The LEAGOO Elite 1 is presented as one of the most promising Android smartphones from China, standing out primarily for its excellent value for money and a list of specifications typically associated with much more expensive devices. This comprehensive review details all the phone's technical aspects, design, user experience, photography, battery life, and connectivity. It is especially designed for those looking for a powerful, elegant, and secure device without breaking the bank.
Design and construction materials
The LEAGOO Elite 1 surprises with its distinguished design and high-quality materials, unusual in its price range. Its aluminum-magnesium chassis provides remarkable robustness and lightness, complemented by a front and back panel made of hardened glass with Corning Gorilla Glass 3 protection . The result is an elegant phone with a premium finish and a comfortable feel in the hand. Its rounded edges and clean lines are reminiscent of iconic devices from previous generations, such as the iPhone 4/4s, yet it possesses its own distinct identity.
- Dimensions 143,8 mm high x 69,5 mm wide x 7,5 mm thick
- Weight: 136 grams, which gives it lightness and good ergonomics
- Available colors: White, black and champagne
The unibody design improves structural rigidity, although it prevents battery removal. Details such as the fingerprint sensor integrated into the Home button, the metal frame, and the use of drop- and scratch-resistant materials contribute to its sophisticated appearance and durability.
display features
- Size: 5,0 inches
- Technology: JDI IPS with LTPS (Low Temperature PolySilicon) panel and 16 million colors
- Resolution: FullHD 1920 x 1080 pixels
- Density: 441 pixels per inch (ppi)
- Protection: Corning Gorilla Glass 3
- Contrast: 1000:1
- Percentage of front occupied by screen: 69,2 %
The screen offers excellent clarity and color reproduction , suitable for multimedia, reading, and gaming. Viewing angles are very wide, with no perceptible color distortion, and the maximum brightness (~400 lux) allows for good visibility outdoors. The LTPS panel sits virtually flush with the glass, preventing unwanted reflections and providing a smooth and precise touch experience. Color, temperature, and contrast adjustments can be customized using the MiraVision function available in the display settings, ideal for those who want to tailor the display to their preferences.
The device features reduced side bezels (approximately 2 mm) that, while not completely eliminating the "black frames" on the display, do contribute to an immersive experience. The 5-inch physical and ergonomic size makes it comfortable to operate with one hand, concentrating the visual quality of higher-end models in a compact format.
Power and Hardware: Processor, RAM and storage
- Processor (SoC): MediaTek MTK6753, Octa-core (8 cores) ARM Cortex-A53 at 1,3 GHz, 64-bit, manufactured in 28 nm process
- GPU (graphics): ARM Mali-T720 MP3, 3 cores at 450 MHz
- RAM: 3 GB, LPDDR3 type at 666 MHz (single channel)
- Internal storage: 32GB, expandable via microSD (supports microSD, microSDHC, microSDXC up to an additional 64GB)
- Operating system: Android 5.1 Lollipop with Leagoo OS 1.1 customization layer
The Leagoo Elite 1 was one of the best affordable smartphones at the time, offering a great combination of processor and RAM. The MT6753 has proven to be a well-balanced chip in terms of performance and energy efficiency . Its eight Cortex-A53 cores allow for smooth multitasking, opening multiple apps simultaneously without noticeable slowdowns. The 3GB of RAM is especially useful for those who demand speed when multitasking, browsing the internet, using social media, and running demanding games without the system constantly killing background processes.
The Mali-T720 MP3 GPU is sufficient for enjoying mainstream games and graphics applications, although some very demanding 3D titles may require medium or low settings to maintain a smooth frame rate. In benchmark tests, the device achieved remarkable scores:
- AnTuTu 5.7.1 (64-bit): 33.649 points
- Quadrant: 21.320 points
- Epic Citadel: 55 fps in High Performance, 26,6 fps in Ultra High Quality
- 3DMark Ice Storm: 7.734 (basic), 6.415 (unlimited), 4.380 (extreme)
The 32GB of storage is above average for its segment, allowing you to install apps and store photos, videos, and music without immediate worries about space. Furthermore, it supports microSD expansion up to 64GB , very useful for users who need to carry large amounts of data or install demanding games.
Advanced security: Fingerprint reader
One of the distinguishing features of the Leagoo Elite 1 is its capacitive fingerprint reader , a feature previously reserved for much more expensive models or premium brands. The sensor is integrated into the physical Home button, allowing for quick and secure unlocking of the device. Unlike optical readers, this capacitive sensor only requires placing your finger on it for recognition, similar to the experience offered by flagship models from Samsung and Apple.
