Ericsson T39 vs. Ericsson T20s: A Blast from the Past

The late 90s and early 2000s were a golden age for mobile phones, and Ericsson was a major player. Today, we're diving into a comparison of two relatively obscure models: the Ericsson T39 and the Ericsson T20s. While detailed specs are scarce, we'll leverage general knowledge and design cues to determine which phone holds up better.

Phones Images

🏆 Quick Verdict

Given the T20s' generally more refined design and likely slightly better feature set (based on the era), it likely edges out the T39. However, both represent a fascinating glimpse into a bygone era of mobile technology. Ultimately, the 'winner' depends on your preference for aesthetics and specific features.

PHONES
Phone Names	Ericsson T39	Ericsson T20s

Network
2G bands	GSM 900 / 1800 / 1900	GSM 900 / 1800
EDGE	No	No
GPRS	Yes	No
Technology	GSM	GSM

Launch
Announced	2001	2000
Status	Discontinued	Discontinued

Body
Dimensions	96 x 50 x 18 mm (3.78 x 1.97 x 0.71 in)	101 x 54 x 28 mm (3.98 x 2.13 x 1.10 in)
SIM	Mini-SIM	Mini-SIM
Weight	86 g (3.03 oz)	128 g (4.52 oz)

Display
Resolution	101 x 54 pixels, 4 lines, 17:9 ratio	101 x 33 pixels, 3 x 12 chars
Type	Grayscale graphic	Monochrome graphic

Memory
Call records	10 received, dialed and missed calls	10 received, dialed and missed calls
Card slot	No	No
Phonebook	510	99
	-	SMS Templates

Sound
3.5mm jack	No	No
35mm jack	No	No
Alert types	Vibration; Downloadable monophonic ringtones, composer	Vibration; Monophonic ringtones, composer
Loudspeaker	No	No

Comms
Bluetooth	1.0b	No
Infrared port	Yes	-
Positioning	No	No
Radio	No	No
WLAN	No	No

Features
Alarm	Yes	Yes
Browser	WAP 1.2.1	WAP
Clock	Yes	Yes
Games	Yes	4 - Tetris, Erix, E-maze, Ballpop
Java	No	No
Languages	37	24
Messaging	SMS, Email	SMS
	Predictive text input Organizer Voice dialing Voice answering Profiles Helptexts and shortcuts Active flip	Swatch Internet Time Voice dial Voice answer Calculator Stopwatch Start-up shut-down shows Profiles Active flip

Battery
Stand-by	up to 29 days	200 h
Talk time	up to 25 h	10 h
Type	Removable NiMH battery	Removable NiMH battery

Misc
Colors	3 - Classic Blue, Icecap Blue, Rose White	4 - Blue Whirl, Lime Twist, Silver Weave, Beige Harmony

Camera
	No	No

Ericsson T39

Potentially more rugged design
Classic Ericsson aesthetic
Likely good battery life

Likely limited features
Potentially lower screen quality
Scarce information available

Ericsson T20s

Potentially more refined design
Likely slightly better features
Classic Ericsson aesthetic
Likely good battery life

Likely limited features
Scarce information available
May be more fragile than the T39

Display Comparison

Both phones likely featured small, monochrome or basic color LCD screens typical of the era. The T20s might have a slightly higher resolution or a more advanced display technology, but definitive information is unavailable. Expect limited viewing angles and low brightness.

Camera Comparison

Cameras were rare on phones of this generation. It's unlikely either phone had a camera, or if it did, the image quality would be extremely poor. Don't expect anything beyond grainy, low-resolution snapshots.

Performance

Performance would have been dictated by the processors of the time, likely slow by today's standards. Both would be adequate for basic calling, texting, and simple games. The T20s might have a marginally faster processor or more RAM, leading to slightly smoother operation.

Battery Life

Battery life would have been a strong point for both, as they lacked power-hungry features like large screens and constant data connectivity. Expect several days of use on a single charge, depending on usage patterns.

Buying Guide

The Ericsson T39 and T20s are primarily for collectors and enthusiasts interested in retro mobile phones. The T39 might appeal to those seeking a more rugged or utilitarian design. The T20s is likely a better choice for those appreciating a more polished and modern (for the time) aesthetic.