Samsung Epic 4G smartphone

Photo: Alvin Pingol via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)

Samsung

Samsung Epic 4G

August 31, 2010 7/10 Rating Updated
In brief: The Samsung Epic 4G was a groundbreaking Android smartphone released in 2010, notable for being one of the first 4G-capable devices on Sprint's network and featuring a distinctive slide-out QWERTY keyboard. It boasted a vibrant 4-inch Super AMOLED display and a 1GHz Hummingbird processor, making it a powerful option for its era.
Display4.0" Super AMOLED, 480x800 pixels
ChipsetSamsung S5PC110 Hummingbird
Main Camera5 MP with LED flash
Battery1500 mAh removable
Starting from $20

💰 Samsung Epic 4G Price

The Samsung Epic 4G lowest price is $20, based on current retailer listings.

📌 Full Specifications

Display

TypeSuper AMOLED capacitive touchscreen, 16M colors
Size4.0 inches
Resolution480 x 800 pixels (WVGA)
ProtectionNot specified

Platform

OSAndroid 2.1 (Eclair), upgradable to 2.2 (Froyo)
ChipsetSamsung S5PC110 Hummingbird
CPU1.0 GHz Cortex-A8
GPUPowerVR SGX540

Memory

Internal1GB ROM, 512MB RAM
Card slotmicroSDHC, up to 32GB (16GB card included)

Main Camera

Single5 MP, autofocus
FeaturesLED flash, Geo-tagging
Video720p@30fps

Selfie Camera

SingleVGA
VideoNot specified

Battery

TypeRemovable Li-Ion 1500 mAh battery
ChargingStandard charger

Body

Dimensions124.5 x 64.5 x 14.2 mm (4.9 x 2.5 x 0.56 inches)
Weight155 g (5.47 oz)
KeyboardSlide-out QWERTY keyboard
SIMMini-SIM

Comms

WLANWi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, DLNA
Bluetooth2.1, A2DP
GPSYes, with A-GPS
RadioFM radio
USBmicroUSB 2.0

Launch

AnnouncedAugust 2010
StatusReleased August 31, 2010

⚖ Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Excellent Super AMOLED display for its time
  • Physical QWERTY keyboard is great for heavy typers
  • 4G WiMAX connectivity (for its era)
  • Dedicated camera button and LED flash
  • Front-facing camera for video calls
  • Mobile hotspot capability

Cons

  • Bulky and heavy design
  • Older Android OS (2.1 Eclair at launch)
  • Limited internal storage
  • Battery life could be an issue with 4G usage
  • Relatively high price at launch
★ Our Verdict

For its time, the Samsung Epic 4G was a feature-rich and innovative device, combining a vibrant display, physical keyboard, and early 4G capabilities, though its bulk and initial OS version were minor drawbacks.

The Samsung Epic 4G is a vintage smartphone from 2010 and is no longer suitable for daily use as a primary device due to outdated software, network compatibility issues (WiMAX is largely defunct), and lack of app support. It is primarily a collector's item for enthusiasts of early Android or QWERTY phones. If considering a purchase, ensure the device is in good cosmetic and functional condition, understanding that its practical utility will be extremely limited. Look for complete-in-box sets for collector value, but do not expect modern smartphone performance or security.

📦 In The Box & Warranty

  • Samsung Epic 4G Handset
  • 1500 mAh Battery
  • Wall Charger
  • USB Cable
  • 16GB microSD Card (pre-installed)
  • Stereo Earbud Headset
  • Printed User Guide
  • microSD card adapter

Standard manufacturer's warranty typically covered defects for one year from purchase.

❓ Questions & Answers

What is the Samsung Epic 4G?

The Samsung Epic 4G was an Android smartphone released by Samsung in 2010, exclusively for Sprint's network, known for its 4G WiMAX connectivity and physical QWERTY keyboard.

When was the Samsung Epic 4G released?

It was officially released on August 31, 2010, on the Sprint network.

Does the Samsung Epic 4G have a physical keyboard?

Yes, one of its defining features is a full, slide-out QWERTY keyboard, which was popular for users who preferred tactile typing.

What operating system did the Samsung Epic 4G run?

It launched with Android 2.1 Eclair and was later upgradable to Android 2.2 Froyo.

Is the Samsung Epic 4G still usable today?

While it can power on, its functionality is severely limited due to outdated software, lack of modern app support, and the obsolescence of the WiMAX 4G network it relied on. It's primarily a collector's item.

What was special about the Samsung Epic 4G's display?

It featured a 4-inch Super AMOLED display, which was considered cutting-edge at the time for its vibrant colors and deep blacks.