HTC MyTouch 3G Slide

“As a whole, we're somewhat bummed by the myTouch 3G Slide as it doesn't feel quite as compelling as other Android handsets packing a physical QWERTY. It's by far one of the bulkiest looking Android smartphones to date as it boasts a size that's almost similar to the G1 while packing on more weight than most handsets. Plus its design is rather uninspiring and the choice of materials doesn't leave one well assured about its durability over the course of two years. In the end, its price point of $179.99 already borderlines the high-end premium category, which is another reason to possibly look at other models such as the Motorola CLIQ for an inexpensive solution or look to the recently launched Samsung Vibrant with its superior performance and larger screen.”

“Like it or not, T-Mobile has now officially turned its myTouch brand into an entire franchise, thanks to the addition of a second model and an entire line of styled accessories -- but it's not just about the hardware. Far from it, in fact: with the myTouch 3G Slide, the carrier has actually built a custom skin on top of HTC's Sense for Android 2.1, and all kidding aside, this phone represents one of the deepest carrier-customized experiences we've ever seen. Seeing how this phone arguably represents the true successor to the G1 -- T-Mobile's (and the world's) first retail Android device -- it's pretty important that they get this right, particularly considering how critical it is for a carrier's bottom line to capitalize on the meaty, profitable midrange of its smartphone lineup. Does the myTouch 3G Slide live up to the G1's good name?”

“The new T-Mobile myTouch 3G Slide is the second HTC-developed Android smartphone to wear the T-Mobile myTouch badge. This time around myTouch gets to brag about a hardware keyboard and a pretty current Android 2.1 operating system with HTC Sense user interface extensions. That's not too shabby. The phone is not perfect, though it tries pretty hard to be so. The keyboard has great feel, but is visually flawed. The build of the phone just isn't as rich feeling as it could be, either. But there is still a lot to love. The 5MP auto-focus camera works pretty well, and the upgraded display is a winner. In spite of a few software missteps on T-Mobile's part, the apps, home screen widgets, and overall customization options on the phone are great.”

“The camera is a touch on the slow side, but it performs well. The music player has been refreshed a little bit in terms of appearance, but doesn't add enough new functionality for me. At least the Amazon MP3 Store is on board. In the end, I think the decision really comes down to form factor. Do you want the real keyboard and slightly bigger screen, or is something like the Nexus One more your style? It's a tough call. I'd recommend you go to a T-Mobile store and spend some time with the Slide before making a final decision.”