What can you do with the fingerprint reader?
- Unlock your phone instantly without entering a PIN or pattern
- Block access to selected apps for added privacy
- Make online payments more securely with compatible apps
- Access to private spaces or "hidden mode", where you can hide applications, messages and calls only accessible by fingerprint
The system includes advanced configuration options, so you can add multiple fingerprints, choose which actions will require biometric identification, and define the button response (opening apps, quick actions, etc.).
Photography and video: main and front cameras
- Rear camera: Sony IMX214 Exmor RS sensor, 13 MP real (16 MP by interpolation), f/2.0 aperture, dual LED flash, autofocus, FullHD 1080p recording at 30 fps
- Frontal camera: Sony sensor, 8 MP real (13 MP by interpolation), f/2.4 aperture, 77° field of view, dedicated front flash
- Photography modes: HDR, beauty, panorama, face detection, touch focus, continuous shooting, pro mode (ISO, white balance, exposure settings)
- Other functions: Stealth/Safe mode for photos, video recording in 1080p (main) and 720p (front)
The Leagoo Elite 1 offers respectable image quality for its price range. The IMX214 sensor delivers sharp, well-exposed images in daylight, with good backlighting performance thanks to HDR mode and acceptable dynamic range. The dual LED flash helps reduce noise and maintain true-to-life colors in low-light situations. Full HD recording allows for smooth and detailed videos, although it's limited to 30 fps and lacks advanced features like slow motion.
The front camera, with a dedicated flash and wide field of view, allows for high-quality selfies and bright video calls. The "beauty mode" is particularly noteworthy, though it can be excessive in some settings but is configurable.
The camera software includes features such as gesture shooting, creative filters, and a timer, providing versatility for users who want to experiment. There are no advanced manual controls for exposure or shutter speed settings, but the interface is intuitive and fast.
Both cameras support high-definition video recording and allow you to geotagging your shots, adding location information, and instantly sharing them on social media.
Autonomy and battery
- Type: Li-ion (lithium ion), non-removable
- Capacity 2.300-2.400 mAh nominal
- Duration in normal use: Up to 13 hours of talk time, up to 500 hours of standby time
- Supported networks: 2G, 3G and 4G LTE
The Leagoo Elite 1 's battery is one of the few areas where it doesn't outperform higher-end competitors, but it's on par with the average for its price range when it was released. Its capacity allows for a full day of moderate use, alternating between web browsing, messaging, and multimedia. More demanding users may require a recharge by mid-afternoon, especially if they engage in extended gaming sessions, GPS navigation, or intensive photography.
In battery life tests such as PCMark Work Performance, sufficient values were obtained for a full workday with standard use. The MTK6753 processor's power management helps minimize idle power consumption, although a slightly higher consumption was reported when the fingerprint reader was used intensively.
The device charges via microUSB (USB 2.0) and supports bulk charging, computer synchronization, and OTG connectivity. Since the battery is not easily replaceable, it is recommended to use it in conjunction with portable external batteries during long commutes or trips.
Software, customization and user experience
- Operating system: Android Lollipop 5.1
- Personalization layer: Leagoo OS 1.1
- Supported languages: More than 40 languages, including Spanish, English, French, German, Portuguese, Italian, Catalan, Polish, Russian, Arabic, Chinese, Japanese, and Korean.
- Additional functions: On-screen gestures, safe/private mode, iOS-like launcher (no app drawer), optimized multitasking, widget support
Leagoo OS 1.1 brings a refreshed visual environment to Android, featuring flat icons, quick settings, wake-up gestures from the off screen, and a launcher that does away with the app drawer in favor of iPhone-style home screens. While this customization may confuse some users with the stock Android interface, it's possible to install alternative launchers to revert to the classic experience.
Advanced features include:
- On-screen gesture support: To open apps directly from the screen off (e.g., draw a C for the camera)
- Hidden/Safe Mode: Ability to hide apps, messages and calls, unlocking only with a fingerprint or code
- Additional physical button: On the right side, configurable to launch any app or execute quick actions
- LED notification light: Customizable for apps and events
- Energy Saving Assistant to expand autonomy
Leagoo OS introduces slight changes to system settings and menu organization. For those who prefer a more clean environment, installing an alternative launcher like Nova or Google Now is simple and compatible.
