Vertu phones have always represented the pinnacle of luxury mobile technology, blending exquisite craftsmanship with a unique concierge service. The Constellation and Constellation Ayxta are two iterations of this concept, but subtle differences set them apart. Let's delve into a detailed comparison to determine which model reigns supreme.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Constellation Ayxta generally edges out the standard Constellation due to its slightly more refined design and potentially improved materials. Both offer the Vertu experience – unparalleled luxury and a dedicated concierge – but the Ayxta feels like a more modern interpretation of that legacy. Ultimately, the choice depends on personal aesthetic preference.
| 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 / HSPA | GSM |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2011, October. Released 2011, October | 2009, September. Released 2009, October |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 118.2 x 54.5 x 12.2 mm (4.65 x 2.15 x 0.48 in) | 100 x 48 x 18 mm, 74 cc (3.94 x 1.89 x 0.71 in) |
| SIM | Mini-SIM | Mini-SIM |
| Weight | 164g - 199g (7.02 oz) | 175 g (6.17 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | Shatter proof sapphire crystal glass, oleophobic coating | Scratch-resistant glass |
| Resolution | 360 x 640 pixels, 16:9 ratio (~210 ppi density) | 240 x 400 pixels, 5:3 ratio (~194 ppi density) |
| Size | 3.5 inches, 33.8 cm2 (~52.4% screen-to-body ratio) | 2.4 inches, 16.4 cm2 (~34.2% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | AMOLED | TFT, 16M colors |
| | - | 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 | Dual-LED flash | LED flash |
| Single | 8 MP | 3.15 MP, AF |
| Video | 720p@25fps, 720p@30fps (via SW update) | Yes |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | No |
| 35mm jack | Yes | No |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 3.0, A2DP | 2.0 |
| Positioning | GPS, A-GPS | GPS, A-GPS; Google maps |
| Radio | - | No |
| USB | microUSB 2.0 | 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n | No |
| Features |
|---|
| Browser | - | WAP 2.0 / xHTML |
| Games | - | Yes |
| Java | - | Yes, MIDP 2.0 |
| Languages | - | Yes |
| Messaging | - | SMS, MMS, Email |
| Sensors | Accelerometer, proximity, compass | - |
| | 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 | MP4/H.264/WMV player
MP3/eAAC+/WMA player
Organizer
Voice memo
Predictive text input |
| Battery |
|---|
| Stand-by | Up to 400 h (2G) / Up to 400 h (3G) | Up to 300 h |
| Talk time | Up to 7 h (2G) / Up to 4 h 30 min (3G) | Up to 5 h 30 min |
| Type | Non-removable Li-Ion 1200 mAh battery (BL-5K) | Non-removable Li-Ion 1000 mAh battery (BL-4UV) |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Stain/Polished stainless steel, brown/black/pink leather or black alligator skin | Black, Dark Brown |
| Price | About 2330 EUR | About 5020 EUR |
Vertu Constellation
- Handcrafted materials
- Dedicated concierge service
- Unique design
- Exclusivity
- Outdated specifications
- High price point
- Limited functionality compared to modern smartphones
- Difficult to find parts/support
Vertu Constellation Ayxta
- Refined design (potentially)
- Potentially improved materials
- Dedicated concierge service
- Exclusivity
- Outdated specifications
- High price point
- Limited functionality compared to modern smartphones
- Difficult to find parts/support
Display Comparison
Both models likely feature similar, albeit small, displays, prioritizing clarity and elegance over size. Expect a high-resolution screen, but not a large one, reflecting the focus on premium materials and a compact form factor. The Ayxta might have a subtly improved display coating or slightly better color accuracy, but this is speculative given the lack of detailed specs.
Camera Comparison
Camera capabilities are likely modest on both devices, secondary to the overall luxury experience. Expect decent image quality in good lighting conditions, but don't anticipate flagship-level photography. The Ayxta *could* have a marginally improved sensor or image processing, but again, this is speculative.
Performance
Performance is likely comparable across both models, relying on older, but capable, processors. Don't expect flagship-level performance; the focus is on smooth operation for essential tasks and the Vertu OS, rather than demanding gaming or intensive applications. The Ayxta *might* have a slightly newer processor, but it's unlikely to be a significant difference.
Battery Life
Battery life is likely similar on both, adequate for a day of moderate use. Given the smaller screen size and less demanding hardware, battery drain shouldn't be a major concern. Expect around 8-10 hours of typical usage.
Buying Guide
The Vertu Constellation is for those who prioritize status, handcrafted materials, and a dedicated concierge service above all else. The Constellation Ayxta is suited for buyers who appreciate a more contemporary design aesthetic within the Vertu luxury framework, potentially seeking a slightly more modern feel while retaining the core Vertu experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ What is the Vertu Concierge service?
The Vertu Concierge service provides personalized assistance with travel arrangements, restaurant reservations, event tickets, and other lifestyle needs. It's a key differentiator for Vertu phones.
❓ Are Vertu phones still supported?
Support for older Vertu phones, including the Constellation models, can be challenging. Parts and software updates are increasingly difficult to obtain, which is a significant consideration.
