The early 2000s were a golden age for feature phones, and Sony Ericsson was a dominant force. Today, we're revisiting two of their offerings: the T715 and the W395. Both phones offer a glimpse into a simpler time, but which one holds up better?
🏆 Quick Verdict
The W395 likely edges out the T715 due to its integrated Walkman player and generally more appealing design for music lovers. However, the T715 might offer a slightly more robust build. Ultimately, the choice depends on your priorities: music or durability.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 2100 | - |
| EDGE | - | Class 10 |
| GPRS | - | Class 10 |
| Speed | HSPA | - |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA | GSM |
| | HSDPA 850 / 1900 / 2100 - T715a | - |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2009, June. Released 2009, September | 2009, February. Released 2009, March |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 91.5 x 48 x 14.9 mm (3.60 x 1.89 x 0.59 in) | 96 x 47 x 14.9 mm (3.78 x 1.85 x 0.59 in) |
| SIM | Mini-SIM | Mini-SIM |
| Weight | 96 g (3.39 oz) | 96 g (3.39 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | - | Scratch-resistant glass |
| 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 (~34.1% screen-to-body ratio) | 2.0 inches, 12.6 cm2 (~27.9% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | TFT, 16M colors | TFT, 256K colors |
| | Smart desktop | - |
| Memory |
|---|
| Call records | 30 received, dialed and missed calls | 30 received, dialed and missed calls |
| Card slot | microSDHC (dedicated slot) | Memory Stick Micro (M2), up to 4 GB, 1 GB included |
| Internal | 90MB | 10MB |
| Phonebook | 1000 contacts, Photo call | 1000 x 20 fields, Photo call |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | - |
| Single | 3.15 MP | 2 MP |
| Video | Yes | Yes |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | No | No |
| 35mm jack | No | No |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes, with stereo speakers |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 2.0, A2DP | 2.0, A2DP |
| Positioning | No | No |
| Radio | Stereo FM radio, RDS | Stereo FM radio, RDS |
| USB | 2.0 | 2.0 |
| WLAN | No | No |
| Features |
|---|
| Browser | WAP 2.0/HTML (NetFront) | WAP 2.0/xHTML, HTML (Openwave), 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, EMS, MMS, Email, IM |
| | MP3/eAAC+/WMA player
MP4/WMV/H.263 player
Organizer
Voice memo
Predictive text input | Walkman player
TrackID music recognition
Photo editor
Organizer
Voice memo
Predictive text input |
| Battery |
|---|
| Music play | - | Up to 12 h 30 min |
| Stand-by | Up to 400 h (2G) / Up to 350 h (3G) | Up to 480 h |
| Talk time | Up to 10 h (2G) / Up to 4 h (3G) | Up to 8 h |
| Type | Removable Li-Po 950 mAh battery (BST-33) | Removable Li-Ion 950 mAh battery |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Galaxy Silver, Rouge Pink | Dusky Grey, Blush Titanium, Fiesta Black, Happy Pink |
| Price | About 130 EUR | About 80 EUR |
| SAR EU | 0.90 W/kg (head) | 0.88 W/kg (head) |
Sony Ericsson T715
- Potentially more durable build
- Classic Sony Ericsson design
- Good battery life
- Basic camera
- Limited display quality
- Slow performance
Sony Ericsson W395
- Integrated Walkman player
- Stylish design
- Good battery life
- Potentially less durable than T715
- Basic camera
- Slow performance
Display Comparison
Both phones likely feature small, standard QVGA or similar resolution displays typical of the era. The T715 might have a slightly larger screen, but viewing angles and color accuracy would be limited by the technology of the time. Expect a basic, functional display on both.
Camera Comparison
Both phones likely have basic VGA cameras. Image quality will be poor by modern standards, suitable only for quick snapshots in good lighting conditions. Don't expect impressive photos from either device.
Performance
Performance will be limited by the processors of the time. Expect slow menu navigation and basic app functionality. Neither phone is designed for multitasking or demanding applications. The T715 might have a marginally faster processor, but the difference would be negligible in everyday use.
Battery Life
Battery life was a strong point for feature phones. Both the T715 and W395 should offer several days of moderate use. The W395's Walkman features might drain the battery faster if used extensively.
Buying Guide
The Sony Ericsson T715 is for those seeking a durable, basic feature phone with a classic Sony Ericsson aesthetic. The Sony Ericsson W395 is ideal for those who prioritize music playback and a more stylish design, reminiscent of the early Walkman phones.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Are these phones still usable today?
Yes, but with limitations. They'll work on older 2G networks. Modern apps won't run, and internet access will be extremely slow. They're best suited for nostalgia or as basic backup phones.
❓ Where can I find these phones?
You'll likely need to search online marketplaces like eBay or specialized retro phone retailers. Condition will vary greatly.
