Unveiling Pantech PG3300 Specs Pricing Pros & Cons

Overview

The Pantech PG-3300 is a compact feature phone launched in the third quarter of 2006. Known for its sleek design and practical features, the device was targeted at users who preferred simplicity and reliability over advanced smartphone capabilities. Despite being discontinued, the PG-3300 offered a range of functionalities adequate for basic communication needs during its time.

Network Capabilities

The Pantech PG-3300 is equipped with GSM technology, supporting 2G bands (GSM 900/1800/1900), which allowed for relatively wide coverage in many regions. Although it includes GPRS Class 10 for data transmission, the phone does not support EDGE, limiting its internet capabilities significantly compared to modern devices. The absence of advanced network capabilities was typical of feature phones from that era.

Design and Build

Weighing at only 80 grams and measuring 82.5 x 41.5 x 18.5 mm, the PG-3300 was designed to be lightweight and easily portable. Its compact size allowed for convenient handling and storage. The phone uses a Mini-SIM card, which was the standard at the time of its release. Users could choose between Black and Pink color options, adding a touch of personalization.

Display

The Pantech PG-3300 features a TFT display capable of showing 256K colors. It offers a resolution of 128 x 128 pixels, providing a basic yet adequate viewing experience for text and simple graphics. The square aspect ratio was common for mobile phones of its class, allowing it to fulfill essential visual tasks without the need for high resolution.

Memory and Storage

With an internal storage capacity of 14MB, the PG-3300 was capable of storing essential data such as contacts and messages. It did not feature a card slot, highlighting its limitation in expanding storage for additional media. Nevertheless, users could manage up to 800 entries in their phonebook, complete with photo call features. The phone also keeps a log of 20 dialed, received, and missed calls, aiding users in communication management.

Camera

Although simplistic by today’s standards, the PG-3300 included a VGA main camera with basic video capabilities. Initially intended for capturing straightforward photos and videos, this camera feature was considered a valuable addition to feature phones at the time. Selfie cameras were nonexistent on the PG-3300, as front-facing photography was not a priority for most users.

Sound and Alerts

The PG-3300 supports downloadable polyphonic and MP3 ringtones, offering a level of customization for incoming call alerts. Unfortunately, it lacks a loudspeaker and a 3.5mm audio jack, which limited options for external audio output. Vibration alert was integrated as a form of silent notification, ensuring users wouldn’t miss important incoming calls or messages.

Connectivity

Connectivity options on the Pantech PG-3300 are minimal, with no support for WLAN or Bluetooth. However, it includes an infrared port, a technology once common for short-range communication and data transfer between devices. The USB connectivity relies on a proprietary interface, a standard for many feature phones before the universal adoption of mini and micro USB ports.

Software and Features

The phone runs on a basic feature phone operating system that supports essential functions such as messaging via SMS, EMS, and MMS. It comes with a WAP 2.0/xHTML browser, providing basic web browsing capabilities. Built-in games and support for Java MIDP 2.0 were included to offer some entertainment options.

Battery Life

The Pantech PG-3300 is powered by a removable Li-Ion 710 mAh battery. It promises a standby time of up to 240 hours and a talk time of up to 4 hours, which was sufficient for typical usage patterns during its era. The removable battery allowed users to easily replace it when needed, extending the life of the device.

Legacy and Discontinuation

Since its announcement in 2006, the Pantech PG-3300 served as a reliable communication device for users who prioritized simplicity and durability. However, with the advent of more advanced smartphones, which offer enhanced features and connectivity options, the demand for basic feature phones like the PG-3300 dwindled, leading to its eventual discontinuation. Nonetheless, the PG-3300 remains a testament to the transitional period from basic cellular phones to the smart devices that dominate the market today.