BenQ S80 Comprehensive Review of Specs Prices Pros & Cons

Design and Build

The BenQ S80 was a compact and lightweight mobile phone, ideal for users who preferred portability without compromising on essential features. The device had dimensions of 90 x 45 x 24 mm, making it easy to hold and operate with one hand. Despite its small size, it weighed 110g, providing a solid feel. The phone was available in two color variants, Red and Black, which catered to different aesthetic preferences. The use of a Mini-SIM card was standard for phones of its time, simplifying connectivity.

Display

The BenQ S80 featured a 2.0-inch TFT display with the ability to render 256K colors, providing vibrant and clear images. With a resolution of 176 x 220 pixels and a pixel density of around 141 ppi, the screen offered sharpness well-suited for its size. The display occupied a modest 31.1% of the phone's front, typical for feature phones of that era, prioritizing durability and a compact form over expansive screen size.

Camera Capabilities

The device was equipped with a 1.3 MP main camera, a respectable specification at the time which allowed users to capture moments with reasonable clarity. It also included an LED flash feature, which was not common for basic phones, allowing for better photo quality in low-light conditions. The camera also supported video recording, adding to its multimedia capabilities. However, there was no front-facing camera, which was consistent with feature phones back then.

Performance and Storage

While specific details about the processor and RAM are not available, the BenQ S80 operated efficiently as a feature phone. It was designed for basic tasks like calling, messaging, and occasional media playback. With 10MB of internal storage, it offered limited space for user data, but the inclusion of a miniSD card slot allowed for expandable storage, which was crucial for users who wanted to store more media files or applications.

Network and Connectivity

The phone supported GSM 900/1800 bands for 2G and UMTS 2100 for 3G, allowing it to handle calls and mobile data efficiently. With a maximum data transfer speed of 384 kbps, it provided functional internet browsing and messaging services. Connectivity options included Bluetooth 1.1 for wireless file transfers and an infrared port, which was a popular method for data exchange at the time. The lack of WLAN and positioning technologies meant it was less suited for advanced online services, but it fulfilled basic connectivity needs.

Battery Life

The BenQ S80 was powered by a removable Li-Ion 840 mAh battery. This capacity was sufficient for standard usage, offering up to 4 hours of talk time and up to 300 hours of standby time. The removable nature of the battery allowed users to carry a spare, which was particularly useful for long journeys without access to charging facilities.

Sound and Alerts

One of the notable sound features of the BenQ S80 was its range of alert types. It supported vibration, downloadable polyphonic, and MP3 ringtones, providing users with options for personalizing their alert tones. The absence of a loudspeaker and a 3.5mm headphone jack meant audio consumption was somewhat restricted compared to later models that offered more versatile and high-quality sound experiences.

Software and Features

Running on a feature phone operating system, the BenQ S80 focused on delivering a straightforward user experience. Messaging was a primary function, with support for SMS and MMS, aligning with the communication needs of users. The built-in WAP 2.0/xHTML browser provided basic internet access, suitable for checking weather updates or light browsing. Java MIDP 2.0 support allowed users to download and run Java-based applications and games, adding some entertainment value to the phone.

Conclusion

Overall, the BenQ S80 was a well-rounded feature phone that catered to the essential needs of users in its time. It offered a reliable battery life, essential connectivity options, and multimedia features like a camera and expandable storage. While it lacked some of the advanced features and functionalities seen in later smartphones, it provided an excellent balance of performance and simplicity, perfectly suited for everyday tasks. Its introduction in 2005 represented a step forward in mobile technology for the era, offering a glimpse into the future advancements that were to follow in the mobile industry.