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.
🏆 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.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 900 / 1800 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| EDGE | Class 10 | Class 10 |
| GPRS | Class 10 | Class 10 |
| Technology | GSM | GSM |
| | GSM 850 / 1900 | - |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2010, April. Released 2010, August | 2008, July. Released 2008, October |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 92 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) |
| SIM | Mini-SIM | Mini-SIM |
| Weight | 90 g (3.17 oz) | 78 g (2.75 oz) |
| | Flashlight | - |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 240 x 320 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~182 ppi density) | 176 x 220 pixels (~141 ppi density) |
| Size | 2.2 inches, 15.0 cm2 (~33.9% screen-to-body ratio) | 2.0 inches, 12.6 cm2 (~27.4% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | TFT, 256K colors | TFT, 256K colors |
| Memory |
|---|
| Call records | Yes | 30 received, dialed and missed calls |
| Card slot | microSDHC (dedicated slot) | Memory Stick Micro (M2), up to 4 GB, 512 MB included |
| Internal | 5MB | 20MB |
| Phonebook | 2000 entries, Photocall | Yes, Photocall |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Single | 2 MP | 2 MP |
| Video | Yes | QCIF@15fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | No |
| 35mm jack | Yes | No |
| Alert types | - | Vibration, MP3, AAC ringtones |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 2.1, A2DP | 2.0, A2DP |
| Positioning | No | No |
| Radio | Stereo FM radio, RDS | Stereo FM radio, RDS |
| USB | microUSB 2.0 | Proprietary |
| WLAN | No | No |
| Features |
|---|
| Browser | WAP 2.0/xHTML, HTML (Obigo Q7) | WAP 2.0/xHTML |
| Games | Yes + downloadable | Yes + downloadable |
| Java | Yes, MIDP 2.0 | Yes, MIDP 2.0 |
| Messaging | SMS(threaded view), MMS, Email, Push Email, IM | SMS, EMS, MMS, Email |
| | Walkman 4.0 player
MP3/eAAC+/WAV player
Track ID
MP4/H.264 player
Facebook, Twitter applications
Organizer
Predictive text input | Walkman player
TrackID music recognition
Organizer
Voice memo
Predictive text input |
| Battery |
|---|
| Music play | Up to 20 h | Up to 10 h |
| Stand-by | Up to 476 h | Up to 300 h |
| Talk time | Up to 4 h 30 min | Up to 7 h |
| Type | Removable Li-Ion battery | Removable Li-Po 950 mAh battery |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Contrast Black, Sunset Pink, Spring Green, Stealth Black | Midnight Black, Sparkling White, Indigo Blue |
| Price | About 80 EUR | About 80 EUR |
| SAR EU | 1.03 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.