Android smartphone group test

We put the top Android handsets to the test

With Android handsets rising in popularity and on course to dominate the smartphone market, V3.co.uk has rounded up seven of the best and put them through their paces. For those yet to take the plunge into the smartphone market, take a look at which devices came out top in our Android Awards and how they stack up against the competition.

Motorola Flipout – Android 2.1
Looking for a smartphone that's a little quirky? The Flipout is just the ticket, with the square shell packing a responsive 2.8in capacitive touch screen. While the display isn't the biggest or the clearest at 320 x 240 pixels, the device is a very effective messaging tool.

A five-tier Qwerty keyboard conveniently flips out of the shell and makes typing speedy. The Flipout comes with CrystalTalk noise reduction technology, so sound is crisp and clear.

As well as the usual suspects such as Google Maps and YouTube, Motorola also provides 'Messages' and 'Happening' apps designed to aid the management of text-based communication.

'Messages' provides a universal inbox that can be set up to record Facebook, Twitter and text messages, while 'Happening' allows users to carry out activities such as updating a Facebook status.

Users are well advised to set up a MotoBlur account to make full use of the interface. It takes five minutes to activate and allows synchronisation with popular apps including Facebook, LastFM, Twitter and Picasa, along with Microsoft Exchange for business users.

The Flipout also offers a 'data saver' option that could help to prevent going over a data cap, and a handy battery management tool to get the most out of the device before it needs recharging.

Disappointingly though, there is no camera flash for the 3.1-megapixel camera and users who will want to browse the internet frequently will find the screen too small.

V3.co.uk rating: 4 stars (read the full Flipout review)

Sony Ericsson X10 Mini Pro – Android 1.6
The Mini Pro is an attractive little device that fits snugly in the palm of the hand with diminutive 90 x 52 x 17mm dimensions.

It weighs just 120g and, unlike the Vivaz Pro, looks stylish regardless of whether the keyboard is in sight or hidden away. The 2.6in scratch-resistant touch screen comes with a decent 240 x 320 resolution. But again like the Flipout, some users will find it too small for web browsing.

Sony Ericsson appears to be the most generous manufacturer when it comes to preloading apps, with Facebook, Twitter, Google Maps and YouTube all present. Also included are the barcode scanner Neoreader, Roadsync mail and calendar, and eBay. Wisepilot navigation, Gmail and Gtalk round off an impressive list.

The Mini Pro punches above its price tag and fulfils its role as a messaging/multimedia device well. With a simple intuitive interface, responsive touch screen, multitude of apps, strong battery life and decent Qwerty keyboard, the X10 Mini Pro shows that Sony Ericsson is capable of making a good quality smartphone.

On the downside, the device seems susceptible to lag, and with Android 2.2 about to become widely available, the 1.6 OS on the Mini is already dated.

V3.co.uk rating: 4 stars (read the full X10 Mini Pro review)