Cam Bunton expert
Managing Editor Today's iPhone
A film school graduate from the University of Cumbria, UK, Cam’s past life was in mobile phone retail. His passion for cell phones got him in to that industry, and then in to this one. Except now he doesn’t have to deal with awkward customers. A family man with two kids, he somehow manages to balance his TiP duties with family life and a runaway Twitter addiction. He covers news mostly, but often dabbles in other areas when the mood strikes.
Follow TiP_Cam
Cam's current smartphone rankings
Why I made my choices
Having had an entire week with the Galaxy S4, I've come away liking it a lot more than I expected to. The display is incredible, and fitting a 5-inch panel in to such a relatively small chassis really takes away any distraction from anything but what's on screen. In comparison, almost every other phone now looks like it has a fat frame around it.
In all honesty, my top 3 are admirable devices. Fantastic, in fact. But, if you forced me to choose one over the others, I'd find it very hard not to choose the HTC One. I love the industrial design.
The latest version of the Lumia goes 4th, with what is undoubtedly the only great physical QWERTY-equipped device in fifth. How that got in to the list is simply because I still have a weak-spot for physical keyboards.
Cam's ranking archives
Why I made my choices...
My top 5 are the same as last week. Nothing of the Galaxy S4's spec sheet convince me that it's a good enough handset overall to replace the HTC One or iPhone 5. It's full of gimmicky features, but the compromise to have those in place is that almost half the available 16GB storage is taken up, leaving you only 8GB for apps since they can't be saved and launched from the MicroSD card.
The HTC One and iPhone 5 are both incredibly well made and designed to a high standard. The One's BoomSound and great battery life make it a winner on the hardware front.
4th and 5th go to my top devices on the other two platforms. They both offer something different to iOS and Android, but not quite good enough to break in to the top 3.
The HTC One and iPhone 5 are both incredibly well made and designed to a high standard. The One's BoomSound and great battery life make it a winner on the hardware front.
4th and 5th go to my top devices on the other two platforms. They both offer something different to iOS and Android, but not quite good enough to break in to the top 3.
Why I made my choices...
There's no denying that we're now in one of the most exciting periods for great smartphones. With a decent phone on every platform, competition for consumer's hearts and wallets has never been better.
Despite the launch of the Galaxy S4, my top 2 are the same as in previous weeks. Frankly, a lot of the S4's new features are gimmicks that I don't think will be used that often. It's still a plastic phone, which still uses AMOLED display technology. I'm not a fan, and although it does boast some of the best specs on the market, it's too big for my liking.
Sadly I had to knock the Nexus 4 off the list. I couldn't bring myself to dismiss the BB10 loaded Z10 completely. The newest all-touch BlackBerry is a great new start for the former king of smartphones.
Despite the launch of the Galaxy S4, my top 2 are the same as in previous weeks. Frankly, a lot of the S4's new features are gimmicks that I don't think will be used that often. It's still a plastic phone, which still uses AMOLED display technology. I'm not a fan, and although it does boast some of the best specs on the market, it's too big for my liking.
Sadly I had to knock the Nexus 4 off the list. I couldn't bring myself to dismiss the BB10 loaded Z10 completely. The newest all-touch BlackBerry is a great new start for the former king of smartphones.
Why I made my choices...
The HTC One has set the standard for all other manufacturers. The display is incredible, the stereo speakers and amplification are unbelievable and the feel of the gently curved aluminum unibody in hand is unmatched by anything.
When it comes to performance, reliability and the best all-round ecosystem, no one matches Apple's iPhone. The iPhone 5 also set a new standard for precision manufacturing The only thing its lacking is a larger display.
The flagship Windows device is a great piece of hardware. It has a great display, feels solid and the still has the best lowlight performance of any smartphone camera currently available.
If I was in the market for a new phone, my 4th and 5th choices would go to the Nexus 4 and iPhone 4S. Prior to this week it would have gone to the BlackBerry Z10, however, a major fault developed on my BB10 running device leaving me unable to charge or switch it on. In all the 40+ devices I've used as daily drivers, it's the first time it's happened.
When it comes to performance, reliability and the best all-round ecosystem, no one matches Apple's iPhone. The iPhone 5 also set a new standard for precision manufacturing The only thing its lacking is a larger display.
The flagship Windows device is a great piece of hardware. It has a great display, feels solid and the still has the best lowlight performance of any smartphone camera currently available.
If I was in the market for a new phone, my 4th and 5th choices would go to the Nexus 4 and iPhone 4S. Prior to this week it would have gone to the BlackBerry Z10, however, a major fault developed on my BB10 running device leaving me unable to charge or switch it on. In all the 40+ devices I've used as daily drivers, it's the first time it's happened.
Why I made my choices...
My top 5 has remained the same over the past few weeks. Every day with the HTC One has shown that it is the phone to beat in the current market place. It's powerful, fast, has a brilliant display, a great camera, great sound. In fact there's little I don't like about it. From its chamfered edges and curved back, to the ear-ripping BoomSound it's all good. I also get two days out of the battery on a full charge.
The iPhone 5 is still my go-to daily driver, everything is great about it. The one thing I would change would be to make the display bigger. That's it. It has an unbeatable ecosystem and a seamless integration between hardware and software that no other manufacturer has been able to match so far. BlackBerry might get there with its next generation BB10 devices, but the current ones are far from awe-inspiring.
The Lumia is the Windows Champion and a great piece of hardware in its own right. I loved my time with it, but it could do with stronger developer support and losing a few pounds and inches from its hefty bulk.
Nexus 4 is amazing value for money, and the Z10 shows that there's tons of potential in BlackBerry's new operating system.
The iPhone 5 is still my go-to daily driver, everything is great about it. The one thing I would change would be to make the display bigger. That's it. It has an unbeatable ecosystem and a seamless integration between hardware and software that no other manufacturer has been able to match so far. BlackBerry might get there with its next generation BB10 devices, but the current ones are far from awe-inspiring.
The Lumia is the Windows Champion and a great piece of hardware in its own right. I loved my time with it, but it could do with stronger developer support and losing a few pounds and inches from its hefty bulk.
Nexus 4 is amazing value for money, and the Z10 shows that there's tons of potential in BlackBerry's new operating system.
Why I made my choices...
I picked up a HTC One on upgrade today, and was more impressed than I was the first time I tried one. It's fair to say that the experience in store is completely different to that at home. The display and stereo speakers combine to create a fierce multimedia experience. The unibody chassis feels incredibly in hand, it's slim and curves gently to fit in the palm. I do have some reservations about Sense UI 5, but there's not enough to detract from the experience that much.
I love the iPhone 5, and have done since its launch in September. It's a great piece of elegant machinery. It's a beautiful phone, it performs well as a daily driver and has access to hundreds of thousands of amazing apps. As an all-round experience it's hard to fault. Personally, however, I would love a bigger display. I find the portrait keyboard too cramped, and the landscape one takes up too much of the screen. I end up using voice dictation 80% of the time to send messages nowadays.
The Lumia 920 is a great device. But, having had more time with the HTC One, I now find it a little confusing as to why exactly Nokia didn't opt for a slimmer phone. If HTC can fit everything it's packed in to such a relatively slim package, why couldn't Nokia; the Finnish kings of hardware design.
4th and 5th spots go to two great phones, but not great enough to replace my top choices. BB10 is a great communication-driven platform, and the Z10 itself isn't a terrible device. It's easy to hold, it feels like its designed to be a daily go-to smartphone, it just lacks that cutting edge that could push it above its rivals in the market place.
The Note 2 is a powerful machine, but it's failed to capture my desire. I've only briefly wanted to have it as my own device, and that was only down to the multiple window multitasking and S-Pen combination. My beef with the phablet is that it's just too big. Nevertheless, it boasts impressive hardware and performance features which are enough to get it within my top 5.
I love the iPhone 5, and have done since its launch in September. It's a great piece of elegant machinery. It's a beautiful phone, it performs well as a daily driver and has access to hundreds of thousands of amazing apps. As an all-round experience it's hard to fault. Personally, however, I would love a bigger display. I find the portrait keyboard too cramped, and the landscape one takes up too much of the screen. I end up using voice dictation 80% of the time to send messages nowadays.
The Lumia 920 is a great device. But, having had more time with the HTC One, I now find it a little confusing as to why exactly Nokia didn't opt for a slimmer phone. If HTC can fit everything it's packed in to such a relatively slim package, why couldn't Nokia; the Finnish kings of hardware design.
