- Average user rating: 3.5 stars out of 382 reviews Back to product review
- My rating: 0 stars
Full user review
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39 out of 39 people found this review helpful
4.5 stars
"I love this phone and it works great for me!"
Pros: Droid has a quick, well-polished, clear web browser. The screen is absolutely brilliant. Despite other reviews that I had heard, I have no problems typing with either the physical/virtual keyboard. The Google Maps application is astoundingly good.
Cons: The music/media syncing and loading is not great. It would be nice if there was a way to not just drag and drop music onto the phone. The camera is ok, but not great, although the problems could be solved with a firmware update.
Summary: I presently live in Southwestern Minnesota. I am a dedicated Mac user (I was turned in the days of the Intel Chipset switch) and have always wanted an iPhone. Of course, AT&T's network doesn't extend all the way here and into South Dakota, where I primarily work. I had always hoped that Verizon would eventually get something like the iPhone, or that AT&T would extend it's service.
I tried out the BB Storm and Storm2, but I did not have a good experience typing, using the browser, or even using the general e-mail functions on either of these devices. Of course, then I saw the iDon't commercials, and started hearing about the Droid on CNET.
After checking things out online, watching unboxings, previews, and getting all the other information, I finally decided that I would give the Droid a chance, and hope that it might be a smartphone that I would enjoy as much as my toying of the iPhone in the Apple Stores.
It was worth it.
I have had this phone for two days so far, and so far, I have had nothing but fantastic things to say about it. The screen looks fantastic, clear, and well-polished. The browser is quick and snappy. The whole operating system is easy to use.
While many people did not like the flush angle of the keys of the physical keyboard, I had no problems using it, or typing some quick e-mails. The virtual keyboard was just as responsive as the iPhone 3GS, and to me seemed to be as accurate when typing.
My favorite part was the App Store and the Google Maps Navigation in the phone. I finally have access to a decent App store, and downloaded about 6 apps in just a few minutes. On my way home, I tried out the GPS/Google Maps system while streaming music from Pandora. Even in the low reception area of Southwest Minnesota that I live, I was able to stream music, while getting turn-by-turn directions from my phone. Fantastic.
There are a few things that keep it from getting the full five stars in my opinion. First, the camera is pretty good, but doesn't seem like it is 5.0MP or as fast as I had seen. All of that could be fixed in a update however, so I won't judge harshly on that. The other thing I wish could be a little bit better is the syncing of my music to the phone. Right now, I have to drag and drop the music that I want onto the phone, and it gets a little annoying at times, given the ease of my syncing with my iPod. Maybe that is something they can fix, but right now, it's lacking just a little behind.
All-in-all, both the iPhone and the Droid have their strong suits. I really like having an actual physical keyboard on my phone. And the turn-by-turn Google maps is stellar. The Android Marketplace offers a great number of apps, and I look forward to using my phone all the time.
The iPhone strengths lie in it's media syncing and huge App store. It really will just depend on your personal experience with the phones and the networks that they are on.
I already have friends who are giving me a hard time, saying "The iPhone is still way better," or that the Droid is just a "copy" of the iPhone. However, for a guy who gets no AT&T coverage, this is a great, if not better option than the iPhone. I love this phone and would recommend it to anyone looking for an iPhone replacement/alternative.
And besides, how can you hate a green little robot?
- 3 replies to this review
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Try media link to sycn music, photo, and video. Media link allow you to manage playlist just like iTune. Also media link allow you to sync with iTune to sync playlist with Motorola Droid phone. You can download from motorola web site. Search for media link from Motorola website, and very easy to use. Meida link is much easier to sync photo and video files than iTune.
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Your review really helps. I live in North Dakota, so I have the same network availability that you have. As a passionate Mac user, I've always wondered about the iPhone, but never went beyond that because it's not supported in the hinterland. I'm very happy with Verizon service and network (I use the mifi with my MacBook), so after reading your review I am seriously interested in the Droid.
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I use Winamp to sync music onto the phone. Works flawlessly.
Where to buy
Motorola Droid (Verizon Wireless): $199.99 - $599.99 | store | price | in stock? | rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| $199.99 | Yes | |
| Best Buy | $599.99 | See Site | |

