Motorola RAZR V3i
The skinny on the original skinny phone
Although it’s an arguable point, one could easily make a case that the RAZR phone from Motorola is the trendiest cellular communicator on the market. When it launched over two years ago, many people who had never before taken an interest in cell phone use all of a sudden found themselves seduced by the RAZR’s sleek design, which could slide into pretty much any pocket. The V3i is the latest version of the RAZR, and features some interesting music phone qualities.
Ok, what makes this phone so special?
We really shouldn’t even have to answer this question. No really, look at the thing. In all seriousness, the primary draw to the RAZR is neither its call quality nor its music playback abilities. With all of the features available to Motorola, the simply sexy design of the RAZR is still the main attraction.
Like its little brother, the ROKR, Motorola’s RAZR features an exclusive iTunes button, which immediately connects the user with Apple’s popular music database.
- Tech Highlights
- Networks: GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 (Quad-Band)
- Bluetooth v1.2
- Messaging: IM, SMS, MMS, EMS, e-mail
- GPRS: Class 10, 32-48 kbps
What about the design?
Here’s where all of the pros come into play for the RAZR. This phone is quite the looker; from the hyper silver frame to the traditionally thin design, Motorola’s phone is very attractive. In addition, the screen lights up with 262,000 colors, which is on the high-end for cell phone displays. The screen is also an above-average 2.25 inches in size.
There’s an included photo lens, but the 1.2 megapixel camera is sub par. Don’t expect high resolutions in well-lit environments.
Cons?
Unfortunately, it appears the latest RAZR rendition is more looks than brains. Inside, you’ll find a number of problems, from the aforementioned grainy camera to an annoying iTunes connection (it requires you to link via USB cable instead of wirelessly).
In addition, there are problems with call quality, which comes in at average at best.
The only major drawback to the V3i’s design is the buttons, which are subject to cult tastes: you either love ’em (and have owned RAZR phones before) or hate ’em. Stubby fingers need not apply.
Finally, the RAZR V3i is afflicted with the same ailment as many of the other phones here: an obstructive battery. Users must remove it to access the memory card, much like they would have to do with the ROKR and Sony Ericsson W810i.
Concluding thoughts
For those superficial types, the RAZR is a good option. The V3i is, without a doubt, the best-looking cell phone on the market, putting stubby favorites like the ROKR and Nokia 5300 Xpressa to shame.
Unfortunately, beyond that glowing (hyper silver) complexion is a complete dolt. The RAZR boasts a sub-par camera, average call quality and no wireless music transfers. Furthermore, it fails to improve on other phones that leave the battery standing between you and your memory card.