The Nokia 8801 is quite similar to the Nokia 8800. One difference, other than the price, is that the 8800 supports GSM 900/1800/1900/, while the Nokia 8801 is focused a bit more on a North America audience, supporting GSM 850/1800/1900. Another difference users will find is that the Nokia 8801comes equipped with a tiny battery lock, which one will not find on the Nokia 8800.

 When looking to purchase the Nokia 8801 , potential users will find that it comes in a completely black box, equipped with a decorative metal clamp, embossed with the words "Nokia 8801," that keeps the lid of the box closed. Once the black box is opened, the phone, which is also all black, will be revealed, as well as a booklet offering some interesting market-speak. In addition to the box and the booklet, the box also comes equipped with two batteries, a manual, a desktop charger, a hands-free (not wireless) set, a black travel pouch, a CD-Rom chock full of Nokia software, and also various quick start guides offering advice in several different languages. Although this sleek and stylish phone comes with just about any feature a user may want, including a camera, memory card slots, easy to use buttons, and state-of-the-art technology, it's best feature could quite possibly be it's look. The Nokia 8801 is covered in an attractive, all-steel casing, with the exception of the top patch, which is plastic. All flat surfaces on the phone are brushed steel, although its curved surfaces are smooth to the touch, yet non-brushed. The steel casing does make the phone a bit heavy, weighing in at 134 grams, but it gives the appearance of a solid, sturdy, reliable phone that won't break easily. Unlike its plastic counterparts, users will find that the Nokia 8801 won't bend or make any kind of noises when pressed. To add to the appealing look of the phone, it also features a slider. Although the slider isn't the same as some of its counterparts available on the market, the mechanism works quite smoothly, almost as if it is being moved mechanically instead of manually. The mechanism also has a solid feel to it, and doesn't give off a metal, grating sound when opened or closed. The accessories that are available for the Nokia 8801 carry the same steel theme as the phone itself. The headset, as well as the desktop charger are both finished in the classy steel. The charger is considered to be just as aesthetically pleasing as the phone itself. There is a beautiful blue light that surrounds the charger, which means it can look quite nice at home, or on a desk in the office. Not only does it look good, but it can also charge both the phone and an extra battery at the same time, which cuts down on charging time and can ensure that the user is always prepared with a backup battery should their phone lose power. Be aware, however, that although the steel finish is beautiful, it is susceptible to holding fingerprints, as well as denting if the phone is dropped or banged.

The Nokia 8801 offers users a 0.5 mega pixel camera, which is able to run on Nokia's Series 40 v2 platform, or the ROM version 4.10. The display features a 208 x 208 pixel resolution complete with 262,000 colors. The screen, which is made out of the same sapphire materials used in expensive watches, is very bright and can be used under any lighting condition. This means that even in the brightest of light, users will be able to completely see the phone's screen. In addition, it easily resists scratching, which is a great feature for users who are on the go or use their phone during outdoor activity. The phone's keypad features small keys, yet they are still easy enough for users with large fingers to maneuver.