We recently updated our cell service to a plan offering us additional minutes and updated our phone to the Nokia 6340i at the same time. We had previously owned the Nokia 5120i and found it offered more than adequate sound and durability for several years. The return to another Nokia product became a "no-brainer" because of it's quality brand name, moderate price, slightly thinner profile and lighter weight.

The Nokia 6340i is by no means, a gadget junkie's dream. It does, however, offer any option necessary for everyday use with a few cool extra features. Without spending any length of time explaining the differences, just be aware that this phone operates on either analog or digital systems. This phone is compatible with AMPS, TDMA up to 9.6 kbps or new GSM up to 14.4 kbps systems now being deployed around the country. While I hate to gloss over a rather important fact here, it is most important to note that this phone is compatible with most systems currently used by your cellular provider. Also be advised that a number of the phone choices you may be offered may not be compliant with some of the older systems, limiting your coverage areas. Please take the time to go over these facts carefully with your provider and understand the ramifications of your choice fully before making a final selection.

The Nokia 6340i is not the smallest phone on the market at 3"x1.75"x0.75" and 4.4 ounces(124 grams) but it's size and weight make it easy to transport in a purse or jacket pocket. It is somewhat lighter than it's predecessor, the Nokia 5120i and has a slightly thinner profile, mostly due to the leaner battery. The size is also reduced by the elimination of the "built-on" antenna that was present on the 5120i and many of the similar older models.

There is a fairly easy to read 6-line, illuminated high-contrast, 96 x 65 pixel LCD display. The display is no match for the new color screen phones such as the Motorola T720 we purchased for our daughter yet it is sufficiently backlit for easy viewing. The main menu display has both a convenient signal strength and battery power indicators.

Convenient features

Caller ID

Message and voice mail waiting indicators

One button call back for checking voice mail

One button speed dial for up to 8 numbers

Silent mode (Silent vibration mode)

Phone book for up to 500 contacts with multiple phone numbers

Last 20 number redial

Voice activated dialing

Wireless internet (WAP 1.2.1)

Text messaging for both sending and receiving text messages

Data capable for accessing email, faxes and interactive messing (optional accessories required)

30 preloaded and 10 downloadable ringtones

Infared connectivity to PC and phone to phone

Voice recorder

Voice commands

Mobile Wallet functions for electronic commerce, alarm clock, calendar, currency converter

Microsoft Outlook, Microsoft Outlook Express, Lotus Notes, and Lotus Organizer are all supported software programs for synchronization of contact and calendar information into your Nokia 6340i via infrared link or direct cable connection as well as WAP 1.2.1(wireless internet).

The Nokia 6340i has an integrated voice recorder and also supports voice dialing for handsfree operation. This phone's voice command software recognizes English, French, Spanish and Portuguese. One of my favorite features is the voice recorder which allows you to record memos or conversations up to 3 minutes in length. This allows you to safely record information without having to pull off the road or try to write down important information while driving.

Nokia engineers have designed a phone which eliminates accidentally being disconnected by inadvertently pushing the on-off switch. They placed the switch on the top of the phone and embedded into the phone's body. The switch is small and must be depressed for several seconds and I find it rather difficult to use. Beyond the annoying on-off switch we have found nothing else to second guess our purchase decision.

This phone, in conjuction with Cingular's service, has offered clear sound and strong signal in and around the entire state of Michigan. We purchased this phone for $39.99 after a $30.00 rebate and signing up for a 2-year plan with Cingular Wireless. I decided on this phone based on price, worry-free past experience with Nokia products (5120i and 6161i) and the fact I could re-use my car plug-in adapter from my previous Nokia phone. Once you've gotten past the idea the Nokia 6340i is not the smallest phone or it's missing the bright color display, you will most likely see this phone as a true bargain and make it your final choice.

Recommended: Yes

Amount Paid (US$): 39.99