Remember the Dell Streak? These early Android smartphones attempted to bridge the gap between phones and tablets. We're revisiting two of them – the Streak Pro D43 and the Streak 7 – to see how they hold up and which one offers a slightly better experience today. Let's dive in!
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Dell Streak Pro D43 edges out the Streak 7 thanks to its faster processor and slightly better overall performance. While both are dated, the Pro D43's Snapdragon chipset provides a more responsive experience, making it the marginally better choice for those seeking a nostalgic Android device.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 900 / 1700 / 2100 | HSDPA 900 / 1900 / 2100 / 1700 |
| Speed | HSPA 14.4/5.76 Mbps | HSPA |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA | GSM / HSPA |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2011, December. Released 2012, Q3 | 2011, February. Released 2011, March |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 124.9 x 64.5 x 10.3 mm (4.92 x 2.54 x 0.41 in) | 200 x 119.8 x 12.4 mm (7.87 x 4.72 x 0.49 in) |
| SIM | Micro-SIM | Mini-SIM |
| Weight | 145 g (5.11 oz) | 453.6 g (1.00 lb) |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass | Corning Gorilla Glass |
| Resolution | 540 x 960 pixels, 16:9 ratio (~256 ppi density) | 480 x 800 pixels, 5:3 ratio (~133 ppi density) |
| Size | 4.3 inches, 51.0 cm2 (~63.3% screen-to-body ratio) | 7.0 inches, 139.5 cm2 (~58.2% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | Super AMOLED | TFT |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Dual-core 1.5 GHz Scorpion | Dual-core 1.0 GHz Cortex-A9 |
| Chipset | Qualcomm MSM8260 Snapdragon S3 | Nvidia Tegra 2 T20 |
| GPU | Adreno 220 | ULP GeForce |
| OS | - | Android 2.2 (Froyo), 2.3 (Gingerbread), upgradable to 3.2 (Honeycomb) |
| Memory |
|---|
| Call records | Practically unlimited | - |
| Card slot | microSDHC (dedicated slot) | microSDHC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 8GB ROM, 1GB RAM | 16GB |
| Phonebook | Practically unlimited entries and fields, Photocal | - |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | LED flash |
| Single | 8 MP, AF | 5 MP, AF |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 720p |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 1.3 MP | 1.3 MP |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 2.1, A2DP, EDR | 2.1, A2DP, EDR |
| Positioning | GPS, A-GPS | GPS, A-GPS |
| Radio | Stereo FM radio, RDS | No |
| USB | microUSB 2.0 | 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, hotspot | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, hotspot |
| Features |
|---|
| Browser | - | HTML, Adobe Flash |
| Games | Yes + downloadable | - |
| Java | Yes, via Java MIDP emulator | - |
| Messaging | SMS(threaded view), MMS, Email, IM | - |
| Sensors | Accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass | Accelerometer, proximity, compass |
| | SNS integration
MP4/WMV/H.264 player
MP3/WAV/eAAC+ player
Organizer
Photo/video editor
Document editor
Voice memo/dial/commands
Predictive text input | MP4/H.264/WMV player
MP3/WAV/eAAC+/WMA player
QuickOffice document viewer
Photo viewer/editor
Organizer
Predictive text input |
| Battery |
|---|
| Stand-by | Up to 281 h (2G) / Up to 353 h (3G) | Up to 72 h |
| Talk time | Up to 13 h (2G) / Up to 9 h (3G) | Up to 4 h |
| Type | Removable Li-Ion 1520 mAh battery | Non-removable Li-Ion 2780 mAh battery |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black | Gray |
| Price | About 450 EUR | About 210 EUR |
Dell Streak Pro D43
- Faster Processor (Snapdragon S3)
- Slightly Better Battery Life
- More Responsive UI
- Unique Large Screen Size
- Lower Screen Resolution
- Dated Design
- Poor Camera Quality
- Limited App Support
Dell Streak 7
- Larger Screen (7 inches)
- Potentially Lower Price (Used)
- More Manageable Size
- Decent for Media Consumption
- Slower Processor (Tegra 2)
- Lower Screen Resolution
- Poor Camera Quality
- Limited App Support
Display Comparison
Both devices feature large displays – the Streak 7 at 7 inches and the Pro D43 at 4.3 inches. The Streak 7's display is generally considered slightly better due to its higher resolution (1024x600 vs. 960x540). However, both suffer from relatively low pixel density by modern standards, resulting in noticeable pixelation.
Camera Comparison
Camera quality on both devices is underwhelming by today's standards. Both feature 8MP rear cameras, but image quality is poor, with limited dynamic range and noticeable noise. Low-light performance is particularly bad. Don't expect to take stunning photos with either device.
Performance
The Streak Pro D43 boasts a Qualcomm Snapdragon S3 with a dual-core 1.5 GHz Scorpion processor, significantly faster than the Streak 7's Nvidia Tegra 2 T20 with a dual-core 1.0 GHz Cortex-A9. This translates to snappier app loading, smoother multitasking, and a generally more responsive user experience on the Pro D43. Both devices will struggle with modern, demanding games.
Battery Life
The Streak 7 has a larger battery (1500 mAh) compared to the Streak Pro D43 (1200 mAh). However, the Pro D43's more efficient processor often results in comparable or even slightly better battery life in real-world usage. Expect around 6-8 hours of moderate use on either device.
Buying Guide
The Dell Streak Pro D43 is for Android enthusiasts seeking a unique, large-screen experience and don't mind a bit of lag. The Dell Streak 7 is suitable for those prioritizing a slightly smaller form factor and a more manageable price (if found used). Both are best suited for light use and nostalgia.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Are these phones still worth buying?
Only for collectors or those seeking a nostalgic Android experience. Don't expect modern performance or features.
❓ What Android version do these phones run?
Both originally shipped with Android 2.2 (Froyo). Custom ROMs may be available, but support is limited.
❓ Can I use these phones with a modern SIM card?
Likely, but compatibility depends on your carrier and SIM card size. You may need an adapter.