Connectivity, networks and sensors
- Dual SIM Support: Dual microSIM, both active (dual standby)
- Mobile networks:
- 2G: GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 MHz
- 3G: WCDMA 900 / 2100 MHz
- 4G LTE: FDD-LTE 800/1800/2100/2600 MHz, up to 150 Mbps
- Wi-Fi: 802.11 b / g / n, Hotspot, Wi-Fi Direct
- Bluetooth: 4.0, A2DP support
- GPS and A-GPS: Full support for satellite navigation and location
- USB connection: MicroUSB 2.0, OTG (On-The-Go) support and bulk charging
- Audio jack: 3,5 mm
- FM radio: Built-in radio tuner
- Others: HotKnot (NFC-like technology for file transfer), LED notification light, proximity sensors, ambient light, accelerometer and compass.
The Leagoo Elite 1 is fully compatible with 4G networks in Spain, Latin America, and Europe, guaranteeing high-speed downloads and browsing . Dual SIM connectivity allows you to separate work and personal lines or combine carriers to take advantage of different rates and coverage. GPS and A-GPS provide fast and accurate location tracking, ideal for navigation, sports, and map applications.
Among the advanced features, HotKnot support stands out, allowing for quick file sharing between compatible devices simply by bringing the screens close together. It also includes a built-in FM radio tuner, highly valued by those who want access to music and news offline.
Audio, multimedia and supported formats
- Speaker: Built-in speaker and earpiece for calls and media playback
- Image Formats: BMP, GIF, JPEG, PNG
- Music formats: AAC, APE, FLAC, MP3, OGG, WAV, WMA
- Video Formats: 3GPP, AVI, H.263, H.264, MP4, MPEG4, VP8, Xvid
- FM radio tuner, voice recorder, ebook player, calendar, email manager.
Its extensive multimedia format support allows it to play virtually any audio or video file. The inclusion of FLAC, OGG, and APE ensures lossless quality for audiophiles, while the headphone output and built-in speaker offer good power and clarity for casual music listening or hands-free calls.
The video player supports up to Full HD on the screen, ideal for enjoying streaming movies or series. The FM radio is another plus for those who prefer news and music content without relying on data connectivity.
Included accessories and expansion options
- OTG cable to connect USB flash drives, keyboards or mice
- Charger and microUSB cable
- Hands-free headset
- Multilingual user manual
- SIM/MicroSD tray ejector tool
Thanks to OTG support , you can connect various USB peripherals to the phone, expanding its capabilities. The microSD slot supports cards up to 64GB, and high-speed cards (Class 10 or higher) are recommended to take full advantage of the multimedia and storage capabilities.
Availability, price and offers
The LEAGOO Elite 1 positioned itself in the market as one of the most competitive options in its price range, with prices below €200 in major online stores. It typically ranged from €160 to €179, and could be found for even less thanks to promotions and discount coupons at stores like Everbuying.
- Estimated starting price: $179,99 (~€160 standard conversion)
- Common discount coupons: «Elite1»
- Available in black, white and gold
The model also frequently appears on other import platforms, where the price-performance ratio remains very attractive on the secondhand or remnant market.
Comparison and evaluation against the competition
Within the upper mid-range, the Leagoo Elite 1 competes directly with models like the Elephone P8000 , Alcatel Idol 3 , and BQ Aquaris E5 4G . They all share similar processors, but the Elite 1 stands out by offering more RAM , a premium design with glass on both sides, and a fingerprint reader. If you'd like to learn more about other devices with good features and prices, you can also check out other smartphones from well-known brands.
Alternative Leagoo models in the same family
For those looking for even more affordable alternatives, the Leagoo brand has other versions in its catalog, such as the Leagoo Elite 4 :
- Display: 5-inch qHD (960 x 540 pixels)
- Processor: MTK6735 Quad Core 1.0 GHz
- GPU: Mali-T720
- RAM: 1 GB
- Internal storage: 16 GB expandable
- Rear camera: 8 MP interpolated
- Front camera: 5 SM
- Battery: 2.500 mAh
- Android: 5.1 Lollipop
- 4G LTE: Yes
The Leagoo Elite 4 can be found at reduced prices and with temporary promotions, ideal for those who want a phone with 4G connectivity and basic features at a good price without sacrificing the full Android experience. From a performance and build quality standpoint, this model is a more economical option compared to the Elite 1, but if you're looking for a good balance, we also recommend considering options like the Doogee T5.
The Leagoo Elite 1 offers standout features in its segment: a crisp screen, a smooth processor, ample memory, versatile cameras, and a robust set of security features, all housed in an attractive and durable body. It's designed for those seeking the best balance of quality, design, and price, especially if protecting privacy and having full connectivity are among their priorities. If you have any experience with this device or other Leagoo models, please feel free to leave your opinion and questions in the comments section below the article.
