The early 2000s were a golden age for feature phones, and Sony Ericsson was at the forefront. Today, we're pitting two of their iconic devices against each other: the slider-style C903 and the more compact Hazel. Let's see how these phones stack up in a modern context.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The C903 likely edges out the Hazel due to its more robust feature set, including a better camera and multimedia capabilities. However, the Hazel's smaller size and potentially more streamlined design might appeal to those seeking a minimalist retro experience. It's a close call!
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 900 / 2100 |
| Speed | HSPA | HSPA 7.2/2 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA | GSM / HSPA |
| | HSDPA 850 / 1900 / 2100 - C903a | HSDPA 2100 |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2009, February. Released 2009, July | 2009, December. Released 2010, May |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 97 x 49 x 16 mm (3.82 x 1.93 x 0.63 in) | 102 x 49.5 x 16 mm (4.02 x 1.95 x 0.63 in) |
| SIM | Mini-SIM | Mini-SIM |
| Weight | 96 g (3.39 oz) | 120 g (4.23 oz) |
| | - | Splash resistant |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | Scratch-resistant glass | Scratch-resistant glass |
| Resolution | 240 x 320 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~167 ppi density) | 240 x 320 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~154 ppi density) |
| Size | 2.4 inches, 17.8 cm2 (~37.5% screen-to-body ratio) | 2.6 inches, 20.9 cm2 (~41.5% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | TFT, 256K colors | TFT, 16M colors |
| Memory |
|---|
| Call records | 30 received, dialed and missed calls | Yes |
| Card slot | Memory Stick Micro (M2), up to 16 GB | microSDHC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 105MB | 280MB |
| Phonebook | 1000 x 20 fields, Photo call | 1000 entries, Photocall |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | LED flash |
| Single | 5 MP, AF | 5 MP, AF |
| Video | 320p@30fps | 480p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | - | Yes |
| | No | - |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | No | No |
| 35mm jack | No | No |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 2.0, A2DP | 2.1, A2DP |
| Positioning | GPS, A-GPS; Wayfinder Navigator 7 | GPS, A-GPS; Wisepilot navigation |
| Radio | Stereo FM radio, RDS | Stereo FM radio, RDS |
| USB | 2.0 | USB 2.0 |
| WLAN | No | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g, DLNA |
| Features |
|---|
| Browser | WAP 2.0/HTML (NetFront), RSS reader | WAP 2.0/xHTML, HTML (NetFront), RSS reader |
| Games | Yes, incl. motion-based + downloadable | Yes, incl. motion-based + downloadable |
| Java | Yes, MIDP 2.0 | Yes, MIDP 2.0 |
| Messaging | SMS(threaded view), MMS, Email, Push Email, IM | SMS(threaded view), MMS, Email, Push Email, IM |
| Sensors | Accelerometer | Accelerometer |
| | MP3/AAC/MP4 player
TrackID music recognition
Photo editor
YouTube application
TV-out
Organizer
Voice memo/dial
Predictive text input | HD Voice ready
MP3/eAAC+/WAV player
SensMe, Track ID
MP4/H.264 player
Photo editor
Widget Manager
Organizer
Eco friendly materials
Walkmate, CO2 Calculator
Voice memo/dial
Predictive text input |
| Battery |
|---|
| Stand-by | Up to 400 h (2G) / Up to 350 h (3G) | Up to 469 h (2G) / Up to 588 h (3G) |
| Talk time | Up to 10 h (2G) / Up to 4 h (3G) | Up to 4 h 10 min (2G) / Up to 3 h 20 min (3G) |
| Type | Removable Li-Po 1000 mAh battery | Removable Li-Po 1000 mAh battery (BST-43) |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Lacquer Black, Techno White, Glamour Red, Metal Pink, Warm Silver | Superior Black, Passionate Rouge |
| Price | About 110 EUR | About 110 EUR |
| SAR EU | 0.55 W/kg (head) | 0.68 W/kg (head) |
| Tests |
|---|
| Audio quality | - |
Noise -87.3dB / Crosstalk -86.8dB |
| Camera | - |
Photo |
| Loudspeaker | - |
Voice 65dB / Noise 62dB / Ring 66dB
|
Sony Ericsson C903
- Better Camera (8.1MP)
- Larger Screen
- Slider Design
- More Features (likely)
- Potentially Longer Battery Life
- Larger Size
- Older Technology
- Limited App Support
Sony Ericsson Hazel
- Compact Size
- Stylish Design
- Potentially Simpler Interface
- Basic Camera
- Smaller Screen
- Fewer Features
- Limited App Support
Display Comparison
While specific display specs are scarce, the C903 likely had a larger and higher-resolution screen than the Hazel, given its overall size and feature set. The Hazel probably prioritized a smaller, more pocketable display. Expect both to be significantly inferior to modern smartphone screens.
Camera Comparison
The C903 was known for its relatively advanced camera for its time, boasting a 8.1MP sensor with Xenon flash. The Hazel's camera is described as 'Photo' which suggests a basic, lower-resolution camera. The C903 is the clear winner here in terms of image quality and features.
Performance
Both phones ran Sony Ericsson's proprietary operating system, and performance would be limited by the hardware of the time. The C903, being slightly more powerful, might offer marginally better responsiveness, but don't expect blazing speeds. Both are designed for basic tasks like calls, texts, and simple apps.
Battery Life
Battery life would depend on usage, but the C903's larger size likely allowed for a bigger battery, potentially offering slightly longer usage between charges compared to the Hazel.
Buying Guide
The Sony Ericsson C903 is for collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate a feature-rich slider phone with a decent camera and multimedia options. The Sony Ericsson Hazel is ideal for those wanting a compact, simple, and stylish retro phone for basic communication and a touch of nostalgia.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Are these phones compatible with modern SIM cards?
Likely not. These phones use older SIM card technology. You'll need to find a compatible SIM card, which may be difficult to source.
❓ Can I install apps on these phones?
App support is extremely limited. These phones run proprietary operating systems and do not support modern app stores like Google Play or the App Store.
