Nokia 6630

Let's make no bones about it: Nokia's 3G 6630 isn't the sexiest phone in the world. It's not ugly, per se, but compared to the slim and stylish models on offer elsewhere it definitely looks awkward. Indeed, the bulbous shape, chunky buttons and slightly cheap-looking finish bring to mind a prop from a 70s sci-fi television show rather than the cutting edge piece of modern communications kit that it actually is.

You see, this slightly ungainly frame is packed full of power, with a 220MHz processor (the phone’s electronic brain) comfortably outpacing most models on the market and ensuring it can comfortably handle just about any content that's hurled it's way. Not only does the usually clunky series 60 menu feel refreshingly lag-free here, but everything from 1.3 megapixel photos and real videos to music tracks, office apps and video calling (via a separate stand) run smoothly upon the sharp screen. The sonics are equally impressive, with a beefy speaker capable of blasting out tunes to keep you (and an entire tube carriage) entertained, while there's even stereo sound on offer courtesy of the bundled headphones.

These features make for a great gaming experience too. The phone’s processor dealt comfortably with anything we threw at it without any discernible slow-down (save for one slight jitter with a 3D pool title); the screen, though lower in resolution and colour depth than many we've tested, is refreshingly big and sharp; and the stereo sound genuinely adds an extra immersive dimension to games (or at least the titles that bother with it!). What's more, the slightly larger, weightier form actually suits gaming. The handset snuggles nicely into your palm, the chunky, tiered buttons and responsive thumb pad are distinct and easily accessible, and the buttons even light up to assist nocturnal gaming. In fact, the only slight downer from the control point of view is that the option buttons located on either side of the pad are a little too close and easy to trigger, ensuring you'll be making frequent impromptu trips to the options menu until you get used to it. The battery life is also impressive (we played for well over 4 hours before the charger was required) and, as a series 60 phone, there's never going to be an issue over finding games to fill the time - just about every new 2D and 3D Java title will be compatible in addition to Symbian games.

When you're not playing games, the device is as happy doubling as a creative tool (the high-quality lens and packaged software make taking and editing photos and video content simple), an MP3 player (as well as downloading tracks you can swap in DV RS MMC memory cards via the side panel at any time) or even a mobile office (you can download e-mails and even browse Microsoft Word documents and spreadsheets). It's also happy when net-searching, with both WAP 2.0 and a proper HTML browser.

Admittedly, the contacts management and menu functions still feel a little more hard-going than on Sony Ericsson devices (why do you need to use a side mounted button to access the main menu? Why isn't there a dedicated games and applications folder?) and it'll be a pain for some that video calling requires a separate stand. However, these are small grumbles that don't detract from an impressive all-round performer that most definitely can count gaming as part of its repertoire. Heck, give it a few days and you might even come to like the look of it!