Nokia 5200 A Comprehensive Guide to Specs Prices Pros and Cons

Overview

The Nokia 5200, announced in September 2006 and later discontinued, is a classic example of mobile technology from the mid-2000s. Known for its vibrant design and modest functionality, it catered to users who sought straightforward communication and basic multimedia features without the complexity of smartphones.

Design and Build

With dimensions of 92.4 x 48.2 x 20.7 mm and a weight of 104 g, the Nokia 5200 was compact and light. It fit comfortably in the hand and pockets, adhering to the sleek and subtly curved aesthetic that was popular at the time. Available in red and blue, it appealed to a younger demographic looking for a splash of color alongside practicality. The device was built to withstand the knocks and bumps of daily use, a testament to Nokia's reputation for durability.

Display

The phone featured a CSTN screen with 256K colors, measuring 2 inches with a resolution of 128 x 160 pixels (~102 ppi density). While such specifications are basic by today's standards, they provided a sufficient viewing experience for the phone’s text and simple graphics. The display was suitable for the essential functions of the phone including browsing menus, viewing photos taken with the camera, and playing basic games.

Camera

The Nokia 5200 was equipped with a VGA camera (0.3MP), a typical feature for budget phones of the time. It was capable of taking basic snapshots and video, suitable for casual photography but without the expectations of high-quality imaging. This was perfect for users seeking to capture moments on-the-go without needing high-definition images.

Network and Connectivity

The phone supported GSM networks across 900, 1800, and 1900 bands, which were standard in many regions. It featured GPRS and EDGE (Class 10) for data connectivity, providing basic internet access. Although it lacked modern connectivity options such as WLAN and GPS, it did include Bluetooth for file sharing and an infrared port for short-range wireless communication.

Memory and Storage

Internally, the Nokia 5200 was equipped with 5MB of storage, which was typical for feature phones of that era. It accommodated essential information such as contacts and messages. For users needing additional storage, the phone included a dedicated microSD slot for memory expansion. This was an appreciated feature, as it allowed for storing more multimedia files such as music and photos.

Battery Life

Powered by a removable Li-Ion 760 mAh battery (BL-5B), the Nokia 5200 provided adequate battery life for everyday use. It offered up to 263 hours of standby time and up to 3 hours and 10 minutes of talk time, ensuring it could last a full day on a single charge under typical usage conditions. The ease of swapping out the battery was also convenient for users with spare batteries.

Audio and Media

Despite lacking a 3.5mm audio jack, the Nokia 5200 included a stereo FM radio, allowing users to listen to their favorite stations on the go. The phone supported downloadable polyphonic and MP3 ringtones, providing some customization in terms of alerts and calls. Its media capabilities, although limited, were enhanced by the inclusion of Java, allowing users to install and run basic applications and games.

Messaging and Browser

Communication on the Nokia 5200 was primarily facilitated through SMS, MMS, and instant messaging, aligning with the dominant forms of mobile interaction at the time. For browsing, it used a WAP 2.0/xHTML, HTML browser, offering a simple way to access mobile-friendly web pages. This basic internet capability supported the occasional online check, perfect for quick searches and social connections.

Conclusion

The Nokia 5200 remains a nostalgic piece of mobile technology history. While its features are modest compared to modern smartphones, it was appreciated for its robust build, colorful design, and dependable performance in its time. For those seeking a simple, reliable device for communication and basic multimedia functionality, the Nokia 5200 was an excellent choice.