Dell Venue Pro mini review

[achmeingott]

When I originally went to pick up a WP7 device, the Venue Pro was only on T-Mobile and was having some pretty harsh firmware issues. Disappointing since it was undoubtedly the best looking launch phone. Updates have since ridden the phone of it's issues, making it a great piece of tech. I still think it holds it's own against many of the 2nd gen devices, but it certainly shows it's age with regards to bulk and battery life. With my Focus aging and my 2 year contract set to renew in about 9 months, I managed to find the Dell Venue Pro for around $150 off contract on ebay for ATT. I managed to squeeze in a 32GB microsd (voiding my warranty in the process), without having any lingering issues.



Hardware
The materials used for this phone are simply phenomenal. It's obviously rather large with its slide-out keyboard and 4.1" screen, but it never manages to feel imposing. Honestly, coming from the Samsung Focus, it's nice to have a phone with some heft that I can actually feel in my pocket. The 4.1" AMOLED screen is incredibly clear, even at its 480x800 (again the average for 1st gen devices), and the glass is curved giving it a very premium look. The rest of the phone is made up of chrome strips on the side and glossy plastic across the back.


I cleaned it up a bit for the shot, but expect fingerprints.

The camera, like all 1st gen devices, is a 5MP, which is plenty for your average cell phone shots. However, I've noticed that the exposure time is a bit too long and many of my pictures tend to streak or blur unless I make an effort to hold the phone very, very still. It's fine as I don't take too many pictures, but it could easily be a deal-breaker for some. The speaker seems tinny to me compared to the ultra-loud Focus speaker, but it easily beats the iPhone 3GS hiding in my closet. The keyboard is incredibly easy to use in spite of the small keys. They are rounded and provide a great tactile feel. That being said, having used QWERTY-less phones for last few years, I find myself typing faster with a virtual keyboard autocorrecting my every move.


The full keyboard is backlit for easy typing in the dark

The buttons are all there, as expected, but the screen unlock button is at the top of a large device and slightly recessed. It's a bit annoying to reach for, then it's even more annoying to feel around for. I'm sure it's something I'll get used to in no time, but for the time being I find it easier to nudge the slide-out keyboard out just a little bit to activate the screen. I've actually found that method more convenient then a lock screen button as I can easily slide out the back no matter how I'm holding the device, no more searching for buttons.


Showing the recessed power button.

Overall
There are a few short-comings, but if you find yourself locked in a contract and a little Windows Phone curious, this is a great phone that can be had at an incredible price. I'd easily recommend it to anyone in search of a replacement phone that doesn't want to shell out $450 for a Lumia 900 off contract.