Nokia 3330 vs Nokia 3510i: A Blast from the Past

Remember the days of Snake, indestructible phones, and long battery life? The Nokia 3330 and 3510i represent a simpler era of mobile technology. But which of these iconic devices is the better choice for a nostalgic throwback?

Phones Images

🏆 Quick Verdict

The Nokia 3510i edges out the 3330 due to its slightly more refined design and potentially better call quality. Both offer incredible battery life and a durable build, making them perfect for those seeking a basic, reliable phone experience. Ultimately, it's a close call!

PHONES
Phone Names	Nokia 3330	Nokia 3510i

Network
2G bands	GSM 900 / 1800	GSM 900 / 1800
EDGE	No	No
GPRS	No	Class 4
Technology	GSM	GSM

Launch
Announced	2001	2002, Q4
Status	Discontinued	Discontinued

Body
Dimensions	113 x 48 x 22 mm, 97 cc (4.45 x 1.89 x 0.87 in)	118 x 50 x 17 mm, 98 cc (4.65 x 1.97 x 0.67 in)
SIM	Mini-SIM	Mini-SIM
Weight	133 g (2.86 oz)	106 g (3.74 oz)

Display
Resolution	5 lines	96 x 65 pixels, 3:2 ratio
Type	Monochrome graphic	CSTN, 4096 colors
	Dynamic font size Softkey Screensavers Welcome message	Screensavers with clock Wallpapers Dynamic font size Softkey

Memory
Call records	20 dialed, 10 received, 10 missed calls	20 dialed, 10 received, 10 missed calls
Card slot	No	No
Phonebook	100	500 (3 + 1 text)
	Message templates8 voice dial numbers	Dynamic phonebook memory Editable message templates 10 voice dial numbers 100-500 Calendar notes

Sound
3.5mm jack	No	No
35mm jack	No	No
Alert types	Vibration; Downloadable monophonic ringtones	Vibration; Downloadable polyphonic, monophonic ringtones
Loudspeaker	No	No
	6 Ringing tone levels 10 Volume levels	-

Comms
Bluetooth	No	No
Positioning	No	No
Radio	No	No
WLAN	No	No

Features
Alarm	Yes	Yes
Browser	WAP	WAP 1.2.1
Clock	Yes	Yes
Games	5 ( Snake II, Pairs II, Space Impact, Bantumi, Bumper )	Java games
Java	No	No
Languages	17 for menu, 11 for T9	Country dependant
Messaging	SMS	SMS, MMS
	Downloadable game packs via WAP Predictive text input Smart messaging Calculator Voice Dial Mobile Chat mode for SMS Profiles Currency converter	Predictive text input Smart messaging Organizer Voice Dial Customizable and downloadable profiles

Battery
Stand-by	55 h to 245 h	up to 13 days
Talk time	2 h 30 min to 4 h 30	2h 30min - 4h 30min
Type	Removable NiMH 900 mAh battery (BMC-3)	Removable Li-Ion 950 mAh battery (BLC-2)

Misc
Colors	User exchangeable front and back covers	Xpress-on covers
SAR EU	0.96 W/kg (head)	0.66 W/kg (head)

Camera
	No	No

Nokia 3330

Iconic design
Extremely durable
Long battery life
Simple to use

Basic features
No camera
Small screen
Limited functionality

Nokia 3510i

Slightly more modern design
Potentially better call quality
Long battery life
Durable build

Basic features
No camera
Small screen
Limited functionality

Display Comparison

Both phones feature small, monochrome displays typical of their era. The 3510i might have a marginally brighter screen, but the difference is minimal and largely unnoticeable in most lighting conditions. Expect basic text and icon rendering.

Camera Comparison

Neither phone boasts a camera. This is a key characteristic of these retro devices – they prioritize simplicity and durability over advanced features.

Performance

Performance is limited by the hardware. Both phones are designed for calls, texts, and basic games like Snake. Don't expect multitasking or fast app loading. The 3510i might have a slightly more responsive user interface due to minor internal differences.

Battery Life

Both are renowned for their exceptional battery life. Expect several days of use on a single charge, even with moderate texting and gaming. This is a major advantage over modern smartphones.

Buying Guide

The Nokia 3330 is ideal for those who prioritize a classic, instantly recognizable design and a simple user interface. The Nokia 3510i is a better fit for users who want a slightly more modern aesthetic and potentially improved audio performance.