

The weight of the Microsoft Lumia 530 is still considered to be lightweight and portable. A micro SIM is larger than the current standard Nano SIM card but smaller than the older SIM card size.

Microsoft Lumia 530 / 1

System, chipset, performance

OS versionMicrosoft Windows 8.1
SoCQualcomm Snapdragon 200 MSM8212
CPUQuad-core 1.2 GHz Cortex-A7
GPUAdreno 302

The Microsoft Lumia 530 comes with Microsoft Windows 8.1 out of the box. The quad-core mobile CPU can provide fast and efficient performance for mobile games. Smartphones, tablets, and other mobile devices use Adreno GPUs.

Microsoft Lumia 530 / 2

Display type, size, resolution

Display typeTFT
Screen size4 inch
Resolution480 x 854 px
Multitouch supportyes

This 4 inch smartphone comes with a TFT display. Smaller smartphones are generally more compact and easier to handle. The display size is the diagonal distance from one corner of the screen to the opposite corner.

Microsoft Lumia 530 / 3

Memory, storage

RAM512 MB
Internal storage4 GB
Memory card slotmicroSD

512 MB of RAM is not typically considered to be enough for a smartphone. The needed RAM amount for good performance depends on factors. These include the OS, the apps, and the services you use. If you use your smartphone for basic tasks like calling, texting, and browsing the web, 32GB may be sufficient for your needs. You can expand the internal storage of the Lumia 530 (4 GB) by using a compatible microSD card.

Microsoft Lumia 530 / 4

Cameras, flash

Main camera5 MP, 2592 x 1936 px
Flashno
Selfie camerano

You may have budget limits. Or, you may prioritize other features over a multi-camera system. If so, this single camera setup can be a good choice. The Lumia 530 comes with a basic camera setup and lacks any advanced features.

Connectivity, network, wireless

GSM 2G bands850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900
Network coverage2G / 3G
Wi-FiWi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n
Bluetoothv4.0, A2DP, LE
GPSA-GPS, GLONASS
NFCno
FM radioyes
USBmicroUSB 2.0
Headphone3.5 mm jack

Compared to modern 4G and 5G networks, 3G networks are much slower. The Lumia 530 supports the latest Wi-Fi standards. You can use Bluetooth to connect your Lumia 530 smartphone to many Bluetooth devices. The Lumia 530 has a GPS receiver. Many fitness and activity tracking apps rely on GPS. It is used to accurately measure and record outdoor activities. The phone isn't NFC (Near Field Communication) capable. NFC is not essential for basic phone functionality, but it can be useful. The 3.5 mm headphone jack allows you to connect wired headphones or earphones to the device.

Battery type, capacity, charger

TypeLi-Ion 1430 mAh

The Li-Ion 1430 mAh battery gives the smartphone a good battery backup. The Li-ion is a low maintenance battery. It does not need periodic full discharge. You can simply buy a new battery from the open market and interchange it by yourself.

Features, sensors, specials

Sensorsaccelerometer

Today, smartphones come with many sensors. They help make the user experience better. The Lumia 530 smartphone has an accelerometer.

Verdict, pros and cons

Every phone has its strengths and weaknesses, and this Microsoft phone is no exception. As with any device, there are aspects that shine and others that fall short. By examining both sides, we can paint a complete picture of what this phone has to offer. Let's explore its standout features and areas for improvement. Remember, this is just my opinion, and yours might be different.

Pros

  • microSD slot

Cons

  • TFT display
  • limited-size screen
  • insufficient memory
  • insufficient internal storage
  • single camera setup
  • no OIS function
  • lack of autofocus
  • no 4G support
  • no 5G support
  • no NFC feature
  • no Type-C USB port
  • low-capacity battery
  • no digital compass
  • no fingerprint reader
Add Microsoft Lumia 530 to your comparison

Please let us know if you find incorrect information or something isn't working. Also, tell us if you have a suggestion for improvement.

Lucas Bradley I'm Lucas Bradley, the founder of the Phone42.com site. I love technology, especially smartphones, and I've been working with tech stuff for more than 20 years. This means I've seen a lot of changes and have learned a bunch about what makes a good phone. On Phone42.com, I look at all kinds of phones. They can be from big, well-known companies or new ones trying to make their mark. I want to help people understand what's new and cool in the world of smartphones, in a way that's easy to get.
Phone42.com / Smartphones / Microsoft / Microsoft Lumia 530