The early 2000s were a golden age for feature phones, and Sony Ericsson was at the forefront. The Zylo and Hazel, both released around 2006, offered distinct designs and features. Let's dive into a detailed comparison to see which one holds up best today.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Zylo boasts a more modern, sleek design and slightly better multimedia capabilities. However, the Hazel's more robust build and potentially longer battery life give it an edge for those prioritizing durability. Ultimately, the choice depends on your aesthetic preference and desired features.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 900 / 2100 |
| Speed | HSPA 7.2/2 Mbps | HSPA 7.2/2 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA | GSM / HSPA |
| | HSDPA 2100 | HSDPA 2100 |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2010, April. Released 2010, July | 2009, December. Released 2010, May |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 103 x 52 x 16 mm (4.06 x 2.05 x 0.63 in) | 102 x 49.5 x 16 mm (4.02 x 1.95 x 0.63 in) |
| SIM | Mini-SIM | Mini-SIM |
| Weight | 115 g (4.06 oz) | 120 g (4.23 oz) |
| | - | Splash resistant |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | Scratch-resistant glass | Scratch-resistant glass |
| Resolution | 240 x 320 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~154 ppi density) | 240 x 320 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~154 ppi density) |
| Size | 2.6 inches, 20.9 cm2 (~39.1% screen-to-body ratio) | 2.6 inches, 20.9 cm2 (~41.5% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | TFT, 256K colors | TFT, 16M colors |
| Memory |
|---|
| Call records | Yes | Yes |
| Card slot | microSDHC (dedicated slot) | microSDHC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 260MB | 280MB |
| Phonebook | 2000 entries, Photocall | 1000 entries, Photocall |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | - | LED flash |
| Single | 3.15 MP | 5 MP, AF |
| Video | 480p@24fps | 480p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | - | Yes |
| | No | - |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | No | No |
| 35mm jack | No | No |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 2.1, A2DP | 2.1, A2DP |
| Positioning | No | GPS, A-GPS; Wisepilot navigation |
| Radio | Stereo FM radio, RDS | Stereo FM radio, RDS |
| USB | USB 2.0 | USB 2.0 |
| WLAN | No | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g, DLNA |
| Features |
|---|
| Browser | WAP 2.0/xHTML, HTML (NetFront), RSS reader | WAP 2.0/xHTML, HTML (NetFront), RSS reader |
| Games | Yes, incl. motion-based + downloadable | Yes, incl. motion-based + downloadable |
| Java | Yes, MIDP 2.0 | Yes, MIDP 2.0 |
| Messaging | SMS(threaded view), MMS, Email, Push Email, IM | SMS(threaded view), MMS, Email, Push Email, IM |
| Sensors | Accelerometer | Accelerometer |
| | Walkman 4.0 player
FLAC/MP3/eAAC+/WAV player
SensMe, Track ID
MP4/H.264 player
Photo editor
YouTube, Facebook, Twitter applications
Organizer
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 340 h (2G) / Up to 400 h (3G) | Up to 469 h (2G) / Up to 588 h (3G) |
| Talk time | Up to 4 h (2G) / Up to 3 h 30 min (3G) | Up to 4 h 10 min (2G) / Up to 3 h 20 min (3G) |
| Type | Removable Li-Ion battery | Removable Li-Po 1000 mAh battery (BST-43) |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Jazz Black, Chacha Silver, Swing Pink, Energetic Black, Meteorite White, Nebula Red | Superior Black, Passionate Rouge |
| Price | About 80 EUR | About 110 EUR |
| SAR EU | 0.88 W/kg (head) | 0.68 W/kg (head) |
| Tests |
|---|
| Audio quality |
Noise -85.5dB / Crosstalk -84.8dB |
Noise -87.3dB / Crosstalk -86.8dB |
| Camera |
Photo |
Photo |
| Loudspeaker |
Voice 65dB / Noise 66dB / Ring 78dB
|
Voice 65dB / Noise 62dB / Ring 66dB
|
Sony Ericsson Zylo
- Sleek, modern design
- Potentially better multimedia features
- Slightly better screen color reproduction
- Potentially shorter battery life
- Fragile build compared to Hazel
- Basic camera quality
Sony Ericsson Hazel
- More robust and durable build
- Potentially longer battery life
- Classic, rugged aesthetic
- Less modern design
- Basic camera quality
- Potentially less refined multimedia experience
Display Comparison
Both the Zylo and Hazel feature relatively small, standard-definition displays typical of the era. The Zylo's screen might offer slightly better color reproduction, but the difference is minimal. Viewing angles and brightness are both limited by the technology of the time.
Camera Comparison
Both phones feature basic, low-resolution cameras (likely 2MP or less). Image quality is poor by modern standards, suitable only for quick snapshots in good lighting conditions. The Zylo's camera might offer slightly better color accuracy, but overall, camera performance is a weak point for both devices.
Performance
Powered by similar processors, both phones offer adequate performance for basic tasks like calling, texting, and light web browsing. Don't expect blazing speeds or smooth multitasking. The Zylo might have a slight edge due to potentially more efficient software optimization.
Battery Life
The Hazel is generally believed to have a slightly larger battery capacity than the Zylo, potentially translating to longer talk time and standby time. However, battery life will heavily depend on usage patterns and the condition of the battery.
Buying Guide
Who should buy the Sony Ericsson Zylo? Those who appreciate a stylish, music-focused phone with a cleaner design. Who should buy the Sony Ericsson Hazel? Users seeking a more durable device with a classic, rugged feel and potentially longer battery life.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Are these phones still usable in 2024?
Yes, but with limitations. They primarily function as feature phones for calls and texts. Modern apps and data connectivity are not supported. They are best enjoyed as retro collectibles or for basic communication.
❓ 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 significantly.
