Sony Ericsson Spiro vs. W302: A Blast from the Past

Remember the days of feature phones and iconic designs? The Sony Ericsson Spiro and W302 represent a snapshot of that era. Both phones offered unique aesthetics and functionalities, but which one truly stood out? Let's dive into a head-to-head comparison.
Phones Images

🏆 Quick Verdict

The W302 likely edges out the Spiro due to its established reputation for reliable performance and potentially better audio quality (given Sony Ericsson's Walkman heritage). While the Spiro boasted a unique design, limited information suggests the W302 offered a more polished overall experience.

PHONES
Phone Names Sony Ericsson Spiro Sony Ericsson W302
Network
2G bandsGSM 900 / 1800GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900
EDGEClass 10Class 10
GPRSClass 10Class 10
TechnologyGSMGSM
 GSM 850 / 1900 -
Launch
Announced2010, April. Released 2010, August2008, July. Released 2008, October
StatusDiscontinuedDiscontinued
Body
Dimensions92 x 48 x 16.8 mm (3.62 x 1.89 x 0.66 in)100 x 46 x 10.5 mm (3.94 x 1.81 x 0.41 in)
SIMMini-SIMMini-SIM
Weight90 g (3.17 oz)78 g (2.75 oz)
 Flashlight-
Display
Resolution240 x 320 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~182 ppi density)176 x 220 pixels (~141 ppi density)
Size2.2 inches, 15.0 cm2 (~33.9% screen-to-body ratio)2.0 inches, 12.6 cm2 (~27.4% screen-to-body ratio)
TypeTFT, 256K colorsTFT, 256K colors
Memory
Call recordsYes30 received, dialed and missed calls
Card slotmicroSDHC (dedicated slot)Memory Stick Micro (M2), up to 4 GB, 512 MB included
Internal5MB20MB
Phonebook2000 entries, PhotocallYes, Photocall
Main Camera
Single2 MP2 MP
VideoYesQCIF@15fps
Selfie camera
 NoNo
Sound
3.5mm jack YesNo
35mm jackYesNo
Alert types-Vibration, MP3, AAC ringtones
Loudspeaker YesYes
Comms
Bluetooth2.1, A2DP2.0, A2DP
PositioningNoNo
RadioStereo FM radio, RDSStereo FM radio, RDS
USBmicroUSB 2.0Proprietary
WLANNoNo
Features
BrowserWAP 2.0/xHTML, HTML (Obigo Q7)WAP 2.0/xHTML
GamesYes + downloadableYes + downloadable
JavaYes, MIDP 2.0Yes, MIDP 2.0
MessagingSMS(threaded view), MMS, Email, Push Email, IMSMS, EMS, MMS, Email
 Walkman 4.0 player MP3/eAAC+/WAV player Track ID MP4/H.264 player Facebook, Twitter applications Organizer Predictive text inputWalkman player TrackID music recognition Organizer Voice memo Predictive text input
Battery
Music playUp to 20 hUp to 10 h
Stand-byUp to 476 hUp to 300 h
Talk timeUp to 4 h 30 minUp to 7 h
TypeRemovable Li-Ion batteryRemovable Li-Po 950 mAh battery
Misc
ColorsContrast Black, Sunset Pink, Spring Green, Stealth BlackMidnight Black, Sparkling White, Indigo Blue
PriceAbout 80 EURAbout 80 EUR
SAR EU1.03 W/kg (head)0.95 W/kg (head)

Sony Ericsson Spiro

  • Unique, eye-catching design
  • Collectible item
  • Compact size

  • Limited information available
  • Potentially lower performance
  • Likely basic camera quality

Sony Ericsson W302

  • Reputable brand and build quality
  • Likely better audio quality (Walkman branding)
  • Potentially more reliable performance
  • More readily available information/support

  • Less distinctive design compared to Spiro
  • Basic feature phone functionality
  • Low-resolution camera

Display Comparison

Both phones likely featured small, standard QVGA or similar resolution displays typical of the era. The Spiro's design might have integrated the screen differently, potentially impacting viewing angles or brightness. The W302 likely prioritized clarity and readability.

Camera Comparison

Both phones likely had rudimentary VGA cameras. Image quality would be low by modern standards. The W302, with Sony Ericsson's established camera technology, *might* have slightly better image processing, but don't expect miracles.

Performance

Performance would be limited by the processors of the time. Expect basic functionality – calling, texting, and simple games. The W302, being potentially slightly newer, *might* have a marginal performance advantage, but differences would be minimal.

Battery Life

Battery life would depend on usage, but both phones likely offered several days of standby time. The W302, potentially with slightly more efficient hardware, *could* have a marginally longer battery life.

Buying Guide

The Sony Ericsson Spiro is for collectors and those fascinated by unique, albeit potentially less functional, designs. The Sony Ericsson W302 is for those seeking a reliable, classic feature phone with a focus on music playback and basic communication.

Frequently Asked Questions

❓ Are these phones still usable today?
Yes, but with limitations. Network compatibility might be an issue depending on your carrier. Expect basic functionality and limited app support.
❓ Where can I find these phones?
Online marketplaces like eBay and specialized retro phone retailers are your best bet. Be prepared to pay a premium for well-preserved models.