Samsung B200 InDepth Review of Specs Pricing & Performance

Overview

The Samsung B200 is a feature phone released in September 2008. Despite the rapid advancement of smartphone technology around its launch, this device catered to users looking for a simple, durable, and efficient mobile phone for basic communication needs. The B200 was designed as an entry-level phone, putting emphasis on functionality rather than advanced technological features.

Design and Build

The Samsung B200 flaunts a compact design with dimensions measuring 104 x 44.5 x 16 mm, making it easy to carry and handle. The device is equipped with a Mini-SIM slot and sports a classic bar phone design popular in its era. The physical hardware embodies a straightforward and robust architecture, ensuring durability while maintaining a lightweight feel. Its silver finish adds a touch of elegance, aligning with standard designs of the time.

Display

The phone features a CSTN display that spans 1.52 inches, offering a screen-to-body ratio of approximately 16.1%. The screen presents content in 65K colors, with a resolution of 128 x 128 pixels, achieving around 119 ppi density. While it won't compete with modern high-definition displays, it served the purpose of displaying basic information such as calls, messages, and menu navigation effectively.

Performance and Internal Specifications

The Samsung B200 runs on a standard processor for feature phones of its time, optimized for efficient handling of basic mobile functions. The internal memory is limited to 2MB with no card slot for expansion, emphasizing its role as a communication-focused device rather than a multimedia powerhouse. There is adequate storage for phonebook entries and call logs, supporting up to 500 contacts and logging the last 30 dialed, received, and missed calls each.

Connectivity

Being a feature phone, the Samsung B200's connectivity options are modest. It supports GSM technology across the 900/1800 bands and provides GPRS Class 10 for basic internet connectivity. There is no support for EDGE, WLAN, or Bluetooth, thereby focusing on offline functionality. However, it includes an FM radio feature, allowing users to listen to their favorite radio stations and even record broadcasts, which adds a layer of entertainment options beyond calls and texts.

Sound and Alert Features

The B200 includes a loudspeaker and supports downloadable polyphonic and MP3 ringtones, providing adequate audio quality for alerts and entertainment. The absence of a 3.5mm headphone jack means users rely on the loudspeaker or compatible proprietary connectors for audio output.

Battery

Powered by a removable Li-Ion 1000 mAh battery, the Samsung B200 ensures prolonged usage. Feature phones are known for their exceptional battery life compared to smartphones, and the B200 upholds this reputation. Users could expect extended periods of usage time, making it ideal for those on the move.

Messaging and Browser

The B200 supports various messaging formats, including SMS, EMS, and MMS, allowing users to communicate effectively beyond simple text messages. The inclusion of a WAP 2.0/xHTML browser provides basic internet surfing capabilities, but it is important to manage expectations given the limited speed and browsing experience of feature phones.

Games and Additional Features

Even though it's a basic phone, the B200 includes a selection of games to help users pass time. It supports Java (MIDP 2.0), offering a variety of basic Java applications and games, further augmenting its utility as a comprehensive mobile device for entertainment and productivity.

Discontinuation and Market Position

Released in 2008 and subsequently discontinued, the Samsung B200 targeted users who needed a reliable phone without the complexities of a smartphone. Priced at about 120 EUR, it represented good value for money in its category. The B200's discontinuation marks the end of an era for simpler mobile devices as smartphones began to dominate the market and consumer preferences increasingly leaned towards more advanced, feature-rich gadgets.

Conclusion

The Samsung B200 exemplifies the quintessential feature phone. While it lacks the bells and whistles of modern-day smartphones, its focus on core functionalities—such as reliable calling, texting, and radio entertainment—highlight its role as a staple during its time. Additionally, its robust design and versatile features provided users with a reliable mobile phone that met their most basic needs efficiently and effectively. This balance between form and function makes it a memorable device from the mid-2000s feature phone era.