2630

At just $79 through Optus prepaid, Nokia’s 2630 is a cheap-as-chips phone that does the job if you’re after a bargain-basement handset. Throwing in Bluetooth, an FM radio and VGA camera as extras, the 2630 is an ideal mobile for first-time users.

Perhaps the biggest appeal of the 2630 is its design. This is one of the thinnest handsets we’ve reviewed, at just 9.9mm, and its miniscule size means it will slide easily into a pocket or handbag for ultimate convenience. Considering the target market of first-time users or those looking for a second phone, size and weight are important factors, and the 2630 delivers.

The handset has well-designed controls that are easy to use. A five-way navigational pad does the bulk of the work. Although it feels a little small, it shouldn’t pose many problems during use, even for those with large fingers. Two selection buttons and answer/end call keys are supported by a glossy, flat keypad. The keypad is well spaced and the keys provide reasonable tactility, so we had no issues during text messaging.

The familiar Nokia Series 40 interface remains. A simple 3x3 grid menu with clearly labelled icons makes this handset easy to navigate. We weren’t as impressed with call quality, though. It could have been improved in both clarity and volume. This is especially evident when calling in noisy environments.

Features are sparse, but Nokia has still managed to throw in a VGA camera and an FM radio: commendable offerings considering the price point. Conveniently, holding down the asterisk key for two seconds launches the radio application, though you’ll need to use the included headset as it acts as an FM antenna. The 2.5mm HS-105 headset also doubles as a hands-free device and features a call-handling button and shirt clip built into the cord. The radio offers reasonable but not outstanding quality. Up to 20 presets can be saved and then accessed by using the up and down directional buttons or pressing a corresponding number on the keypad.

Other features include a range of PIM (Personal Information Management) functions such as a converter, expense calculator, regular calculator, countdown timer, calendar, stopwatch, to-do list and notes. Bluetooth allows you to transfer files and use accessories such as headsets, but the lack of A2DP means you can’t stream music or radio to a wireless headset.

Optus has the 2630 available for $79 outright on a range of prepaid offers.