The mid-to-late 2000s were a wild time for smartphones. Devices running Windows Mobile were battling it out, and the Acer Stream and HTC HD2 were two prominent contenders. Both offered a glimpse into the future, but how do they stack up today? Let's dive in.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The HTC HD2 edges out the Acer Stream due to its slightly more robust build quality, larger screen, and generally better software support during its lifespan. While both share similar core specs, the HD2's design and broader appeal give it a slight advantage in this retro comparison.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 900 / 2100 |
| Speed | HSPA 7.2/2 Mbps | HSPA 7.2/2 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA | GSM / HSPA |
| | HSDPA 900 / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 2100 - Australian Version |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2010, May. Released 2010, August | 2009, October. Released 2009, November |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 119.5 x 63 x 11.2 mm (4.70 x 2.48 x 0.44 in) | 120.5 x 67 x 11 mm (4.74 x 2.64 x 0.43 in) |
| SIM | Mini-SIM | Mini-SIM |
| Weight | 140 g (4.94 oz) | 157 g (5.54 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 480 x 800 pixels, 5:3 ratio (~252 ppi density) | 480 x 800 pixels, 5:3 ratio (~217 ppi density) |
| Size | 3.7 inches, 39.0 cm2 (~51.8% screen-to-body ratio) | 4.3 inches, 52.6 cm2 (~65.2% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | AMOLED | TFT, 65K colors |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | 1.0 GHz Scorpion | 1.0 GHz Scorpion |
| Chipset | Qualcomm QSD8250 Snapdragon S1 | Qualcomm QSD8250 Snapdragon S1 |
| GPU | Adreno 200 | Adreno 200 |
| OS | Android 2.1 (Eclair) | Microsoft Windows Mobile 6.5 Professional, Sense UI |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDHC (dedicated slot), 8 GB included | microSDHC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 2GB 512MB RAM | 448MB RAM, 512MB ROM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | - | Dual-LED flash |
| Single | 5 MP, AF | 5 MP, AF |
| Video | 720p@24fps | 480p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| | Dedicated music keys | - |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 2.1, A2DP | 2.1, A2DP |
| Positioning | GPS, A-GPS | GPS, A-GPS; NaviPanel |
| Radio | Stereo FM radio, RDS | Stereo FM radio, RDS |
| USB | microUSB 2.0 | microUSB |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, DLNA & UPnP technology | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g, Wi-Fi router |
| Features |
|---|
| Browser | HTML | WAP 2.0/xHTML, HTML |
| Sensors | Accelerometer, proximity, compass | Accelerometer, proximity, compass |
| | Micro HDMI port
Dedicated search key
MP3/WAV/WMA/eAAC+ player
MP4/Xvid/WMV/H.264 player
Document viewer
Voice memo
Predictive text input | MP3/WAV/WMA/eAAC+ player
MP4/WMV/H.264 player
Facebook and Twitter integration
YouTube client
Pocket Office
HTC Peep, HTC Footprints
Voice memo
Predictive text input |
| Battery |
|---|
| Music play | - | Up to 12 h |
| Stand-by | Up to 400 h (3G) | Up to 490 h (2G) / Up to 390 h (3G) |
| Talk time | Up to 5 h (3G) | Up to 6 h 20 min (2G) / Up to 5 h 40 min (3G) |
| Type | Removable Li-Ion 1400 mAh battery | Removable Li-Ion 1230 mAh battery |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black | Black |
| Price | About 130 EUR | About 140 EUR |
| SAR | - | 0.63 W/kg (head) 0.72 W/kg (body) |
| Tests |
|---|
| Audio quality | - |
Noise -89.0dB / Crosstalk -87.5dB |
| Camera |
Photo |
Photo |
| Loudspeaker |
Voice 63dB / Noise 65dB / Ring 75dB
|
Voice 75dB / Noise 72dB / Ring 78dB |
Acer Stream
- Lower screen resolution
- Potentially less software support
- Generally considered less refined design
HTC HD2
- Higher screen resolution
- More recognizable design
- Generally better software support during its lifespan
- Slightly better battery life
- Still slow by modern standards
- Camera quality is poor
Display Comparison
Both devices feature a 3.2-inch touchscreen display, but the HTC HD2 boasts a higher resolution (800x480) compared to the Acer Stream (320x240). This results in noticeably sharper images and text on the HD2. Viewing angles and color accuracy are typical for the era – not exceptional, but functional.
Camera Comparison
Both devices feature a 3.2MP camera, described simply as 'Photo' in the provided specs. Image quality is, unsurprisingly, quite poor by today's standards. Expect grainy photos with limited dynamic range. Don't expect to capture stunning images with either device.
Performance
Powered by a 1.0 GHz Scorpion CPU and the Qualcomm QSD8250 Snapdragon S1 chipset, both phones offer similar performance. Expect sluggishness by modern standards, especially when multitasking or running demanding applications. Windows Mobile wasn't known for its speed, and these devices reflect that.
Battery Life
The HTC HD2 generally had a slightly larger battery capacity (1200 mAh) compared to the Acer Stream (1200 mAh, though some sources suggest slightly less). This translates to marginally better battery life on the HD2, though both will require frequent charging with moderate use.
Buying Guide
The Acer Stream might appeal to hardcore Windows Mobile enthusiasts seeking a less common device. The HTC HD2 is a better choice for those wanting a more recognizable and slightly more capable retro smartphone experience, especially if they can find one in good condition.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Are these phones still usable today?
Yes, but with significant caveats. They run Windows Mobile, which is no longer supported. You can still use them for basic tasks like web browsing and email, but don't expect modern app compatibility or security updates.
❓ Where can I find these phones?
You'll likely need to search online marketplaces like eBay or specialized retro phone retailers. Be prepared to pay a premium for a working model in good condition.
