Samsung E1100 Specs Pricing Pros & Cons Revealed

Introduction to Samsung E1100

The Samsung E1100 was a basic feature phone released by Samsung in 2009. Serving as an essential communication device, it catered to users who needed a reliable and straightforward phone experience without the complexities of modern smartphones. Despite its simplicity, the E1100 managed to leave a mark due to its robust build, affordability, and efficient battery life.

Network and Connectivity

The Samsung E1100 was equipped with GSM technology, operating on the 900 and 1800 MHz bands. It did not support GPRS or EDGE, emphasizing its role as a simple voice communication device without internet capabilities. This limited connectivity wasn't a drawback for its target users who appreciated the E1100 for its ability to make clear voice calls and send SMS.

Design and Build Quality

Measuring at 105 x 44 x 15.2 mm and weighing just 70.2 grams, the E1100 was compact and lightweight, making it an ideal choice for those who preferred portability and ease of use. The handset came with a minimalist design, housed in a durable plastic shell that was offered in a classic black color. Its sturdy build quality ensured resilience to everyday drops and rough handling, which was a significant advantage for users prioritizing durability.

Display

The phone featured a CSTN display capable of rendering 65K colors. Although modest by today's standards, the 1.52-inch screen with a resolution of 128 x 128 pixels provided adequate clarity for reading text messages and navigating the phone's menu. With a screen-to-body ratio of approximately 16.1%, the compact display contributed to the phone's overall durability.

Memory and Storage

The Samsung E1100 was equipped with 1MB of internal storage, which was sufficient for its basic functionalities. It did not include a card slot for expandable memory, which aligned with its purpose as a feature phone. Users could store up to 200 contacts in the phonebook, as well as maintain call records of the last 20 dialed, received, and missed calls, which fulfilled the essential storage needs.

Audio Capabilities

The phone came with a built-in loudspeaker but lacked the common 3.5mm audio jack for headphones, limiting its functionality as a music player. However, the loudspeaker provided adequate volume for calls and its simple ringtones, meeting the basic audio requirements for a feature phone.

Battery Life

The Samsung E1100 was powered by a removable Li-Ion 750 mAh battery. Known for its impressive standby time of up to 500 hours and talk time of approximately 7.5 hours, the battery life was a standout feature. This capability ensured that users could utilize the phone extensively without frequent recharges, which was particularly beneficial in regions where electricity access was limited.

Other Features

Despite its basic nature, the E1100 included a few additional features such as an FM radio, although this was limited to certain models like the 1105T. Users could enjoy simple games, send SMS, and benefit from its robust utility as a communication tool. The absence of advanced features such as a browser, camera, or Bluetooth was in line with the phone's design philosophy of simplicity and affordability.

Market Reception and Legacy

At about 50 EUR, the Samsung E1100 was affordable, appealing to first-time phone buyers, elderly users, or those seeking a secondary device for emergencies. It served as a reminder of a period when mobile phones were primarily used for calling and texting. Though discontinued, the E1100 remains a symbol of durability and reliability, qualities that many users still cherish in basic phones today.

Conclusion

The Samsung E1100 exemplified the quintessential feature phone, providing essential communication tools in a sturdy and cost-effective package. Its long-lasting battery, durable design, and user-friendly features rendered it an attractive choice during its time. While the era of feature phones has largely transitioned into smartphones, devices like the Samsung E1100 continue to hold nostalgic value and serve as reliable backups or emergency options for many users.