Vertu phones represent the pinnacle of luxury mobile technology, blending exquisite materials with bespoke services. The Constellation and Constellation Ayxta are both iconic models, but subtle differences set them apart. This comparison dives deep into what makes each phone unique.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Vertu Constellation Ayxta likely offers a slightly more refined design and potentially newer internal components, though both prioritize craftsmanship and concierge services. Ultimately, the choice hinges on aesthetic preference and budget, as both deliver a premium, albeit dated, luxury experience.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | - | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 |
| EDGE | Class 10 | - |
| GPRS | Class 10 | - |
| Speed | - | HSPA |
| Technology | GSM | GSM / HSPA |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2009, September. Released 2009, October | 2011, October. Released 2011, October |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 100 x 48 x 18 mm, 74 cc (3.94 x 1.89 x 0.71 in) | 118.2 x 54.5 x 12.2 mm (4.65 x 2.15 x 0.48 in) |
| SIM | Mini-SIM | Mini-SIM |
| Weight | 175 g (6.17 oz) | 164g - 199g (7.02 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | Scratch-resistant glass | Shatter proof sapphire crystal glass, oleophobic coating |
| Resolution | 240 x 400 pixels, 5:3 ratio (~194 ppi density) | 360 x 640 pixels, 16:9 ratio (~210 ppi density) |
| Size | 2.4 inches, 16.4 cm2 (~34.2% screen-to-body ratio) | 3.5 inches, 33.8 cm2 (~52.4% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | TFT, 16M colors | AMOLED |
| | External monochrome display, 128 x 160 pixels | - |
| Platform |
|---|
| OS | - | Symbian^3, upgradable to Nokia Belle OS |
| Memory |
|---|
| Call records | 30 received, dialed and missed calls | - |
| Card slot | microSDHC (dedicated slot) | microSDHC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 100MB | - |
| Phonebook | 2000 contacts, Photocall | - |
| | 1500 calendar notes
1000 SMS | - |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | Dual-LED flash |
| Single | 3.15 MP, AF | 8 MP |
| Video | Yes | 720p@25fps, 720p@30fps (via SW update) |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | No | Yes |
| 35mm jack | No | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 2.0 | 3.0, A2DP |
| Positioning | GPS, A-GPS; Google maps | GPS, A-GPS |
| Radio | No | - |
| USB | 2.0 | microUSB 2.0 |
| WLAN | No | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n |
| Features |
|---|
| Browser | WAP 2.0 / xHTML | - |
| Games | Yes | - |
| Java | Yes, MIDP 2.0 | - |
| Languages | Yes | - |
| Messaging | SMS, MMS, Email | - |
| Sensors | - | Accelerometer, proximity, compass |
| | MP4/H.264/WMV player
MP3/eAAC+/WMA player
Organizer
Voice memo
Predictive text input | Vertu Concierge service
SNS support
MP3/WMA/WAV/eAAC+ player
DivX/XviD/MP4/H.264/WMV player
Quickoffice document editor (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, PDF)
Adobe Reader
Voice memo/dial/command
Predictive text input |
| Battery |
|---|
| Stand-by | Up to 300 h | Up to 400 h (2G) / Up to 400 h (3G) |
| Talk time | Up to 5 h 30 min | Up to 7 h (2G) / Up to 4 h 30 min (3G) |
| Type | Non-removable Li-Ion 1000 mAh battery (BL-4UV) | Non-removable Li-Ion 1200 mAh battery (BL-5K) |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black, Dark Brown | Stain/Polished stainless steel, brown/black/pink leather or black alligator skin |
| Price | About 5020 EUR | About 2330 EUR |
Vertu Constellation Ayxta
- Potentially more refined design
- Possibly newer internal components
- Vertu Concierge Service
- Handcrafted materials
- High price point
- Outdated Android version
- Limited app compatibility
- Difficult to find replacement parts
Vertu Constellation
- Timeless design
- Vertu Concierge Service
- Handcrafted materials
- Potentially lower price point
- Older Android version
- Limited app compatibility
- Difficult to find replacement parts
- Potentially more battery degradation
Display Comparison
Both the Constellation and Ayxta likely feature similar sized, high-resolution displays, prioritizing clarity and vibrant colors. The Ayxta might incorporate a slightly newer display technology, offering marginally improved brightness or color accuracy, but the difference would be subtle.
Camera Comparison
Camera capabilities on both models are likely modest by modern standards. Expect decent image quality in good lighting conditions, but don't anticipate exceptional low-light performance or advanced features. The Ayxta *could* have a slightly improved sensor or image processing, but the difference would be minimal.
Performance
Given the age of these devices, performance is not a primary differentiator. Both phones likely run older versions of Android, and performance will be adequate for basic tasks. The Ayxta *might* have a slightly faster processor, but don't expect flagship-level speed. Both are designed for communication and concierge services, not intensive gaming.
Battery Life
Battery life on both devices is likely adequate for a day of moderate use. However, given their age, battery degradation is a significant factor to consider. Replacement batteries may be difficult to source.
Buying Guide
The Vertu Constellation Ayxta is for those seeking the most recent iteration of the classic Constellation design, potentially with minor feature enhancements. The Vertu Constellation is ideal for buyers who appreciate the timeless design and are comfortable with a slightly older model, often at a more accessible price point.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ What is the Vertu Concierge Service?
The Vertu Concierge Service provides personalized assistance with travel arrangements, restaurant reservations, event tickets, and more, accessible directly from your phone.
❓ Are these phones still supported with software updates?
Due to their age, neither the Constellation nor the Ayxta receive regular software updates. They run older versions of Android, which poses security risks.