Choosing between two seemingly similar smartphones can be a daunting task, especially when they hail from the same family and offer compelling features for their price point. The Lumia 730 and 735, both part of Microsoft’s Windows Phone lineup, often leave potential buyers pondering the subtle yet significant differences that might sway their decision.
These devices aimed to deliver a premium experience without the premium price tag, focusing on excellent selfie cameras and vibrant displays. Whether you’re a seasoned Windows Phone enthusiast or new to the ecosystem, understanding the nuances between the Lumia 730 and 735 is key to making the right choice for your needs.
This comparison dives deep into what sets these two handsets apart, helping you decide which one truly deserves a spot in your pocket. Get ready to explore the specs, features, and overall value proposition of the Lumia 730 and 735.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | lumia 730 | 735 |
|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 4.7-inch | 4.7-inch |
| Display Resolution | 720 x 1280 pixels | 720 x 1280 pixels |
| Display Type | OLED | OLED |
| Processor | Quad-core 1.2 GHz Cortex-A7 | Quad-core 1.2 GHz Cortex-A7 |
| RAM | 1 GB | 1 GB |
| Internal Storage | 8 GB | 8 GB |
| Expandable Storage | microSD, up to 128 GB | microSD, up to 128 GB |
| Rear Camera | 6.7 MP | 6.7 MP |
| Front Camera | 5 MP | 5 MP |
| Operating System | Windows Phone 8.1 | Windows Phone 8.1 |
| Battery Capacity | 2200 mAh | 2200 mAh |
| Dimensions | 134.7 x 68.5 x 8.7 mm | 134.7 x 68.5 x 8.7 mm |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Display
- Lumia 730: Features a 4.7-inch OLED display with a resolution of 720 x 1280 pixels. The display offers vibrant colors and good contrast, making it enjoyable for media consumption. However, some users might find the 720p resolution a bit dated for its price point.
- 735: Also sports a 4.7-inch OLED display with the same 720 x 1280 resolution. It benefits from the same excellent color reproduction and deep blacks as the 730. The practical difference in display quality between the two is negligible.
- Winner: Tie
Processor & Performance
- Lumia 730: Powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 400 quad-core processor clocked at 1.2 GHz, paired with 1GB of RAM. This configuration provides a smooth experience for everyday tasks and light gaming on Windows Phone. Heavy multitasking might occasionally lead to minor slowdowns.
- 735: Equipped with the identical Qualcomm Snapdragon 400 quad-core processor at 1.2 GHz and 1GB of RAM. Performance is therefore on par with the 730, offering consistent and reliable operation for the Windows Phone ecosystem.
- Winner: Tie
Camera
- Lumia 730: Boasts a 6.7-megapixel rear camera and a standout 5-megapixel wide-angle front-facing camera. The rear camera captures decent photos in good lighting, while the front camera is excellent for selfies and video calls.
- 735: Features a slightly higher resolution 6.7-megapixel rear camera and the same impressive 5-megapixel wide-angle front camera. While the rear sensor is technically the same, some reviews suggest minor improvements in image processing for the 735. The front camera remains a key selling point for both.
- Winner: 735
Storage
- Lumia 730: Comes with 8GB of internal storage, which can be expanded via a microSD card up to 128GB. The 8GB internal storage can fill up quickly with apps and media, making the microSD card essential for many users.
- 735: Offers 8GB of internal storage, also expandable with a microSD card up to 128GB. The storage situation is identical to the 730, requiring a memory card for substantial media storage.
- Winner: Tie
Battery
- Lumia 730: Equipped with a 2220 mAh removable battery. It provides good all-day battery life for moderate usage, allowing users to get through a typical day without needing a charge.
- 735: Houses a 2220 mAh removable battery, the same capacity as the 730. Battery performance is very similar, offering reliable endurance for daily use.
- Winner: Tie
Build Quality & Design
- Lumia 730: Features a polycarbonate unibody design, available in various bright colors, and is relatively lightweight. The design is typical of Lumia phones, offering a comfortable grip.
- 735: Also sports a polycarbonate unibody construction but is notably thinner and lighter than the 730. Its slightly more refined build and available metallic finishes give it a more premium feel.
- Winner: 735
Connectivity
- Lumia 730: Supports 3G connectivity. This is a significant limitation in areas with widespread 4G LTE coverage, impacting browsing speeds and data-intensive applications.
- 735: Crucially, the 735 supports 4G LTE connectivity. This offers significantly faster data speeds for browsing, streaming, and downloading, a major advantage over the 730.
- Winner: 735
Price
- Lumia 730: Generally positioned as the more affordable option. Its lower price point makes it an attractive choice for budget-conscious consumers looking for a Windows Phone.
- 735: Typically priced higher than the 730, reflecting its inclusion of 4G LTE and slightly more premium build. The price difference often comes down to the connectivity advantage.
- Winner: lumia 730
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Connectivity | 735 (4G LTE) |
| Overall Value | lumia 730 (typically more affordable) |
| Performance | Tie |
| Display | Tie |
| Camera | Tie |
| Battery Life | Tie |
What They Have in Common
- Display: Both devices sport a vibrant 4.7-inch OLED display with a resolution of 720 x 1280 pixels, offering good color reproduction and deep blacks for an immersive viewing experience.
- Performance: Powered by the same quad-core 1.2 GHz Cortex-A7 processor and 1 GB of RAM, both the Lumia 730 and 735 deliver a smooth and responsive user experience for everyday tasks and light multitasking.
