Sony Ericsson T700 vs Nokia 6500 Classic: A Blast from the Past

Remember the days of flip phones and feature-packed devices? The Sony Ericsson T700 and Nokia 6500 Classic were iconic phones of the mid-2000s. Let's revisit these classics and see how they stack up against each other in a modern context.
Phones Images

🏆 Quick Verdict

The Nokia 6500 Classic likely edges out the T700 due to its more refined design and potentially better build quality. However, the T700's slider mechanism and potentially more advanced features (based on typical Sony Ericsson offerings) could appeal to some. It's a close call!

PHONES
Phone Names Sony Ericsson T700 Nokia 6500 classic
Network
2G bandsGSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900
3G bandsHSDPA 2100UMTS 850 / 2100
SpeedHSPA 3.6/0.384 MbpsYes, 384 kbps
TechnologyGSM / HSPAGSM / UMTS
Launch
Announced2008, August. Released 2008, September2007, May. Released 2007, October
StatusDiscontinuedDiscontinued
Body
Dimensions104 x 48 x 10 mm (4.09 x 1.89 x 0.39 in)109.8 x 45 x 9.5 mm, 47 cc (4.32 x 1.77 x 0.37 in)
KeyboardQWERTY-
SIMMini-SIMMini-SIM
Weight78 g (2.75 oz)94 g (3.32 oz)
Display
Resolution240 x 320 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~200 ppi density)240 x 320 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~200 ppi density)
Size2.0 inches, 12.4 cm2 (~24.8% screen-to-body ratio)2.0 inches, 12.4 cm2 (~25.1% screen-to-body ratio)
TypeTFT, 256K colorsTFT, 16M colors
 Wallpapers, screensavers-
Platform
OSBlackBerry OS-
Memory
Call records30 received, dialed and missed calls20 dialed, 20 received, 20 missed calls
Card slotMemory Stick Micro (M2), up to 8 GB, 512 MB includedNo
Internal25MB1GB
Phonebook1000 contacts, Photo call2000 entries, Photocall
Main Camera
FeaturesLED flashLED flash
Single3.15 MP2 MP
Video320p@15fpsQCIF
Selfie camera
VideoYes-
 NoNo
Sound
3.5mm jack NoNo
35mm jackNoNo
Alert typesVibration; Downloadable polyphonic, MP3, AAC ringtones, composerVibration; Downloadable polyphonic, MP3 ringtones
Loudspeaker YesYes
Comms
Bluetooth2.0, A2DP2.0, A2DP
PositioningNoNo
RadioStereo FM radio, RDSNo
USB2.0microUSB
WLANNoNo
Features
BrowserWAP 2.0/HTML(NetFront)WAP 2.0/xHTML
GamesYes + downloadableYes + downloadable
JavaYes, MIDP 2.0Yes, MIDP 2.0
MessagingSMS, MMS, Email, Push EmailSMS, MMS, Email, Instant Messaging
 MP3/eAAC+/WMA/WMApro player MP4/WMV/H.263 player TrackID Predictive text input Organizer Voice memoSeamless case of anodized aluminum MP3/AAC/AAC+ player Predictive text input Organizer Voice memo
Battery
Music playUp to 18 h-
Stand-byUp to 370 hUp to 216 h
Talk timeUp to 9 h 30 minUp to 3 h 30 min
TypeRemovable Li-Po 950 mAh battery (BST-33)Removable Li-Ion 830 mAh battery (BL-6P)
Misc
ColorsBlack on Silver, Black on Red, Silver, Black, Red on SilverBlack, Bronze
PriceAbout 130 EURAbout 150 EUR
SAR1.35 W/kg (head)     0.50 W/kg (body)     0.92 W/kg (head)     0.94 W/kg (body)
SAR EU1.55 W/kg (head)1.28 W/kg (head)
Tests
Loudspeaker- Voice 74dB / Noise 75dB / Ring 83dB

Sony Ericsson T700

  • Unique slider design
  • Potentially more advanced features (e.g., music playback)
  • Sony Ericsson brand recognition

  • Potentially less durable slider mechanism
  • Limited processing power
  • Low-resolution screen

Nokia 6500 classic

  • Classic, sleek bar phone design
  • Durable Nokia build quality
  • Good battery life
  • Simple and reliable

  • Basic features
  • Low-resolution screen
  • Limited camera quality

Display Comparison

Both phones featured relatively small, low-resolution color screens typical of the era. The T700 might have offered slightly better color reproduction, but both were primarily designed for text and basic graphics. Viewing angles and brightness were limited by today's standards.

Camera Comparison

Both phones likely had basic VGA cameras. Image quality would be poor by modern standards, suitable only for quick snapshots in good lighting conditions. Don't expect anything beyond novelty photos.

Performance

Performance was limited by the processors of the time. Expect slow menu navigation and basic functionality. Neither phone was designed for multitasking or demanding applications. The T700's slider mechanism might introduce slight delays compared to the 6500's simpler design.

Battery Life

Battery life was a strong point for both devices, offering several days of moderate use. The Nokia 6500 Classic, known for its efficiency, likely had a slight edge in battery endurance.

Buying Guide

The Sony Ericsson T700 is for those who appreciate a unique slider design and potentially more advanced features for the time. The Nokia 6500 Classic is ideal for users prioritizing a classic, sleek bar phone design and reliable Nokia build quality.

Frequently Asked Questions

❓ Are these phones still usable today?
Yes, but with significant limitations. They lack modern features like internet browsing, app support, and high-quality cameras. They are primarily collector's items or for those seeking a nostalgic experience.
❓ Where can I find these phones?
You'll likely find them on online marketplaces like eBay or through retro phone collectors. Condition and price will vary greatly.