Pantech Jest

“Based on our usage of the Pantech Jest, we feel that it is an OK messaging device that has a nice 2.6” display and comes in at a low price, but the poor call quality and signal reception has us concerned, as this still hasn’t been fixed since we reviewed the Razzle and Blitz. We can only hope that Pantech will get this right the next time around. At this point, we would suggest the LG Cosmos VN250 instead, as it not only offers better call quality and signal reception, but a better designed QWERTY keyboard as well.”

“I could excuse many flaws on the Pantech Jest, but I can't forgive the problems I had with every aspect of the messaging features. Messaging is the most important draw for this phone. Forgetting the slow and ineffective Web browser, the lousy camera, the confusing music transfer and the lackluster calling options, if the Pantech Jest had only delivered on the messaging options, I might have been able to recommend this phone. Instead, when I tried sending messages, connecting with my social networks and checking my email inbox, everything came to a standstill. Text messaging was unreliable, with a mystifying mix of menus and interface screens. The social networking and email apps simply did not work for me, no matter how many hoops I jumped through. I had to create dangerously simple passwords to access these services, and then found the effort, and the risk, was not worth the payoff. Even if my fingers were dainty enough to enjoy the small keyboard, the email and Social Beat apps didn't provide a reliable experience to make typing worth while. Messaging wasn't the only fatal flaw I found, though. The optical direction key stymies all enjoyment of this phone's design. I like having plenty of customization and shortcut options, an impressive array for a basic quick messaging phone, but mostly I used these options to avoid the direction key. The optical button up front was unresponsive to the point of almost complete failure. There wasn't an app on the phone that wasn't hurt by this poor navigation choice.”

“The Pantech Jest is a compact phone that is ideal for any individual looking to stay in the loop with the latest gossip. It offers a wide selection of features that perform adequately. If you are looking for a prepaid cell phone that is different from all the others, the Pantech Jest is worth your consideration.”