Samsung C250 InDepth Review of Specs Pricing Pros & Cons

Overview

The Samsung C250 was a feature phone that marked its entry into the market in February 2007. At its core, this device was designed for users who desired a basic mobile phone for calling and messaging without the complexity of modern smartphones. It offered essential functionalities with a long-lasting battery encapsulated in a lightweight and compact design.

Network and Connectivity

The Samsung C250 utilized GSM technology, supporting 2G bands of GSM 900 and 1800. It provided GPRS Class 10, ensuring steady data connectivity for basic internet services primarily through WAP 1.2 browser. However, the absence of EDGE, 3G, or any modern internet capabilities indicates its limited data transfer speed, characteristic of its time. Without options for Bluetooth, WLAN, positioning, or USB, the device catered mainly to a fundamental communication segment without the means for wireless data sharing.

Design and Build

Weighing just 73 grams and measuring 86 x 42 x 19 mm, the Samsung C250 exemplified portability. The compact build facilitated easy handling and storage, making it a practical choice for everyday use. Available in a variety of colors, including Metallic Gold, Apple Green, Sweet Pink, Deep Blue, and Cool Silver, the phone infused a sense of style amidst its functional purpose. It housed a mini-SIM slot and came equipped with a stereo FM radio, broadening its utility as a basic multimedia device.

Display

The Samsung C250 featured a CSTN display with 65K colors. Although not as vibrant or sharp as modern smartphone screens, the 128 x 128 pixel resolution was adequate for its monochrome menu displays and simple graphical interfaces. The modest screen catered primarily to text and slight graphical content like basic games or animations included in the device.

Memory and Storage

Memory capability in the C250 was minimal, lacking any card slot for storage expansion. It sustained up to 500 phonebook entries, reflecting its emphasis on core contact management. Call records were maintained for up to 10 dialed, received, and missed calls each, providing sufficient logging for personal communications. The absence of storage expandability confined the device strictly to its built-in functionalities without any multimedia accumulation.

Sound and Alerts

Sound output included a loudspeaker with support for vibration alerts and downloadable polyphonic ringtones, offering a customization edge typical for that period. Unfortunately, it lacked a 3.5mm audio jack, thus restricting personal audio listening options quite significantly.

Communication and Features

Apart from traditional SMS, the C250 supported EMS and MMS messaging, allowing users to send multimedia messages along with text. Java MIDP 2.0 support enabled basic gaming and utility applications, albeit at a very foundational level. While essential applications were supported, more sophisticated apps typical of smartphones today weren't feasible.

Battery Life

The removable Li-Ion 800 mAh battery was one of the key highlights of the Samsung C250. With a standby time of up to 350 hours and a talk time of about 3 hours, it provided ample durability for users prioritizing long battery life. The simple functionality also contributed to its efficient power consumption, aligning with the expectations from a feature phone.

Market Positioning and Legacy

The Samsung C250 was priced around 70 EUR, targeting consumers looking for budget-friendly devices aiming to capture the lower-end market with essential needs. Despite being discontinued, its practical features, durability, and diverse color range earned it a commendable position in the pre-smartphone era of mobile telephony. With 0.90 W/kg SAR EU rating, it had a moderate emission level, conforming to recognized safety standards.

Conclusion

The Samsung C250 may not boast cutting-edge innovations or advanced connectivity options; however, its role as a reliable communication device cannot be understated. For its time, it delivered basic telephony and messaging requirements in a simple, stylish package. It stands today as a nostalgic reminder of the early mobile industry, marking an era when phones were cherished for their primary roles in a world yet to be overtaken by smart technology.