Samsung E830 Comprehensive Review of Features Specs and Pricing

Overview of Samsung E830

The Samsung E830, launched in 2007, represents a bygone era of mobile technology, characterized by its emphasis on basic functionalities and straightforward design, typical for the feature phones of that time. It serves as a testament to the years when mobile phones began to transition from simple communication tools to devices with multimedia capabilities. In this comprehensive overview, we delve into the diverse aspects that make up the Samsung E830, from its design and build, to network capabilities, hardware specifications, and additional features.

Design and Build

Sporting a sleek and compact design, the Samsung E830 measures 100 x 50.5 x 14.9 mm and weighs a mere 90 grams. This makes it an easily portable device, fitting comfortably in the user's hand and pocket. The phone employs a minimalist design, boasting a conservative black color that adds to its elegance. The compact frame and curved edges mark it as a desirable choice for users who favor simplicity and portability over size and flamboyance. The Mini-SIM integration ensured compatibility with most GSM networks of the time.

Display Characteristics

Equipped with a 2.0-inch TFT display, the Samsung E830 offers a screen resolution of 176 x 220 pixels. Though considered modest by today's standards, the display provided adequate clarity and color reproduction for the era. With a density of approximately 141 pixels per inch, the screen was capable of displaying 256K colors, which was fairly standard for feature phones at the time. The screen-to-body ratio of around 24.9% emphasized functional design over expansive screen displays, catering to the needs of users primarily interested in basic functionalities such as calling and texting.

Camera Capabilities

The Samsung E830 is outfitted with a single 2-megapixel rear camera. While basic, it allowed users to capture photos and videos of moderate quality, suitable for casual snapshots and MMS sharing. The inclusion of a video recording feature also enabled the phone to be a viable option for simple multimedia usage. However, the absence of a dedicated selfie camera was typical for phones from this era, as front-facing cameras had not yet become a standard feature.

Network and Connectivity

The device supports GSM technology across 900, 1800, and 1900 MHz bands, providing broad connectivity options for users across various global markets. With GPRS and EDGE Class 10 capabilities, it offered basic mobile internet services, enabling users to browse WAP sites and use select online features. While lacking Wi-Fi, the inclusion of Bluetooth 2.0 with A2DP did provide a wireless means to connect to other devices, such as wireless headsets or car entertainment systems. For more traditional radio listening, an FM radio is also included.

Memory and Storage

The device provides internal storage of 29MB, complemented by a microSD slot for additional storage expansion, a feature that was crucial for users who intended to store more personal data or media files than the internal storage could accommodate. The phonebook supported multiple entries and photocall capability, while the call record feature allowed the phone to log the last 20 dialed, received, and missed calls.

Sound and Multimedia

Though the Samsung E830 did not include a loudspeaker or a 3.5mm audio jack, it supported downloadable polyphonic and MP3 ringtones, offering users some degree of personalization for their auditory notifications. The absence of a loudspeaker implied that users would need compatible Bluetooth peripherals to enjoy hands-free audio. Nevertheless, the device's multimedia offerings, like FM radio and basic games, added an element of entertainment beyond standard communication functions.

Software and Interface

The phone runs on proprietary software typical of feature phones, with a focus on practical communication functionalities. Messaging options include SMS, MMS, and Email, while the included WAP 2.0/xHTML browser allowed for basic internet access, further bolstered by the support of Java MIDP 2.0 for additional app installations and games. These features reinforced the Samsung E830’s position as a utilitarian device during its time, primarily serving communication needs while offering some extensions into basic multimedia and web functionalities.

Battery Performance

Powering the Samsung E830 is a removable Li-Ion 800 mAh battery. This battery capacity was standard for feature phones, providing up to approximately 280 hours of standby time and about 3 hours and 10 minutes of talk time. The removable nature of the battery allowed users to replace it easily, extending the device’s endurance and lifespan. This practical feature ensured that the phone could maintain connectivity without requiring frequent recharges, which was ideal for users with basic usage needs.

Market Positioning and Legacy

Priced at around 110 EUR upon release, the Samsung E830 was positioned as an affordable and reliable option for consumers seeking basic mobile phone functionalities without the high cost associated with emerging smartphone technologies of that time. It provided a solid build, essential communication tools, and basic multimedia capabilities, catering to users who were less inclined towards complex tools and applications.

Conclusion

The Samsung E830 represents a significant period in mobile phone history, where the focus was on essential functionality rather than the sophisticated features and high-resolution displays that characterize today's smartphones. It's a testament to a time when mobile devices were just beginning to explore additional roles beyond calling and texting, setting the stage for the rapid technological evolutions that followed. Through this comprehensive exploration, one appreciates the Samsung E830 not just as a functional mobile device, but as a historical milestone that contributed to the ever-evolving landscape of mobile technology.