Remember the days of simple phones, long battery life, and satisfying keypads? The Vodafone 246 and Samsung E1170 represent that era perfectly. Both were budget-friendly options offering essential features, but which one holds up best today? Let's dive in.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Samsung E1170 likely edges out the Vodafone 246 due to Samsung's generally more robust build quality and slightly more refined user experience, even within the limitations of these older devices. Both are excellent choices for a nostalgic, no-frills phone experience.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 900 / 1800 |
| EDGE | No | No |
| GPRS | No | No |
| Technology | GSM | GSM |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2010, April. Released 2010, April | 2010, April. Released 2010, April |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | - | 108.7 x 46.1 x 14.1 mm (4.28 x 1.81 x 0.56 in) |
| SIM | Mini-SIM | Mini-SIM |
| Weight | - | 72 g (2.54 oz) |
| | Flashlight | - |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | - | 128 x 128 pixels, 1:1 ratio (~119 ppi density) |
| Size | 1.44 inches | 1.52 inches, 7.5 cm2 (~14.9% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | TFT, 65K colors | CSTN, 65K colors |
| Memory |
|---|
| Call records | Yes | Yes |
| Card slot | No | No |
| Internal | - | 16MB |
| Phonebook | Yes | Yes, up to 200 entries |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | No | No |
| 35mm jack | No | No |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | No | No |
| Positioning | No | No |
| Radio | Stereo FM radio, RDS | No |
| USB | No | No |
| WLAN | No | No |
| Features |
|---|
| Browser | No | No |
| Games | No | Yes |
| Java | No | No |
| Messaging | SMS | SMS |
| | Calculator
Currency converter
Predictive text input | Organizer
Predictive text input |
| Battery |
|---|
| Stand-by | - | Up to 830 h |
| Talk time | - | Up to 10 h 30 min |
| Type | Removable Li-Ion battery | Removable Li-Ion 1000 mAh battery |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black | Black |
| Price | - | About 30 EUR |
| SAR EU | - | 0.57 W/kg (head) |
Vodafone 246
- Ultra-affordable
- Long battery life
- Simple and easy to use
- Limited features
- Basic display
- Potentially less durable build
Samsung E1170
- Slightly more refined design
- Potentially more durable build
- Long battery life
- Simple and easy to use
- Limited features
- Basic display
- Still quite slow by modern standards
Display Comparison
Both phones featured small, monochrome or basic color displays typical of the era. Expect low resolution and limited viewing angles. The Samsung E1170 might have a marginally brighter display, but the difference would be minimal.
Camera Comparison
Neither phone likely had a sophisticated camera. If present, expect very low resolution and poor image quality. Camera functionality was not a priority for these devices.
Performance
Performance is limited by the processors of the time. Expect slow menu navigation and basic functionality. Neither phone is designed for multitasking or demanding applications. Both will handle calls and texts reliably.
Battery Life
Battery life was a major strength of these phones. Expect several days of use on a single charge, even with moderate calling. The Samsung E1170 might have a slightly larger battery capacity, potentially offering a bit longer runtime.
Buying Guide
The Vodafone 246 is ideal for someone seeking a truly basic, ultra-affordable phone for calls and texts. The Samsung E1170 is better suited for those who appreciate a slightly more polished design and potentially a more durable build, still prioritizing simplicity.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Are these phones compatible with modern SIM cards?
Likely not directly. They use older SIM card sizes. You may need an adapter or a SIM card cutting service.
❓ Can I use these phones for internet browsing?
Limited or no internet browsing capabilities. They predate widespread mobile data adoption.
