I am regularly asked “what mobile phone should I get?”The answer is not simple; it depends on the feature set which is important to you. However, here’s my subjective list:
- BlackBerry – if e-mail is important to you, nay essential, then you need a BlackBerry. No other device comes close for messaging. I lean towards the larger QWERTY keyboard, being a heavy e-mail composer. Thus, for me, the new BlackBerry Pearl – as attractive as it is – is out. However, those who are more keen on being able to receive and read e-mail, but don’t have as pressing a need to send it, would do well to consider it.
- Samung A701 – if you want to use Telstra’s NextG 3G network, then this is presently the most feature-rich handset. The NextG data speeds are impressive. However, after using other Samsung models, this flip-phone does feel more chunky.
- Samsung D820 – for standard GSM, this is a light and stylish handset, with great sound and video outputs.
- Sony Ericsson K800i – for shutterbugs or non-NextG 3G users, this handset is a winner. It has great business features, a sturdy feel, an excellent OS and currently the highest quality camera in a mobile phone. In fact, this model carries the moniker “cybershot”, aligning it with Sony’s consumer digital camera range.
- Nokia E61 – this is also a non-NextG 3G handset, with the telephone reliability of the Nokia brand along with the feature set of a smartphone. A good screen and QWERTY keyboard make this a perfect device for road warriors. BlackBerry Connect software has been licensed meaning push e-mail is available.
- Motorola v3i – it just has to be included on the list; the GSM-only v3i was an instant killer when it first came out, with unbelievable looks and a super-thin clamshell design. The Motorola operating system has quirks which bug me but for the aesthetically inclined, the gold Dolce and Gabanna model or the feminine pink model are must-haves.
All of these handsets come with USB data cables. There will be no problems with keeping your phone synchronised with a PC, nor with transferring files including ringtones and photographs.
All, bar the Nokia E61 and BlackBerry models other than the Pearl, have cameras. All, bar the BlackBerry have expandable memory.
What, no PDAs, you ask? Yes. Frankly, for all the advantages the Pocket PC platform offers, I find it still too quirky for heavy-duty use. I’ve had to reboot my HTC devices – including the iMate JasJar which “try it for three days then return it to the PR company” journalists tout as a regular “editor’s choice”.
