Buying Guide: Best iPad keyboard case: 5 reviewed and rated

Best iPad keyboard case

The original iPad and iPad 2 are wonderful tools for working on the go: they're lighter than laptops and have great battery lives that will put most laptop computers to shame.

Bung them in protective cases and off you go: your perfect portable office.

But if you're doing loads of typing on your iPad, the on-screen keyboard isn't ideal; an external one is faster and more comfortable to work on.

So why not kill two birds with a single stone, or, in this instance, a case with a built-in Bluetooth keyboard? This way, your iPad is protected when you head out the door, and you've always got a keyboard with you when you want to do some serious typing.

There are a few cases available, especially for the iPad 2, so we've picked a selection to try out for you.

You connect the keyboard to your iPad wirelessly using Bluetooth. First time round, you'll need to pair the two by switching the keyboard into pairing mode (the instructions will tell you how to do this), and then going into the Settings app on your iPad, tapping General, then Bluetooth. The keyboard will appear in the list. To use it, tap its name, wait a moment, then type the passcode that appears on the iPad's screen on the keyboard and press Return.

You'll only need to do this the first time round - each subsequent time, as soon as you switch on the keyboard, your iPad will pick it up, enabling you to get started instantly. Just remember to keep the batteries in the keyboard charged!

Remember that using Bluetooth puts a bit of added strain on your iPad's battery, so it may be worth switching it off (in Settings > General > Bluetooth) if you're running low on power and don't need to use the keyboard at that time.

The Bluetooth link means you can use the keyboards with the iPhone and iPod touch too, of course, as well as with a PC or Mac if you wish.

Some of these iPad keyboard cases are iPad 2-only, others solely for the original iPad, and one will, unofficially, work with both. But many manufacturers offer similar versions for the other iPad, so if one of the iPad 2 cases particularly takes your fancy but you have an original iPad, there may be a version for that available, too.

The Zagg ZAGGmate is designed for the original iPad, though there is a similarly built version for iPad 2 (£90).

The Adonit Writer also comes in versions for both iPads; we tested the iPad 2 edition but the one for the original (£90) is the same, bar the differently shaped cradle. The WeKreat TypeRider is iPad 2-only, as is the iLuv iCK826.

The Kensington KeyFolio Pro is advertised as being for the iPad 2, but it will fit an original iPad - it sticks out of the side a bit and a minute portion of the top of the screen is obscured, but this doesn't affect its use.

Test one: Ease of typing

The keyboard's the most important thing here; if it wasn't, why would you be buying a keyboard case rather than one of the hundreds of other iPad cases out there? To help you make the right choice, we spent a long time typing on each one of the cases in this test to get a proper feel for it. The question at the forefront of our minds was this: how fast could we type on each keyboard without making (too many) mistakes?

Even though these keyboards all fit within the confines of an iPad case, they're not all the same size: the Adonit Writer is the smallest, followed by the equally sized WeKreat TypeRider, Zagg ZAGGmate and iLuv iCK826, and the Kensington KeyFolio Pro is the largest.

None are the size of a full desktop or laptop keyboard (the KeyFolio Pro is around 2cm shorter), but that isn't necessarily a bad thing. There will inevitably be a short period of getting used to the smaller keyboard, but we found ourselves typing away fairly quickly on most of these. Moreover, they've all got some form of iOS shortcut keys along the top, giving quick access to your Home screen, music controls and more.

If you have larger hands, you may struggle using any but the Kensington KeyFolio Pro, especially with the Adonit Writer, but having done a lot of typing on each of these, we don't dislike any of them. Each has its own quirks and minor annoyances, but we were able to type reasonably error-free fairly quickly.

There are irritations, however. The TypeRider's Delete button is only a single key wide, and some in the office really disliked the ridge in front of the spacebar.

The ZAGGmate's arrow keys are arranged in an L-shape rather than the traditional (and intuitive) inverted T, but the flipside of this annoying arrow key arrangement is that you get a longer (and therefore easier to hit) right Shift key; on the iLuv iCK826, TypeRider and Writer, it's only a single key wide and sits alongside the up arrow, which meant we often hit the latter by mistake.

And while we're on the topic of the ZAGGmate, the protective ridge around the edge had a tendency to get in the way of the outsides of your hands when you reach for the keys around the edge.

The iLuv iCK826's keys, while they offer a lovely light action, offer little tactile difference between them, which means we sometimes hit the wrong key or pressed two at once. Let's be clear though, these are minor irritations.

You'll have noticed that the Kensington KeyFolio Pro has been conspicuous by its absence so far. That's because it's easily our favourite keyboard here. The large keys require less acclimatisation than the other models', while they're nicely spaced so as to prevent you hitting two at once. A lovely, lovely keyboard.

Test results

Test two: The case

Test two: the case

When you take your iPad out and about, it's going to get knocked around a bit, so you want a case that's going to protect it, ideally without adding too much bulk.

The ZAGGmate adds the least by way of weight to the original iPad, although it doesn't cover the scratch-prone back of the device, leaving it vulnerable.

And the Kensington KeyFolio Pro, while covering the back, leaves the corners a bit exposed. It doesn't have a way of staying shut either, and though it isn't the fattest case here, it feels very tubby. It will, however, allow you to stand the iPad in portrait as well as landscape orientation, adding to its versatility when you're on the move.

