HTC ChaCha smartphone
HTC

HTC ChaCha

June 2011 7/10 Rating Updated
In brief: The HTC ChaCha is an Android smartphone released in June 2011, notable for its full physical QWERTY keyboard and a dedicated Facebook button. Running Android 2.3 Gingerbread, it was designed for users who prioritized messaging and social media integration.
Display2.6-inch HVGA (480x320) TFT
ChipsetQualcomm Snapdragon MSM7227
Main Camera5MP AF with LED flash
Battery1250 mAh Li-Ion
Starting from $85

💰 HTC ChaCha Price

The HTC ChaCha lowest price is $85, based on current retailer listings.

📌 Full Specifications

Display

TypeTFT capacitive touchscreen, 256K colors
Size2.6 inches
Resolution480 x 320 pixels (HVGA), ~222 ppi density

Platform

OSAndroid 2.3.3 (Gingerbread), upgradable to 2.3.5, with HTC Sense UI 2.1 for Messenger
ChipsetQualcomm MSM7227 Snapdragon S1
CPU800 MHz ARMv6
GPUAdreno 200

Memory

Card slotmicroSDHC (dedicated slot), up to 32GB (2GB card included)
Internal512MB RAM, 512MB ROM

Main Camera

Single5 MP, AF
FeaturesLED flash, Face detection, Touch focus, Geotagging
Video480p@24fps (D1)

Selfie Camera

SingleVGA

Battery

TypeRemovable Li-Ion 1250 mAh battery
Stand-byUp to 660 h (2G) / Up to 450 h (3G)
Talk timeUp to 7 h (2G) / Up to 6 h (3G)

Body

Dimensions114.4 x 64.6 x 10.7 mm (4.50 x 2.54 x 0.42 in)
Weight124 g (4.37 oz)
KeyboardQWERTY physical keyboard
SIMMini-SIM

Comms

WLANWi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, hotspot
Bluetooth3.0, A2DP
PositioningGPS, A-GPS
RadioStereo FM radio with RDS
USBmicroUSB 2.0

Launch

AnnouncedFebruary 2011
StatusReleased June 2011

⚖ Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Physical QWERTY keyboard is excellent for messaging
  • Deep Facebook integration with a dedicated button
  • Compact and premium-feeling metallic design
  • Affordable price point at launch

Cons

  • Small screen size can be problematic for some apps
  • Limited Adobe Flash support in the browser
  • Sub-par camera quality with noticeable noise and color issues
  • Average battery life for its time
  • Performance can lag due to modest processor
★ Our Verdict

The HTC ChaCha offered a unique and appealing experience for its target audience of heavy texters and Facebook users with its QWERTY keyboard and dedicated social button, despite its small screen and average performance for a smartphone of its era.

The HTC ChaCha is now a vintage device, primarily suitable for collectors, enthusiasts, or those seeking a nostalgic experience rather than a daily driver. Its Android 2.3 operating system is severely outdated, meaning most modern apps will not function, and security updates are non-existent. If considering a purchase, prioritize units in excellent cosmetic condition with a working battery, understanding that battery life will be significantly degraded due to age. Expect limited functionality beyond basic calls, texts, and very old web browsing. It is not recommended for anyone needing a functional smartphone for contemporary use.

Reviewed by the infozme.com Editorial Team — see how we research & rate phones.

📦 In The Box & Warranty

  • HTC ChaCha Handset
  • Li-Ion 1250 mAh Battery
  • microSD Card (2GB)
  • Charger
  • USB Cable
  • Headphones

As a vintage device, new warranties are no longer offered; any purchase would likely be as-is or with a limited seller-specific guarantee.

❓ Questions & Answers

What is the main feature of the HTC ChaCha?

The HTC ChaCha is best known for its full physical QWERTY keyboard and a dedicated Facebook button, designed for quick social media access and efficient typing.

When was the HTC ChaCha released?

The HTC ChaCha was announced in February 2011 and officially released in June 2011.

What operating system does the HTC ChaCha run?

It originally ran Android 2.3.3 (Gingerbread) with HTC Sense UI 2.1 for Messenger, and was upgradable to Android 2.3.5.

Is the HTC ChaCha suitable for modern use?

No, due to its outdated Android 2.3 operating system, the HTC ChaCha is not suitable for modern smartphone use. Most current applications and services will not be compatible.

Does the HTC ChaCha have a front-facing camera?

Yes, the HTC ChaCha features a VGA front-facing camera in addition to its 5 MP main camera.

What was the original price of the HTC ChaCha?

At its launch, the HTC ChaCha was priced around $339 plus VAT for an off-contract purchase.