The early 2000s saw a boom in affordable, reliable feature phones. The Sagem MY C-4 and Motorola C350 were two prominent contenders, offering basic communication in a compact form factor. This comparison revisits these devices, analyzing their strengths and weaknesses in the context of their era and intended use.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user seeking a durable, no-frills phone from the early 2000s, the Motorola C350 likely offers a slightly better balance of build quality and readily available accessories. However, the Sagem MY C-4 may appeal to those prioritizing a more compact design.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 900 / 1800 | GSM 900 / 1800 |
| EDGE | No | No |
| GPRS | Class 10 | Class 8 |
| Technology | GSM | GSM |
| | - | GSM 850 / 1900 - US version |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2004, Q3 | 2003, Q1 |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 90 x 44.5 x 23 mm (3.54 x 1.75 x 0.91 in) | 101 x 42 x 19 mm, 75 cc (3.98 x 1.65 x 0.75 in) |
| SIM | Mini-SIM | Mini-SIM |
| Weight | 92 g (3.25 oz) | 80 g (2.82 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 128 x 128 pixels, 1:1 ratio | 96 x 64 pixels, 5 lines, 3:2 ratio |
| Type | CSTN, 65K colors | CSTN, 4096 colors |
| | Wallpapers
Downloadable pictures | Downloadable screensavers and wallpapers |
| Memory |
|---|
| Call records | 20 dialed, 10 received, 10 missed calls | 10 dialed, 5 received, 5 missed calls |
| Card slot | No | No |
| Internal | 4.7MB | - |
| Phonebook | In shared memory | 100 |
| | - | 25 voice dial numbers |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | No | No |
| 35mm jack | No | No |
| Alert types | Vibration; Downloadable polyphonic, Hi-Fi ringtones | Vibration; Downloadable polyphonic ringtones, composer |
| Loudspeaker | No | No |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | No | No |
| Positioning | No | No |
| Radio | No | No |
| WLAN | No | No |
| Features |
|---|
| Alarm | - | No |
| Browser | WAP 1.2.1 | WAP 1.2.1 |
| Clock | - | Yes |
| Games | 2 | 3 - MotoGP, AstroSmash, Snood21 |
| Java | Yes, MIDP 2.0 | No |
| Messaging | SMS, EMS, MMS | SMS, EMS 5.0 |
| | Predictive text input
Organizer
Voice memo | Predictive text input (iTAP)
Organizer
Voice dial
Changeable front covers |
| Battery |
|---|
| Stand-by | Up to 240 h | Up to 190 h |
| Talk time | Up to 4 h | Up to 4 h |
| Type | Removable Li-Ion 630 mAh battery | Removable Li-Ion 600 mAh battery (77596) |
Sagem MY C-4
- Extremely compact and lightweight design
- Simple and intuitive user interface
- Durable build quality for its size
- Small screen can be difficult to read
- Limited features compared to later feature phones
- Proprietary charger
Motorola C350
- Robust build quality and feel
- Larger keypad for easier typing
- Slightly larger battery capacity
- Larger size may not appeal to all users
- Limited features
- Proprietary charger
Display Comparison
Given the era, both the Sagem MY C-4 and Motorola C350 feature monochrome LCD screens. The C350’s display is slightly larger, potentially offering better readability for text messages, while the MY C-4’s smaller screen contributes to its overall compact design. Neither device offers backlight control, relying on ambient light for visibility. The C350’s display likely benefits from a slightly higher contrast ratio due to Motorola’s display engineering at the time.
Camera Comparison
Neither the Sagem MY C-4 nor the Motorola C350 includes a built-in camera. This was standard for feature phones of this generation, as camera technology was still relatively expensive and bulky. The absence of a camera contributes to the devices’ simplicity and focus on core communication features.
Performance
Both phones operate on 2G networks and utilize basic processors designed for call handling and SMS messaging. Performance differences are negligible; neither device is capable of multitasking or running applications beyond basic phone functions. The Motorola C350, benefiting from Motorola’s established supply chain, likely had more consistent component quality, potentially leading to slightly more reliable operation over time. The limited RAM in both devices is sufficient only for the core operating system and active call data.
Battery Life
Both phones utilize NiMH batteries, offering several days of standby time and several hours of talk time. The Motorola C350’s slightly larger physical dimensions likely allowed for a marginally larger battery capacity, potentially extending talk time by a small margin. However, battery life is heavily dependent on network signal strength and usage patterns. Both devices charge via a proprietary connector, and charging times are relatively slow compared to modern smartphones.
Buying Guide
Buy the Sagem MY C-4 if you need an exceptionally compact and lightweight phone, prioritizing portability above all else. Its smaller size makes it ideal for users who valued discreet communication. Buy the Motorola C350 if you prefer a more robust build quality and a slightly larger keypad, offering a more comfortable typing experience for longer messages.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Are accessories still available for either the Sagem MY C-4 or Motorola C350?
Finding original accessories for these phones is increasingly difficult. While some third-party batteries and chargers may be available, compatibility is not guaranteed. The Motorola C350, due to its greater popularity, has a slightly higher chance of finding compatible accessories.
❓ Can either of these phones be used on modern 4G/5G networks?
No. Both the Sagem MY C-4 and Motorola C350 are 2G-only devices and are incompatible with modern 4G and 5G networks. 2G networks are being phased out in many countries, rendering these phones unusable for making calls or sending texts in those regions.
❓ What type of SIM card do these phones use?
Both phones utilize standard-size SIM cards, which are larger than the micro or nano SIMs used in modern smartphones. Adapters are available, but may not be reliable due to the physical connection.
