Samsung Galaxy Chat B5330 Specs Prices Pros & Cons Unveiled

Introduction to Samsung Galaxy Chat B5330

The Samsung Galaxy Chat B5330, released in 2012, is a smartphone that combined the convenience of a QWERTY keyboard with the versatility of the Android operating system. Designed for users who appreciated tangible buttons for typing, this device was aimed at those who prioritized communication and social media connectivity, along with basic smartphone capabilities. Though it has been discontinued and succeeded by more advanced devices, the Galaxy Chat B5330 remains a noteworthy product in Samsung's illustrious lineup.

Network and Connectivity

The Samsung Galaxy Chat B5330 supported GSM and HSPA network technologies. It was compatible with a variety of 2G and 3G bands: GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 and HSDPA 900 / 2100. The device delivered a satisfactory internet experience with its HSPA speeds offering up to 7.2/5.76 Mbps. While this might seem slow compared to today's standards, it was adequate for casual browsing and social media activities at the time of its release.

Design and Build

The Galaxy Chat B5330 had a compact and practical design. Its dimensions were 118.9 x 59.3 x 11.7 mm, making it a handy phone to carry. With a weight of 112 grams, it was lightweight, further adding to its portability. A standout feature was its physical QWERTY keyboard, a rarity among Android phones, which appealed to users who desired tactile feedback when typing. The phone used a mini-SIM card and was available in white, giving it a simple yet classic look.

Display

Equipped with a 3.0-inch TFT display, the Galaxy Chat had a resolution of 240 x 320 pixels. The display could show 256K colors, offering basic clarity and color reproduction suitable for viewing text and images. Despite its small size and relatively low pixel density of ~133 ppi, the screen was sufficient for essential smartphone functions.

Platform and Performance

Originally, the Galaxy Chat B5330 ran on Android 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich) and was upgradable to Android 4.1.2 (Jelly Bean). These versions of Android provided a user-friendly interface and access to numerous apps via Google Play. Under the hood, the device was powered by an 850 MHz CPU. While not designed for heavy multitasking or gaming, it managed everyday tasks like messaging, calling, and web browsing efficiently.

Storage and Memory

The smartphone came with 4GB of internal storage, which was modest by any standard. However, it featured a microSDHC slot, allowing users to expand storage based on their needs. This capacity to add external memory was crucial for users who needed more space for apps, photos, and other media.

Camera Capabilities

The Samsung Galaxy Chat B5330 was equipped with a single 2 MP rear camera. The camera was capable of capturing images suitable for casual photography. It supported video recording at 480p@25fps, which was serviceable for capturing moments in motion but clearly not intended for professional-grade video capture. The absence of a front-facing camera might be a drawback for users interested in selfies or video calls.

Sound and Audio

This device featured a loudspeaker and a 3.5mm headphone jack, which are appreciated audiophile components for listening to music, calls, and media without relying solely on Bluetooth accessories. The presence of FM radio with RDS allowed users to enjoy listening to their favorite stations on the go, a feature that added value beyond the basic smartphone experience.

Communication and Positioning

Regarding wireless communication, the Galaxy Chat supported Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n and functioned as a hotspot. Bluetooth 3.0 with A2DP provided wireless audio streaming capabilities and supported basic data transfer. Notably, the phone also included GPS, A-GPS, and GLONASS for positioning, which facilitated navigation and location-based services quite effectively for its time.

Sensors and Additional Features

The smartphone came with basic sensors, including an accelerometer, proximity sensor, and a compass. These sensors enhanced the user experience by providing functionalities such as automatic screen rotation and proximity-based screen dimming during calls. The lack of more advanced sensors like a gyroscope or fingerprint reader highlighted the device's aim as an entry-level smartphone for communication and social use.

Battery Life

Powered by a removable Li-Ion 1200 mAh battery, the Galaxy Chat B5330 provided decent battery life for its features. On a 2G network, the phone could last up to 520 hours on standby and offer up to 14 hours and 40 minutes of talk time. Under 3G usage, these numbers reduced to 380 hours of standby and 5 hours of talk time, appropriate figures for the phone's target market and hardware capabilities.

Market Availability and Model Variants

Initially announced in July 2012 and subsequently released in August 2012, the Samsung Galaxy Chat B5330 has since been discontinued. Its affordability, priced at around 100 EUR, made it accessible to users wanting a smartphone experience with a physical keyboard. The model was identified as GT-B5330, coming primarily in a white color variant, appealing to those who preferred a clean and straightforward design.

Conclusion

The Samsung Galaxy Chat B5330 stands as a testament to Samsung's efforts to cater to diverse user preferences, particularly those fond of physical keyboards alongside touchscreen capabilities. While its specifications may not compete with current-day smartphones, the device remains a piece of nostalgia for many who appreciated its unique combination of features tailored for communication and social connectivity. It offers insights into the progression of mobile technology and user-oriented design advancements over the years.