4th and 5th spots go to two great phones, but not great enough to replace my top choices. BB10 is a great communication-driven platform, and the Z10 itself isn't a terrible device. It's easy to hold, it feels like its designed to be a daily go-to smartphone, it just lacks that cutting edge that could push it above its rivals in the market place.
The Note 2 is a powerful machine, but it's failed to capture my desire. I've only briefly wanted to have it as my own device, and that was only down to the multiple window multitasking and S-Pen combination. My beef with the phablet is that it's just too big. Nevertheless, it boasts impressive hardware and performance features which are enough to get it within my top 5.
Why I made my choices...
The top 3 for me are virtually inseparable. Each has its own incredible good points, and downsides. The iPhone 5 is still the most elegant and stylish smartphone on the market, it's the portal to an incredible App Store and ecosystem choc-full of great media. No one yet comes close to that. And although the Retina display would be better if it was bigger, it's still an incredibly sharp and accurate LCD panel.
The Lumia 920 is brilliant. It has the best camera, great wireless charging and a beautiful display. The app selection on WP is getting stronger all the time, and Nokia's music service is very convenient. Although the design is eye-catching, I think it could do with trimming down on bulk a little.
The HTC One is the most beautiful and best built Android device since the Nexus One. It's most certainly the best on the market right now, and although more consumers will swarm to buy the Galaxy S4, the One in my mind is a much stronger device. Unibody Aluminum design, coupled with an amazing 1080p SLCD display and unique camera sensor makes for an all-round great device. But, unless its marketing matches that of Samsung's spending power, it will not do as well on the market.
4th and 5th are the best of the rest. The Nexus 4 is incredible valye for money and the Z10 offers a very pleasant user experience. And although it's not quite enough to compete with the top handsets from other platforms, it shows a lot of promise for the future of BlackBerry.
The Lumia 920 is brilliant. It has the best camera, great wireless charging and a beautiful display. The app selection on WP is getting stronger all the time, and Nokia's music service is very convenient. Although the design is eye-catching, I think it could do with trimming down on bulk a little.
The HTC One is the most beautiful and best built Android device since the Nexus One. It's most certainly the best on the market right now, and although more consumers will swarm to buy the Galaxy S4, the One in my mind is a much stronger device. Unibody Aluminum design, coupled with an amazing 1080p SLCD display and unique camera sensor makes for an all-round great device. But, unless its marketing matches that of Samsung's spending power, it will not do as well on the market.
4th and 5th are the best of the rest. The Nexus 4 is incredible valye for money and the Z10 offers a very pleasant user experience. And although it's not quite enough to compete with the top handsets from other platforms, it shows a lot of promise for the future of BlackBerry.
Why I made my choices...
It's all change for me this week. The HTC One was announced not long ago, and it's already available for purchase in many countries internationally. The build quality, design and incredible display combine to create a formidable handset. In my mind (much like the One X vs. S3 last year) it's a much more impressive phone than Samsung's latest announcement.
I've loved my time with the Lumia 920 over the past couple of weeks. The hardware is top notch. The only thing needing improvement on the flagship Windows phone is the ecosystem. There are some great apps on WP8, but it needs more of them.
We're spoilt for choice in the current market, and my 4th and 5th spots could easily have been given to a handful of devices. I chose these two for their innovative unique features. The Z10 has the Hub, and a fantastic virtual keyboard. And as a daily driver for communication, it's hard to fault. Still, needs a lot more apps, but they're coming.
The Note 2 has S-pen and multi-window multitasking, which is awesome for a phone. And, although it may not be everyone's cup of tea, I can see there are certainly a few people out there who appreciate it, despite it's huge size.
I've loved my time with the Lumia 920 over the past couple of weeks. The hardware is top notch. The only thing needing improvement on the flagship Windows phone is the ecosystem. There are some great apps on WP8, but it needs more of them.
We're spoilt for choice in the current market, and my 4th and 5th spots could easily have been given to a handful of devices. I chose these two for their innovative unique features. The Z10 has the Hub, and a fantastic virtual keyboard. And as a daily driver for communication, it's hard to fault. Still, needs a lot more apps, but they're coming.
The Note 2 has S-pen and multi-window multitasking, which is awesome for a phone. And, although it may not be everyone's cup of tea, I can see there are certainly a few people out there who appreciate it, despite it's huge size.
Why I made my choices...
I got sent a test unit of the Lumia 920 this week, and I can't tell you how much I love it in such a short excerpt. Having used it for 5-6 days now, I feel much more inclined to pick it up than use my iPhone 5 for personal use. The display and camera are both unreal, the battery life is great, and it's fast. Plus, the app/music/video ecosystem is actually rather good. Although the handset itself is a little bulky, it's made up for by comfortable rounded edges and a curved back.
The Z10's magic is wearing off though. Yes, I love the user interface, but I've had it virtually a month now, and the App World is still lacking a good enough quantity of great apps. Don't get me wrong, for communication its out of this world. But, for the modern trends of consuming media, taking pictures, and playing with apps, it's nowhere near challenging the top dogs.
The Note II has made it back in to my list. Out of all the Android devices currently available, it's clearly the best. It's not just about size and specs, it's got some great usable features like multi-window multitasking and the S-pen.
DNA rounds off the list. It has an incredible display, but once the HTC One makes it to market, I have a feeling this one's going to get bumped off. The exclusivity with Verizon really doesn't do it any favors here.
The Z10's magic is wearing off though. Yes, I love the user interface, but I've had it virtually a month now, and the App World is still lacking a good enough quantity of great apps. Don't get me wrong, for communication its out of this world. But, for the modern trends of consuming media, taking pictures, and playing with apps, it's nowhere near challenging the top dogs.
The Note II has made it back in to my list. Out of all the Android devices currently available, it's clearly the best. It's not just about size and specs, it's got some great usable features like multi-window multitasking and the S-pen.
DNA rounds off the list. It has an incredible display, but once the HTC One makes it to market, I have a feeling this one's going to get bumped off. The exclusivity with Verizon really doesn't do it any favors here.
Why I made my choices...
There's no denying that we're spoilt for choice when it comes to smartphones today. It seemingly doesn't matter which platform you want to try, there's a flagship device with some of the best features and specifications equipped. iOS has the iPhone 5, WP8 has the Lumia 920, BlackBerry has the Z10 and Android has a plethora of high-specced monsters to choose from.
My top 3 are the same as they were last week. If I had no phone, and was in the market for a new one, I would consider those three, in that order. The iPhone is a beautiful device with a great camera and display (albeit slightly small). The Lumia 920 is impressive in almost every way, except that it's a tiny bit bulky for my liking. And, in my few weeks with the Z10 I've grown to love using it day-to-day thanks to its great user interface and keyboard.
4th and 5th places could have gone to a selection of devices: One X+, Galaxy Note 2 and 8X are all worthy devices. But, I opted for the great value Nexus 4 and the impressive DNA this week.
My top 3 are the same as they were last week. If I had no phone, and was in the market for a new one, I would consider those three, in that order. The iPhone is a beautiful device with a great camera and display (albeit slightly small). The Lumia 920 is impressive in almost every way, except that it's a tiny bit bulky for my liking. And, in my few weeks with the Z10 I've grown to love using it day-to-day thanks to its great user interface and keyboard.
4th and 5th places could have gone to a selection of devices: One X+, Galaxy Note 2 and 8X are all worthy devices. But, I opted for the great value Nexus 4 and the impressive DNA this week.
Why I made my choices...
Virtually unchanged list from last week, bar the replacement of the HTC 8X with the Droid DNA. It's got an impressive display, and it'll undoubtedly be replaced in the list by HTC's One which - by all accounts - looks nothing short of incredible.
I'm still really enjoying the Z10, and it's pleasing to see the developers slowly get behind BlackBerry and bring out some quality games on BlackBerry's App World like N.O.V.A 3 and Asphalt 7. I love the user interface and notifications. All it needs is for the consumer market to get behind it. It shows a lot of promise.
Note II is a fantastic phone, but not one I could see myself actually owning as my main device. It's just too big. That said, I'm constantly impressed by the way that Samsung is improving its presence on the market, and the Note II is the epitome of that growth.
I'm still really enjoying the Z10, and it's pleasing to see the developers slowly get behind BlackBerry and bring out some quality games on BlackBerry's App World like N.O.V.A 3 and Asphalt 7. I love the user interface and notifications. All it needs is for the consumer market to get behind it. It shows a lot of promise.
