Comprehensive Review Unveiling Samsung S5200 Features Prices & More

Network and Connectivity

The Samsung S5200 was released during a time when mobile technology was rapidly evolving, yet it primarily relied on GSM technology. Offering support for GSM 850, 900, 1800, and 1900 bands, this device was designed to connect broadly without multifaceted network options like 3G, 4G, or LTE that we know today. It leveraged GPRS and EDGE Class 10 for data, which, while competent for the time, offered limited speed compared to modern standards.

Design and Build

The aesthetics of the Samsung S5200 are encapsulated in its simple yet elegant construction. With dimensions of 104 x 49 x 10.9 mm and weighing in at 97 grams, it was relatively sleek and portable. The phone was available in two stylish colors: Black on Red and Black on Blue. The use of a Mini-SIM and conventional keypad design catered to users who preferred traditional phone functionalities over touchscreens, which were still emerging in popularity at that time.

Display

The device came with a 2.1-inch TFT display capable of showcasing 16 million colors, offering vibrant viewing experiences despite its modest 240 x 320 pixel resolution. Its ~190 ppi density ensured clarity suitable for the phone's purpose at the time. The screen-to-body ratio was about 26.8%, indicating prominent bezels, which were standard for phones of this category and era.

Memory and Storage

In terms of storage, the Samsung S5200 offered 50MB of internal memory, which was quite limited by today's standards but fairly common for feature phones during that period. The presence of a dedicated microSDHC slot allowed for storage expansion—an essential feature for users needing to store more photos, music, and data. Additionally, it supported up to 1000 contacts with photo calls, which was highly valued for ease of access to the phonebook.

Camera Capabilities

This model featured a single 3.15 MP main camera paired with an LED flash. It provided basic photography functions and could capture video at 320p resolution. Although the camera capabilities were minimal compared to contemporary smartphones, they serviced the primary needs of snapshot photography and simple video recording, accommodating users who needed a basic camera on the go.

Audio and Multimedia

For audio, the Samsung S5200 included a loudspeaker for hands-free calls and playing music. Interestingly, it did not include a 3.5mm headphone jack, which necessitated users to rely on Bluetooth 2.0 A2DP connectivity for wireless audio devices. Additionally, it featured an FM radio with RDS, providing users with free music and news on the move without needing an internet connection.

Communication and Additional Features

The Samsung S5200 supported basic messaging formats such as SMS, MMS, and Email, along with a WAP 2.0/xHTML, HTML browser for light internet browsing. For entertainment, it offered built-in games with the option to download more, and was Java-enabled with MIDP 2.0, enhancing its app compatibility for the times.

Battery Life

A removable 800mAh Li-Ion battery powered the Samsung S5200, allowing for approximately 300 hours of standby time and up to 5 hours of talk time on a single charge. The removable battery design meant users could replace it easily when necessary, a practical feature no longer present in modern smartphones.

Conclusion

In summary, the Samsung S5200 epitomized the transitional period of feature phones in the late 2000s—combining fundamental mobile communication features with basic multimedia capabilities. While it was eventually discontinued and quickly overshadowed by the smartphone revolution, it represented a moment in mobile history where simplicity and functionality were the key selling points. Priced around 100 EUR at launch, it was accessible to a broader audience seeking reliable mobile communication with some added perks like a camera and radio. Though it may seem rudimentary today, its offerings were quite standard and appreciated at the time of its release in 2009.