The LG VX8350: Loaded Features for Under $100

The LG VX8350 is LG's latest phone that aims to replace the LG VX8300. The LG VX8350 is noticeably lighter than its predecessor, has the same flip phone design sans the antennae and a more tactile keypad.

The LG VX8350 runs on Verizon's CDMA2000 networks which mean it is a 3G phone and can run Verizon Wireless' services such as V CAST Video, V CAST Music and VZ Navigator. The internal antenna on the LG VX8350 is powerful as there is rarely a time that the signal bar is zero. The internal and external screen of the LG VX8350 are 1.2 inch and 2 inches, respectively, and sports 18 bit 262,000 colors which means you will get clear and crisp images on your cell phone. LG did a great job of giving the external screen since most manufacturers will just make do with 65k colors on external displays but I guess the 262k colors is necessary since the external display needs to be clear in order to view your text messages. Yes, that's right, you can view text messages on the external screen, a feature which I've been waiting to appear on flip phones, the LG VX8350 is the first phone that I've seen that can do this. Though the screen is bright and clear, I have some qualms about the resolution which is only 176 x 220 pixels, the standard is usually 320 x 240 pixels.

The LG VX8350 has a Bluetooth A2DP profile and stereo speakers which is located at the back of the phone. The speakers is a little bit disappointing since when you turn on your music too loudly, it would sound distorted, however, you can always use your Bluetooth stereo headphones for a more richer music experience. The camera on the LG VX8350 is only 1.3 mega pixel and takes mediocre quality pictures. Without a flash, expect not so good results when shooting in low light conditions.The keypad on the LG VX8350 is very tactile and I have texted with no problems thus far.

Though the LG VX8350 has a curvy design and lightweight, I have problems with its design. First, it's just TOO curvy and the plastic feels cheap, like I'm holding a toy or my girlfriend's compact powder. I know that the plastic is necessary in order to make the phone lighter but less expensive but I wish they have used better materials.

With that said, the LG VX8350 is still a good choice for phones under $100. It has good features which usually can't be found on phones under $100: Bluetooth A2DP profile, 3G capability, 1.3 mega pixel camera, and clear screen.