In a world dominated by smartphones, the appeal of a simple, reliable feature phone is experiencing a resurgence. We pit the LG KU580 against the iconic Nokia 5610 XpressMusic, two devices representing different approaches to the feature phone experience. This comparison isn't about raw power, but about usability, durability, and catering to a specific need for focused communication and entertainment.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user seeking a durable, long-lasting phone primarily for calls and basic music playback, the Nokia 5610 XpressMusic emerges as the stronger contender. Its dedicated music keys and established brand reputation for reliability give it an edge over the relatively obscure LG KU580.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | UMTS 2100 | UMTS 850 / 2100 |
| Speed | Yes, 384 kbps | Yes, 384 kbps |
| Technology | GSM / UMTS | GSM / UMTS |
| | - | UMTS 850 / 1900 - American version |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2007, April. Released 2007, December | 2007, August. Released 2007, October |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 94 x 53 x 16.5 mm (3.70 x 2.09 x 0.65 in) | 98.5 x 48.5 x 17 mm, 75 cc (3.88 x 1.91 x 0.67 in) |
| SIM | Mini-SIM | Mini-SIM |
| Weight | 73 g (2.57 oz) | 111 g (3.92 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 240 x 320 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~200 ppi density) | 240 x 320 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~182 ppi density) |
| Size | 2.0 inches, 12.4 cm2 (~24.9% screen-to-body ratio) | 2.2 inches, 15.0 cm2 (~31.4% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | TFT, 256K colors | TFT, 16M colors |
| | Touch-sensitive navigation keys with backlights
Downloadable wallpapers | NaviSlide navigation key
Downloadable themes
|
| Memory |
|---|
| Call records | 40 dialed, 40 received, 40 missed calls | Yes |
| Card slot | microSD (dedicated slot) | microSDHC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 45MB | 20MB |
| Phonebook | Yes | 2000 entries, Photocall |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | - | LED flash |
| Single | 2 MP | 3.15 MP, AF |
| Video | Yes | 480p@15fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | VGA videocall camera | VGA videocall camera |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | No | No |
| 35mm jack | No | No |
| Alert types | Vibration; Downloadable polyphonic ringtones | Vibration; Downloadable polyphonic, MP3, MP4, WMA, AAC, video tones ringtones |
| Loudspeaker | No | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 2.0 | 2.0, A2DP |
| Positioning | No | No |
| Radio | FM radio | Stereo FM radio, RDS |
| USB | Proprietary | microUSB 2.0 |
| WLAN | No | No |
| Features |
|---|
| Browser | WAP 2.0/xHTML | WAP 2.0/xHTML, HTML (Opera mini) |
| Games | Yes | Snake II, Rally 3D, Music Guess, Towerbloxx |
| Java | Yes, MIDP 2.0 | Yes, MIDP 2.0 |
| Messaging | SMS, EMS, MMS, Email | SMS, MMS, Email, Instant Messaging |
| | MP3/eAAC+/WMA player
Predictive text input
Organizer
Voice memo
| MP3/MP4/AAC/eAAc/WMA player
Nokia sensor
World Clock II
Converter II
Predictive text input
Stopwatch
Voice memo/commands |
| Battery |
|---|
| Stand-by | - | Up to 320h |
| Talk time | - | Up to 6h |
| Type | Removable Li-Ion 860 mAh battery | Removable Li-Ion 900 mAh battery (BP-5M) |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black | Red, Blue |
| Price | About 70 EUR | About 110 EUR |
| SAR | 0.59 W/kg (head) 0.51 W/kg (body) | 1.13 W/kg (head) 0.81 W/kg (body) |
| SAR EU | - | 1.25 W/kg (head) |
LG KU580
- Potentially lower price point
- Basic functionality for calls and texts
- Compact and lightweight design
- Limited brand recognition
- Likely inferior music playback experience
- Potentially shorter software support lifespan
Nokia 5610 XpressMusic
- Dedicated music keys for easy control
- Strong brand reputation for durability
- Potentially better audio quality and software features
- May be more expensive than the LG KU580
- Small screen size
- Limited app support
Display Comparison
Given the era of these phones, both the LG KU580 and Nokia 5610 XpressMusic likely feature small, low-resolution color displays – likely around 2.0-2.2 inches with resolutions around 176x220 pixels. The Nokia 5610, being marketed towards music lovers, may have slightly better color reproduction to enhance album art viewing. However, neither display will compete with modern smartphone screens; the focus is on legibility and power efficiency, not visual fidelity. Bezels are substantial on both, dictated by the technology and design constraints of the time.
Camera Comparison
Both the LG KU580 and Nokia 5610 XpressMusic likely include basic VGA (0.3MP) cameras. Image quality will be poor by modern standards, suitable only for very basic snapshots. The Nokia 5610 may offer slightly better software features for image capture and sharing, given its broader marketing appeal. The cameras are not a selling point for either device; they are included as a convenience feature, not for serious photography.
Performance
Performance is largely irrelevant in the context of these feature phones. Both rely on basic processors designed for call handling, SMS messaging, and simple applications. The Nokia 5610 XpressMusic, with its emphasis on music playback, likely benefits from slightly optimized firmware for audio processing. However, neither device will exhibit any noticeable lag or performance issues, as their tasks are extremely limited. RAM capacity is minimal on both, likely under 32MB, sufficient for their intended functions.
Battery Life
Battery life is a key strength of both devices. Feature phones are incredibly power efficient compared to smartphones. The Nokia 5610 XpressMusic, with its dedicated music player, likely features a slightly larger battery capacity (around 860mAh) to support extended playback. The LG KU580 likely has a similar capacity. Both should easily provide several days of standby time and hours of talk time on a single charge. Charging times will be slow, likely taking several hours via a proprietary charger.
Buying Guide
Buy the LG KU580 if you need a basic, no-frills phone and can find it at a significantly lower price point than the Nokia 5610. It likely serves as a functional backup device. Buy the Nokia 5610 XpressMusic if you prioritize a dedicated music experience with physical controls, a more recognizable brand known for build quality, and potentially better long-term software support (even for a feature phone).
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Nokia 5610 XpressMusic still a good choice for listening to MP3s?
Absolutely. The Nokia 5610 XpressMusic was specifically designed for music playback. Its dedicated music keys, headphone jack, and potentially optimized audio firmware make it a surprisingly capable MP3 player, especially for its age. It supports microSD cards for storing a large music library.
❓ How durable are these phones compared to modern smartphones?
Both the LG KU580 and Nokia 5610 XpressMusic are significantly more durable than most modern smartphones. They are built with simpler, more robust materials and lack fragile glass displays. They can withstand drops and bumps that would easily damage a smartphone.
❓ Can I use a microSD card with either of these phones?
Yes, both the LG KU580 and Nokia 5610 XpressMusic support microSD card expansion, allowing you to increase storage for contacts, messages, and especially music files on the Nokia 5610.
❓ Will these phones work with modern mobile networks?
These phones support 2G and likely 3G networks. However, 2G and 3G networks are being phased out in many countries. Check with your mobile carrier to ensure compatibility before purchasing.
