The Nokia 8800 Arte series represents the pinnacle of luxury mobile phone design. These iconic devices, known for their premium materials and unique sliding mechanism, have become highly sought-after collectibles. But what are the key differences between the Carbon Arte and the Sapphire Arte?
🏆 Quick Verdict
Both phones offer a premium experience, but the Sapphire Arte generally commands a higher price due to its use of sapphire crystal. The Carbon Arte offers a more understated, sophisticated look. Ultimately, the choice depends on your aesthetic preference and budget.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | UMTS 2100 | UMTS 2100 |
| Speed | Yes, 384 kbps | Yes, 384 kbps |
| Technology | GSM / UMTS | GSM / UMTS |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2008, August. Released 2008, September | 2007, November. Released 2008, February |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 109 x 45.6 x 14.6 mm, 65 cc (4.29 x 1.80 x 0.57 in) | 109 x 45.6 x 14.6 mm, 65 cc (4.29 x 1.80 x 0.57 in) |
| SIM | Mini-SIM | Mini-SIM |
| Weight | 150 g (5.29 oz) | 150 g (5.29 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | Scratch-resistant glass | Scratch-resistant glass |
| Resolution | 240 x 320 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~200 ppi density) | 240 x 320 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~200 ppi density) |
| Size | 2.0 inches, 12.4 cm2 (~24.9% screen-to-body ratio) | 2.0 inches, 12.4 cm2 (~24.9% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | OLED, 16M colors | OLED, 16M colors |
| | - | Sapphire gem stone on D-pad |
| Memory |
|---|
| Call records | 20 dialed, 20 received, 20 missed calls | 20 dialed, 20 received, 20 missed calls |
| Card slot | No | No |
| Internal | 4GB | 1GB |
| Phonebook | 1000 entries, Photocall | 1000 entries, Photocall |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Single | 3.15 MP, AF | 3.15 MP, AF |
| Video | 480p@15fps | 480p@15fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | No | No |
| 35mm jack | No | No |
| Alert types | Vibration; Downloadable polyphonic, MP3, video ringtones ringtones | Vibration; Downloadable polyphonic, MP3, video ringtones ringtones |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 2.0, A2DP | Yes |
| Positioning | No | No |
| Radio | No | No |
| USB | microUSB 2.0 | microUSB, OTG |
| WLAN | No | No |
| Features |
|---|
| Browser | WAP 2.0/xHTML, Adobe Flash Lite | WAP 2.0/xHTML |
| Games | Yes + Downloadable | Yes + Downloadable |
| Java | Yes, MIDP 2.1 | Yes, MIDP 2.0 |
| Messaging | SMS, MMS, Email, IM | SMS, MMS, Email |
| Sensors | Accelerometer | Accelerometer |
| | Carbon fiber and titanium body
MP4/WMV/H.264 player
MP3/WMA/WAV/eAAC+ player
Organizer
Photo editor
Voice memo
Predictive text input | MP3 player
Voice memo
Predictive text input
Organizer
|
| Battery |
|---|
| Stand-by | Up to 300 h (2G) / Up to 288 h (3G) | Up to 300 h (2G) / 288 h (3G) |
| Talk time | Up to 3 h (2G) / Up to 2 h 45 min (3G) | Up to 3 h (2G) / 2 h 45 min (3G) |
| Type | Removable Li-Ion 1000 mAh battery (BL-4U) | Removable Li-Ion 1000 mAh battery (BL-4U) |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black | Brown |
| Price | About 840 EUR | About 720 EUR |
| SAR | - | 0.39 W/kg (head) 0.60 W/kg (body) |
| SAR EU | - | 0.34 W/kg (head) |
| Tests |
|---|
| Loudspeaker |
Voice 66dB / Noise 66dB / Ring 66dB
| - |
Nokia 8800 Carbon Arte
- Understated, sophisticated design
- Excellent tactile feel due to carbon finish
- Generally more affordable than the Sapphire Arte
- Durable carbon construction
- Standard glass screen is susceptible to scratches
- Limited smartphone functionality by modern standards
- Can be difficult to find in pristine condition
Nokia 8800 Sapphire Arte
- Superior scratch resistance due to sapphire crystal display
- Visually striking and luxurious appearance
- Highly sought-after by collectors
- Premium feel and build quality
- Higher price point
- Limited smartphone functionality by modern standards
- Can be difficult to find in pristine condition
Display Comparison
Both models feature a 2.0-inch QVGA display. The Sapphire Arte distinguishes itself with a sapphire crystal lens covering the screen, offering superior scratch resistance compared to the Carbon Arte's standard glass cover. While resolution is similar, the sapphire's clarity might offer a slightly improved viewing experience.
Camera Comparison
Both feature a 2-megapixel camera. Image quality is comparable and limited by the technology of the era. These are not phones to rely on for high-quality photography.
Performance
Performance is largely identical. Both phones run on Nokia's Series 60 operating system and offer basic smartphone functionality for their time. Don't expect modern app capabilities; these are primarily valued for their design and collectibility, not raw processing power.
Battery Life
Battery life is similar, typically offering a few days of moderate use. The exact capacity is not readily available, but both models share a comparable battery technology.
Buying Guide
The Nokia 8800 Carbon Arte is ideal for collectors seeking a luxurious, understated phone with a focus on tactile feel and classic design. The Nokia 8800 Sapphire Arte is for those who desire the ultimate in premium materials, prioritizing the scratch-resistant sapphire crystal display and a more visually striking appearance.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ What is the difference between the Nokia 8800 Arte and other Nokia 8800 models?
The Arte series represents the highest tier of the Nokia 8800 line, featuring premium materials like carbon fiber or sapphire crystal and a refined design focused on luxury and collectibility.
❓ Are these phones still usable today?
While functional, these phones are primarily collectibles. Modern smartphone capabilities are severely limited. Using them as a daily driver is not recommended.
