Samsung Galaxy S Lightray 4G Pro Reviews

Based on my experience with the Samsung Galaxy S Lightray 4G, it's a hard device to recommend. Not because it isn't a solid smartphone. In fact, it is. Nearly every feature offered by the Lightray performs far beyond other MetroPCS devices recently reviewed by Phone Scoop. The form is good; the signal, calling, and data performance are all good; the camera and video camera work well; and the software runs fine thanks to the speedy Exynos processor. But the Lightray delivers too little when it comes to the main feature: Dyle TV. True, it's a burgeoning service that is apt to improve and grow, but MetroPCS wants $460 from you today for a mediocre service that's of limited availability. Looking at MetroPCS's current lineup of smartphones, the next device down the rung costs $250 -- that's $210 less than the Lightray. That's the difference you're paying for a handful of live mobile TV stations. Does that sound worth it? It doesn't to me.

The Samsung Galaxy S Lightray 4G is essentially the Droid Charge with just one or two new features and a much higher price tag. The phone's ability to play live TV is nice, but I'm having a hard time recommending the Lightray when you can get the unlocked Samsung Galaxy Nexus for considerably less. If you're set on buying a smartphone on MetroPCS, look into the LG Connect 4G: Although it does come with a bit of bloatware, at least it has LTE and more-modern specs.

In my view it's wise to be wary of products with first-gen services or hardware. The $459 Samsung Galaxy S Lightray 4G is great example of this. Those expecting the handset to operate as a true portable TV set picking up all the free digital TV stations in range will be sorely disappointed. With only four channels to choose from and a locked-down HDMI port, the Lightray won't replace your cable box anytime soon. Also, the phone runs an outdated Android operating system that's powered by a weak single-core processor. Sure, the Lightray 4G has a decent camera, LTE data, and colorful screen, but if you're on Metro PCS, then choosing the more affordable $199 Samsung Galaxy Attain 4G would be a better decision.

The Samsung Lightray for MetroPCS has some excellent new features, including free mobile broadcast TV, but they can't overcome the phone's very high price.