The high-end Android smartphones tend to dominate the market. The recent buzz over the release of Android 4.0 on the Samsung Galaxy Nexus proves that. But many users don't need HD video capture or other esoteric functionality; they just want a quality phone to make phone calls, surf the web and maybe download a game from the Android Market.
Two budget handsets available through Verizon Wireless do just that. Both the Samsung Illusion and LG Enlighten provide a solid Android powered experience at a relatively inexpensive price, considering the contract requirements.
The Samsung Illusion from Verizon Wireless
Samsung's Illusion is almost the antithesis to their Galaxy Nexus which is the current launch device for Android 4.0 -- unfortunately codenamed, "Ice Cream Sandwich." The Illusion provides solid smartphone performance for about a quarter of the price of the Nexus, and Verizon is currently offering the Illusion for free with a 2-year contract and data plan.
- Android 2.3
- 1GHZ Processor
- 2GB On-board Memory
- 2GB microSD Memory (Supports up to 32GB)
- 3.5-inch Capacitive Touchscreen
- 3MP Camera
- Bluetooth, WiFi, and 3G Connectivity
The Illusion's touchscreen works smoothly with an Android Gingerbread interface that's easy to navigate. Surfing the web is a breeze, as well as managing an array of social networking contacts. A full license to the Android Market means a host of apps are available in addition to the preloaded suite of Verizon's VCAST ware.
Of course, the Illusion is less powerful than high-end Android phones, but for users not needing HD video or a larger touchscreen, this is a phone that hits the spot for the right price.
Verizon Wireless offering the LG Enlighten for Free
The LG Enlighten is another smartphone running Android 2.3 that Verizon is offering for free this holiday season. Its features compare well to the Illusion, but with subtle differences that should help the savvy shopper choose between the two.
- Android 2.3
- 800MHZ Processor
- 150MB On-board Memory
- 2GB microSD Memory (Supports up to 32GB)
- 3.2-inch Capacitive Touchscreen
- 3.2MP Camera
- Bluetooth, WiFi, and 3G Connectivity
- Slide-out Keyboard
The Enlighten's touchscreen is slightly smaller than the one on the Illusion, and feels a bit more sluggish, probably due to a slower processor. Still, it works well enough when navigating the interface, browsing the Android Market, or surfing the web.
Offsetting the slightly lower specs compared to the Illusion is the Enlighten's slide-out keyboard, which is a must for customers who burn up a large number of text messages. In fact, it is easy to recommend the Enlighten over the Illusion if texting is important. Otherwise, the Illusion's slightly better specs give it a nod in general performance. Either Android smartphone is a good buy for the budget-conscious shopper.
Paul Williams - Paul Williams' unique set of experiences allow him to communicate complex issues in a clear manner, yet still be an entertaining read.
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