The early 2000s were a golden age for mobile phones, and Sony Ericsson was at the forefront. Today, we're pitting two of their lesser-known devices, the T715 and the Hazel, against each other. Prepare for a nostalgic journey as we explore their design, features, and overall appeal.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Hazel likely edges out the T715 due to its confirmed camera functionality. While the T715 was likely a solid performer for its time, the Hazel's photographic capabilities, even basic ones, provide a tangible advantage in today's context. Both are relics, but the Hazel offers a slightly more engaging experience.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 2100 | HSDPA 900 / 2100 |
| Speed | HSPA | HSPA 7.2/2 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA | GSM / HSPA |
| | HSDPA 850 / 1900 / 2100 - T715a | HSDPA 2100 |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2009, June. Released 2009, September | 2009, December. Released 2010, May |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 91.5 x 48 x 14.9 mm (3.60 x 1.89 x 0.59 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 |
| Resolution | 240 x 320 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~182 ppi density) | 240 x 320 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~154 ppi density) |
| Size | 2.2 inches, 15.0 cm2 (~34.1% screen-to-body ratio) | 2.6 inches, 20.9 cm2 (~41.5% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | TFT, 16M colors | TFT, 16M colors |
| | Smart desktop | - |
| Memory |
|---|
| Call records | 30 received, dialed and missed calls | Yes |
| Card slot | microSDHC (dedicated slot) | microSDHC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 90MB | 280MB |
| Phonebook | 1000 contacts, Photo call | 1000 entries, Photocall |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | LED flash |
| Single | 3.15 MP | 5 MP, AF |
| Video | Yes | 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 | No | 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) | WAP 2.0/xHTML, HTML (NetFront), RSS reader |
| Games | Yes + downloadable | Yes, incl. motion-based + downloadable |
| Java | Yes, MIDP 2.0 | Yes, MIDP 2.0 |
| Messaging | SMS(threaded view), MMS, Email, Push Email | SMS(threaded view), MMS, Email, Push Email, IM |
| Sensors | - | Accelerometer |
| | MP3/eAAC+/WMA player
MP4/WMV/H.263 player
Organizer
Voice memo
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 950 mAh battery (BST-33) | Removable Li-Po 1000 mAh battery (BST-43) |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Galaxy Silver, Rouge Pink | Superior Black, Passionate Rouge |
| Price | About 130 EUR | About 110 EUR |
| SAR EU | 0.90 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 T715
- Classic Sony Ericsson design
- Potentially slightly better battery life
- Simple and functional
- Unknown camera capabilities
- Likely slower performance
- Limited features compared to modern phones
- No specific specs available
Sony Ericsson Hazel
- Confirmed camera functionality
- Compact and stylish design
- Relatively rare and collectible
- Basic camera quality
- Slow performance
- Limited features
- No specific specs available
Display Comparison
Given the era, both phones likely featured small, low-resolution LCD screens. The T715, being slightly later, *might* have a marginally better display, but the difference would be minimal and largely unnoticeable. Expect limited color reproduction and low brightness.
Camera Comparison
This is where the Hazel has a clear advantage. The Hazel is confirmed to have a camera, albeit a basic one. The T715's camera capabilities are unknown, but it's likely it lacked one entirely or had a very rudimentary model. Expect low-resolution images from the Hazel.
Performance
Both phones would have relied on early Symbian or proprietary Sony Ericsson operating systems. Performance would be slow by modern standards, suitable for basic calling, texting, and perhaps some simple games. The T715, being slightly newer, *could* have a marginally faster processor, but the difference would be negligible.
Battery Life
Battery life was generally good on phones of this era. Both phones likely offered several days of standby time with moderate use. The T715, potentially having a slightly more efficient processor, *might* have a slightly longer battery life, but it would be a minor difference.
Buying Guide
The Sony Ericsson T715 is for dedicated collectors of early 2000s Sony Ericsson phones, those interested in a simple, classic design, and those seeking a purely functional device. The Sony Ericsson Hazel is for collectors interested in a slightly more feature-rich (camera) retro phone and those appreciating a compact, stylish design.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Are these phones usable in 2024?
While technically possible, using these phones in 2024 is extremely limited. They lack modern connectivity (no 3G/4G/5G) and app support. They are primarily collector's items.
❓ Where can I find these phones?
You'll likely need to search online marketplaces like eBay or specialized retro phone retailers. Be prepared to pay a premium for well-preserved models.
