I've had Motorola's (star tac, i1000+), Nokia's (5190), and an Ericsson (long ago)... And none can compare to the Allure in features and capability. When I recently needed a new cell phone, I was pretty much sold on the Nokia 8260, but when I reached the AT&T store, the salesman couldn't stop raving about the Allure. Since AT&T has a 30 day return policy, I decided to give it a no-risk try... It was a gamble I'm glad I decided to take.

The voice command feature works very well. I also like being able to assign different phone numbers to one entry in the phone book. I like that the phone vibrates, has customizable & downloadable ring tones, and can even use my recorded voice as the ringer. I like the different 6 backlight colors (teal, green, yellow, amber, blue, and purple) and the ability to assign a different backlight color and ring tone to an incoming call if the call comes from someone in your phone book. It has a memo feature so I can record quick thoughts. And even though it's not Internet-capable, it can do text messages in its generous display. I like all the features that the phone has to offer.

I've heard others complain about the Allure not having games or a calculator (like the Nokia), but I never used those features when I had the Nokia so I'm not missing them now. Besides, if you need games, buy a Gameboy. If you need a calculator, buy a calculator or do the math the old fashioned way.

I think the phone's best feature is its weight (or lack thereof). The phone is so lightweight (2.7oz) that I am always forgetting it's there. I have to touch it to remind myself that I'm wearing it on my belt. But despite it's tiny size, its vibrating ring won't let you miss a call. It's not a wimpy shake either.

I do have one problem with the phone... The speakerphone is not the greatest (and I've seen similar complaints from others). If you aren't in a quiet room, the speakerphone is practically useless. I've had the Motorola i1000+ which has I think the best speakerphone feature on the market so I guess I have high expectations.

But if I look beyond this small idiosyncracy, I can see that the Panasonic Allure has all the right features at a pretty good price.



Recommended: Yes

Amount Paid (US$): 69.99