Note II is a fantastic phone, but not one I could see myself actually owning as my main device. It's just too big. That said, I'm constantly impressed by the way that Samsung is improving its presence on the market, and the Note II is the epitome of that growth.
Why I made my choices...
Virtually unchanged from last week, the iPhone 5 still sits on top for me (no surprise there). Although it's not a perfect device, it gets all the main things right: camera, user experience, App Store, iCloud and build quality are stunning.
The Lumia 920 is a little bulky, but it 'wow''s me every single time I pick one up and look at it. It has a simply breathtaking display and fantastic camera. The Z10 fits in 3rd for a few reasons. I love its user interface, it has a great feel in hand and a ton of really useful features. The one thing is lacking is apps, which I'm hoping will come in time.
The Note 2 and 8X sit in 4th and 5th, but either would still make tempting arguments for why they should be in my pocket. I love the feel of the 8X in hand, and its display is fantastic. The Note II is the only 'phablet' to get the right mix of size, battery and power.
The Lumia 920 is a little bulky, but it 'wow''s me every single time I pick one up and look at it. It has a simply breathtaking display and fantastic camera. The Z10 fits in 3rd for a few reasons. I love its user interface, it has a great feel in hand and a ton of really useful features. The one thing is lacking is apps, which I'm hoping will come in time.
The Note 2 and 8X sit in 4th and 5th, but either would still make tempting arguments for why they should be in my pocket. I love the feel of the 8X in hand, and its display is fantastic. The Note II is the only 'phablet' to get the right mix of size, battery and power.
Why I made my choices...
We've seen a new entry to the market this week: the Z10. I've spent over a week with the device, using it as my primary phone, but it's not done enough to convince me that it belongs in the top 3. On a hardware front, it's not as impressive as the iPhone 5 in its build quality, the Lumia 920's amazing display and camera, or the Note II's power and battery life. The app ecosystem is also pretty weak at the moment.
That said, I do like it enough to have it in my top 5. I love the user interface, and the feel of the device in hand. But, its battery life hasn't been consistent. That lands it in 4th, behind my usual 'big three'.
I was in three minds as to what deserved 5th spot. It was a close fight between the Nexus 4, Droid DNA and the 8X. I chose the Nexus ultimately because of its incredible value for money (if you buy it SIM-free from Google Play). For the price, it has some incredible specs, despite the lack of LTE. And, it comes with the latest version of Android.
That said, I do like it enough to have it in my top 5. I love the user interface, and the feel of the device in hand. But, its battery life hasn't been consistent. That lands it in 4th, behind my usual 'big three'.
I was in three minds as to what deserved 5th spot. It was a close fight between the Nexus 4, Droid DNA and the 8X. I chose the Nexus ultimately because of its incredible value for money (if you buy it SIM-free from Google Play). For the price, it has some incredible specs, despite the lack of LTE. And, it comes with the latest version of Android.
Why I made my choices...
The past few weeks it seems like the only consistently placed device is the iPhone. Despite other manufacturers having arguably more impressive features and specifications (hardware-wise) there's a lot to be said for the sheer quality and quantity of apps available in the App Store. It makes the experience of using an iPhone that much better. Add that to build quality, display, speed, performance, camera. There are very few negative points. Display size is perhaps the only issue for some. Not me.
Lumia 920 heads back up to second because if its amazing display, camera and great modern design. It's hard to look at one at not like it. Couple that with the wireless charging and fantastic lowlight performance of the camera and you have a genuine contender. Nokia's other services like the maps and music are also fantastic.
Samsung - over the past 12 months - has become a genuine contender to Apple in the smartphone market. The success of the Galaxy S range has been astounding, and no handset says it as well as the Note II. It may be big, but it's so fluid, has a nice UI, great app support and the unique S-Pen.
4th and 5th go to Android and Windows Phone's next best handsets (mostly from a value point of view). The Nexus 4 is so well priced, it's virtually an impulse buy. The 8X makes it for being so comfortable to hold and well made, with a feature list that ensure it's easily regarded as the best 'other' WP8 handset.
Lumia 920 heads back up to second because if its amazing display, camera and great modern design. It's hard to look at one at not like it. Couple that with the wireless charging and fantastic lowlight performance of the camera and you have a genuine contender. Nokia's other services like the maps and music are also fantastic.
Samsung - over the past 12 months - has become a genuine contender to Apple in the smartphone market. The success of the Galaxy S range has been astounding, and no handset says it as well as the Note II. It may be big, but it's so fluid, has a nice UI, great app support and the unique S-Pen.
4th and 5th go to Android and Windows Phone's next best handsets (mostly from a value point of view). The Nexus 4 is so well priced, it's virtually an impulse buy. The 8X makes it for being so comfortable to hold and well made, with a feature list that ensure it's easily regarded as the best 'other' WP8 handset.
Why I made my choices...
It's fair to say that over each of the past few weeks, my mind has been changed more times than average on which handsets deserve to line up below the iPhone 5 in 2nd to 5th spots.
The Lumia 920 is a fantastic device with some very innovative technologies especially in regards to its very sensitive touchscreen and lowlight camera performance.
I decided on giving the Nexus 4 another spell in the top 5 purely for its value for money. Spending so little up front for a handset, and to have it free from contract is incredible value for money and makes paying for any other Android device seem a little unwise. It has a spec list to match most other handsets too.
The Galaxy Note 2 is slipping down my list gradually as its appeal is waning. It's a big phone, and despite its awesome multitasking and S-pen functionalities, it's not one I would find comfortable to use daily.
The Lumia 920 is a fantastic device with some very innovative technologies especially in regards to its very sensitive touchscreen and lowlight camera performance.
I decided on giving the Nexus 4 another spell in the top 5 purely for its value for money. Spending so little up front for a handset, and to have it free from contract is incredible value for money and makes paying for any other Android device seem a little unwise. It has a spec list to match most other handsets too.
The Galaxy Note 2 is slipping down my list gradually as its appeal is waning. It's a big phone, and despite its awesome multitasking and S-pen functionalities, it's not one I would find comfortable to use daily.
Why I made my choices...
For the moment, the iPhone 5 the only handset on the market that I could live with comfortably. Its hardware is fantastic, it's lightweight, well-made, unbelievably thin and elegant. And it has the internals to match it. Perhaps the only area needing an update is the user interface which has remained virtually unchanged since 2007.
In 2nd place is the Lumia 920. In the past I was a huge fan of Nokia. The hardware was second to none. But, as the smartphone market grew, Symbian was found wanting in so many areas. Launching with Windows Phone 8, and it's impressive feature list, the Nokia Lumia 920 should at least be considered by everyone.
Up from 3rd to 5th, the DROID DNA is impressive in every aspect (except battery life). It's a monster phone with a spec sheet that makes most other phones hide in the corner crying a little. It's a beast.
Down to 4th slides the Note 2, mostly because I'm not a big fan of the design or the size of it. It has some really neat features: S-Pen and Multitasking, but other than that, it's lost some of its luster in my eyes.
The 8X still makes it on to my list. If you like the Lumia, but want something more comfortable to hold, you can't go wrong with the 8X.
In 2nd place is the Lumia 920. In the past I was a huge fan of Nokia. The hardware was second to none. But, as the smartphone market grew, Symbian was found wanting in so many areas. Launching with Windows Phone 8, and it's impressive feature list, the Nokia Lumia 920 should at least be considered by everyone.
Up from 3rd to 5th, the DROID DNA is impressive in every aspect (except battery life). It's a monster phone with a spec sheet that makes most other phones hide in the corner crying a little. It's a beast.
Down to 4th slides the Note 2, mostly because I'm not a big fan of the design or the size of it. It has some really neat features: S-Pen and Multitasking, but other than that, it's lost some of its luster in my eyes.
The 8X still makes it on to my list. If you like the Lumia, but want something more comfortable to hold, you can't go wrong with the 8X.
Why I made my choices...
I took a slightly different approach to the list this week. Normally, I'd vote for the top 5 in the order that I would actually buy them. Obviously, that takes in to account cost as well as features, specifications and design. Instead, this week, I went with the 'money no object approach'.
Lumia 920 makes it to 2nd place for its innovative hardware features, like the super sensitive touch screen and camera with unbelievable lowlight performance.
The Note 2 makes it to 3rd for the same reason it's been in my top 3 for the past couple of months: the S-Pen and multitasking add an edge to the device which other manufacturers haven't approached successfully yet.