- Storage: With 8 GB of internal storage and support for microSD cards up to 128 GB, users have ample space for apps, photos, and videos on both models.
- Camera Capabilities: Both phones feature a capable 6.7 MP rear camera for capturing decent photos and a 5 MP front-facing camera ideal for selfies and video calls.
- Battery Life: Equipped with a 2200 mAh battery, both the Lumia 730 and 735 are designed to offer a full day of moderate usage on a single charge.
- Design and Build: The physical dimensions and overall design language of the Lumia 730 and 735 are identical, offering a comfortable grip and a familiar aesthetic.
Lumia 730 vs 735 Buying Guide
Price and Availability
The Lumia 730 and 735 were released with slightly different price points, reflecting their varying network capabilities. The Lumia 730, typically the more affordable option, was designed for dual-SIM 3G connectivity, making it a great choice for budget-conscious users who prioritize call quality and data access on two separate networks. The Lumia 735, on the other hand, offered LTE support, which usually translated to a slightly higher initial cost. Availability might vary by region, so checking local retailers or online marketplaces for current pricing and stock is crucial. (See Also: Apple Iphone 14 Vs 15 )
Network Connectivity (3G vs 4G LTE)
This is the primary distinguishing factor between the two models. The Lumia 730 is equipped with 3G connectivity, which is perfectly adequate for web browsing, social media, and most app usage in areas with good 3G coverage. However, if you frequently download large files, stream high-definition video, or play online games that require minimal latency, the Lumia 735’s 4G LTE support will offer significantly faster data speeds and a more seamless experience. For users in areas with robust LTE networks, the 735 provides a noticeable performance upgrade.
Dual SIM vs Single SIM
The Lumia 730 stands out with its dual-SIM capability, allowing you to manage two phone numbers on a single device. This is incredibly convenient for individuals who juggle personal and work contacts, or those who use a local SIM card while traveling abroad to save on roaming charges. The Lumia 735, conversely, is a single-SIM device. If you only require one phone number and don’t see the need for managing multiple lines, the single-SIM nature of the 735 is straightforward and uncomplicated.
Target User and Overall Value
Choosing between the Lumia 730 and 735 ultimately depends on your individual needs and priorities. The Lumia 730 is the ideal choice for those seeking an affordable smartphone with excellent call quality, dual-SIM functionality, and reliable 3G internet access. It offers fantastic value for its price, especially for users in emerging markets or those who prioritize communication over cutting-edge data speeds. The Lumia 735 is for users who demand faster mobile data speeds through LTE and are willing to pay a slight premium for that capability. (See Also: Texas Vs Wyoming Llc )
Who Should Buy What?
Buy lumia 730 If…
- You are looking for a budget-friendly Windows Phone with solid performance for daily tasks.
- You prioritize a good selfie camera for social media and video calls.
- You don’t need 4G LTE connectivity and are content with 3G.
Buy 735 If…
- You require faster internet speeds with 4G LTE connectivity for browsing and streaming.
- You value a slightly more premium feel, as the 735 often comes with a slightly different finish.
- You want the latest Windows Phone experience with the potential for future updates.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between the Lumia 730 and 735?
The most significant difference lies in their network connectivity. The Lumia 730 supports 3G networks and features dual-SIM slots, making it ideal for managing two phone numbers and for users prioritizing affordability and call quality. The Lumia 735, in contrast, offers 4G LTE support for faster data speeds and comes with a single SIM slot, catering to users who need high-speed internet access.
Is the Lumia 730 better for international travel?
The Lumia 730’s dual-SIM capability makes it a strong contender for international travel. You can insert a local SIM card for cheaper calls and data while keeping your primary SIM active. This can significantly reduce roaming costs. The Lumia 735, being single-SIM, would require you to swap out your main SIM for a local one, which might be less convenient for constant switching.
Which phone has better battery life?
Both the Lumia 730 and 735 are equipped with a similar 2200 mAh battery. In real-world usage, their battery performance is generally comparable, offering a full day of moderate use for most users. However, LTE connectivity on the 735 can sometimes consume slightly more power than 3G, especially in areas with weak LTE signals, potentially leading to marginally shorter battery life in those specific scenarios. (See Also: Swagbucks Vs Survey Junkie )
Can I upgrade the software on these phones?
Both the Lumia 730 and 735 were released with Windows Phone 8.1 and were eligible for the Windows 10 Mobile upgrade. While official support for Windows 10 Mobile has ended, and many apps may no longer function, users could historically upgrade the operating system. It’s important to note that the experience on Windows 10 Mobile now is significantly limited due to lack of app support and security updates.
Which phone is better for gaming?
For gaming, the Lumia 735’s 4G LTE connectivity offers a distinct advantage, especially for online multiplayer games that benefit from faster download speeds and lower latency. While both phones share similar processing power, the smoother online experience provided by LTE on the 735 would make it the preferred choice for gamers who play titles requiring a stable and fast internet connection.
Final Verdict
The Lumia 730 and 735 offered distinct advantages based on user needs. The Lumia 730 excelled with its dual-SIM capability and affordability, making it a practical choice for budget-conscious users and those needing to manage multiple lines. However, the Lumia 735’s inclusion of 4G LTE provides a significant boost in data speeds, offering a superior experience for internet-intensive tasks like streaming and online gaming. For modern usage where faster data is paramount, the 735 is the more forward-looking option.
Winner: Lumia 735