We're pitting a modern entry-level smartphone, the HMD 150 Music, against a true icon of early mobile technology, the Panasonic GD35. This isn't a direct competition in terms of features, but a fascinating look at how far mobile phones have come, and what compromises are made at the budget end of the spectrum. The GD35 represents a pivotal moment in mobile history, while the HMD 150 Music aims to deliver essential smartphone functionality at an incredibly accessible price point.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user in 2024, the HMD 150 Music is the clear winner. While the Panasonic GD35 holds significant historical value, the HMD 150 Music offers modern smartphone capabilities – app access, internet connectivity, and a color display – that the GD35 simply cannot match. The Unisoc chipset provides a functional, if basic, smartphone experience.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 900 / 1800 | GSM 900 / 1800 |
| EDGE | No | No |
| GPRS | No | No |
| Technology | GSM | GSM |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2025, March 02 | 2001 |
| Status | Available. Released 2025, March | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 130.5 x 52.9 x 14.8 mm (5.14 x 2.08 x 0.58 in) | 120 x 46 x 20 mm (4.72 x 1.81 x 0.79 in) |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Mini-SIM, dual stand-by) | Mini-SIM |
| Weight | 83.1 g (2.93 oz) | 109 g (3.84 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 240 x 320 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~167 ppi density) | - |
| Size | 2.4 inches, 17.8 cm2 (~25.8% screen-to-body ratio) | - |
| Type | TN TFT | Monochrome graphic |
| Platform |
|---|
| Chipset | Unisoc 6531F | - |
| Memory |
|---|
| Call records | Yes | 10 received, dialed and missed calls |
| Card slot | microSDHC | No |
| Internal | 8MB 8MB RAM | - |
| Phonebook | Yes | 50 |
| | - | Message templates |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | - |
| Single | QVGA | - |
| Video | Yes | - |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | - | No |
| 35mm jack | Yes | No |
| Alert types | - | Vibration; Monophonic ringtones |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | No |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP | No |
| NFC | No | - |
| Positioning | No | No |
| Radio | Unspecified | No |
| USB | USB Type-C 1.1 | - |
| WLAN | No | No |
| Features |
|---|
| Alarm | - | Yes |
| Browser | - | WAP 1.1 |
| Clock | - | Yes |
| Games | Yes | 1 - |
| Java | No | No |
| Messaging | SMS | SMS |
| Sensors | No | - |
| | - | Predictive text input
Calculator
On/off timers
Alert Profiling |
| Battery |
|---|
| Stand-by | - | up to 175 h |
| Talk time | - | 2 h - 4 h |
| Type | 2500 mAh, removable | Removable NiMH 700 mAh battery |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Blue, Gray, Violet | 3 - Winter White, Black Ice, Cool Blue |
HMD 150 Music
- Modern smartphone functionality (apps, internet)
- Color display for improved readability
- Camera for basic photo capture
- Likely limited performance with demanding apps
- Basic camera quality
Panasonic GD35
- Iconic design and historical significance
- Exceptional standby time for its era
- Compact and lightweight
- Monochrome display
- Limited functionality (no apps, internet)
Display Comparison
The HMD 150 Music features a color display, a fundamental advantage over the monochrome screen of the Panasonic GD35. While the HMD 150 Music's display resolution and panel technology are not specified, it undoubtedly offers superior readability and visual experience. The GD35’s small screen size and limited display capabilities were typical for its time, prioritizing battery life over visual fidelity. The HMD 150 Music, even with a basic panel, benefits from decades of display technology advancements.
Camera Comparison
The HMD 150 Music likely includes a basic camera, though the resolution is not specified. This allows for simple photo capture, a feature entirely absent in the Panasonic GD35. The GD35 focused solely on communication and did not include any camera functionality. The inclusion of even a low-resolution camera on the HMD 150 Music represents a significant leap in mobile phone capabilities, enabling users to document and share moments.
Performance
The HMD 150 Music is powered by the Unisoc 6531F chipset, a quad-core processor designed for entry-level smartphones. This allows for basic app functionality and web browsing. The Panasonic GD35, lacking a modern chipset, relies on its internal hardware for call management and limited features. Comparing raw processing power is irrelevant; the Unisoc 6531F enables a completely different class of functionality – app execution, multimedia playback, and internet access – that the GD35 cannot provide. The GD35’s performance was optimized for voice calls and SMS messaging, a far cry from the multitasking demands of a modern smartphone.
Battery Life
The HMD 150 Music’s battery capacity is not specified, but modern battery technology and the efficiency of the Unisoc 6531F likely provide a reasonable day of use with moderate activity. The Panasonic GD35, designed for minimal power consumption, boasted impressive standby times for its era. However, its limited functionality meant it wasn't actively draining power like a modern smartphone. The GD35 prioritized longevity through simplicity, while the HMD 150 Music balances functionality with battery life.
Buying Guide
Buy the HMD 150 Music if you need a functional, affordable smartphone for basic communication, music playback, and occasional internet browsing. It's ideal for first-time smartphone users or as a reliable backup device. Buy the Panasonic GD35 if you're a collector of vintage mobile technology, appreciate its historical significance, or are interested in experiencing the limitations and innovations of early mobile phone design. It's a piece of history, not a daily driver.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Unisoc 6531F chipset in the HMD 150 Music capable of running popular social media apps?
The Unisoc 6531F is an entry-level chipset, so performance with demanding apps like Facebook or Instagram will be limited. Basic functionality should be possible, but expect slower loading times and potential lag. It's best suited for lightweight apps and essential communication.
❓ Can the Panasonic GD35 still connect to a modern mobile network?
No, the Panasonic GD35 operates on older 2G networks, which are being phased out in many countries. It will likely not function on current mobile networks without specific adapters or in regions where 2G is still active.
❓ What kind of SIM card does the HMD 150 Music use?
The HMD 150 Music likely uses a Micro-SIM card, which is standard for many entry-level smartphones. However, it's best to confirm this with the product packaging or retailer.
❓ Is the Panasonic GD35 worth buying as a collector's item?
For enthusiasts of early mobile technology, the Panasonic GD35 is a highly sought-after collector's item. Its innovative design and historical significance make it a valuable piece of mobile history, but its functionality is severely limited by today's standards.
