The Siemens C65 and CX65 represent a pivotal era in mobile phone design – a time before smartphones dominated. While detailed specifications are scarce, these phones were significant players in the early 2000s feature phone market. This comparison aims to dissect their likely differences based on branding and historical context, focusing on design, usability, and target user.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user seeking a nostalgic trip or a simple, reliable phone, the Siemens CX65 likely offers a slightly more refined experience due to its 'X' designation suggesting a premium build or feature set. However, both phones represent excellent value for collectors or those needing basic communication.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| EDGE | No | No |
| GPRS | Class 10 | Class 10 |
| Technology | GSM | GSM |
| | GSM 850 / 1800 / 1900 - Siemens C66 | GSM 850 / 1800 / 1900 - Siemens CX66 |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2004, March | 2004, February |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 105 x 45 x 16 mm, 76 cc (4.13 x 1.77 x 0.63 in) | 108 x 46 x 18 mm (4.25 x 1.81 x 0.71 in) |
| SIM | Mini-SIM | Mini-SIM |
| Weight | 86 g (3.03 oz) | 90 g (3.17 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 130 x 130 pixels, 1:1 ratio | 132 x 176 pixels, 9 lines, 4:3 ratio (~105 ppi density) |
| Size | - | 2.1 inches, 13.7 cm2 (~27.5% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | CSTN, 65K colors | TFT, 65K colors |
| | Download assistant for logos | 5-way joystick
Download assistant for logos |
| Memory |
|---|
| Call records | 100 dialed, 100 received, 100 missed calls | 100 received, 100 dialed and 100 missed calls |
| Card slot | No | No |
| Internal | 10MB | 11MB |
| Phonebook | 14 fields, in shared memory | 14 fields, in mem, PhotoCall |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Single | CIF | VGA |
| Video | No | Yes |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | No | No |
| 35mm jack | No | No |
| Alert types | Vibration; Downloadable polyphonic ringtones | Vibration; Downloadable polyphonic ringtones |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | No | No |
| Infrared port | Yes | Yes |
| Positioning | No | No |
| Radio | No | No |
| USB | Proprietary | Proprietary |
| WLAN | No | No |
| Features |
|---|
| Browser | WAP 2.0/xHTML | WAP 2.0/xHTML |
| Games | Photopet + downloadable | Yes |
| Java | Yes, MIDP 2.0 | Yes |
| Messaging | SMS, EMS, MMS | SMS, MMS, Email |
| | Predictive text input
Stopwatch
Organizer
SyncML
Clip-it covers | Predictive text input
Organizer
Stopwatch
Voice memo
Clip-it covers
User profiles
SyncML |
| Battery |
|---|
| Stand-by | Up to 250 h | Up to 250 h |
| Talk time | Up to 6 h | Up to 5 h |
| Type | Removable Li-Ion 600 mAh battery (EBA-670) | Removable Li-Ion 750 mAh battery (EBA-660) |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Blue Shadow | Cool Silver |
Siemens C65
- Likely more affordable price point.
- Simple and easy to use interface.
- Robust build quality typical of Siemens phones.
- Potentially smaller screen size.
- Limited features compared to the CX65.
- May lack advanced customization options.
Siemens CX65
- Potentially more premium design and materials.
- Likely improved screen quality.
- May include additional features like a better camera or more memory.
- Potentially higher price point.
- May be more difficult to find in good condition.
- Slightly larger size compared to the C65.
Display Comparison
Given the era, both the C65 and CX65 likely featured monochrome or limited-color LCD screens. The 'X' in CX65 suggests a potentially larger screen size or improved contrast ratio compared to the C65. Bezels were substantial on both models, typical of the time, but the CX65 may have benefited from slightly slimmer bezels to convey a more modern aesthetic. Color accuracy wasn't a primary concern for these devices, but the CX65 might have offered a slightly wider color gamut.
Camera Comparison
Both the C65 and CX65 likely featured very basic cameras, if any at all. If present, these cameras would have had extremely low resolutions (likely VGA or below) and lacked features like optical image stabilization. Image quality would have been poor by modern standards. The CX65 might have had a slightly higher megapixel count, but this wouldn't translate to a significant improvement in image quality.
Performance
Performance is largely dictated by the underlying chipset, which remains unspecified for both models. However, the CX65, positioned as a slightly higher-end device, may have incorporated a marginally faster processor or more RAM, resulting in quicker menu navigation and potentially smoother operation of any included Java applications. Thermal management wasn't a significant issue given the low power consumption of these phones.
Battery Life
Battery life was a key selling point for feature phones. Both the C65 and CX65 likely offered several days of standby time and a reasonable talk time. The CX65, potentially featuring a slightly larger battery or more efficient components, might have offered marginally longer battery life. Charging times would have been several hours using the included charger.
Buying Guide
Buy the Siemens C65 if you prioritize absolute simplicity and a potentially lower price point, seeking a no-frills device for basic calling and texting. Buy the Siemens CX65 if you prefer a more aesthetically pleasing design, potentially with added features like a better screen or more robust casing, indicating a slightly higher tier within Siemens' product range.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is it possible to use modern SIM cards with the Siemens C65 or CX65?
Both phones likely support standard-size SIM cards. However, compatibility with modern networks (3G, 4G, 5G) is highly unlikely, as they were designed for 2G networks. You may need a SIM adapter and network coverage will be limited to areas still supporting 2G.
❓ Can I install apps on the Siemens C65 or CX65?
Both phones may support Java ME applications, allowing for limited app installation. However, finding compatible apps is increasingly difficult, and performance will be limited by the phone's hardware. Don't expect a smartphone-like app experience.
❓ What is the typical condition of Siemens C65 and CX65 phones available today?
Given their age, most Siemens C65 and CX65 phones available today are used and may exhibit signs of wear and tear, such as scratches, discoloration, or battery degradation. Finding a fully functional unit in excellent condition can be challenging.
