Kyocera Verve

The Kyocera Verve proves that there is still room for the classics when it comes to mobile phones. If you’re looking for a phone to text with friends and make calls without the fluff and cost of modern smartphones, it just might be the answer. Let’s take a look to see what the reviews have to say!

As a feature phone, you won’t find the latest apps or even be able to check your Facebook. What you get is everything a basic phone requires: voice call support, an address book, clock and a few other features. The phone’s 2.4-inch display is a low resolution job that will display text and basic pictures but not much else. CNet found that viewing angles were not so great either, stating, “A slight tilt from any angle can wash out the screen entirely.”

There hasn’t been many new slider phones released recently. However, it seems that Kyocera has managed to capture that classic design and offer a sturdy device that is both light and ready for a few drops and tumbles. Phone Scoop noted, “The plastics aren’t the cheapest I’ve encountered on a handset, but they are far from the best.”

The front of the phone features the display, a few basic navigation controls and a dial pad. Slide the back of the phone sideways and a spring-assisted keyboard pops to the side to let you text until your thumbs are sore. CNet put the keyboard through its paces and found that it performed well with two minor caveats. First, it is a bit small, CNet warns, “users with slightly bigger hands might need to look elsewhere.” There was also a few issues with the spacebar not registering presses.

The phone charges via MicroUSB cable to cut down on cord clutter. The same cord can transfer pictures from the device, though with a scant 2MP camera and no flash, you’re probably not going to use it often.

Overall, the phone reviews indicate that it is a fitting tribute to the phones of yesteryear while still providing a useful, affordable device. CNet said, “you can’t go wrong with its simple and straightforward interface.” Phone Scoop applauded the phone, saying that it “covers the QWERTY-phone basics in spades.”