Samsung V200 vs. Samsung Z100: A Throwback Phone Showdown

Remember the days of slider phones and feature-rich devices before the smartphone era? We're diving into a nostalgic comparison of two Samsung classics: the V200 and the Z100. Both offer a glimpse into a simpler time of mobile technology, but which one holds up better today?
Phones Images

🏆 Quick Verdict

The Samsung Z100 likely edges out the V200 due to potentially better camera capabilities and a slightly more refined design, though both offer a charming retro experience. Ultimately, the choice depends on personal preference for slider mechanics and overall aesthetic.

PHONES
Phone Names Samsung V200 Samsung Z100
Network
2G bandsGSM 900 / 1800 / 1900GSM 900 / 1800
3G bands-UMTS 2100
EDGENo-
GPRSClass 8-
Speed-Yes, 384 kbps
TechnologyGSMGSM / UMTS
Launch
Announced2003, Q12003, Q1
StatusDiscontinuedCancelled
Body
Dimensions91 x 47 x 23 mm (3.58 x 1.85 x 0.91 in)95 x 50 x 26 mm (3.74 x 1.97 x 1.02 in)
SIMMini-SIMMini-SIM
Weight96 g (3.39 oz)124 g (4.37 oz)
Display
Resolution128 x 160 pixels, 7 lines128 x 160 pixels, 7 lines
TypeTFD, 65K colorsTFT, 256K colors
 Second external display (blue lighting) Four way navigation keys Downloadable pictures and animationsSecond external display (96 x 64 pixels) Four way navigation keys Dynamic font size
Memory
Call records10 dialed, 10 received, 10 missed calls10 dialed, 10 received, 10 missed calls
Card slotNoNo
Phonebook500 x 10 fields, 10500 entries, contact groups
 100 photos storage Message templates 50 short messages3 MB for images 3 x 35 sec voice memo
Main Camera
SingleCIFCIF
VideoNoNo
Selfie camera
 NoNo
Sound
3.5mm jack NoNo
35mm jackNoNo
Alert typesVibration; Downloadable polyphonic ringtonesVibration; Downloadable polyphonic ringtones, composer
Loudspeaker NoNo
Comms
BluetoothNoNo
Infrared portYes-
PositioningNoNo
RadioNoNo
WLANNoNo
Features
AlarmYes-
BrowserWAP 1.2.1WAP 1.2.1
ClockYes-
Games33 - Bowling, CityRacer, HoneyBust
JavaNoYes
MessagingSMS, EMS, MMSSMS, EMS, MMS
 Picture manager Predictive text input Organizer Speed dial Menu shortcuts Nokia smart messagingPredictive text input Organizer Voice memo Nokia Smart Messaging
Battery
Stand-byUp to 120 h - 140 hUp to 110 h
Talk time3 h - 5 hUp to 4 h
TypeRemovable Li-Ion 720 mAh batteryRemovable Li-Ion 850 mAh battery
Misc
Colors-Metallic Silver
SAR EU0.69 W/kg (head)-

Samsung V200

  • Classic slider design
  • Simple and reliable
  • Long battery life
  • Compact size

  • Very basic features
  • Low-resolution screen
  • Poor camera quality
  • Limited storage

Samsung Z100

  • Slightly more advanced features
  • Potentially better camera
  • Modern (for the time) design
  • Compact size

  • Still very basic by today's standards
  • Low-resolution screen
  • Limited storage
  • Slider mechanism may be prone to wear

Display Comparison

Both phones likely feature small, low-resolution LCD screens typical of their era. Expect limited brightness and viewing angles. The Z100 might have a slightly larger or higher-resolution display, but differences would be minimal.

Camera Comparison

The Z100 likely had a slightly better camera, potentially with a megapixel or two more than the V200. Image quality on both will be poor by today's standards, suitable only for very basic snapshots.

Performance

Performance will be limited by the processors of the time. Expect basic functionality – calls, texts, simple games. Neither phone will handle modern apps or multitasking. The Z100 might have a marginally faster processor, but the difference would be negligible in real-world use.

Battery Life

Battery life was a strong point for these older phones. Expect several days of moderate use on either device, though the Z100's potentially more power-hungry features might slightly reduce its battery life compared to the V200.

Buying Guide

The Samsung V200 is for collectors and those seeking a very basic, reliable slider phone with a focus on calls and texts. The Samsung Z100 is for those who appreciate a slightly more advanced feature set, including a potentially better camera, and a more modern (for the time) design.

Frequently Asked Questions

❓ Are these phones compatible with modern SIM cards?
No, these phones use older SIM card formats. You'll need an adapter or a SIM card cut down to the correct size, and network compatibility is not guaranteed.
❓ Can I use these phones as Bluetooth devices?
Bluetooth support was limited in these older models. It's unlikely either phone offers Bluetooth connectivity.