The early 2000s saw a fierce battle for smartphone dominance, with Windows Mobile and Palm OS leading the charge. The Qtek 2020i and Palm Treo 750 represent two distinct approaches to this emerging market – one prioritizing processing power and expandability, the other focusing on streamlined usability and a mature ecosystem. This comparison dissects their core differences to determine which device better serves the needs of today’s retro-tech enthusiast or historical researcher.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For users prioritizing performance and the ability to run more demanding applications, the Qtek 2020i is the clear winner. Its Intel Bulverde 520 MHz processor significantly outperforms the Treo 750’s 300 MHz Samsung chip. However, the Treo 750’s established Palm OS and simpler interface may appeal to those seeking a more straightforward experience.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | - | HSDPA 850 / 1900 / 2100 |
| EDGE | No | - |
| GPRS | Class 10 | - |
| Speed | - | Yes, 384 kbps |
| Technology | GSM | GSM / HSPA |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2004, Q2 | 2007, February |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 130 x 70 x 18 mm, 105 cc (5.12 x 2.76 x 0.71 in) | 111 x 58 x 22 mm (4.37 x 2.28 x 0.87 in) |
| Keyboard | - | QWERTY |
| SIM | Mini-SIM | Mini-SIM |
| Weight | 190 g (6.70 oz) | 154 g (5.43 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 240 x 320 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~114 ppi density) | 240 x 240 pixels, 1:1 ratio (~136 ppi density) |
| Size | 3.5 inches, 53 x 71 mm, 37.9 cm2 (~41.7% screen-to-body ratio) | 2.5 inches, 20.2 cm2 (~31.3% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | TFT resistive touchscreen, 65K colors | TFT resistive touchscreen, 65K colors |
| | 5-way navigation button
Downloadable logos | 5-way navigation button |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Intel Bulverde 520 MHz | 300 MHz Samsung |
| OS | Microsoft Windows Mobile 2003 SE PocketPC | Microsoft Windows Mobile 5.0 PocketPC |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | SDIO/MMC | miniSD, up to 2 GB |
| Internal | 128MB RAM, 128MB ROM | 60MB |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Single | 1.3 MP | 1.3 MP |
| Video | Yes | Yes |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | No | No |
| 35mm jack | No | No |
| Alert types | Vibration; Downloadable polyphonic, MP3 ringtones | Vibration; Downloadable polyphonic, MP3 ringtones |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | Yes | 1.2, A2DP |
| Infrared port | Yes | Yes |
| Positioning | No | No |
| Radio | No | No |
| USB | Proprietary | Proprietary |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11b | No |
| Features |
|---|
| Browser | WAP 2.0/xHTML, HTML (PocketIE) | WAP 2.0 / HTML (PocketIE) |
| | Microsoft ActiveSync
MP3 player
Predictive text input | MP3/AAC/AAC+/WMA/OGG/AMR player
WMV/MP4 player
Organizer
Pocket Office
Voice memo |
| Battery |
|---|
| Stand-by | Up to 168 h | Up to 200 h |
| Talk time | Up to 4 h | Up to 4 h 30 min |
| Type | Removable Li-Ion 1300 mAh battery | Removable Li-Ion 1200 mAh battery |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Silver | Black |
| Price | - | About 80 EUR |
| SAR | - | 0.59 W/kg (head) 0.15 W/kg (body) |
Qtek 2020i
- Significantly faster processor for improved performance.
- Windows Mobile offers greater software compatibility.
- Potential for expansion via memory cards (speculation based on Qtek’s typical offerings).
- Windows Mobile can be complex and less intuitive.
- Potentially shorter battery life due to the more powerful processor.
- Larger physical size compared to the Treo 750 (likely).
Palm Treo 750
- User-friendly Palm OS interface.
- Established Palm ecosystem with a wide range of applications.
- Likely more compact and pocketable design.
- Slower processor limits performance.
- Palm OS has limited software compatibility compared to Windows Mobile.
- Less flexibility for customization and expansion.
Display Comparison
Neither device boasts a particularly advanced display by modern standards. Specifics regarding screen resolution and panel type are unavailable, but both likely utilized resistive touchscreens common at the time. The Treo 750, benefiting from Palm’s design focus, likely prioritized a more visually appealing interface, while the Qtek 2020i’s display was likely functional but less refined. Bezels would have been substantial on both devices, typical of the era.
Camera Comparison
Camera capabilities on both devices were rudimentary by today’s standards. Details regarding camera resolution are unavailable, but both likely featured low-resolution cameras primarily intended for basic photo capture. Image quality would have been poor, especially in low-light conditions. The Treo 750 may have benefited from Palm’s software optimization, potentially offering slightly better image processing, but the fundamental limitations of the hardware would have been significant.
Performance
The Qtek 2020i’s Intel Bulverde 520 MHz processor represents a substantial performance advantage over the Palm Treo 750’s 300 MHz Samsung processor. This 73% increase in clock speed translates directly to faster application loading times, smoother multitasking, and the ability to run more demanding software. While both devices likely featured limited RAM (specifications unavailable), the faster CPU would mitigate some of the limitations. The Bulverde architecture, while dated, was designed for mobile devices and offered a reasonable level of efficiency for its time.
Battery Life
Battery life is difficult to assess without specific mAh ratings. However, the Qtek 2020i’s more powerful processor would likely consume more energy than the Treo 750’s. The Treo 750, with its simpler OS and less demanding hardware, likely offered longer battery life under typical usage. Charging times would have been slow on both devices, utilizing proprietary connectors and lacking fast-charging capabilities.
Buying Guide
Buy the Qtek 2020i if you need a device capable of handling more complex tasks, appreciate the flexibility of Windows Mobile, and are comfortable with a potentially steeper learning curve. Buy the Palm Treo 750 if you prefer a user-friendly interface, value the established Palm OS ecosystem, and prioritize simplicity over raw processing power. The Treo 750 is ideal for those seeking a classic Palm experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Qtek 2020i capable of running modern applications?
No. The Qtek 2020i runs Windows Mobile, a discontinued operating system. While some legacy applications may still function, compatibility with modern apps is extremely limited. Its hardware is also insufficient to handle the demands of contemporary software.
❓ Can I easily find replacement parts or accessories for the Palm Treo 750?
Finding replacement parts and accessories for the Palm Treo 750 is becoming increasingly difficult. While some third-party sellers may offer limited options, availability is dwindling. Online forums and retro-tech communities are the best resources for locating these items.
❓ Which device is better for someone interested in retro-computing and mobile history?
Both devices are excellent choices for retro-computing enthusiasts. However, the Qtek 2020i offers a glimpse into the early days of Windows Mobile, while the Palm Treo 750 represents the pinnacle of Palm OS development. The choice depends on which operating system you're more interested in exploring.