Rounding off the top 5 are two great HTC devices running two different platforms. Windows Phone 8 is much more attractive to me right now than Android, and so that's the only reason the 8X pips the DNA to 4th spot.
Top, as always, the iPhone 5 which still - I believe - offers the best all-round experience in terms of hardware, software and ecosystem integration.
Lumia 920 makes it to 2nd place for its innovative hardware features, like the super sensitive touch screen and camera with unbelievable lowlight performance.
The Note 2 makes it to 3rd for the same reason it's been in my top 3 for the past couple of months: the S-Pen and multitasking add an edge to the device which other manufacturers haven't approached successfully yet.
Rounding off the top 5 are two great HTC devices running two different platforms. Windows Phone 8 is much more attractive to me right now than Android, and so that's the only reason the 8X pips the DNA to 4th spot.
Top, as always, the iPhone 5 which still - I believe - offers the best all-round experience in terms of hardware, software and ecosystem integration.
Why I made my choices...
When I submit my votes each week, I always try to go along with the mentality of which handsets I'm most likely to buy. Right now, the Lumia 920 would be my first choice if the iPhone 5 wasn't around. It has a lot of awesome unique features that are actually useful in day-to-day life: wireless charging, super-sensitive touchscreen (for gloved fingers), and a world-beating camera.
The Note II has slipped down my rankings a little. Although I love its stylus integration and multi-window multitasking, there's not a lot else featured on the handset that I couldn't get somewhere else without having to carry around a massive device.
4th and 5th are my two favorite HTC devices right now, both taking inspiration from the One X. If the Droid DNA had a better battery life it would be further up the list, but sadly it's a power-draining 1080p monster phone. The 8X is a great looking device with a stunning display.
The Note II has slipped down my rankings a little. Although I love its stylus integration and multi-window multitasking, there's not a lot else featured on the handset that I couldn't get somewhere else without having to carry around a massive device.
4th and 5th are my two favorite HTC devices right now, both taking inspiration from the One X. If the Droid DNA had a better battery life it would be further up the list, but sadly it's a power-draining 1080p monster phone. The 8X is a great looking device with a stunning display.
Why I made my choices...
My top 4 remain virtually the same as they have done for weeks (with a few order changes here and there). The iPhone 5 is my ultimate phone, and I'd find it impossible to get by without it. The build quality, camera, ecosystem all integrated fantastically.
The new name on the list is the One X+. Personally, I find it a much more tempting device than the superbeast Droid DNA. I loved the One X when I had it earlier this year, and this super-powered version is just a better version of it. Still my favorite Android phone (bar the Note II, which is special.)
The new name on the list is the One X+. Personally, I find it a much more tempting device than the superbeast Droid DNA. I loved the One X when I had it earlier this year, and this super-powered version is just a better version of it. Still my favorite Android phone (bar the Note II, which is special.)
Why I made my choices...
I may seem a little indecisive. That's for one good reason: I am a little split. Last week the DROID DNA left my Top 5 in favor of the Nexus 4. This week, they've swapped again. The fact is that the DNA is an impressive piece of hardware. The Nexus 4 is incredibly good value for money.
My top 4 is unchanged. The two flagship Windows Phone devices are 3rd and 4th behind the iPhone 5 and Galaxy Note II. I generally try to keep 'what would I buy' in mind when choosing my list.
The Note II would be my second choice because it adds a new dimension to our digital life by having practical multi-window multitasking and a very sensitive stylus. The 8X - for me - edges the Lumia 920 because of its smaller form factor. Plus, in the UK, it is a heck of a lot cheaper than its Lumia counterpart.
My top 4 is unchanged. The two flagship Windows Phone devices are 3rd and 4th behind the iPhone 5 and Galaxy Note II. I generally try to keep 'what would I buy' in mind when choosing my list.
The Note II would be my second choice because it adds a new dimension to our digital life by having practical multi-window multitasking and a very sensitive stylus. The 8X - for me - edges the Lumia 920 because of its smaller form factor. Plus, in the UK, it is a heck of a lot cheaper than its Lumia counterpart.
Why I made my choices...
I've made a couple of changes to my choices this week compared to last. Firstly, the 8X leapfrogs the Lumia 920. Why? Cost mostly. Here in the UK, if I was going for a Windows Phone device I'd choose the HTC every time simply because I'd save hundreds of pounds over the term of a 2-year contract. And, although the Lumia 920 has a much better camera, I prefer the form factor and size of the 8X.
The Nexus 4 makes its way back on to the list for its cost too. If anyone's looking for an Android device, it's hard to justify buying anything else.
That said, I still think the iPhone 5 and Note II are the best phones out, right now.
The Nexus 4 makes its way back on to the list for its cost too. If anyone's looking for an Android device, it's hard to justify buying anything else.
That said, I still think the iPhone 5 and Note II are the best phones out, right now.
Why I made my choices...
Pretty much the same rankings as last week for me. The two flagship Windows options are not only great on the hardware side, but the Windows Phone platform is beginning to show itself as a contender in the smartphone market. App support may not quite be at the level of iOS or Android yet, but if manufacturers keep churning out awesome phones like the 8X and the Lumia 920, it won't be long.
Top two spots go to the two best phones. Nothing compares to either, and yet they are both so individual, it's fantastic. I have to say, before the Note II arrived I don't think any manufacturer really pushed the Android operating system to what it was technically capable of. Running two apps on one screen, with enough real estate to make it usable. That plus the S-pen shows that Samsung has a hold on what this whole Post-PC era is all about.
Top two spots go to the two best phones. Nothing compares to either, and yet they are both so individual, it's fantastic. I have to say, before the Note II arrived I don't think any manufacturer really pushed the Android operating system to what it was technically capable of. Running two apps on one screen, with enough real estate to make it usable. That plus the S-pen shows that Samsung has a hold on what this whole Post-PC era is all about.
Why I made my choices...
The Nexus 4 didn't last long in my list. And, although it would be one of my first considerations when looking at an iPhone alternative, I can't say that it's because of its hardware quality or performance. It's mostly because of its tempting price point.
HTC's DROID DNA is a beast, with its 1080p SLCD display, it's easily the sharpest screen on any phone on the market. That said, it's battery life is a little disappointing and some will find it uncomfortably large. But, considering it's got a 5-inch screen, the actual device isn't too big by any means.
iPhone 5 and Galaxy Note II are my two favorite devices right now. The iPhone has the hardware/software/ecosystem integration completely right and the Note II offers a completely different function.
3rd and 5th are the two best Windows Phones around. Lumia 920 is a very impressive device, as is the 8X.
HTC's DROID DNA is a beast, with its 1080p SLCD display, it's easily the sharpest screen on any phone on the market. That said, it's battery life is a little disappointing and some will find it uncomfortably large. But, considering it's got a 5-inch screen, the actual device isn't too big by any means.
iPhone 5 and Galaxy Note II are my two favorite devices right now. The iPhone has the hardware/software/ecosystem integration completely right and the Note II offers a completely different function.
3rd and 5th are the two best Windows Phones around. Lumia 920 is a very impressive device, as is the 8X.
Why I made my choices...
Sadly, for the first time since its launch, the HTC One X is off the list. Google's Nexus 4 replaces it, purely and simply because of its incredible value for money. At £239 (UK) SIM-free, it's less than half the price of an unlocked iPhone 5. If anyone's looking for an Android experience, it's a fantastic option.
My top 4 remain the same as last week. The two latest Windows devices are 3rd and 4th thanks to some incredible hardware. The Lumia 920 just makes it in ahead of the 'Windows Phone 8X by HTC' because of its amazingly sensitive touchscreen and stellar lowlight camera performance.
Top two are - for me - the two best phones on the planet. The iPhone 5 offers the best all round hardware and software solution for the general consumer, whereas the Note II is the only phablet that's worth getting. Its incredibly sensitive touchscreen and S-Pen combo mean it's unique and stands out from the crowd.
My top 4 remain the same as last week. The two latest Windows devices are 3rd and 4th thanks to some incredible hardware. The Lumia 920 just makes it in ahead of the 'Windows Phone 8X by HTC' because of its amazingly sensitive touchscreen and stellar lowlight camera performance.
Top two are - for me - the two best phones on the planet. The iPhone 5 offers the best all round hardware and software solution for the general consumer, whereas the Note II is the only phablet that's worth getting. Its incredibly sensitive touchscreen and S-Pen combo mean it's unique and stands out from the crowd.
