LG L1150 (AT&T)

LG has established a reputation in the United States for making functional, quality cell phones that don't go out of their way to be too flashy. While that is beginning to change with such models as the VX7000, the majority of the company's handsets don't sport anything beyond the standard VGA camera. Along those lines, the LG L1150 has a fairly standard feature set that places it well in the middle of AT&T's lineup. Though it suffers from rather mediocre performance, first-time mobile buyers might want to give it a look. At $219, it is pricey, but you should be able to get it at a discount with service.The LG L1150 scores high marks for a compact, if slightly quirky, design. At 3.4 by 1.7 by 1 inches, it slides into the front pocket of a pair of Levi's with ease, while its trim weight (3.4 ounces) makes it comfortable to hold while you're talking. Much like the LG VX4500, this mobile is wider at one end, so it stands out among conventional-looking flip phones--a scallop among clamshells, if you will. This design tweak adds a little bulk, but the handset is still compact overall. We liked the navy-blue and silver color of the plastic shell, but its construction wasn't as solid as that of other phones we've tested.