Sanyo Pro-700 (Sprint)

Pros: Easily navigated menus. Customizable DC tones. LOUD ringers

Cons: Difficult to add photos for contacts, Monochrome exterior display. spotty coverage for EVDO and QChat

Summary: I had written a pretty decent review for a SAMSUNG Z400 that I purchased. That phone was exchanged for this one based solely on the fact that the DC tones were barely audible and as a result I missed no fewer than 8 calls on the first day. NOT WITH THIS PHONE. The SANYO PRO 700 has really impressed me so far. Having been a NEXTEL customer for over 10 years and working in the field of public safety I know waht qualities are important for a rugged phone. So far this one has most of them. Keeping in mind that the EVDO network is the new kid on the block so coverage is a bit spotty in some places ON THE MAP, but I haven't had any issues yet. the inner display is vibrant with good contrast and bright colors. Easy to read and navigate menus are a boon for club handed people like me. The ringers and incoming message/DC tones are completely customizable which is nice if you don't care for the NEXTEL beepidy beep. The tones are also plenty loud for folks who work in noisy atmoshperes. QCHAT is a little different than traditional direct connect so that take a bit of adjusting but I have had no problems in connecting with all my NEXTEL IDEN buddies. Battery life seems good as I am writing this at 930 PM the phone has been used several times today since being unplugged at 7 o clock this morning I am still showing 3/3 bars on the charge meter. A micro SD card would have been a GREAT touch as would a color outer screen with photo contact capabilty. All in all a great first offering from SANYO into the direct connect world. I am very happy thus far and will probably re-review after a few months use.