Samsung E720 vs. Samsung E700: A Throwback Phone Showdown

The Samsung E700 and E720 represent a fascinating era of slider phones, blending classic design with early smartphone features. Both devices offer a nostalgic experience for those who remember the pre-dominance of touchscreen devices. But which one holds up better today?
Phones Images

🏆 Quick Verdict

The E720 likely offers minor improvements over the E700, potentially in camera quality and software. However, both are limited by their age. If you're seeking a purely nostalgic experience, either is a good choice; the E700 might be slightly more readily available and affordable.

PHONES
Phone Names Samsung E720 Samsung E700
Network
2G bandsGSM 900 / 1800 / 1900GSM 900 / 1800
EDGENoNo
GPRSClass 10Class 10
TechnologyGSMGSM
Launch
Announced2005, Q12003, Q3
StatusDiscontinuedDiscontinued
Body
Dimensions90 x 45 x 23.3 mm (3.54 x 1.77 x 0.92 in)90 x 45 x 23 mm (3.54 x 1.77 x 0.91 in)
SIMMini-SIMMini-SIM
Weight80 g (2.82 oz)85 g (3.00 oz)
Display
Resolution176 x 220 pixels, 9 lines128 x 160 pixels, 6 lines
TypeTFT, 256K colorsTFT, 65K colors
 Second external display OLED, 65K colors (96 x 96 pixels)Second external OLED, 256 colors ( 64 x 96 pixels ) Four way navigation keys Wallpapers
Memory
Call records30 dialed, 30 received, 30 missed calls20 dialed, 20 received, 20 missed calls
Card slotNoNo
Internal90MB-
Phonebook1000 x 12 fields, Photo call1000 x 6 fields
 -9 MB shared memory for pictures, MMS messages 600 Kb for Java apps 200 short messages
Main Camera
FeaturesLED flash-
Single1 MPVGA
VideoYesNo
Selfie camera
VideoYes-
 NoNo
Sound
3.5mm jack NoNo
35mm jackNoNo
Alert typesVibration; Downloadable polyphonic, MP3 ringtonesVibration; Downloadable polyphonic ringtones
Loudspeaker NoNo
Comms
Bluetooth1.1No
Infrared port-Yes
PositioningNoNo
RadioNoNo
USBProprietary-
WLANNoNo
Features
BrowserWAP 2.0/xHTMLWAP 2.0/xHTML
Games4 - Bobby Carrot, Airship Racing, Arch Angel, Freekick + downloadable5 - Go!Hamster, Honey Ball, Bowling + Java
JavaYes, MIDP 2.0Yes
MessagingSMS, EMS, MMS, EmailSMS, EMS, MMS
 MP3/AAC/MP4 player Predictive text input Organizer Voice memoPredictive text input Organizer Stopwatch
Battery
Stand-byUp to 260 hUp to 230 h
Talk timeUp to 7 hUp to 3 h
TypeRemovable Li-Ion 800 mAh batteryRemovable Li-Ion 780 mAh battery
Misc
ColorsBronzeIndigo Blue, Metallic Silver, Beaujolais Red, Pearl White
SAR EU0.66 W/kg (head)0.73 W/kg (head)

Samsung E720

  • Potentially slightly improved camera

  • Likely harder to find
  • Limited functionality compared to modern phones
  • Battery degradation likely

Samsung E700

  • More readily available
  • Classic slider design
  • Decent battery life

  • Limited functionality compared to modern phones
  • Basic camera
  • Battery degradation likely

Display Comparison

Both the E720 and E700 likely feature similar, small, non-touch LCD screens. Expect resolution to be low by modern standards, prioritizing readability over visual fidelity. The E720 *might* have a slightly brighter display, but this is speculative.

Camera Comparison

Camera quality on both phones will be very basic, likely in the 1-3 megapixel range. Image quality will be poor by today's standards, suitable only for quick snapshots in good lighting. The E720 *may* have a slightly improved camera sensor, but don't expect miracles.

Performance

Performance will be limited by the processors of the time. Expect slow navigation and app loading times. Both phones are primarily designed for calls and basic messaging, not demanding applications. The E720 *could* have a marginally faster processor, but the difference would be minimal.

Battery Life

Battery life was a strong point for these older phones. Expect several days of moderate use on either device. Battery degradation over time is a significant factor to consider with both models.

Buying Guide

The Samsung E720 is for collectors and enthusiasts seeking a slightly more refined version of the E700. The Samsung E700 is ideal for those on a tighter budget or prioritizing availability of a classic slider phone.

Frequently Asked Questions

❓ Are these phones compatible with modern SIM cards?
Likely not. These phones use older SIM card formats. You may need an adapter or a SIM card cut down, but compatibility is not guaranteed.
❓ Can I use these phones for internet browsing?
Yes, but the experience will be extremely slow and frustrating. The screens are small, and the browsers are outdated.