Remember the days of dedicated music phones and physical keypads? The Sony Ericsson W395 and W205 represent a bygone era of mobile technology. Both were popular choices for music lovers and those seeking a simple, reliable device, but which one truly reigned supreme?
🏆 Quick Verdict
The W395 likely edges out the W205 due to its potentially superior audio capabilities and slightly more modern design for its time. However, the W205 might offer better durability and a more streamlined user experience. Ultimately, the choice depends on your priorities: music or simplicity.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 900 / 1800 |
| EDGE | Class 10 | No |
| GPRS | Class 10 | Class 10 |
| Technology | GSM | GSM |
| | - | GSM 850 / 1900 -W205a |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2009, February. Released 2009, March | 2009, March. Released 2009, July |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 96 x 47 x 14.9 mm (3.78 x 1.85 x 0.59 in) | 92 x 47 x 16.4 mm (3.62 x 1.85 x 0.65 in) |
| SIM | Mini-SIM | Mini-SIM |
| Weight | 96 g (3.39 oz) | 96 g (3.39 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | Scratch-resistant glass | - |
| Resolution | 176 x 220 pixels (~141 ppi density) | 128 x 160 pixels (~114 ppi density) |
| Size | 2.0 inches, 12.6 cm2 (~27.9% screen-to-body ratio) | 1.8 inches, 10.2 cm2 (~23.6% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | TFT, 256K colors | TFT, 65K colors |
| Memory |
|---|
| Call records | 30 received, dialed and missed calls | 30 received, dialed and missed calls |
| Card slot | Memory Stick Micro (M2), up to 4 GB, 1 GB included | Memory Stick Micro (M2), up to 2 GB |
| Internal | 10MB | 5MB |
| Phonebook | 1000 x 20 fields, Photo call | 1000 contacts, Photo call |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Single | 2 MP | 1.3 MP |
| Video | Yes | Yes |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | No | No |
| 35mm jack | No | No |
| Loudspeaker | Yes, with stereo speakers | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 2.0, A2DP | 2.0 |
| 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/xHTML, HTML (Openwave), RSS reader | WAP 2.0/HTML (Opera Mini) |
| Games | Yes, incl. motion-based + downloadable | Yes + downloadable |
| Java | Yes, MIDP 2.0 | Yes, MIDP 2.0 |
| Messaging | SMS, EMS, MMS, Email, IM | SMS, MMS |
| | Walkman player
TrackID music recognition
Photo editor
Organizer
Voice memo
Predictive text input | Walkman media player
TrackID music recognition
Predictive text input
Organizer
Voice memo |
| Battery |
|---|
| Music play | Up to 12 h 30 min | Up to 13 h 30 min |
| Stand-by | Up to 480 h | Up to 425 h |
| Talk time | Up to 8 h | Up to 9 h |
| Type | Removable Li-Ion 950 mAh battery | Removable Li-Ion battery |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Dusky Grey, Blush Titanium, Fiesta Black, Happy Pink | Ambient Black, Sakura Pink, Windy Blue |
| Price | About 80 EUR | About 80 EUR |
| SAR EU | 0.88 W/kg (head) | 0.87 W/kg (head) |
Sony Ericsson W395
- Potentially better audio quality (Walkman branding)
- Slightly more modern design for its time
- Dedicated music playback features
- Potentially more fragile build quality
- Slightly more complex user interface
Sony Ericsson W205
- Durable and robust build
- Simple and easy-to-use interface
- Longer battery life (potentially)
- Basic design
- Limited features
- Lower audio quality (likely)
Display Comparison
Both phones likely featured small, basic LCD screens, typical of the era. The W395 might have a marginally larger or slightly higher resolution display, but the difference would be minimal. Expect limited color reproduction and low brightness.
Camera Comparison
Both phones likely included rudimentary VGA cameras. Image quality would be poor by modern standards, suitable only for very basic snapshots in good lighting conditions. Don't expect any advanced features like autofocus or flash.
Performance
Performance was not a strong point for either device. Both ran on basic processors and had limited RAM, resulting in slow menu navigation and basic functionality. Expect lag when multitasking or using more demanding features.
Battery Life
Battery life was a key selling point for feature phones. Both the W395 and W205 likely offered several days of standby time and a reasonable amount of talk time, though the W205, being slightly simpler, might have a slight edge.
Buying Guide
The Sony Ericsson W395 is for those who prioritize music playback and a slightly more stylish design. The Sony Ericsson W205 is ideal for users seeking a basic, durable, and easy-to-use phone for calls and texts, with a focus on longevity.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Are these phones still usable with modern networks?
No, these phones are 2G devices and will not work on modern 4G or 5G networks. They are primarily for nostalgic use or as basic feature phones in areas with 2G coverage.
❓ Where can I find these phones?
You'll likely need to search online marketplaces like eBay or specialized retro phone retailers. Availability is limited and prices can vary widely.
