The E233 series, according to the October 2005 press release, features two identical sets of the main equipment in case of failure. This is the first JR East stock to feature such backup measures. The E233 series provides for better accessibility for the disabled, and is designed to be more comfortable to ride overall than previous stock. The height between the platform and the train was reduced from the of the 201 and 209 series to . Seats are wide, compared to the of the 201 series and of the 209 series. For standing passengers the handle straps have been lowered by 50 mm compared to older train models.