Totally off-subject, but I'm seeking advice...

[Matt]

I have just had it with my cell phone. It sucks, and I've simply got to get a new one.

Since I know that quite a few of us in the guild have a bit of a geek-streak, verging on full-blown technolust, I come to you for advice. (My own gadget-fetish is normally sufficient for these moments, but cell phones are not my strongest suit.)

Here are the specifics:

1) I'm on T-mobile. Yes. Sadly, this means no iPhone, unless I want to go the whole unlock-and-hack route, and frankly, that's not something I really want for that pricetag. For that pricetag, I want perfect. Sell me if you think you can, but I've read the reviews and the rants.

2) I'm not planning on switching from T-mobile. I've got a SICK plan and the price is right. Plus, I've got about a year left on my contract.

3) I'd like to finally upgrade to something that does e-mail WELL, and web surfage without pan and scan headaches would totally rule. Again, here's where iPhone is ideal, but switching to a new provider is not an option. I see some of you with blackberries and that looks pretty good -- I definitely want some reviews of those.

4) Price is (at the mo) not a HUGE deal, but the more I spend on this, the less I can spend on finishing my rig, and clearly that takes precedence. :) An uber-deal or a web-special or even a refurb is probably the way to go, but I'd like to keep it around the $100 mark, or less. Especially since I'll have to probably add internet/wifi to my current plan.

Well... that's it... any and all advice is welcome and greatly appreciated. And lastly, just so you know, the phone in question that's getting replaced is a Motorola RAZR, so don't even bother suggesting that one. And if you know what's good for you... never buy one. :) (For the record, mine was a gift.)

Thanks!
Matt

[Greenblood]

The $100 price tag might make finding a handheld a little challenging. I imagine you will need to renew your contract and deal with rebates to get any kind of good deal on one. Your best bet on Tmobile is likely the Blackberry Pearl. I do not have one, but I know quite a few people who are happy with theirs. It does not have a full qwerty, but it is a lot closer to one than a Razor. That said, with a blackberry, you will either be adding a data plan, or getting a new plan all together.

[Matt]

Thanks for reminding me to mention that John... yes, data plan is something I'll clearly need to add. That's fine, so long as the phone doesn't suck to USE for data.

The blackberry pearl is definitely one option I'm looking into, and I know I've seen Jeff and Clint (?) with one. Their thoughts would be great (hint, hint).

But anyone else who has any input on any of the phones at the following URL would be greatly appreciated: http://www.t-mobile.com/shop/phones/

I'd even consider the Shadow for $149 if it's worth it, though it doesn't really look it. The 8700g or the Dash look interesting.

Matt