Why I made my choices...
We've had two exciting new phones enter the market this week. The Lumia 920 which builds on the great legacy of the first set of Lumia phones buy pairing one of the best displays on the market with the best lowlight camera on any smartphone. It's a fantastic device, built on a promising platform. With wireless charging added to its super powers, it's hard to ignore.
The 8X is also on the market, boasting similar specs to the One X which I like a lot. I like the pair so much, they've pushed the Galaxy SIII and the iPhone 4S off my list.
For me, this is the most exciting time in smartphone history. Any of my top 5 could be considered the best phone on the market to people with varying needs and wants. With the Nexus 4 on its way soon, choosing a top 5 is going to get increasingly difficult.
The 8X is also on the market, boasting similar specs to the One X which I like a lot. I like the pair so much, they've pushed the Galaxy SIII and the iPhone 4S off my list.
For me, this is the most exciting time in smartphone history. Any of my top 5 could be considered the best phone on the market to people with varying needs and wants. With the Nexus 4 on its way soon, choosing a top 5 is going to get increasingly difficult.
Why I made my choices...
My choices haven't change for a while, but for good reason. As far as I can see, there's nothing on the market that comes close to challenging my top 5 in terms of design, quality, performance and ecosystem. As far as I'm concerned, Apple still leads the hardware and software integration race. And it's not just the seamless nature of the integration that wins it, the hardware build and design quality are out of this world on the iPhone 5. It's a really stunning piece of hardware.
The Note II is - for me - far and away the best Android device. Its USP, the S-Pen and super-sensitive touch screen mean that it stands on its own in the phablet market, and has really made a name for itself. So much so, that I'm weighing up purchasing one right now.
One X and GSIII are clearly the best of the rest, while the iPhone 4S still packs a punch despite its two year old design. It still performs fantastically well, and will always have the latest software. (Well, at least for the next couple of years.)
The Note II is - for me - far and away the best Android device. Its USP, the S-Pen and super-sensitive touch screen mean that it stands on its own in the phablet market, and has really made a name for itself. So much so, that I'm weighing up purchasing one right now.
One X and GSIII are clearly the best of the rest, while the iPhone 4S still packs a punch despite its two year old design. It still performs fantastically well, and will always have the latest software. (Well, at least for the next couple of years.)
Why I made my choices...
I've spent a little more time with the Note II this past week, and each time I see it, I'm more impressed. I still think the iPhone 5 as a whole package (hardware/software/ecosystem) is the best overall experience for the average consumer, but, Samsung has clearly nailed a little niche in the market. The 'phablet' offers something entirely unique to any other smartphone, and offers much better portability than a standard tablet. It's a great device.
Out of all the 'regular' competition to the iPhone, the One X still impresses me more than the SIII on the hardware. The display is so much better, and battery life in my experience has been equally great on both. Other advantages like S-Beam, S-Voice to me are just gimmicks, and don't increase the quality of the experience at all.
The best of the rest: the iPhone 4S is a quality phone, and at $99, it's worth considering. The Retina display and 8MP camera are still among the best, over a year after launch.
Out of all the 'regular' competition to the iPhone, the One X still impresses me more than the SIII on the hardware. The display is so much better, and battery life in my experience has been equally great on both. Other advantages like S-Beam, S-Voice to me are just gimmicks, and don't increase the quality of the experience at all.
The best of the rest: the iPhone 4S is a quality phone, and at $99, it's worth considering. The Retina display and 8MP camera are still among the best, over a year after launch.
Why I made my choices...
Although the DROID RAZR series has been updated this week, I'm not convinced by either of them. Compared to all five of my top picks, the displays are just not up to scratch. The iPhone 5 is the ultimate device, in terms of display/camera quality, fit and finish (build quality) and all-round user experience. For the average consumer, there's not better device.
The One X still sits proudly on top of my list of great Android phones. Its display and build quality make it better in my opinion than anything Samsung has produced. If Samsung's Galaxy range would just step away from the PenTile based AMOLED technology and embrace a true RGB LCD display with the same resolution, they would be incredible.
The Note II offers something really unique to the market as it's the first 'phablet' to really make a name for itself. With the redesigned S-Pen and super-sensitive display, it's got no competition for those who want a phone/tablet crossover.
The One X still sits proudly on top of my list of great Android phones. Its display and build quality make it better in my opinion than anything Samsung has produced. If Samsung's Galaxy range would just step away from the PenTile based AMOLED technology and embrace a true RGB LCD display with the same resolution, they would be incredible.
The Note II offers something really unique to the market as it's the first 'phablet' to really make a name for itself. With the redesigned S-Pen and super-sensitive display, it's got no competition for those who want a phone/tablet crossover.
Why I made my choices...
No change this week. In terms of hardware, software, content and ecosystem, you can't beat the iPhone 5. It's a stunning, elegant piece of machinery with an operating system and ecosystem that seamlessly blends. It's all been design together.
The One X is a great device, and still my favorite of any Android phone out there. It has a fantastic display and surprisingly good camera and battery life. Personally I much prefer Sense UI to TouchWiz, which is why the two latest Samsung models are pushed down to 3rd and 4th.
The Note II takes the great ideas introduced by its predecessor and squeezes it in to a much more polished and beautiful package. Taking design cues from the SIII it belongs in the Galaxy range, and doesn't feel as hideously bulky as the original Note Phablet.
The One X is a great device, and still my favorite of any Android phone out there. It has a fantastic display and surprisingly good camera and battery life. Personally I much prefer Sense UI to TouchWiz, which is why the two latest Samsung models are pushed down to 3rd and 4th.
The Note II takes the great ideas introduced by its predecessor and squeezes it in to a much more polished and beautiful package. Taking design cues from the SIII it belongs in the Galaxy range, and doesn't feel as hideously bulky as the original Note Phablet.
Why I made my choices...
It probably comes as no surprise that the iPhone 5 is still top of my choices. The difficulty this week was choosing where the Galaxy Note II fits in to the grand scheme of things. Because it's such a different proposition, it's hard to position it in a 'top 5' phones chart. Mostly because I think it's there for the niche of consumers who don't want to spend big and have both a tablet and a smartphone. The Note II is easily the best 'phablet' out there, thanks to its large display, super-fast processing and sensitive touchscreen. The new, larger S Pen is a much needed improvement too, it makes scribbling feel much more natural.
With that addition, the Galaxy lineup is looking very impressive right now, and Apple is right to feel threatened. The Korean firm may have copied the iPhone initially with the first lot of Galaxy phones, but devices couldn't be further away from Apple's designs now. They're unique, and no savvy consumer will ever confuse them.
The 4S is on its way out of my top 5, and will most likely be ousted by the Lumia 920, if it lives up to expectations.
With that addition, the Galaxy lineup is looking very impressive right now, and Apple is right to feel threatened. The Korean firm may have copied the iPhone initially with the first lot of Galaxy phones, but devices couldn't be further away from Apple's designs now. They're unique, and no savvy consumer will ever confuse them.
The 4S is on its way out of my top 5, and will most likely be ousted by the Lumia 920, if it lives up to expectations.
Why I made my choices...
The smartphone market is an incredibly interesting place right now. Pretty much every manufacturer either has or is planning to release devices with more pixels on the display than the eye can distinguish. The iPhone 5 is the latest of these, with clever in-cell touch technology, better color saturation and contrast than the previous Retina display. Although its size may be small compared to its competitors, its quality is fantastic.
As an all-round package, I find it hard to see anything better. But, the One X is certainly a huge rival. I was impressed by my time with the phone early this year and is still - in my mind - the best Android phone on the market.
3,4,5 Are all equal in my mind. Galaxy SIII looks and feels fantastic, whereas the iPhone 4S still packs a punch, even if it is on the small size. It's still quick, has a fantastic display and market leading camera. The only better camera is on the iPhone 5.
As an all-round package, I find it hard to see anything better. But, the One X is certainly a huge rival. I was impressed by my time with the phone early this year and is still - in my mind - the best Android phone on the market.
3,4,5 Are all equal in my mind. Galaxy SIII looks and feels fantastic, whereas the iPhone 4S still packs a punch, even if it is on the small size. It's still quick, has a fantastic display and market leading camera. The only better camera is on the iPhone 5.
Why I made my choices...
