Best 5 cell phones

You carry your phone almost everywhere, so it's important that you find the model that's right for you and one that works with your carrier. Fortunately, CNET is here to help. We've chosen five handsets that we think are the top cell phones right now in any category. If you'd like to drill deeper, follow the links at the left for our favorite cell phones in several categories. These lists change frequently, so check back often.

Apple iPhone 3GS

The iPhone 3GS doesn't make the same grand leap that the iPhone 3G made from the first-generation model, but the latest Apple handset is still a compelling upgrade for some users. The iPhone 3GS is faster and we appreciate the new features and extended battery life, but call quality and 3G reception still need improvement.
Price:$299.00 - $299.99 (check prices)
Filed in: Best smartphones, Best MP3 phones, Best video phones , Best AT&T phones
Read full review

 

Close

HTC Nexus One by Google

Don't let the standard candy bar design fool you: the Nexus One brings welcome new offerings to the Android table. The Snapdragon processor is undeniably zippy, the AMOLED display is gorgeous, and we welcome both the enhanced voice dialing capabilities and the noise cancellation feature. What's more, the Android 2.1 interface enhancements show that Android continues to improve as it evolves. It's not the greatest Android phone around--that's a difficult call to make in such a diverse and crowded field--but it adds to an already rich family.
$529 unlocked.

Please visit Google to purchase this phone.
Filed in: Best smartphones, Best T-Mobile phones
Read full review

 

Close

Motorola Droid

The Droid's display is gorgeous, the Android 2.0 updates are excellent, and the handset is lightning fast, particularly for an Android phone. We'll refrain from using the dreaded "iPhone killer" expression, but comparisons between the two devices are obvious, and we see the Droid as a real competitor to Apple's device. Sure, we had some complaints, but for Verizon's first pass at Android, the Droid more than delivers.
Price:$199.99 - $199.99 (check prices)
Filed in: Best smartphones, Best MP3 phones, Best video phones , Best Verizon Wireless phones
Read full review

 

Close

Palm Pre Plus

The Palm Pre Plus earns its place as the top WebOS device, improving on the Pre with a better design and performance, and upgraded features. Verizon customers looking for a versatile smartphone to balance their personal and work lives will be well-served by the Pre Plus.
Price:$49.99 - $500.00 (check prices)
Filed in: Best Verizon Wireless phones
Read full review

 

Close

RIM BlackBerry Bold 9700

While the Web browser needs work, we would absolutely recommend the RIM BlackBerry Bold 9700. It features a sleeker design and more power than its predecessor, making it a powerful messaging smartphone that will appeal to consumers and mobile professionals alike.
Price:$49.99 - $129.99 (check prices)
Filed in: Best smartphones, Best T-Mobile phones
Read full review