Updated September 21, 2005

Though text messaging and e-mail on cell phones are growing in popularity, typing long messages with a standard keypad can be a drag. Fortunately, there is an alternative for worn-out thumbs, in the form of phones with full QWERTY keyboards. Rather than continually pressing the same key to get your desired letter, these mobiles allow you to bang out long messages quickly. You still use your digits, of course, but the tap dance won't be as tedious. Though many handsets with keyboards are pricier smart phones, more basic models are available that don't fall into that category. The GSM Nokia 6820 features an ingenious foldout keyboard in a compact candy-bar shape. It also comes with Bluetooth, a camera, and support for EDGE. The Motorola A630 for T-Mobile offers Bluetooth, along with a digital camera and a speakerphone. Lastly, the LG F9100 for Cingular lacks the camera and Bluetooth, but you still get a cool slider design and decent battery life.

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