Spice M5350 Comprehensive Specs Pricing Pros & Cons

Device Overview

The Spice M-5350 was introduced to the market in 2011 and was popular for its budget-friendly nature and basic functionality. Prior to being discontinued, it served as a practical choice for users who needed a simple yet reliable mobile phone. Its release reflects a time when the emphasis was on basic communication features rather than the high-end specifications that predominate today's market.

Design and Build

The Spice M-5350 boasts a practical and functional design. Measuring 104.8 x 56 x 13.2 mm and weighing just 60 grams, it is compact and lightweight, offering comfortable portability. Its body is built to accommodate two Mini-SIM cards, emphasizing convenience for users requiring separate lines for personal and business communications. The available colors, gray and red, provide choices for personal preference.

Display

The device features a TFT display, which, though basic by modern standards, was adequate for the device's intended use at the time. The 2.36-inch screen with a resolution of 240 x 320 pixels (approximately 169 pixels per inch) delivered clear and readable content, primarily focusing on essential information like messages and contacts.

Performance

While specific information regarding the processor and RAM is not provided, it is important to note that the Spice M-5350 was categorized as a feature phone. It was optimized for efficiency in performing basic tasks such as making calls, sending SMS messages, and managing contacts. As such, high processing power was not a primary focus for its target users.

Storage and Memory

The device comes with a microSDHC card slot for expandable storage, which was a typical feature in basic phones during this period. This allowed users to store additional contact information, media files, and possibly some downloadable games. The phonebook could store up to 500 entries, providing ample space for personal and professional contacts.

Camera Functionality

The Spice M-5350 includes a basic VGA camera. Although limited in quality at 0.3MP, it was useful for quick snapshots and documenting personal memories when high-resolution photography wasn't necessary. Video recording was supported, adding more flexibility to the device's multimedia capabilities.

Battery Life

Equipped with a removable Li-Ion 1000 mAh battery, the device promised up to 300 hours of standby time and up to 3.5 hours of talk time. This level of battery efficiency was aligned with user expectations for feature phones, ensuring that users could rely on the device during extended periods without needing frequent recharging.

Connectivity Options

The Spice M-5350 supported GSM technology for network communications, covering GSM 900 and 1800 bands, suitable for use in various regions. While it lacked advanced connectivity options like WLAN and high-speed data services (GPRS and EDGE were not available), it did include Bluetooth 2.0 with A2DP for wireless data transfer and peripheral connectivity. Furthermore, users could enjoy FM radio features with recording capabilities.

Additional Features

Additional features of the device included SMS messaging with a threaded view, enabling more organized communication. Users could download games, enhancing entertainment opportunities. However, Java applications were not supported, restricting the availability of advanced app features. Despite its simplicity, the device paid attention to user demands for a practical approach to entertainment and communication.

Pricing and Availability

At its launch, the Spice M-5350 was priced at approximately 30 EUR, making it an affordable choice in its category. It was an appealing option for budget-conscious consumers, providing fundamental mobile functionalities without additional costs for high-end features. Despite its discontinuation, it remains an example of the balance between cost and utility characteristic of feature phones from that era.

Overall Impression

The Spice M-5350 served its purpose as a cost-effective, user-friendly mobile phone, providing essential communication features suitable for consumers not needing extensive smartphone capabilities. Its design, performance, and battery life made it a practical choice for users with straightforward needs.

Although it has been discontinued, the Spice M-5350 remains a testament to an era that valued function over form, withstanding the evolution of mobile technology toward complex, multifunctional devices. Its legacy is marked by its simplicity and availability for individuals seeking to stay connected without the need for modern smartphone features.