Sometimes too many bells and whistles get in the way of what you really need. Candybar phones are the staple diet of most mobile phone users and come in a variety of colours and sizes. The reason they're so popular is because the candybar format is the oldest and most familiar form factor, but it's also one of the most practical.
Since there are no moving parts on a candybar, you don't have to open anything to answer a call or use the keypad. They also tend to be tougher since they don't have any loose sections that might break when you drop it.
However, candybar phones aren't perfect and there are a few things that you need to look out for. For example, unlike clamshell phones, the screens are unprotected so they're more prone to scratches. They also tend to be smaller than some slider and clamshell phones, so holding one up to your face isn't always as comfortable.
Other features you might be interested in are removable cases so you can customise your phone and a cover on the camera lens (if it has a camera) so it doesn't get scratched. You also need to make sure that it feels comfortable in your pocket, as some candybar phones are rather chunky.
Editors:
4.0 stars out of 5
Users:
3.85 stars out of 5
The W810i is a great-looking phone that will please those people who didn't like the orange and white colour of the W800i and it also fixes some of its flaws. If you're looking for a Walkman branded phone this is the best to date, but we're disappointed about the new soft keys and lack of camera lens cover Read more
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Reviewed on 27 April 2006
Editors:
2.5 stars out of 5
Users:
2.85 stars out of 5
If you're on a budget but you want a mobile phone to make calls, send messages and use a Bluetooth headset with, then the my401x is near perfect. But beware the diminutive internal memory, 0.3-megapixel camera and poor-quality screen, which will frustrate you if you're looking for an MP3 player or digital camera replacement Read more
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Reviewed on 28 March 2006
Editors:
3.5 stars out of 5
Users:
3.5 stars out of 5
Motorola's flat keyboarded, thin, black design gets another outing in the Slvr -- we've seen it before in the Razr and Pebl. Amazingly good looking, the SLVR has a feature-set which is average in most respects, though good quality music playback is a highlight worth drawing attention to Read more
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Reviewed on 24 February 2006
Editors:
3.5 stars out of 5
Users:
3.15 stars out of 5
The N70 is a fairly pretty, slightly chunky handset, but nothing to write home about. Delve a little and you'll find plenty to get excited about, though, from the solid 3G performance and good camera (with sliding lens cover) to the library of built-in software suitable for both work and play Read more
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Reviewed on 13 February 2006
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