By now, some critics of this particular Korean company would comment that if you've seen one Samsung phone, you've probably seen them all. Yet, that hasn't stopped the manufacturer from releasing more models with virtually identical looks to their predecessors.

Design
If not for the camera sensor and flashlight located on the clamshell cover, you'll be hardpressed to distinguish this curvy, silver-clad model from the X460. While slightly larger and heavier, the E330 is still a very handy, lightweight handset.

We like the classy-looking analog clock on the phone's 96 x 96-pixel external screen. This can also be brought up during standby mode by pressing the volume controls on the side for a quick time check. Though contrast is adjustable for both LCDs, the 128 x 160-pixel, 65K-color internal display suffers from slight "ghosting". Colors are still vivid, though, and the preinstalled animated wallpapers add a little life to the phone.

Sporting the same elliptical keys as the X460, users may take some time getting used to the jagged positioning of the central column of keys half a step below the side columns. Like the E630, the central i-key cannot be used as the menu selector in most cases.

Features
The E330 sports the same speedy and intuitive user interface as the E630 with smooth SMSing. The phone comes preinstalled with standard applications like calendar, memo and to-do list as well as Java games.

As with many Samsungs, sound functions come to the fore. Using the same noise clarity feature in the E800, handset volume is automatically adjusted above ambient noise levels. A wide variety of 40-chord polyphonic melodies should please acoustic lovers. The supplied headset is mono only and employs the less common 2.5mm earphone jack, but commendably the earpiece is comfortable and conveniently housed on the strap itself. Handsfree operation using the speakerphone is also adequate and sufficiently loud.

The CMOS sensor is VGA-only, though the onboard flashlight helps in close-up night shots. White photo quality is nothing to shout about, the minimal shutter lag allows for candid mugshots. Certain imaging tweaks like picture framing with preset designs should please budding photo enthusiasts.

Like the E310, the dualband-only E330 isn't for jetsetters. The phone also supports WAP surfing at GPRS speeds.

Reception, Battery Life And SAR
We had no issues with either voice quality or network reception during the testing period. On its 800mAh Lithium-ion battery, the E330 lasted a respectable three-and-a-half days on moderate usage.

The highest SAR value for this handset is 0.903 W/kg, which meets international guidelines for exposure to radio waves.

Conclusion
At S$498 with a two-year plan and S$648 without contract, it seems a little costly for a phone with average features and performance. But considering that most of the new Samsung handsets released around this time are similarly priced, anyone looking for a handy, good-looking clamshell of Korean heritage may take to the E330.