Buying Guide
Smartphones are at the top of holiday shopping lists this year, and with so many different models available, choosing the right one can be tricky. Here's a need-to-know guide to nine devices, based on features, price, network and platform. Check out the phones (listed in alphabetical order by name).
Posted Nov. 20, 2009
Motorola CLIQ
Network: T-Mobile
Price: $199.99 (Two-year contract)
Platform: Android
The CLIQ comes pre-loaded with Google mobile services like search and maps. A secure server backs up information on the phone so if it gets lost or stolen, all data can be erased from the phone remotely.
Motorola DROID
Network: Verizon Wireless
Price: $199.99 (Two-year contract)
Platform: Android
Besides Web access, an app store and a hidden QWERTY keyboard, the Droid’s biggest selling point might be its voice-activated, turn-by-turn navigation system by Google. (Read a review of the Droid here.)
HTC Hero
Network: Sprint
Price: $179.99 (Two year contract)
Platform: Android
Users have a navigation choice on the Hero: they can either use the trackball or the phone’s 3.2-inch touchscreen.
HTC Imagio
Network: Verizon Wireless
Price: $199 (after $100 rebate, and two year contract)
Platform: Windows Mobile 6.5
The Imagio has a kickstand on the back to hold it upright and allow users to watch TV using Verizon’s V Cast Mobile TV.
Apple iPhone 3GS
Network: AT&T
Price: $199 (16GB. Two-year contract)
Platform: iPhone OS
Apple updated the iPhone this year, adding a better camera and video recording and editing capability. Users also get access to Apple’s App Store, which has over 100,000 applications, ranging from games to time-management tools.
HTC myTouch 3G
Network: T-Mobile
Price: $149.99
Platform: Android
As with other smartphones made by HTC, the myTouch 3G allows users to navigate the phone with either the trackball or by touching the screen.
Palm Pixi
Network: Sprint
Price: $99.99 (After rebate & two-year contract)
Platform: Palm webOS
The sleek Pixi links information from various social networks, like Facebook and LinkedIn, with easy viewing.
Palm Pre
Network: Sprint
Price: $149.99 (After rebate & two-year contract)
Platform: Palm webOS
Unlike other smartphones, the users of the touch screen Palm Pre can use and keep multiple applications open at the same time.
BlackBerry Storm 2
Network: Verizon Wireless
Price: $179.99 (Rebate & two-year contract)
Platform: BlackBerry OS 5.0
Research In Motion updated the Storm this fall, tweaking its design and touch screen usability.