T-Mobile Pulse Mini

Google goodness for under a ton

The small screen makes web browsing a bit of a strain too and you don't get pinch-to-zoom, though that isn't quite the end of the world failing some would claim. If the Android browser doesn't suite you can snag Opera Mini from the market which goes about its business rather more briskly.

 

Very pocketable

The removable 1150mAh capacity battery is reasonable for a phone with Wi-Fi and GPS but if you use either regularly you will need to recharge often. Use them sparingly, though, and keep the Mini hooked up to the network via 2G rather than 3 and two days between charges is easily achievable.

I had no complaints about wireless reception or call quality which were neither remarkably good nor remarkably bad though the speaker sounded rather tinny and hollow.

For those of you who like the phone but not the telco, my review handset arrived unlocked but as it lacked the T-Mobile branded battery cover and 2GB MicroSD card I wouldn't want to guarantee that retail handsets will be the same. And don't forget that Vodafone will soon announce the full details and price of its own 2.8" budget Android 2.1 phone, the 845.

Verdict

At the bargain price of £100, the Pulse Mini gives you the bells and whistles and the very latest version of Android, all wrapped up in small, light and robust little package. For a hundred quid, I'm almost tempted to buy one myself despite the laggardly performance and poor camera. ®

More Android Smartphone Reviews
Sony Ericsson Xperia X10	Google Nexus One	HTC Legend	Samsung Galaxy Portal