Sony Ericsson Hazel vs. Nokia C5: A Throwback Tech Showdown

Remember the days of physical keyboards and feature phones? The Sony Ericsson Hazel and Nokia C5 represent a bygone era of mobile technology. Both offer a nostalgic experience, but which one delivers the better package? Let's dive into a detailed comparison.
Phones Images

🏆 Quick Verdict

The Nokia C5 edges out the Hazel thanks to its 600MHz processor, offering noticeably better performance. While both have basic cameras, the C5's slightly more robust hardware and wider availability make it the more practical choice for those seeking a retro experience.

PHONES
Phone Names Sony Ericsson Hazel Nokia C5
Network
2G bandsGSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900
3G bandsHSDPA 900 / 2100HSDPA 900 / 2100
SpeedHSPA 7.2/2 MbpsHSPA 10.2/2 Mbps
TechnologyGSM / HSPAGSM / HSPA
 HSDPA 2100 -
Launch
Announced2009, December. Released 2010, May2010, March. Released 2010, April
StatusDiscontinuedDiscontinued
Body
Dimensions102 x 49.5 x 16 mm (4.02 x 1.95 x 0.63 in)112 x 46 x 12.3 mm, 56 cc (4.41 x 1.81 x 0.48 in)
SIMMini-SIMMini-SIM
Weight120 g (4.23 oz)89.3 g (3.14 oz)
 Splash resistant-
Display
ProtectionScratch-resistant glass-
Resolution240 x 320 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~154 ppi density)240 x 320 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~182 ppi density)
Size2.6 inches, 20.9 cm2 (~41.5% screen-to-body ratio)2.2 inches, 15.0 cm2 (~29.1% screen-to-body ratio)
TypeTFT, 16M colorsTFT, 16M colors
Platform
CPU-600 MHz ARM 11
OS-Symbian 9.3, Series 60 rel. 3.2
Memory
Call recordsYes-
Card slotmicroSDHC (dedicated slot)microSDHC (dedicated slot), 2 GB included
Internal280MB50MB 128MB RAM
Phonebook1000 entries, Photocall-
Main Camera
FeaturesLED flashLED flash
Single5 MP, AF3.15 MP
Video480p@30fps480p@15fps
Selfie camera
SingleYesVGA videocall camera
Sound
3.5mm jack NoYes
35mm jackNoYes
Loudspeaker YesYes, with stereo speakers
Comms
Bluetooth2.1, A2DP2.0, A2DP
PositioningGPS, A-GPS; Wisepilot navigationGPS, A-GPS; Ovi Maps 3.0
RadioStereo FM radio, RDSStereo FM radio, RDS
USBUSB 2.0microUSB 2.0
WLANWi-Fi 802.11 b/g, DLNANo
Features
BrowserWAP 2.0/xHTML, HTML (NetFront), RSS readerWAP 2.0/xHTML, HTML, Adobe Flash Lite
GamesYes, incl. motion-based + downloadable-
JavaYes, MIDP 2.0-
MessagingSMS(threaded view), MMS, Email, Push Email, IM-
SensorsAccelerometer-
 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 inputMP4/H.264 player MP3/WAV/eAAC+/WMA player Document viewer (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, PDF) Video/Photo editor Organizer Facebook, YouTube, hi5, Friendster, MySpace apps Voice memo/dial Predictive text input
Battery
Music play-Up to 34 h
Stand-byUp to 469 h (2G) / Up to 588 h (3G)Up to 630 h (2G) / Up to 670 h (3G)
Talk timeUp to 4 h 10 min (2G) / Up to 3 h 20 min (3G)Up to 12 h (2G) / Up to 5 h (3G)
TypeRemovable Li-Po 1000 mAh battery (BST-43)Removable Li-Ion 1050 mAh battery (BL-5CT)
Misc
ColorsSuperior Black, Passionate RougeWhite, Warm Grey
PriceAbout 110 EURAbout 110 EUR
SAR-1.16 W/kg (head)     0.86 W/kg (body)
SAR EU0.68 W/kg (head)1.34 W/kg (head)
Tests
Audio quality Noise -87.3dB / Crosstalk -86.8dB Noise -87.6dB / Crosstalk -87.8dB
Camera Photo Photo
Loudspeaker Voice 65dB / Noise 62dB / Ring 66dB Voice 67dB / Noise 64dB / Ring 75dB

Sony Ericsson Hazel

  • Nostalgic Sony design
  • Physical keyboard
  • Compact size

  • Limited specifications
  • Potentially slower performance
  • Difficult to find accessories/support

Nokia C5

  • Better performance (600MHz CPU)
  • More readily available
  • Slightly more robust build

  • Basic camera
  • Outdated display
  • Limited features compared to smartphones

Display Comparison

Both the Hazel and C5 feature relatively small, standard-definition displays typical of their time. Expect limited resolution and viewing angles. Neither phone excels in this area, prioritizing functionality over visual fidelity.

Camera Comparison

Both phones are equipped with basic cameras primarily intended for quick snapshots. Image quality is expected to be low by modern standards, with limited features and poor low-light performance. Don't expect high-resolution photos from either device.

Performance

The Nokia C5 holds a significant advantage here. Its 600 MHz ARM 11 processor provides a noticeable performance boost compared to the Hazel's likely slower processor (specifications are limited). Expect smoother navigation and app loading on the C5.

Battery Life

Battery life was a strong point for phones of this era. Both the Hazel and C5 likely offer decent battery life, potentially lasting a full day with moderate usage. However, specific battery capacities are difficult to confirm without more detailed specifications.

Buying Guide

The Sony Ericsson Hazel is ideal for die-hard Sony fans craving a pure, nostalgic experience and a physical keyboard. The Nokia C5 is better suited for users who want a slightly more capable device with better performance and broader software support, even if it's still a basic phone.

Frequently Asked Questions

❓ Are replacement parts available for these phones?
Finding replacement parts for both the Hazel and C5 can be challenging due to their age. Online marketplaces like eBay are your best bet, but availability is limited.
❓ Can I use these phones with a modern SIM card?
It depends on the SIM card size and network compatibility. You'll need to research the specific network bands supported by each phone to ensure compatibility with your carrier.