Samsung E340 Complete Specs Pricing Pros & Cons Revealed

Design and Build

The Samsung E340 is a flip phone that exudes a classic vibe with its compact and sleek design. Launched in the first quarter of 2005, this device was a continuation of the flip phone trend and was aimed at users who preferred an easy-to-carry phone with basic features. Measuring 87.6 x 45.6 x 23.5 mm and weighing only 80 grams, it was lightweight and could easily fit in a pocket or purse. Its silver body gave it a premium feel, and the overall build was durable enough to withstand daily use. The phone uses a Mini-SIM, and the robustness of the flip mechanism is a testament to Samsung's focus on quality even in the early days of mobile technology.

Display Features

The display of the Samsung E340 is a TFT screen that supports 65,000 colors, offering visuals that are vibrant enough for its time. With a resolution of 128 x 160 pixels, the screen delivers clear and sharp images. While the display may not be large enough by today's standards, it was perfectly adequate during its release, providing users with enough space for reading messages, browsing through contacts, and viewing images captured by its camera.

Camera Capabilities

One of the standout features of the Samsung E340 is its VGA camera with a 180-degree rotating lens. This feature allowed users to take pictures from various angles, a novelty at the time. However, the camera was limited to still images as it did not support video recording. The 0.3 MP camera was suitable for capturing everyday moments, and while it may not compete with modern high-resolution cameras, it provided users with the ability to capture memories on the go.

Network and Connectivity

The Samsung E340 was equipped with GSM technology, supporting 2G bands GSM 900/1800/1900. This made it compatible with a wide range of networks globally. Data communication was done through GPRS Class 10, with the E340E variant offering additional EDGE support. For local connectivity, it included Bluetooth version 1.2, allowing users to connect to other devices wirelessly. However, the phone lacked WLAN capabilities, positioning features, and FM radio, which were not uncommon omissions in phones of this era. USB connectivity was proprietary, meaning it required a specific cable for connectivity to a computer or charger.

Battery Life

Powered by a removable Li-Ion 800 mAh battery, the Samsung E340 offered reasonable usage times. Users could expect up to 220 hours of standby time and up to 3 hours of talk time, which was typical for phones in this category. The battery performance met the communication needs of users, allowing them to make calls and send messages throughout the day without frequent charging.

Memory and Storage

The internal memory of the Samsung E340 was limited to 40 MB, and there was no option for memory expansion through external cards. This limitation was reflected in the phone's ability to store only essential data. The phonebook could hold up to 1000 entries with the added option of photocal, while call records could log 20 dialed, 20 received, and 20 missed calls. Although storage was limited, it was considered acceptable for the light usage patterns of feature phone users at the time.

Multimedia and Entertainment

Entertainment on the Samsung E340 was facilitated through downloadable polyphonic and MP3 ringtones along with MIDI support, which added variety to the phone's sound experience. The device had a loudspeaker but lacked a 3.5mm headphone jack, limiting options for private music listening. Games and Java applications were supported, providing users with some basic entertainment options. Despite its limited multimedia capabilities, the phone was practical for simple gaming and personalizing sounds and alerts.

Software and User Interface

Being a feature phone, the Samsung E340 ran a basic operating system with a user interface designed for straightforward navigation. It supported various messaging formats such as SMS, EMS, MMS, and email, covering different communication needs. The built-in WAP 2.0/xHTML browser offered basic internet capabilities, which were sufficient for occasional web browsing. While the interface did not offer advanced customization or app support like modern smartphones, it was intuitive and easy for users to operate. Java support (MIDP 2.0) allowed users to add simple applications to extend the phone's functionality modestly.

Conclusion

The Samsung E340 stands as a testament to the evolution of mobile phones, capturing the essence of early 2000s technology. It was a reliable device that combined essential features in a compact form factor, catering to the needs of users who valued simplicity and portability. While it lacked the advanced features and capabilities of modern smartphones, it offered remarkable functionality for its time. Its design, usability, and performance reflect a period when mobile phones were primarily used for calls, texts, and occasional multimedia engagement. The E340 symbolizes an era and the progress made by Samsung in its ongoing mobile technology journey.