Samsung C200 Full Specs Pricing Pros & Cons

Introduction to Samsung C200

Launched in the fourth quarter of 2004, the Samsung C200 is a feature phone that encapsulates the mobile technology of its time. This device is an epitome of simplicity, focusing primarily on basic mobile communication functions that cater to the needs of users who seek reliability over advanced smartphone capabilities.

Network Capabilities

The Samsung C200 is built on GSM technology, supporting 2G bands GSM 900 and 1800. This provided adequate network coverage for voice calls and SMS service during its time, although GPRS class 10 was included, offering a basic level of mobile internet connectivity. There was no EDGE support, restricting the device to slower data transmission standards.

Launch and Availability

Announced in the last quarter of 2004, the Samsung C200 quickly became a part of the discontinued lineup as technology and consumer demands rapidly evolved. Nonetheless, it was a popular choice at the time due to its straightforward design and essential features.

Design and Build

Measuring 105 x 43 x 19 mm and weighing just 69 grams, the Samsung C200 was compact and lightweight. Its design suited users seeking a mobile device that was easy to carry and handle. The phone utilized a Mini-SIM, housed within its metallic silver casing, exuding a durable yet sleek appearance.

Display

The Samsung C200 features a 1.6-inch UFB display capable of showing 65K colors, with a resolution of 128 x 128 pixels. This might seem modest by today’s standards, but during its era, it provided sufficient clarity for viewing text messages and simple graphical content. The screen-to-body ratio stood at about 18.3% with a pixel density of approximately 113 ppi, balancing vividness and readability.

Memory and Storage

Storage on the Samsung C200 was limited as it did not support any external memory card slots. However, it managed to cater to essential user needs with its built-in phonebook capacity accommodating up to 1000 entries, each with four fields. The call log could retain records of the last 20 dialed, received, and missed calls.

Sound Features

Sound functionalities on the Samsung C200 did not include a loudspeaker or a 3.5mm audio jack. However, users could enjoy customizable polyphonic ringtones and the phone offered vibration alerts. The downloadable ringtones provided a degree of personalization, allowing users to tailor their auditory experience.

Connectivity

In line with its basic feature phone status, the Samsung C200 did not come with advanced connectivity options like WLAN or Bluetooth. It did not have GPS, radio, or USB connectivity, which were not as commonly expected in phones during this period, especially those categorized as entry-level or mid-tier devices.

Additional Features

The Samsung C200 supported simple SMS, EMS, and MMS messaging, making it suitable for basic text communication. The inclusion of a WAP 1.2.1 browser enabled rudimentary web browsing capabilities. Java support allowed for some degree of expandability, providing entertainment options with preloaded games like BubbleSmile, Fun2Link, UltimateGolf, and MobileChess, with additional games available for download.

Battery Performance

Powering the Samsung C200 is a removable Li-Ion 700 mAh battery. This provided enough juice for up to 190 hours on standby and up to 6 hours of talk time, making it an adequate companion for users requiring long-lasting battery life for basic operations without frequent recharging.

Market Position and Pricing

At launch, the Samsung C200 was priced at approximately 30 EUR, making it an affordable option for those entering the mobile market or needing a secondary phone. Its simplicity and focus on core phone functions meant that it appealed to a demographic prioritizing cost and practicality over multimedia or smart features.

Conclusion

The Samsung C200 is a fine specimen of early 2000s mobile technology, characterized by its essential features catering to the practical needs of its users. Despite lacking modern smart capabilities, its simplicity was its strength, providing reliable communication functions and a reminder of how far mobile technology has evolved.