Comprehensive Review of Motorola MOTOKEY 3CHIP EX117 Specs Prices & Insights

Network and Connectivity

The Motorola MOTOKEY 3-CHIP EX117 is a feature phone that operates on GSM technology, marked by its ability to handle GSM 850/900/1800/1900 bands across three SIM slots (SIM 1, SIM 2, and SIM 3). This tri-SIM functionality makes it an interesting choice for users requiring multiple networks for personal or professional reasons. The device supports GPRS Class 10 and EDGE Class 10 for network data transfer, although it doesn't offer 3G or 4G network capabilities, as it's primarily designed for basic browsing and communication needs.

Design and Body

Announced in May 2012 and released in June 2012, the Motorola MOTOKEY 3-CHIP EX117 features a compact and lightweight design with dimensions of 102 x 59 x 12.8 mm and a weight of just 87 grams. This makes it highly portable and easy to handle. The phone includes a physical QWERTY keyboard, catering to users who prefer tactile typing over touchscreen interfaces. The keyboard layout is particularly useful for extensive texting and emailing.

Display

The device sports a 2.0-inch TFT display with a resolution of 220 x 176 pixels, featuring 256K colors. Although the screen size is modest and the pixel density around 141 ppi, it delivers adequate visibility for basic operations and navigation. The display occupies roughly 20.9% of the phone's body, emphasizing the space dedicated to the keyboard.

Memory and Storage

Internally, the phone comes with 50MB of storage and 64MB RAM, which can handle basic applications and functionalities. For users needing more storage capacity, there's a dedicated microSDHC card slot, and the phone includes a 2GB card to store additional data, such as contacts, messages, and multimedia files. The phonebook has the capacity to store 1000 entries, complete with photocall capabilities, which is ample space for most users. Additionally, call records are maintained within the storage system, adding a useful dimension for tracking communication.

Camera

The device is equipped with a single 2 MP main camera that allows for basic photography and video recording. Given the phone's feature phone status, the camera quality is designed for straightforward snapshots rather than high-quality image capturing. The absence of a front-facing selfie camera aligns with the device’s focus on essential phone functionalities, rather than social media and photography.

Sound and Multimedia

The Motorola MOTOKEY 3-CHIP EX117 includes a loudspeaker and a 3.5mm headphone jack, catering to both public and private listening options. Despite the lack of advanced multimedia capabilities, the availability of stereo FM radio enhances entertainment choices, allowing users to tune into their favorite stations.

Connectivity Options

This model doesn’t support WLAN, but it does offer Bluetooth 2.1 with A2DP and EDR for wireless connectivity, allowing for basic file transfers and connections to Bluetooth devices. However, it lacks positioning services like GPS, and USB connectivity is managed through a proprietary connection, which may limit compatibility with universal USB accessories.

Software and Features

Operating on a feature phone platform, it supports SMS, MMS, Email, and IM features, although web-based applications and advanced connectivity features like app downloading are not supported. The absence of Java-based application support limits customization through third-party apps. However, built-in games provide some level of entertainment.

Battery Life

The MOTOKEY 3-CHIP EX117 is powered by a removable Li-Ion 750 mAh battery. With a standby time of up to 400 hours and talk time of up to 3 hours, it is ideal for users seeking a long-lasting device that can handle extended periods of use without frequent recharges. This level of battery efficiency is typical for feature phones, making it a reliable tool for basic communication over long durations.

Miscellaneous

Available in Brown and White colors, the Motorola MOTOKEY 3-CHIP EX117 is priced at approximately 70 EUR, placing it in the affordable range for budget-conscious consumers. With a SAR value of 0.72 W/kg, it conforms to safety standards for radio wave emissions. Though discontinued, the EX117 remains a practical choice in scenarios where simple, reliable mobile communication is the priority over advanced smartphone features.