LG PM-225 (Sprint)

Pros: Light, sleek, superb sound, bright displays, lots of user options, easy interface, and much more!

Cons: No camera flash, few accessories, ear piece and speakerphone occasionally make high-pitched background tones.

Summary: After having the opportunity to test several Sprint PCS phones (including the Sanyo VI-2300 and SCP-200, Samsung RL-A760, and LG VI-125), I decided on the on the LG PM-225 because it had the best overall sound, user options and interface, and camera (just in case I need it).

When talking on the phone itself, the person you're talking to is loud and clear, like they're right next door! The other phones made the other person sound distant and muffled.

Perhaps even more impressive is LG's speakerphone quality! (FYI: the LG VI-125 was just as good). You can place the phone a few feet away and the party you're calling can still hear you as if you're a few inches away. In fact, most can't even tell they're on speakerphone!!! This is perfect for when you're in the car and don't want an earpiece in your ear. My only complaint is that I can occasionally hear high-pitched tones in the background when using the speaker phone and earpiece. I've gotten used to it now and I can tell you that this does not disrupt your conversations. The clarity and sound are unparalleled compared to all the other phones and the benefits far outweigh this subtle glitch.

The LCD displays (both Main LCD and Outer LCD) are bright and beautiful! The time and date are well displayed on the smaller outer LCD and you can choose the background screen saver. Great background screensavers from which to choose.

The ringer choices are fun, crystal clear and more plentiful than on the other phones listed above. The "Tools" included (like the tip calculator, alarm, etc.) are all appropriate and will be useful.

The camera is pretty standard. Frames-per-second when scanning prior to picture taking is on the low end. No flash and limited VGA resolution hinder this phone from a higher rating. If you want to take real pictures, buy a real digital camera. The cameras on most phones are good for "spur of the moment" pictures (i.e. for fun, or after a car accident, etc.)

The phone is light, sleek and sans the old protruding antenna - less moving parts and bulkiness. Instead, the cell phone antenna is built in to the phone, giving this phone a great ergonomic look and feel.

Bottom line: Best phone Sprint has to offer for <$100 with a 2-yr agreement. If you don't think you'll ever need the camera, I would recommend buying the LG VI-125. Cheers!