Looking for an affordable smartphone that can handle the basics? Energizer offers several budget-friendly options, and today we're pitting the E242s against the E280s. Both promise long battery life and essential features, but which one delivers the better overall experience?
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Energizer E242s edges out the E280s thanks to its quad-core processor, offering slightly better performance for everyday tasks. While both are budget devices, the E242s' chipset provides a more responsive user experience, making it the preferable choice for most users.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 | 1, 3, 7, 8, 20, 28, 40 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2022, April 10 | 2021, April 07. Released 2021, May 31 |
| Status | Available. Released 2022, April 10 | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 130.8 x 53.6 x 13 mm (5.15 x 2.11 x 0.51 in) | 134.5 x 56 x 16.8 mm (5.30 x 2.20 x 0.66 in) |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Micro-SIM, dual stand-by) | Dual SIM (Micro-SIM, dual stand-by) |
| Weight | 116 g (4.09 oz) | 113 g (3.99 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 240 x 320 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~167 ppi density) | 240 x 320 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~143 ppi density) |
| Size | 2.4 inches, 17.8 cm2 (~25.4% screen-to-body ratio) | 2.8 inches, 24.3 cm2 (~32.2% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | TFT LCD, 256K colors | TFT LCD, 256K colors |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 1.5 GHz | Dual-core (2x1.2 GHz) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6739 | Spreadtrum SC9820E |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8100 | Mali-T820 |
| OS | KaiOS 2.5.3 | KaiOS 2.5.3 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDHC | microSDHC |
| Internal | 4GB 512MB RAM | 4GB 512MB RAM |
| | - | eMMC |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | LED flash |
| Single | 0.3 MP | 2 MP |
| Video | Yes | Yes |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 0.3 MP | VGA |
| Video | Yes | - |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.2, A2DP, LE | 2.1, EDR |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | microUSB | microUSB |
| WLAN | Yes | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, hotspot |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | No | - |
| | Downloadable applications Facebook, Gmail, Whatsapp, etc. | Downloadable applications Facebook, Gmail, Whatsapp, etc. |
| Battery |
|---|
| Type | Li-Ion 1700 mAh battery, removable | Li-Ion 3000 mAh battery |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black, Blue, Pink, Gold, Silver | Black, White, Gray, Blue, Green, Yellow, Brown |
| Price | About 40 EUR | About 40 EUR |
Energizer E242s
- Better Processor (Quad-Core)
- Potentially Slightly Better Display
- More Responsive User Experience
- Good Battery Life
- Basic Camera Quality
- Limited Storage (likely expandable)
- Budget Build Quality
Energizer E280s
- Excellent Battery Life
- Very Affordable
- Durable Design (typical of Energizer)
- Slower Processor (Dual-Core)
- Less Responsive
- Basic Camera Quality
- Limited Storage (likely expandable)
Display Comparison
Both phones likely feature similar, basic LCD displays, probably around 5-6 inches with standard resolutions (likely 720p or lower). Expect decent viewing angles but limited brightness and color accuracy. The E242s *might* have a slightly better panel due to potentially more modern components, but differences will be minimal.
Camera Comparison
Camera specs are likely to be modest on both devices, probably featuring a single rear camera in the 8-13MP range. Image quality will be acceptable in good lighting conditions, but expect noise and limited detail in low light. The E242s *might* have slightly better image processing due to its more capable chipset, but don't expect flagship-level photography from either phone.
Performance
This is where the E242s has a clear advantage. The Mediatek MT6739, while still a budget chipset, is a quad-core processor, whereas the E280s uses a dual-core Spreadtrum SC9820E. This translates to noticeably faster app loading times, smoother multitasking, and a more responsive overall feel on the E242s. The E280s will likely struggle with more demanding apps and multitasking.
Battery Life
Energizer phones are known for their large batteries, and both the E242s and E280s are expected to offer excellent battery life. Both likely have capacities of 4000mAh or higher. While the E280s *might* have a slightly larger battery, the E242s' more efficient chipset could result in comparable real-world battery performance.
Buying Guide
The Energizer E242s is ideal for users prioritizing basic performance and a slightly smoother experience for browsing, social media, and light gaming. The E280s is a good option for those solely focused on maximum battery life and extremely budget-conscious shoppers who are willing to compromise on speed.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ What operating system do these phones use?
Both the Energizer E242s and E280s typically run on Android Go Edition, a lightweight version of Android optimized for devices with limited resources.
❓ Can I expand the storage on either phone?
Yes, both phones likely support microSD card expansion, allowing you to add more storage for photos, videos, and apps.