Windows Phones: 4 Models Tested and Rated

As iOS and Android duel for supremacy and BlackBerry struggles to hang on, Microsoft's unique mobile platform makes its move.

The Basics

What does the Windows Phone OS have over Android and iOS?
Consistency, for one thing. Unlike the myriad flavors of Android, Microsoft's interface looks the same on every device. And compared with the static home screens of Apple's iOS, Windows' "live tile" menus are a Mardi Gras of activity. Animated squares cascade down as you scroll through a column of options, all continually updated with photos from Twitter, Facebook, and the phone's memory.
Are there many apps available?
How many do you need? The Windows app selection pales in comparison with the hundreds of thousands available for iOS and Android. But Microsoft's Marketplace has quickly swelled to more than 50,000 titles. And the essentials — Facebook, Netflix, Angry Birds — are all there.
Will Windows Phone play nice with the web services I use daily?
Yes, but not in the way you'd think. The OS is focused on people rather than apps. For instance, when you select a contact, Windows Phone serves up your entire interaction history, from Gmail conversations to Facebook chats. The What's New feature streams real-time social network updates, serving up the latest tweets and check-ins. And with Exchange, Office, and XBox Live support built in, Windows phones are perfect for those already hooked into Microsoft's application suite.

Buying Advice

If you're happily running Windows on your computer, there's no reason to hesitate. Windows Phone is a solid mobile choice. Before buying a handset, think about what you'll do with it. Movie buffs and YouTubers will want a crisp AMOLED screen. Shutterbugs need a camera with at least 5 megapixels (top-of-the-line models boast 8MP). In terms of overall performance, ignore any smartphone with a processor slower than 1GHz. And remember, a new Windows phone without version 7.5 (aka Mango) isn't a new phone at all.