Apple's new iPhone is nothing short of incredible. The attention to detail in design and manufacturing alone makes it the best made phone on the market. Switched off, the black version just looks class. Like black onyx. The A6 processor makes extremely light work of iOS 6, and the camera is better than its predecessor. There's nothing on the market right now that I would swap it for.
One X beats the SIII in my mind for its quality display and unibody design. It's quick, solid and feels good in hand. Plus, I much prefer the new design of Sense UI to Samsung's TouchWiz.
4th and 5th go to the 5th generation iPhone, and the current Windows Phone flagship. The 4S is still a great phone, and after being dropped down to a lower price, is incredibly good value for money.
One X beats the SIII in my mind for its quality display and unibody design. It's quick, solid and feels good in hand. Plus, I much prefer the new design of Sense UI to Samsung's TouchWiz.
4th and 5th go to the 5th generation iPhone, and the current Windows Phone flagship. The 4S is still a great phone, and after being dropped down to a lower price, is incredibly good value for money.
Why I made my choices...
The iPhone 5 launch is only a few days away now, and consumers aren't sure whether to be excited or preparing for a let down. That said, one year after its launch, and with a two year old design, the iPhone 4S is still easily one of the best phones around. Spec sheet-wise it may pale in comparison to the top Android phones, but, it holds its own thanks to an incredibly seamless marriage of hardware, software and content services.
One X is a fantastic device, its display is incredible as is the quality of build. The SIII makes it to third since there's nothing really else that's currently high-end in price and performance. The iPhone 4 and Lumia 900 round off my top 5 thanks to being great value for money.
One X is a fantastic device, its display is incredible as is the quality of build. The SIII makes it to third since there's nothing really else that's currently high-end in price and performance. The iPhone 4 and Lumia 900 round off my top 5 thanks to being great value for money.
Why I made my choices...
HTC One X is a phone that should be admired. The manufacturer has moved away from its comfort zone in terms of design and hardware, and came up with a beautiful, solid unibody design featuring an iPhone-challenging camera and powerful engine.
The 4S is a fantastic phone, made even better by the seamless integration of iTunes/iCloud/iOS. One feature/service would not be the same without the others, making it a co-dependent ecosystem made up of vital parts.
The SIII is great. But, little things bug me, like the decision not to go with true RGB screen structure, and having a pointless, flimsy battery cover. HTC avoided both with the SLCD display, and unibody construction. Samsung - in my mind - is behind the curve despite its undoubted popularity.
The 4S is a fantastic phone, made even better by the seamless integration of iTunes/iCloud/iOS. One feature/service would not be the same without the others, making it a co-dependent ecosystem made up of vital parts.
The SIII is great. But, little things bug me, like the decision not to go with true RGB screen structure, and having a pointless, flimsy battery cover. HTC avoided both with the SLCD display, and unibody construction. Samsung - in my mind - is behind the curve despite its undoubted popularity.
Why I made my choices...
As the upcoming iPhone 5's launch approaches, the current iPhones shouldn't be considered as a purchase as much as they would perhaps just a week or so back. The 6th generation Apple handset is the most hotly anticipated phone of all time if recent surveys are anything to go by. So, if you really want an iOS-powered smartphone, a few more weeks waiting isn't going to do you any harm.
The One X is a great device, and in my mind, so much better than the SIII. Build and display quality are obviously a step ahead of Samsung's flagship, and the camera is almost as good as the iPhone.
WP7 needs to be on the list, and no other Microsoft mobile device matches the build quality and performance of Nokia's biggest device.
The One X is a great device, and in my mind, so much better than the SIII. Build and display quality are obviously a step ahead of Samsung's flagship, and the camera is almost as good as the iPhone.
WP7 needs to be on the list, and no other Microsoft mobile device matches the build quality and performance of Nokia's biggest device.
Why I made my choices...
As the next iPhone's launch approaches, the 4S will gradually drop in the rankings. Buying an iPhone in the next month or so really doesn't make much sense. That doesn't mean the 4S isn't a great device, it's fantastic. But, it's going to be replaced by something better in the near future.
On that note, I decided to hand the top spot back to the One X. Out of all the Android handsets it's the one that impresses me most. It's design, and manufacturing is first class and the display is easily the best on the market. The SIII's HD Super AMOLED may sound like a fancy screen, but, the One X's is much sharper and crisper.
Fourth and fifth spots go to Apple's 2 year old iPhone (it's still up there with the best) and Nokia's flagship: the Lumia 900. The Lumia makes it on here for its quality, originality and potential. The Windows powered Finnish phones will be a force to be reckoned with if the hardware starts to match that of the other top-end phones, especially in the display department.
On that note, I decided to hand the top spot back to the One X. Out of all the Android handsets it's the one that impresses me most. It's design, and manufacturing is first class and the display is easily the best on the market. The SIII's HD Super AMOLED may sound like a fancy screen, but, the One X's is much sharper and crisper.
Fourth and fifth spots go to Apple's 2 year old iPhone (it's still up there with the best) and Nokia's flagship: the Lumia 900. The Lumia makes it on here for its quality, originality and potential. The Windows powered Finnish phones will be a force to be reckoned with if the hardware starts to match that of the other top-end phones, especially in the display department.
Why I made my choices...
No one does seamless integration of hardware, software and media management quite like Apple. The iPhone was built purposefully for iOS, iTunes and iCloud. And those services were made for the iPhone.
After the iPhone 4S comes the One X and the SIII. HTC's flagship may not be as popular in the consumer market, but in my mind it's a much better device. The display is crisper, and the unibody design is much more solid.
After that come the best of the rest, those at the right side of mid-range. If there were 6 spots available I'd have the One S in there as well, but the Lumia 900 needs to be in there to keep WP7's presence. We shouldn't underestimate the potential in Microsoft's platform. It's not gaining traction as fast as we'd hope, but with new Nokia devices around the corner, and the next version of software supporting better hardware, we're going to see something truly fantastic soon. I hope.
After the iPhone 4S comes the One X and the SIII. HTC's flagship may not be as popular in the consumer market, but in my mind it's a much better device. The display is crisper, and the unibody design is much more solid.
After that come the best of the rest, those at the right side of mid-range. If there were 6 spots available I'd have the One S in there as well, but the Lumia 900 needs to be in there to keep WP7's presence. We shouldn't underestimate the potential in Microsoft's platform. It's not gaining traction as fast as we'd hope, but with new Nokia devices around the corner, and the next version of software supporting better hardware, we're going to see something truly fantastic soon. I hope.
Why I made my choices...
Not any real difference in my top 3 for the past few weeks now. With all the anticipation surrounding the 6th generation iPhone, the 4S is the phone to beat. Its unrivaled seamless integration between software, hardware and ecosystem make it in my mind the best all round experience. Sure, it could do with a bigger display, but the screen isn't and shouldn't be the be all and end all of any phone.
The SIII and One X are fantastic phones. In the past, Android superphones have boasted great spec sheets, but didn't match those specs with great performance or build quality. These two handsets are quite possible the best built phones to host Google's operating system since the Nexus One. Cameras perform well, and overall experience is zippy.
iPhone 4 is still a top phone. The only real differences between the 4 and 4S are the camera quality and speed. My only change is adding the Lumia 900 back in to my top 5. I love the design, and I enjoy the unique look of Windows Phone's Metro UI. It could be a top 3 phone if it had a much sharper display and a better camera.
The SIII and One X are fantastic phones. In the past, Android superphones have boasted great spec sheets, but didn't match those specs with great performance or build quality. These two handsets are quite possible the best built phones to host Google's operating system since the Nexus One. Cameras perform well, and overall experience is zippy.
iPhone 4 is still a top phone. The only real differences between the 4 and 4S are the camera quality and speed. My only change is adding the Lumia 900 back in to my top 5. I love the design, and I enjoy the unique look of Windows Phone's Metro UI. It could be a top 3 phone if it had a much sharper display and a better camera.
Why I made my choices...
My top 5 has been virtually the same for the past few weeks, and there's good reason for it. No new releases in my mind would beat any of these phones in a race for my hard-earned cash.
Top 3 are almost inseparable. My preference for iOS keeps the iPhone 4S on top, and although its attraction in the market is lessening, it's still a fantastic phone. There aren't any cameras on any smartphones that match the performance of the 4S' 8MP snapper overall, and even running a beta iOS 6 everything is handled with consummate ease.
One X and SIII are the top two Android powerhouses. They both have superb build quality (ignoring the flimsy battery door on the Galaxy) and perform fantastically day-to-day.
