JayBird debuted in 2007 with the JB-100 headset and has since delivered a follow-up in the JB-200i, a similarly designed set that includes an iPod adapter. The JB- 200i is priced higher than its predecessor and competition from Jabra and Plantronics, but the included adapter may make it a worthwhile consideration for iPod owners.
Good: Offers a super-low-profile design and a mostly comfortable fit. Bluetooth pairing is easy, dropouts are infrequent and it includes an iPod adapter.
Bad: Lacking in bass response.
Bottom line: A nice option for active types.
- Jasmine France, CNET.com RIM BlackBerry 8820 (T-Mobile)
$349.99 (with discount), www.t-mobile.com
The RIM BlackBerry 8820 presents T-Mobile customers with a better-equipped business smartphone than the current BlackBerry 8830, since it brings the addition of Wi-Fi and support for the carrier's HotSpotHome service.
Good: Adds Wi-Fi and support for the carrier's HotSpotHome service. Offers solid e-mail functionality as well as Bluetooth, GPS and multimedia capabilities.
Bad: Doesn't include the improved Web browser found on newer BlackBerrys, so there's more work involved in navigating pages. Bulky handset and lack of 3.5mm headphone jack.
Bottom line: One-ups the BlackBerry 8830 and offers T-Mobile business customers a well-connected smartphone with the addition of Wi-Fi.
- Bonnie Cha, CNET.com Samsung Slash
$79.99, www.virginmobileusa.com
The latest phone to join Virgin Mobile is the Samsung Slash, which is the first Samsung handset for the pay-as-you-go, virtual carrier. We were expecting a bit more luster to the Slash, based on its name alone, but we were ultimately disappointed by its boring run-of-the-mill slider design and its lack of whizbang features.
Good: Compact and easy to use, with basic features such as Bluetooth, voice dialing, and a speakerphone. Plus good call quality.
Bad: A few cramped buttons, a lackluster display and a poor-quality camera.
Bottom line: A decent entry-level phone with a few extra features that put it just above a basic handset.
- Nicole Lee, CNET.com JayBird JB-200i
Bluetooth Stereo Headset
$129.99, www.jaybirdgear.com
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