Vertu, synonymous with handcrafted luxury and exclusivity, offers a range of premium smartphones. The Ascent Ti and Signature represent distinct design philosophies within the brand. This comparison dives deep into their aesthetics, perceived performance, and overall value proposition for the discerning buyer.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Signature leans into classic, timeless design with its signature flip mechanism, while the Ascent Ti boasts a more modern, streamlined titanium aesthetic. Both offer exceptional build quality, but the Signature's heritage and unique form factor give it a slight edge for those prioritizing tradition and a statement piece.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 900 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | UMTS 2100 | - |
| EDGE | - | No |
| GPRS | - | No |
| Speed | Yes, 384 kbps | - |
| Technology | GSM / UMTS | GSM |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2007, July. Released 2008, April | 2003 |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 115.5 x 49 x 13.1 mm, 74 cc (4.55 x 1.93 x 0.52 in) | 122 x 42 x 15.5 mm, 78 cc (4.80 x 1.65 x 0.61 in) |
| SIM | Mini-SIM | Mini-SIM |
| Weight | 160 g (5.64 oz) | 173 g - 215 g (7.05 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | Scratch-resistant glass | Scratch-resistant glass |
| Resolution | 240 x 320 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~200 ppi density) | - |
| Size | 2.0 inches, 12.4 cm2 (~21.9% screen-to-body ratio) | - |
| Type | TFT, 16M colors | TFD, 4096 colors |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | No | No |
| Internal | 4GB | - |
| Phonebook | 1500 entries | 1000 entries |
| | - | 220 calendar notes
100 SMS |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | - |
| Single | 3.15 MP, AF | - |
| Video | No | - |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | No | No |
| 35mm jack | No | No |
| Alert types | - | Vibration; Polyphonic ringtones |
| Loudspeaker | Yes, with stereo speakers | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | Yes | No |
| Positioning | No | No |
| Radio | No | No |
| USB | microUSB | - |
| WLAN | No | No |
| Features |
|---|
| Browser | WAP | - |
| Games | Yes | Yes |
| Java | Yes | No |
| Languages | English, French, Italian, German, Spanish, Chinese | English, French, Italian, German, Spanish, Chinese |
| Messaging | SMS, MMS, Email | SMS |
| | Organizer
Vertu Fortress Wireless synchronization service
Vertu Concierge service
Stainless steel keys
Ceramic ear pillow
Voice dial
Predictive text input | Predictive text input
Organizer |
| Battery |
|---|
| Stand-by | Up to 300 h | Up to 200 h |
| Talk time | Up to 5 h (2G) / Up to 3 h (3G) | Up to 8 h |
| Type | Non-removable Li-Ion 950 mAh battery | Removable Li-Ion 950 mAh battery |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Carbon Fibre, Black, Brown, Red, Knurled, Checked | - |
| Price | About 5530 EUR | About 5900 EUR |
Vertu Ascent Ti
- Modern, sleek titanium design
- Robust and durable build
- More contemporary aesthetic
- Potentially larger display
- May lack cutting-edge performance
- Limited availability of detailed specs
- High price point for limited features
Vertu Signature
- Classic, timeless design
- Unique flip-phone mechanism
- Strong heritage and brand recognition
- Exudes prestige and exclusivity
- Smaller screen size
- Potentially shorter battery life
- May lack cutting-edge performance
- High price point for limited features
Display Comparison
Both the Ascent Ti and Signature likely feature high-resolution displays, though specific details are scarce. The Signature's smaller screen size, due to its flip design, might offer a more compact experience, while the Ascent Ti's larger display could be better for media consumption. Expect excellent color accuracy and brightness on both, typical of Vertu's premium offerings.
Camera Comparison
Camera quality is likely decent but not a primary focus for Vertu. Expect capable image capture in good lighting conditions, but don't anticipate flagship-level photography. Both models likely feature a single rear camera, prioritizing simplicity and elegance over a multi-lens system.
Performance
Given the lack of detailed specs, performance is likely adequate for everyday tasks on both devices. However, don't expect flagship-level processing power. Vertu historically prioritized craftsmanship and materials over cutting-edge performance. Both likely run a customized Android version, optimized for a smooth, albeit not lightning-fast, user experience.
Battery Life
Battery life is likely average for their respective eras. The Signature's smaller form factor might necessitate a smaller battery, potentially impacting longevity compared to the Ascent Ti. Expect a full day of moderate use on both, but heavy users may need to charge before the end of the day.
Buying Guide
The Vertu Ascent Ti is ideal for those who appreciate a contemporary, minimalist design and a robust titanium build. It appeals to a modern luxury consumer. The Vertu Signature is for the traditionalist, someone who values heritage, a unique flip-phone experience, and a phone that exudes classic elegance and prestige. It's a statement of enduring style.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Are Vertu phones worth the price?
Vertu phones are primarily about the brand, craftsmanship, and materials, not raw performance. The price reflects the hand-assembled nature, premium materials like titanium and leather, and concierge services. Value is subjective and depends on your priorities.
❓ What operating system do these Vertu phones use?
Both the Ascent Ti and Signature likely run a customized version of Android, optimized for Vertu's hardware and user experience. Specific Android versions are difficult to confirm due to limited information.