Best of the rest: iPhone 4 and One S. It's remarkable that even over two years after its initial release, the iPhone 4 is a genuine consideration for anyone who wants a great phone without paying a small fortune. The One S has stunning build quality. If it had a better display, it'd be in my top 3 easily.
Top 3 are almost inseparable. My preference for iOS keeps the iPhone 4S on top, and although its attraction in the market is lessening, it's still a fantastic phone. There aren't any cameras on any smartphones that match the performance of the 4S' 8MP snapper overall, and even running a beta iOS 6 everything is handled with consummate ease.
One X and SIII are the top two Android powerhouses. They both have superb build quality (ignoring the flimsy battery door on the Galaxy) and perform fantastically day-to-day.
Best of the rest: iPhone 4 and One S. It's remarkable that even over two years after its initial release, the iPhone 4 is a genuine consideration for anyone who wants a great phone without paying a small fortune. The One S has stunning build quality. If it had a better display, it'd be in my top 3 easily.
- HTC One X
- Apple iPhone 4S
- Samsung Galaxy S III (global)
- Apple iPhone 4
- Samsung Galaxy S II (T-Mobile)
Why I made my choices...
In my mind - in terms of performance, design, display quality - the One X is the best piece of hardware on the market. I've been voting the iPhone 4S top for weeks now, and in truth, it's mostly because of the superior ecosystem. Without Apple's seamless content management service, the iPhone 4S wouldn't be the top dog.
SIII doesn't do it for me. There's nothing original, but, it's undeniably a fantastic phone. Display doesn't match the 4S or One X. And, it's too big.
iPhone 4 and SII are both fantastic devices for anyone looking to save some cash, but still end up with a great smartphone.
SIII doesn't do it for me. There's nothing original, but, it's undeniably a fantastic phone. Display doesn't match the 4S or One X. And, it's too big.
iPhone 4 and SII are both fantastic devices for anyone looking to save some cash, but still end up with a great smartphone.
Why I made my choices...
My opinion on the smartphone market hasn't changed. iPhone 4S, One X and SIII are all worthy champions on the hardware battle. Apple's iPhone - for me - is still king thanks to a superb ecosystem. The One X and SIII both have incredible features, but, are ever so slightly too big for comfortable one-handed use.
iPhone 4 and One S are fantastic, lower priced devices. If you're looking to save a little cash and still want a great phone, look no further.
iPhone 4 and One S are fantastic, lower priced devices. If you're looking to save a little cash and still want a great phone, look no further.
Why I made my choices...
My list is exactly the same as it was last week. The iPhone 4S is still my favorite phone on the market despite not having as impressive a display as the One X. The software and ecosystem make it an irresistible package.
One X, in my mind, is the top Android phone. Camera and display are both much better than the Galaxy SIII. That said, I've grown to love the Samsung's design, form factor and in-hand feel.
Fourth and fifth place goes to two of the best value phones on the market. The One S has an impressive build quality, as does the iPhone 4. In fact, if you're not too fussed about Siri or the 8MP snapper in the 4S, you're not going to notice much difference between the 4th and 5th generation iPhones. Still a great phone.
One X, in my mind, is the top Android phone. Camera and display are both much better than the Galaxy SIII. That said, I've grown to love the Samsung's design, form factor and in-hand feel.
Fourth and fifth place goes to two of the best value phones on the market. The One S has an impressive build quality, as does the iPhone 4. In fact, if you're not too fussed about Siri or the 8MP snapper in the 4S, you're not going to notice much difference between the 4th and 5th generation iPhones. Still a great phone.
Why I made my choices...
The top two are unchanged. But, I have had a huge rethink on the Galaxy SIII. My previous opinion was based on me having 15 minutes or so with it after the launch event in May. And, if I'm completely honest, I was feeling pretty cynical after an overly hyped announcement and build up to the phone.
I still reserve my opinion that the One X is a better piece of hardware than the SIII. The display is better, as is the camera and it feels much more solid in hand thanks to the awesome unibody construction. That said, the Galaxy is a great phone. And, although I'm not a big fan of the shape and design, it's still a great piece of kit.
If I had my way, I'd put the iPhone 4S and One X in joint first, with the SIII in second. But, I can't. 4th and 5th go to two really great value smartphones. Both the One S and iPhone 4 are still fantastic phones, and worth considering if you want to save a little money.
I still reserve my opinion that the One X is a better piece of hardware than the SIII. The display is better, as is the camera and it feels much more solid in hand thanks to the awesome unibody construction. That said, the Galaxy is a great phone. And, although I'm not a big fan of the shape and design, it's still a great piece of kit.
If I had my way, I'd put the iPhone 4S and One X in joint first, with the SIII in second. But, I can't. 4th and 5th go to two really great value smartphones. Both the One S and iPhone 4 are still fantastic phones, and worth considering if you want to save a little money.
Why I made my choices...
Top 3 remain unchanged for the past few weeks, because if I were in the market to buy a phone, it would be one of those three in that order of preference. Apple's ecosystem and quality/quantity of apps is unmatched, coupled with very well built and well designed hardware makes it an incredibly pair of devices.
I'm not at all impressed by the SIII, no matter what the market and hype surrounding it is, it's not that great a device. It's plastic, the display quality is poor compared to the iPhone 4/4S and One X. Top it off with some gimmicky Apple rip-off features, and it's not credible enough in my mind to make it past fifth place.
One S makes it to number 4 being being incredible useable, well made and well priced.
I'm not at all impressed by the SIII, no matter what the market and hype surrounding it is, it's not that great a device. It's plastic, the display quality is poor compared to the iPhone 4/4S and One X. Top it off with some gimmicky Apple rip-off features, and it's not credible enough in my mind to make it past fifth place.
One S makes it to number 4 being being incredible useable, well made and well priced.
- Apple iPhone 4S
- HTC One X
- Apple iPhone 4
- Samsung Galaxy S III (global)
- Samsung Galaxy S II (T-Mobile)
Why I made my choices...
You'd perhaps expect that since the 'hottest' handset out is the Galaxy SIII, that it would make its way at least to 2nd spot. However, having spent some time with it at the launch event, I'm really not at all keen. The handset feels plasticcy, the design is horrible, and the user interface is one which I can't take seriously. Although it has some cool features, I still prefer the One X. iPhone 4S remains my number one choice for its simplicity, the vast number of apps and the excellent ecosystem, not to mention the incredible camera and reliability.
None of the Windows Phone devices are good enough, in my opinion to feature in my top 5. Until the hardware is improved (display in particular), I couldn't even consider choosing one as my main device. I'd sooner have an iPhone 4 or Galaxy SII before choosing the Nokia Lumia 800 or 900.
None of the Windows Phone devices are good enough, in my opinion to feature in my top 5. Until the hardware is improved (display in particular), I couldn't even consider choosing one as my main device. I'd sooner have an iPhone 4 or Galaxy SII before choosing the Nokia Lumia 800 or 900.
Why I made my choices...
HTC One X may have some impressive hardware, and - in my mind at least - is the best Android phone around, but, the iPhone/App Store/iTunes ecosystem is unmatchable. It's smooth, and reliable, despite not being highly specced.
For the same reason, the iPhone 4 still makes it in to the top 5. HTC One S is a fantastic mid-range option for anyone. The Galaxy SII holds its own in a market with phones much newer. It's a great device.
For the same reason, the iPhone 4 still makes it in to the top 5. HTC One S is a fantastic mid-range option for anyone. The Galaxy SII holds its own in a market with phones much newer. It's a great device.
Why I made my choices...
The One X is undoubtedly the king of the Android range, and in my opinion, will still be when the SIII makes it to market. The display on this phone is incredible, and the native UI really takes advantage of the sharpness and color.
The two iPhones may not be the best-specced, but, when combined with Apple's seamless cloud and iTunes ecosystem, the media consumption experience is second to none. Music, Video and Apps are all so much better on iOS than any other platform.
One S makes it on to the list for being a great piece of hardware. Something of the design reminds me of the iconic N1 (which would totally make my top 5 if it was still on the market.) SII still remains a viable option for anyone.
The two iPhones may not be the best-specced, but, when combined with Apple's seamless cloud and iTunes ecosystem, the media consumption experience is second to none. Music, Video and Apps are all so much better on iOS than any other platform.
One S makes it on to the list for being a great piece of hardware. Something of the design reminds me of the iconic N1 (which would totally make my top 5 if it was still on the market.) SII still remains a viable option for anyone.
Why I made my choices...
