Samsung C414 Comprehensive Specs Pricing Pros & Cons

Introduction to Samsung C414

The Samsung C414 is a feature phone that was launched in July 2011. The device is known for its simplicity and practicality, targeting users who preferred basic functionalities over the complexities of modern smartphones. Sporting fundamental features, it caters to those who prioritize straightforward communication and basic multimedia functions.

Design and Build

The Samsung C414 boasts a classic feature phone design with dimensions of 98.5 x 49.2 x 16.9 mm and a weight of 89.4 g. This compact form factor made it extremely portable and easy to carry around. The phone was robust, made of sturdy material that could withstand daily wear and tear. It featured a clamshell design, a popular style during its release, that protected the screen when closed and provided tactile satisfaction in opening and closing.

Display Features

The device is equipped with a 2.2-inch TFT display showing 65K colors, offering a resolution of 240 x 320 pixels. While the screen size and resolution are modest, they were adequate for the basic user interface and simple graphics of the time. The display occupies approximately 30.9% of the front surface area of the phone, which is typical for non-touchscreen devices of that era where physical keypads were also included.

Network and Connectivity

Samsung C414 supports GSM and HSPA technologies. It operates on 2G bands GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 and 3G bands HSDPA 850 / 1900, providing decent network coverage for voice calls and basic data usage. The data speed reached up to HSPA 3.6/0.384 Mbps, allowing for minimal web browsing and email functionalities. However, the phone lacks Wi-Fi capabilities, limiting internet connectivity.

Memory and Storage

The device comes with an internal memory of 120MB, which could be expanded due to its microSDHC card slot, allowing users to store additional contacts, messages, and basic multimedia files. It supports storing up to 1000 phonebook entries, which was more than sufficient for average users at the time. The presence of a card slot was a significant advantage for those needing additional storage.

Camera Functionality

Equipped with a single 2MP main camera, the Samsung C414 provided basic photographic capabilities. While it lacked high-resolution imaging, it was suitable for basic photography needs and could capture video. The device did not have a front-facing camera, which aligns with its role as a feature phone rather than a multimedia one. The camera was deemed to provide adequate utility for occasional picture-taking.

Battery and Performance

The phone is powered by a removable Li-Ion battery, providing a standby time of up to 200 hours and a talk time of up to 4 hours. The battery performance was satisfactory for its class, ensuring that users could communicate effectively without frequent charging. The ability to remove and replace the battery also added to its longevity and practicality, a hallmark of phones from that period.

Operating System and User Interface

The Samsung C414 operated on a feature phone system, characterized by its focus on calling, text messaging (SMS and MMS), and basic email functionality. Its user interface was intuitive and user-friendly, making it accessible to users of all ages. The phone supported Java applications, enabling users to install basic apps and games, which added a layer of customization and entertainment.

Communications and Additional Features

Though lacking advanced connectivity options like WLAN and NFC, the phone supported Bluetooth 2.1 with A2DP and EDR for wireless headset connectivity. It also featured proprietary USB connections for file transfers, though it didn't offer positioning technologies or FM radio, common in more advanced phones. The device included essential communications features such as loudspeaker support.

Market Position and Legacy

At its release, the Samsung C414 was valued at approximately 80 EUR, positioning it as an affordable option for those seeking reliability over innovation. Due to its practical design and user-friendly features, it remained popular among certain user demographics, even after being discontinued. Its enduring simplicity is remembered fondly by users favoring straightforward mobile experiences without the distractions of modern smartphone technologies.