For any of you who've read my other cellular reviews, here's a surprise... I switched from Verizon to Nextel because of: 1) Sound quality; 2) I wanted the Motorola i1000 plus phone; 3) speakerphone capability and 4) one second billing after the first minute. I've got to say, Nextel has provided excellent coverage for me in the DC metro area, including the remote suburban areas. The sound quality is so good, that everyone I've spoken with using the Nextel phone honestly thinks I'm on a landline.

The phone? It was affordable at $99.95. Ergonomically, it's extremely comfortable to hold in your hand -- not too big, and not too small. It's designed similarly to the StarTac, but it has a see through earpiece, allowing me to see the display. The speakerphone is exceptional, with loud, crisp, clear sound that's handy in the car. It is bigger than the StarTac, and will look like a giant compared to the Motorola V60c phone.

Why isn't it the perfect phone? It needs a longer standby time, although for me 2-3 days between charges isn't bad, and its menuing system is not very intuitive.

Motorola owns 14% of the shares of Nextel. They obviously want to provide the best phones to a service in which they have a vested interest. I've owned StarTacs and Timeports, and the i1000plus exceeds them in almost every respect, with the exception of the limitations mentioned above.

Am I pleased with Nextel and the Motorola i1000plus? You bet! If you really need coverage in the outlying, rural areas, consider another carrier like Verizon, AT&T, and even Sprint PCS. If urban, suburban and limited rural coverage is Ok, consider Nextel. Their rates have become more competitive to the other big players. Their phone selection, however, is limited to Motorola. Also remember that Nextel's target community is the business community. This doesn't preclude Nextel, however, from providing an excellent product to you and me -- the American consumer.



Recommended: Yes

Amount Paid (US$): 100