Samsung SPH-M330 – free entry-level mobile phone with Sprint
For:
Decent call quality, functional feature set, easy-to-use and simple controls.
Against:
A bit flimsy plastic construction, low-resolution display.
The Whiz Kid Speaks:
The Samsung SPH-M330 is based on WCDMA (UMTS) / GSM technology that supports band of WCDMA (UMTS) / GSM 850/900/1800/1900. It has 12MB internal memory. It can store 30 entries for each missed, dialed and received call logs. The messaging features include text, picture, and multimedia messages.
2-inch LCD display has 128×160 pixels resolution that supports 16-bit colors. The essential features include 72 polyphonic ring-tones, screensaver, backlit, and multi-language menu.
The additional features are Intelligent Typing, Bluetooth, VGA camera, decent call quality.
The SPH-M330 handset uses standard 960mAH lithium ion battery. Accessories supplied inside the box are battery and desktop charger.
Razzle Dazzle:
The Samsung SPH-M330 is 1.8 inches wide, 3.7 inches tall, and 0.6 inch deep, and weighs 3.2 ounces. Our test model had silver color. The handset has slider design. Its white color with check pattern at the rear cover looked unique. It has plastic skin and we are not sure that it can withstand some blows.
Inside Dope:
The Samsung SPH-M330 is designed only for basic communication. It also features VGA camera, Bluetooth, and decent call quality. The handset has basic slider design and feels a bit wispy while holding in hand. The sliding mechanism is sturdy and the sliding part locks into place safely. We like that the navigation array is quite spacious. Its alphanumeric keypad is rubberized and not flush inside the surface. The M330 comes free with contract from Sprint Nextel. However, its display has low resolution and the plastic construction feels a bit flimsy. The volume rocker and 2.5mm headset jack are located on the left spine; while the camera shutter and micro-USB port are on the right spine. The camera lens and speaker is on the back. We are disappointed that there is no flash and self-portrait mirror. If you need a free basic handset with Sprint’s contract, then Samsung SPH-M330 will be a good choice. The Sprint also provides PictBridge service for printing the captured prints and allows ordering the prints from third-party vendors.
Display
2 inches LCD display of the Samsung SPH-M330 has 160×120 pixels resolution that supports 65,000 colors. The handset has simple and easy to use menu interface. You can customize the dialing font size, backlight time, and the brightness.
Navigation Array and Keypad
The spacious navigation array sits beneath the display and includes two soft keys, four-way toggle with middle OK button, Talk key, Power/End button, and dedicated speakerphone key. You can slide down the phone to access the keypad. The alphanumeric keypad is rubberized rather than being flush inside the surface. We could text and dial comfortably and quickly by feel.
Phonebook & PIM Features
The Samsung SPH-M330 can store 500 contacts into phonebook. Each contact can save six numbers, a company name, a job title, an instant messenger screen name, a URL, a birthday, a street address, an email address, and notes. You can organize the contacts into caller groups and pair them with one ring-tone and a photo for caller ID.
The basic feature set includes a world clock, text and multimedia messages, 20 polyphonic ring-tones, a memo pad, a calendar, a calculator, an alarm clock, a speakerphone, and a vibrate mode. The additional highlights are a voice memo recorder, voice dialing, instant messaging, a file manager, and Bluetooth.
Camera
The VGA camera features night-mode and brightness meter. We will prefer the manufacturer to include a better camera with video recording. The image capture options are five white balance presets, four color tones, and self-timer. You can transfer the picture via Bluetooth, MMS or through Sprint PictBridge service. You can also order their prints from third-party vendors.
Games & Personalization
The Samsung SPH-M330 can be personalized with available design schemes, greetings, wallpapers, and screensavers. The preinstalled three games are: The Price is Right, Asphalt 4: Elite Racer, and American Idol. More options are available via WAP 2.0 Web browser from Sprint store.
Call Quality
We made few calls through the Samsung SPH-M330 via Sprint Nextel service. The overall call quality was good. We received loud and clear sound at our end without any interference and static. The callers received natural sound, but they had trouble while hearing in most situations due to wind noise. The speakerphone call quality was average with good volume. This situation remained same for the Bluetooth headsets calls.
Battery life
The battery life of the Samsung SPH-M330 is 6.3 hours of talk time. Its digital SAR rating is 1.22 watts per kg in accordance with FCC radiation tests.
Verdict:
If you need a free basic handset with Sprint Nextel’s contract, then you can select – the Samsung SPH-M330.
