The Nokia 8800 Carbon Arte and the Vertu Ascent Ti Damascus Steel represent the pinnacle of luxury mobile devices. Both phones prioritize craftsmanship, exclusivity, and a unique user experience over cutting-edge specifications. But which one truly delivers the ultimate statement piece?
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Vertu Ascent Ti, with its hand-crafted Damascus steel and concierge service, edges out the Nokia 8800 Carbon Arte in overall prestige. However, the Nokia retains a classic, iconic design appeal and a more accessible price point for those seeking luxury without the extreme Vertu price tag.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 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 | 2009, June. Released 2009, Q3 |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 109 x 45.6 x 14.6 mm, 65 cc (4.29 x 1.80 x 0.57 in) | 115.5 x 49 x 13.1 mm, 74 cc (4.55 x 1.93 x 0.52 in) |
| SIM | Mini-SIM | Mini-SIM |
| Weight | 150 g (5.29 oz) | 160 g (5.64 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 (~21.9% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | OLED, 16M colors | TFT, 16M colors |
| Memory |
|---|
| Call records | 20 dialed, 20 received, 20 missed calls | - |
| Card slot | No | No |
| Internal | 4GB | 4GB |
| Phonebook | 1000 entries, Photocall | 1500 entries |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | - | LED flash |
| Single | 3.15 MP, AF | 3.15 MP, AF |
| Video | 480p@15fps | No |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | No | No |
| 35mm jack | No | No |
| Alert types | Vibration; Downloadable polyphonic, MP3, video ringtones ringtones | - |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes, with stereo speakers |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 2.0, A2DP | Yes |
| Positioning | No | No |
| Radio | No | No |
| USB | microUSB 2.0 | microUSB |
| WLAN | No | No |
| Features |
|---|
| Browser | WAP 2.0/xHTML, Adobe Flash Lite | WAP |
| Games | Yes + Downloadable | Yes |
| Java | Yes, MIDP 2.1 | Yes |
| Languages | - | English, French, Italian, German, Spanish, Chinese |
| Messaging | SMS, MMS, Email, IM | SMS, MMS, Email |
| Sensors | Accelerometer | - |
| | Carbon fiber and titanium body
MP4/WMV/H.264 player
MP3/WMA/WAV/eAAC+ player
Organizer
Photo editor
Voice memo
Predictive text input | Organizer
Vertu Fortress Wireless synchronization service
Vertu Concierge service
Stainless steel keys
Ceramic ear pillow
Voice dial
Predictive text input |
| Battery |
|---|
| Stand-by | Up to 300 h (2G) / Up to 288 h (3G) | Up to 300 h |
| Talk time | Up to 3 h (2G) / Up to 2 h 45 min (3G) | Up to 5 h (2G) / Up to 3 h (3G) |
| Type | Removable Li-Ion 1000 mAh battery (BL-4U) | Non-removable Li-Ion 950 mAh battery |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black | - |
| Price | About 840 EUR | - |
| Tests |
|---|
| Loudspeaker |
Voice 66dB / Noise 66dB / Ring 66dB
| - |
Nokia 8800 Carbon Arte
- Iconic Nokia Design
- More Accessible Price Point
- Classic Slide Mechanism
- Durable Build Quality
- Outdated Technology
- Limited App Support
- Basic Camera
- Smaller Screen
Vertu Ascent Ti Damascus Steel
- Hand-Crafted Damascus Steel
- Exclusive Concierge Service
- Unparalleled Prestige
- Premium Materials
- Extremely High Price
- Outdated Technology
- Limited App Support
- Basic Camera
Display Comparison
Both phones feature relatively small, basic displays by modern standards, prioritizing a classic look over screen real estate. The Vertu Ascent Ti's display might offer slightly better color accuracy due to Vertu's focus on premium materials, but both are functional and adequate for basic tasks.
Camera Comparison
Camera capabilities are minimal on both devices. They are not intended as primary cameras. Expect basic image quality suitable for occasional snapshots, but nothing more. The Vertu might have slightly better image processing due to its higher price point, but the difference will be negligible.
Performance
Neither phone is designed for high-performance gaming or demanding applications. They both run on older mobile platforms, prioritizing stability and a smooth user experience for calls, texts, and basic navigation. Expect performance to be adequate, but not comparable to modern smartphones.
Battery Life
Battery life is likely comparable, offering a day of moderate use. Neither phone boasts exceptional battery performance, reflecting their focus on design and build quality over power efficiency.
Buying Guide
The Nokia 8800 Carbon Arte is ideal for those who appreciate Nokia's legacy, a classic design, and a more understated luxury. The Vertu Ascent Ti is for the ultimate status seeker who values bespoke craftsmanship, personalized service, and a phone that's a true work of art, regardless of its technological limitations.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Are these phones worth the price?
That depends entirely on your priorities. If you value cutting-edge technology, no. If you value craftsmanship, exclusivity, and a statement piece, then potentially, yes.
❓ Can I use these phones for modern apps?
Both phones run on older operating systems and have limited app support. You'll be restricted to basic functionalities and older applications.
