We've shown you our list of top cell phones of 2010, and now it's time to take a look at our top smartphones.
It's been a big year for the category. Not only did we see a slew of new devices, but 2010 also brought the launch of some major redesigns of mobile operating systems, so there was plenty of action.
Like our top cell phones, the following smartphones received a score of at least 3.5 stars or 7.7 on the CNET scale. Read on to see which models made the cut, and be sure to check back for our list of worst smartphones of 2010.
Samsung Epic 4G (Sprint)
Rating: Excellent (8.7 or 4 stars)
The bottom line: The
Samsung Epic 4G is a multimedia powerhouse with features the other
Galaxy S phones don't have. Unfortunately, it comes with a big price
tag.
The bottom line: The
HTC Evo 4G is easily Sprint's best smartphone and one of today's top
Android devices. It also shows the promise of 4G, which will grow as
Sprint's WiMax network expands, but until there's broader 4G coverage,
it's hard to agree with the mandatory premium data add-on fee.
Rating: Excellent (8.7 or 4 stars; Editors' Choice)
The bottom line: With
its polished design and user interface and blazingly fast speeds, the HTC
Droid Incredible takes pole position as Verizon's top smartphone and is
now the Android device to beat.
The bottom line: With
the iPhone 4, Apple again shows that it is a powerful player in the
smartphone wars. It won't be for everyone, the call quality and
reception vary if you don't use a case, and AT&T's network remains a
sticking point, but the handset's striking design, loaded feature set,
and generally agreeable performance make it the best iPhone yet.
The bottom line: Some
minor issues aside, the T-Mobile G2 is one of the carrier's top Android
smartphones, offering an excellent QWERTY keyboard, speed, and plenty
of features.
The bottom line: The
Motorola Droid X makes another fine addition to Verizon's Android
family, bringing with it a rich multimedia experience and more
connectivity features.
The bottom line: Though
video chat isn't ready for prime time, there's plenty to love about the
T-Mobile MyTouch 4G, including its speed, sleek and sturdy design, and
great call quality.
The bottom line: Anyone looking for an alternative to the iPhone, but who wants better
multimedia features and a more organized user interface than Android
offers, should check out the Samsung Focus with Windows Phone 7, which has all that plus
solid performance and a sleek design. Read the review
9 of 10 Josh Miller/CNET
RIM BlackBerry Pearl 3G (AT&T)
Rating: Excellent (8.0 or 4 stars)
The bottom line: The RIM BlackBerry Pearl 3G is a great little global smartphone if you can deal with the unusual keyboard.
The bottom line: The
LG Optimus T is one of the best entry-level smartphones you can buy,
with a feature set that is on par with devices more than twice its
price.
