In a world dominated by smartphones, there's still a place for simple, reliable feature phones. Today, we're pitting two contenders against each other: the Sony Ericsson W205 and the Motorola MOTOKEY Mini EX109. Both offer basic functionality at an affordable price, but which one comes out on top?
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Motorola MOTOKEY Mini EX109 likely edges out the W205 due to its potentially more robust build and slightly better ergonomics, common with Motorola's design. However, the W205 might offer a more appealing Sony design aesthetic and potentially slightly better audio quality, typical of Sony's heritage.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 900 / 1800 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 - SIM 1 & SIM 2 |
| EDGE | No | Class 10 |
| GPRS | Class 10 | Class 10 |
| Technology | GSM | GSM |
| | GSM 850 / 1900 -W205a | - |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2009, March. Released 2009, July | 2011, August. Released 2011, August |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 92 x 47 x 16.4 mm (3.62 x 1.85 x 0.65 in) | 102 x 59.5 x 12.8 mm (4.02 x 2.34 x 0.50 in) |
| Keyboard | - | QWERTY |
| SIM | Mini-SIM | Dual SIM (Mini-SIM, dual stand-by) |
| Weight | 96 g (3.39 oz) | 87 g (3.07 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 128 x 160 pixels (~114 ppi density) | 220 x 176 pixels (~141 ppi density) |
| Size | 1.8 inches, 10.2 cm2 (~23.6% screen-to-body ratio) | 2.0 inches, 12.6 cm2 (~20.7% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | TFT, 65K colors | TFT |
| Memory |
|---|
| Call records | 30 received, dialed and missed calls | Yes |
| Card slot | Memory Stick Micro (M2), up to 2 GB | microSDHC (dedicated slot), 2 GB included |
| Internal | 5MB | 50MB |
| Phonebook | 1000 contacts, Photo call | 200 entries, Photocall |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Single | 1.3 MP | 2 MP |
| Video | Yes | @14fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | No | Yes |
| 35mm jack | No | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 2.0 | 2.1, A2DP, EDR |
| Positioning | No | No |
| Radio | Stereo FM radio, RDS | Stereo FM radio |
| USB | 2.0 | microUSB 2.0 |
| WLAN | No | No |
| Features |
|---|
| Browser | WAP 2.0/HTML (Opera Mini) | - |
| Games | Yes + downloadable | Yes |
| Java | Yes, MIDP 2.0 | Yes |
| Messaging | SMS, MMS | SMS, MMS, Email, IM |
| | Walkman media player
TrackID music recognition
Predictive text input
Organizer
Voice memo | SNS applications
MP3/AAC/WAV player
MP4/H.263 player
Photo editor
Organizer
Voice memo
Predictive text input |
| Battery |
|---|
| Music play | Up to 13 h 30 min | - |
| Stand-by | Up to 425 h | Up to 500 h |
| Talk time | Up to 9 h | Up to 8 h 20 min |
| Type | Removable Li-Ion battery | Removable Li-Ion 750 mAh battery |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Ambient Black, Sakura Pink, Windy Blue | Brown |
| Price | About 80 EUR | About 60 EUR |
| SAR | - | 1.44 W/kg (head) 1.03 W/kg (body) |
| SAR EU | 0.87 W/kg (head) | - |
Sony Ericsson W205
- Classic Sony design
- Potentially better audio quality
- Compact and lightweight
- FM Radio
- Limited specs
- Basic camera
- Potentially less durable build
Motorola MOTOKEY Mini EX109
- Durable build quality (typical of Motorola)
- Ergonomic design
- Good battery life
- Simple and easy to use
- Basic design
- Limited features
- Potentially lower audio quality
Display Comparison
Both phones feature small, basic color displays, likely around 1.8-2 inches. Expect limited resolution and viewing angles. The W205 might have a slightly more vibrant display due to Sony's historical display technology, but the difference will be minimal.
Camera Comparison
Both phones likely include a basic VGA camera. Image quality will be poor in low light, and don't expect high resolution. The W205 might offer slightly better color reproduction, but overall, camera performance will be similar and not a primary factor.
Performance
Performance will be limited on both devices, as they run on basic feature phone platforms. Expect adequate speed for calls and texts, but don't anticipate multitasking or demanding applications. The Motorola might have a slight edge in responsiveness due to potentially more efficient software.
Battery Life
Battery life is a key strength of both phones. Expect several days of usage on a single charge with moderate use. The Motorola, known for its battery efficiency, might have a slight advantage in this area.
Buying Guide
The Sony Ericsson W205 is ideal for users prioritizing a classic Sony design and potentially better audio. The Motorola MOTOKEY Mini EX109 is a good choice for those seeking a durable, no-frills phone for basic communication and a more ergonomic feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ What is the main difference between these two phones?
The main difference lies in the design and brand heritage. The W205 offers a classic Sony aesthetic, while the MOTOKEY Mini EX109 prioritizes durability and ergonomics.
❓ Are these phones suitable for modern use?
These phones are best suited for basic communication – calls and texts. They are not designed for modern smartphone applications or internet browsing.