The early 2000s were a golden age for feature phones, and Sony Ericsson was at the forefront. The W995 and W810 were both popular choices, boasting impressive multimedia capabilities for their time. But which one truly delivered the best experience? Let's dive in and compare these iconic devices.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The W995 edges out the W810 thanks to its faster processor, slightly better camera, and more modern design. However, the W810 remains a solid choice, especially for those prioritizing a more compact form factor and potentially a lower price point (if found).
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 900 / 2100 | - |
| EDGE | - | Class 10 |
| GPRS | - | Class 10 |
| Speed | HSPA 7.2/2 Mbps | - |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA | GSM |
| | HSDPA 850 / 1900 - W995a | - |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2009, February. Released 2009, May | 2006, Q1 |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 97 x 49 x 15 mm (3.82 x 1.93 x 0.59 in) | 100 x 46 x 19.5 mm (3.94 x 1.81 x 0.77 in) |
| SIM | Mini-SIM | Mini-SIM |
| Weight | 113 g (3.99 oz) | 99 g (3.49 oz) |
| | Built-in kickstand | - |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 240 x 320 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~154 ppi density) | 176 x 220 pixels (~148 ppi density) |
| Size | 2.6 inches, 20.9 cm2 (~44.0% screen-to-body ratio) | 1.9 inches, 30 x 38 mm, 11.4 cm2 (~24.7% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | TFT, 256K colors | TFT, 256K colors |
| | - | Wallpapers, screensavers |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | 369 MHz ARM 11 | - |
| Memory |
|---|
| Call records | 30 received, dialed and missed calls | 30 received, dialed and missed calls |
| Card slot | Memory Stick Micro (M2), up to 16 GB, 8 GB included | Memory Stick Duo Pro, up to 4 GB, 512 MB included |
| Internal | 118MB | 20MB |
| Phonebook | 1000 x 20 fields, Photo call | 1000 x 24 fields, Photo call |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | LED flash |
| Single | 8.1 MP, AF | 2 MP, AF |
| Video | 320p@30fps | Yes |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| | Videocall camera | No |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | No |
| 35mm jack | Yes | No |
| Alert types | - | Vibration; Downloadable polyphonic, MP3, AAC ringtones, composer |
| Loudspeaker | Yes, with stereo speakers | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 2.0, A2DP | 2.0 |
| Infrared port | - | Yes |
| Positioning | GPS, A-GPS; Wayfinder navigator | No |
| Radio | Stereo FM radio, RDS | Stereo FM radio, RDS |
| USB | 2.0 | 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g, DLNA | No |
| Features |
|---|
| Browser | WAP 2.0/HTML (NetFront), RSS reader | WAP 2.0/xHTML, HTML (NetFront) |
| Games | Yes, incl. motion-based + downloadable | Yes + downloadable |
| Java | Yes, MIDP 2.0 | Yes |
| Messaging | SMS, MMS, Email, IM | SMS, MMS, Email, Instant Messaging |
| Sensors | Accelerometer | - |
| | MP3/AAC/MP4 player
TrackID music recognition
Photo editor
Organizer
Voice memo/dial
Walkman 4.0 player
Shake control
SensMe | MP3/AAC/MP4 player
Video player
Predictive text input
Photo editor
Organizer
Voice memo
SyncML |
| Battery |
|---|
| Music play | Up to 20 h | - |
| Stand-by | Up to 370 h (2G) / Up to 360 h (3G) | Up to 350 h |
| Talk time | Up to 9 h (2G) / Up to 4 h (3G) | Up to 8 h |
| Type | Removable Li-Po 930 mAh battery (BST-38) | Removable Li-Po 900 mAh battery (BST-37) |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Progressive Black, Cosmic Silver, Energetic Red | Satin Black, Fusion White |
| Price | About 100 EUR | About 130 EUR |
| SAR | - | 1.04 W/kg (head) 0.86 W/kg (body) |
| SAR EU | 1.18 W/kg (head) | 0.99 W/kg (head) |
| Tests |
|---|
| Audio quality |
Noise -89.1dB / Crosstalk -88.7dB | - |
| Loudspeaker |
Voice 66dB / Noise 66dB / Ring 75dB | - |
Sony Ericsson W995
- Faster processor (369 MHz ARM 11)
- Better camera (typically 8MP)
- Slightly more modern design
- More storage space (often expandable)
- Larger size and weight
- Potentially shorter battery life
- Can be harder to find in good condition
Sony Ericsson W810
- More compact and pocketable
- Potentially longer battery life
- Simpler user interface
- May be easier to find and potentially cheaper
- Slower processor
- Lower resolution camera (typically 2MP)
- Less storage space
- Older design
Display Comparison
Both phones featured relatively small displays for the time, typically around 2.2 inches. The W995 likely had a slightly higher resolution, contributing to marginally sharper visuals, but the difference was subtle. Viewing angles and color reproduction were typical of early LCD technology on both devices.
Camera Comparison
The W995 generally had a better camera, often featuring a higher megapixel count (around 8MP) compared to the W810 (typically 2MP). Image quality was improved on the W995, with better color accuracy and detail. Both cameras struggled in low-light conditions, as was common for the era.
Performance
The W995's 369 MHz ARM 11 processor provided a noticeable performance boost over the W810. This translated to faster app loading, smoother web browsing (for the time), and a more responsive user interface. The W810, while functional, could feel sluggish by comparison.
Battery Life
Battery life was a key consideration for feature phones. While exact figures are difficult to confirm without specific testing data, the W810, with its less demanding processor, likely offered slightly better battery life under moderate usage. The W995's more powerful processor and features would have consumed more power.
Buying Guide
The Sony Ericsson W995 is for those seeking a slightly more powerful and feature-rich experience, willing to accept a larger size. The W810 is ideal for users who prefer a smaller, more pocketable device and a simpler interface, prioritizing portability over raw performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Are these phones still usable today?
Yes, but with limitations. They'll require a SIM card with 2G connectivity. Modern apps won't work, but they're great for basic calls, texts, and nostalgic multimedia playback.
❓ Where can I find these phones?
You'll likely need to search online marketplaces like eBay or specialized retro phone retailers. Condition and price will vary greatly.