The more time I spend with the One X, the more I admire it. There's not a lot I would change about its hardware, everything works as it should. If I'm honest, and if it was an option, I'd place the One X and 4S in joint first place. But since I voted them the opposite way last week, I'll swap them over this week to even them out.
The One S has impressed me too, and reminds me of the iconic and revolutionary Nexus One. The attention to detail in hardware and design should be admired.
SII and iPhone 4 continue to make it on to the list for being great options for those wanting to save a little cash. If there was a sixth place, it'd go to the Lumia 900.
The One S has impressed me too, and reminds me of the iconic and revolutionary Nexus One. The attention to detail in hardware and design should be admired.
SII and iPhone 4 continue to make it on to the list for being great options for those wanting to save a little cash. If there was a sixth place, it'd go to the Lumia 900.
Why I made my choices...
If it was down to hardware alone, the iPhone would not be at the top. Pure and simple, it's Apple's iOS with finely tuned ecosystem (iCloud/App Store/iTunes) that makes it so great for me. The simple user interface, and reliability makes it a phone that's tough to beat.
In second: the One X has been my daily driver for almost a week now, and it really is a fantastic phone. The screen is easily the best on the market in terms of sharpness, colour representation and viewing angles. Camera is great, battery life is good, and design is practically flawless.
SII still makes it on to the list as a cheaper alternative to the One X. But, all could change when the SIII touches down on Thursday (May 3rd).
Lumia 900 gets a mention for being the only Windows Phone I would consider buying with my own money. Display is not good enough to be a serious choice for me, but, its form factor and design is really superb.
In second: the One X has been my daily driver for almost a week now, and it really is a fantastic phone. The screen is easily the best on the market in terms of sharpness, colour representation and viewing angles. Camera is great, battery life is good, and design is practically flawless.
SII still makes it on to the list as a cheaper alternative to the One X. But, all could change when the SIII touches down on Thursday (May 3rd).
Lumia 900 gets a mention for being the only Windows Phone I would consider buying with my own money. Display is not good enough to be a serious choice for me, but, its form factor and design is really superb.
Why I made my choices...
Having spent a couple of years with Retina quality displays, the screen quality and sharpness has become one of the most important features of any phone for me. There's nothing I've tried that matches the iPhone 4/4S and One X in terms of clarity and pixel density.
Apple's far superior App and Media ecosystem still outperforms anything and else, coupled with iCloud becomes a formidable service, and is impossible to separate from the iPhone's hardware. That said, the HTC One X is easily the best Android phone on the market on every level.
Lumia 900 gets a mention for its potential, more than quality. The display is simply not good enough to earn a top 3 spot. Windows Phone needs improvement to make dual-core chips and higher resolution displays compatible. Then we'll have a top WP7 device.
Apple's far superior App and Media ecosystem still outperforms anything and else, coupled with iCloud becomes a formidable service, and is impossible to separate from the iPhone's hardware. That said, the HTC One X is easily the best Android phone on the market on every level.
Lumia 900 gets a mention for its potential, more than quality. The display is simply not good enough to earn a top 3 spot. Windows Phone needs improvement to make dual-core chips and higher resolution displays compatible. Then we'll have a top WP7 device.
Why I made my choices...
Apple's iPhone 4S is, and always will my number one handset until Android can marry software and hardware as tightly together. The OS and Ecosystem make it an experience that is hard to beat. Add that to an awesome camera, good battery, and quality build and you have a great package.
The One X has impressed me - a lot. I'm envious of the display, and I'm surprised at how much I like HTC's new version of Sense. ICS combined with quad-core processor, unibody design and display makes it easily the best Android phone on the market.
Lumia 900 takes unibody design from the 800 and makes it bigger. I'm a big fan of Nokia's vision for WP7, and this phone makes it on to the list for potential more than anything else. The display is nowhere near sharp enough to compete with the top dogs.
Galaxy Nexus and iPhone 4 are still great devices, and should be seriously considered by anyone.
The One X has impressed me - a lot. I'm envious of the display, and I'm surprised at how much I like HTC's new version of Sense. ICS combined with quad-core processor, unibody design and display makes it easily the best Android phone on the market.
Lumia 900 takes unibody design from the 800 and makes it bigger. I'm a big fan of Nokia's vision for WP7, and this phone makes it on to the list for potential more than anything else. The display is nowhere near sharp enough to compete with the top dogs.
Galaxy Nexus and iPhone 4 are still great devices, and should be seriously considered by anyone.
Why I made my choices...
- Apple iPhone 4S
- Samsung Galaxy Nexus LTE
- Apple iPhone 4
- Samsung Galaxy S II (T-Mobile)
- Nokia Lumia 800 (unlocked)
Why I made my choices...
For an all-round experience, no one can match Apple's integrated software, hardware and ecosystem. The iPhone 4S - despite not boasting the best specs on the market - still offers a fantastic experience.
The Galaxy Nexus is still the hottest Android device on the market, thanks to running Android 4.0. Ice Cream Sandwich is an incredible operating system that isn't only fast, but is the first Google flavored OS to look as polished as iOS.
iPhone 4 and GSII are still phones that rank high. They're still some of the best on the market, and definitely worth considering if you can't quite stretch to pay for the 4S.
Lumia? It's the best Windows Phone out there. Fantastic hardware meets very promising software and gives Microsoft a credible presence in a market full of Apple and Google handsets.
The Galaxy Nexus is still the hottest Android device on the market, thanks to running Android 4.0. Ice Cream Sandwich is an incredible operating system that isn't only fast, but is the first Google flavored OS to look as polished as iOS.
iPhone 4 and GSII are still phones that rank high. They're still some of the best on the market, and definitely worth considering if you can't quite stretch to pay for the 4S.
Lumia? It's the best Windows Phone out there. Fantastic hardware meets very promising software and gives Microsoft a credible presence in a market full of Apple and Google handsets.
- Apple iPhone 4S
- Samsung Galaxy Nexus LTE
- Apple iPhone 4
- Samsung Galaxy S II (T-Mobile)
- Nokia Lumia 800 (unlocked)
Why I made my choices...
Same top 3 as last week. Using the mentality that if I had to go out and buy a phone tomorrow, those would be my options, in that order.
This week's 4th and 5th places go to the SII and the Lumia 800. The Galaxy SII is still one of the best phones on the market, its display, power and performance can't fail to be admired by anyone, techie or general user. The Lumia is in because it's the best Windows Phone out there. It has great hardware and great design. It shows that the future of Microsoft's mobile OS is far from dead, and with the right nurturing, it will have a bright future.
The Note and BlackBerry Bold just dropped out the top 5. For me, the Note's lack of usability day-to-day makes it an impractical solution unless you can't afford to buy a smartphone and tablet. Combining the two to create a phablet leaves a few too many compromises.
This week's 4th and 5th places go to the SII and the Lumia 800. The Galaxy SII is still one of the best phones on the market, its display, power and performance can't fail to be admired by anyone, techie or general user. The Lumia is in because it's the best Windows Phone out there. It has great hardware and great design. It shows that the future of Microsoft's mobile OS is far from dead, and with the right nurturing, it will have a bright future.
The Note and BlackBerry Bold just dropped out the top 5. For me, the Note's lack of usability day-to-day makes it an impractical solution unless you can't afford to buy a smartphone and tablet. Combining the two to create a phablet leaves a few too many compromises.
- Apple iPhone 4S
- Samsung Galaxy Nexus LTE
- Apple iPhone 4
- Samsung Galaxy Note
- BlackBerry Bold 9900/ 9930
Why I made my choices...
For day-to-day use for the average consumer, I still can't get past the fluid/smooth integration of iOS, the iTunes ecosystem and the iPhone hardware. Although certain handsets like the Galaxy Nexus and Note may have specific features and specs that easily beat the iPhone, as an all-encompassing experience there's still nothing that quite matches the iPhone.
The Note gets in for its note-taking abilities. Until Samsung launched the huge smartphone there weren't any phones or tablets that were a pleasure to use with a stylus - that is ultra cool. Blackberry? Yep. When you need a good physical QWERTY and reliable push email service for work, you can't beat a RIM-made smartphone.
The Note gets in for its note-taking abilities. Until Samsung launched the huge smartphone there weren't any phones or tablets that were a pleasure to use with a stylus - that is ultra cool. Blackberry? Yep. When you need a good physical QWERTY and reliable push email service for work, you can't beat a RIM-made smartphone.
