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Motorola·Vintage · Released Mar 1983

DynaTAC 8000X

1983 first commercial cell phone.

50/ 100 SpecEagle score
From
$3995
Color · Beige Cream
Display
LED segment
Form
Brick handheld
Network
AMPS analog
Weight
794 g
Quick answer

The Motorola DynaTAC 8000X is a vintage Motorola smartphone released Mar 1983, with a launch price of $3995. It pairs its chipset with a LED segment display, a capable main camera and a large battery. In SpecEagle's editorial review it scores 50/100 — DynaTAC 8000X. Standout strengths: first commercial handheld cellular. and memory for 30 numbers. Main trade-off: $3,995 launch price (1983).

AI Snapshot

DynaTAC 8000X.

Motorola's 1983 DynaTAC 8000X was the FIRST commercial handheld cellular phone — $3,995 brick that started it all.

Read the full review
Subscores · 0–100
Display30
Voice64
Camera0
Battery30
Software30
  • First commercial handheld cellular.
  • Memory for 30 numbers.
  • Historical landmark.
  • Defined the cell phone era.

Full specifications

Type
LED segment
Lines
1 line
Main
None

Benchmarks

vs 2025 flagship class average
N/A
Δ class avg -100.0%
This
0
Class avg
1,620,000

How the DynaTAC 8000X compares

DynaTAC 8000XiPhone 6sMoto G15
SpecEagle score505050
ChipsetApple A9Helio G81 Extreme
DisplayLED segment4.7" LCD 60 Hz6.72" LCD 120 Hz
Main camera12 MP · f/2.250 MP
Battery1,715 mAh5,200 mAh
Launch price$3995$649$139

Frequently asked questions

When was the DynaTAC 8000X released?

The DynaTAC 8000X was released in Mar 1983.

How much does the DynaTAC 8000X cost?

The DynaTAC 8000X launched at $3995 (manufacturer suggested price at release; street and second-hand prices vary by region, storage tier and time since launch).

What is the DynaTAC 8000X screen size and type?

The DynaTAC 8000X has a LED segment display.

How much does the DynaTAC 8000X weigh?

The DynaTAC 8000X weighs 794 g.

What colours does the DynaTAC 8000X come in?

The DynaTAC 8000X is available in 1 colour: Beige Cream.

Is the DynaTAC 8000X worth buying?

Motorola's 1983 DynaTAC 8000X was the FIRST commercial handheld cellular phone — $3,995 brick that started it all. SpecEagle gives the DynaTAC 8000X an editorial score of 50/100.

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