The Nokia 3310 and Motorola RAZR V3xx represent distinct eras of mobile technology. The 3310, a symbol of near-indestructibility and extended battery life, catered to practicality. The RAZR V3xx, conversely, prioritized fashion and a sleek, ultra-thin design, appealing to a style-conscious audience. This comparison examines how these philosophies translate to usability and relevance today.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the user prioritizing longevity, reliability, and extended battery life, the Nokia 3310 is the clear winner. Its legendary durability and simple functionality outweigh the RAZR V3xx’s aesthetic appeal, especially given the limited functionality of both devices in a modern context.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 900 / 1800 | GSM 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | - | HSDPA 850 / 1900 |
| EDGE | No | - |
| GPRS | No | - |
| Speed | - | HSPA 3.6/0.384 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM | GSM / HSPA |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2000 | 2006, July |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 113 x 48 x 22 mm, 97 cc (4.45 x 1.89 x 0.87 in) | 103 x 53 x 15 mm, 80 cc (4.06 x 2.09 x 0.59 in) |
| SIM | Mini-SIM | Mini-SIM |
| Weight | 133 g (4.69 oz) | 107 g (3.77 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 5 lines | 240 x 320 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~182 ppi density) |
| Size | - | 2.2 inches, 33 x 45 mm, 15.0 cm2 (~27.5% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | Monochrome graphic | TFT, 256K colors |
| | - | Second external CSTN, 65K colors display (96 x 80 pixels)
Screensavers and wallpapers
Downloadable logos |
| Memory |
|---|
| Call records | 8 dialed, 8 received, 8 missed calls | 10 dialed, 10 received, 10 missed calls |
| Card slot | No | microSD (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | - | 50MB |
| Phonebook | SIM only | 1000 entries, Photocall |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Single | - | 1.3 MP |
| Video | - | Yes |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | - | VGA videocall camera |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | - | No |
| 35mm jack | No | No |
| Alert types | Vibration; Downloadable monophonic ringtones | Vibration; Downloadable polyphonic, MP3 ringtones |
| Loudspeaker | No | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | No | 2.0, A2DP |
| Positioning | No | No |
| Radio | No | No |
| USB | - | miniUSB |
| WLAN | No | No |
| Features |
|---|
| Alarm | Yes | - |
| Browser | - | WAP 2.0/xHTML, HTML (Opera) |
| Clock | Yes | - |
| Games | 4 ( Snake II, Pairs II, Space Impact, Bantumi ) | Yes |
| Java | No | Yes, MIDP 2.0 |
| Languages | 17 for menu, 11 for T9 | - |
| Messaging | SMS | SMS, EMS, MMS, Email, Instant Messaging |
| | - | Video download
MP3/AAC/AAC+ player
Predictive text input
Organizer
Voice memo |
| Battery |
|---|
| Stand-by | 55 h to 245 h | Up to 290 h |
| Talk time | 2 h 30 min to 4 h 30 | Up to 3 h |
| Type | Removable NiMH 900 mAh battery (BMC-3) | Removable Li-Ion 940 mAh battery |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | User exchangeable front and back covers | Black |
| Price | - | About 160 EUR |
| SAR EU | 0.96 W/kg (head) | - |
Nokia 3310
- Exceptional durability and build quality
- Incredibly long battery life
- Simple and reliable functionality
- Monochrome display
- Lack of advanced features
- Limited storage capacity
Motorola RAZR V3xx
- Iconic and stylish design
- Color display
- Compact and pocketable form factor
- Fragile display when open
- Short battery life
- Limited functionality
Display Comparison
Both devices feature small, low-resolution displays typical of their era. The Nokia 3310 utilizes a monochrome display, prioritizing power efficiency. The Motorola RAZR V3xx, while offering a color display, suffers from limited viewing angles and low brightness. The RAZR’s screen, though visually more appealing initially, is more susceptible to scratches and damage due to its exposed design when flipped open. The 3310’s simpler display contributes to its overall robustness.
Camera Comparison
Neither the Nokia 3310 nor the Motorola RAZR V3xx feature a camera. This reflects the technological limitations and market priorities of the time. The absence of a camera contributes to the 3310’s simplicity and durability, eliminating a potential point of failure. The RAZR V3xx’s focus was on design, not photography.
Performance
Performance is largely irrelevant in this comparison, as both phones are limited to basic calling and texting. The Nokia 3310’s simpler software stack likely results in slightly faster response times for core functions. The RAZR V3xx, with its more complex interface and limited processing power, may exhibit slight lag when navigating menus. However, neither phone is capable of running modern applications or handling demanding tasks.
Battery Life
The Nokia 3310 is renowned for its exceptional battery life, capable of lasting days or even weeks on a single charge due to its low-power display and efficient circuitry. The Motorola RAZR V3xx, with its color display and more complex internal components, offers significantly shorter battery life, typically lasting only a day or two with moderate use. This difference is a key advantage for the 3310, making it ideal for situations where access to power is limited.
Buying Guide
Buy the Nokia 3310 if you need a supremely durable, long-lasting phone for basic communication, or as a reliable backup device. Its focus is on function over form. Buy the Motorola RAZR V3xx if you prioritize a stylish, iconic design and are willing to trade some practicality for a statement piece. It's a collector's item as much as a phone.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Nokia 3310 still useful in 2024?
Absolutely. While it lacks modern features, the Nokia 3310 excels as a reliable backup phone, a device for emergencies, or for individuals who prefer a minimalist mobile experience. Its durability and long battery life make it ideal for travel or situations where smartphone access is impractical.
❓ Is the Motorola RAZR V3xx worth buying as a collector's item?
The Motorola RAZR V3xx holds significant nostalgic value and is a popular collector's item. Its iconic design and historical importance make it appealing to those interested in the evolution of mobile technology. However, its functionality is limited, and its fragility requires careful handling.
❓ Can I use a modern SIM card with either of these phones?
Compatibility with modern SIM cards can be an issue. Both phones use Mini-SIM cards, and newer SIMs may not fit physically. Furthermore, network compatibility is limited to 2G networks, which are being phased out in many regions. Check network compatibility before purchasing.