The Adonit Writer is beautifully thin and its magnets keep it snugly shut when you're carrying it around. It's rare in offering all-round protection for your iPad, slotting into a plastic frame (which has some nasty sharp corners).

The soft front cover's edges do feel a bit vulnerable, though; we worry that the outer coating and inner lining could split apart with repeated use. And setting the stand up is a tad fiddly, with the magnets that hold the keyboard to the inside of the case making it tricky to set up.

None of the above three cases lets you remove the keyboard, which means you can't put your iPad up at a comfortable height for viewing and type at the same time.

This is what sets the iLuv iCK826 and WeKreat TypeRider apart, because these both let you take out the keyboard. The iLuv iCK826 is the fattest case, but it feels so solid. Granted, the corners of your iPad are left exposed, though less so than with the Kensington KeyFolio Pro.

The WeKreat TypeRider is nice and thin and houses your iPad in a plastic grip, which helps protect it on all sides. However, it leaves the top edge largely exposed, and the shell isn't actually that robust - the thin bit next to the camera opening snapped while we were testing it. Furthermore, when you shut this case, the keyboard rests against the iPad screen because the back of the case bends slightly.

Test results

The verdict

Sometimes, after testing several products, there's a clear winner. But not this time, and your buying decision here is down to where you're willing to compromise: the keyboard or the case.

If we could combine several of these, we'd put the Kensington KeyFolio Pro keyboard in the iLuv iCK826 case and slim it to the size of the WeKreat TypeRider to create the perfect product.

The Kensington KeyFolio Pro has the best keyboard, no contest. We also appreciated being able to spin the iPad into portrait orientation, and that the case will fit an original iPad or an iPad 2 - if you upgrade, you won't need a new case. We'd recommend it over the Zagg ZAGGmate for the original iPad.

Sadly, the excellent keyboard is let down by the case it's in and the glue binding the two together. Not being able to remove the keyboard means you're forced to peer down at the iPad as you type - not always a bad thing, but at our desk we wanted the iPad higher up for more comfortable viewing. And the case, though well made, is chunky and has no way of keeping itself shut, which is a big oversight.

We like the WeKreat TypeRider too - indeed, when we put it up against the iLuv iCK826 in a Twin Test recently, we preferred it, due to its thin design and nicer keyboard. But a combination of the ridge in front of the spacebar (which irritated several of our friends, but not us), the bendy front cover and the fragile plastic shell means we don't feel comfortable recommending it any more.

The best iPad keyboard case is...

So the gong of best iPad keyboard case goes to the iLuv iCK826. Yes, it's the fattest case here, but it's a price you pay for good protection, and it certainly feels like the most solid offering. There's no worrying that the case will snap, like there is with the TypeRider. The use of a magnet in the clasp is clever, making it easier to open and shut than the TypeRider, too, which uses an elastic strap.

We also really like the way the keyboard is removable and is built into its own leather-like enclosure, which gives you a comfy wrist-rest wherever you're using it. The flat-topped keys aren't ideal - it's too easy to knock the key next to the one you want - but with a bit of care, we were able to type on it quite happily, and the key action is nice and light, so it won't place much strain on your fingers even with prolonged use.

Buying Guide: Best media streamer for Mac: 6 reviewed

Best media streamer for Mac: 6 reviewed

Television is all very well, but if it's still where you get most of your entertainment from, you're missing out. A good media streaming box does far, far more, hooking you up with great free online content, possibly direct-download rentals, and of course, any of your own videos.

Most media streamer boxes do roughly the same thing: they play any files you have. Almost all offer Ethernet connections for plugging into your home network, and if they don't have built-in wireless, there's invariably a dongle you can buy (you're better off with wired networking though, possibly via powerlines, to guarantee uninterrupted connections).

Some have their own hard drives to store data. Others simply use USB ports so that you can attach a memory stick with the files on it. Almost all of them come into their own when you have a dedicated NAS on standby, which means you can easily add and organise your files via your Mac, without actually having to keep it switched on to play them later.

Are they all the same though? Not even close. On top of those basic functions come many more, from dedicated apps for services like iPlayer, to the iTunes Store access on the Apple TV. Which is the best media streamer for your Mac?

Apple TV - £99

Boxee Box - £180

Iomega Screenplay TV Link DX - £106

PopBox 3D - £139

Seagate Goflex TV - £94

WDTV Live Hub 1TB - £200

Mac media streamer tests

Test one: Streaming

This should be easy in theory. Create a Shared Folder on your Mac or plug in a uPNP-able NAS, and go. But in practice, it can be fiddly.

Apple TV is by far the easiest to hook up to your Mac, plugging straight into iTunes, though it's heavily limited by the fact that iTunes can barely handle any formats at all.

For the others, you usually get the smoothest ride with a dedicated NAS, or running a uPnP client instead of relying on OS X. Aside from Apple TV, most support all the main media formats you're likely to have around, including most of those floating around the internet.

You typically select them from file-based lists of Music, Video and Photos, although the Boxee Box and PopBox try to identify your files and present them in a more structured order - seasons, episodes, cover art and so on. Unfortunately, in practice Boxee failed miserably at identification, while the PopBox missed even the existence of many files.

Test two: New content

The Apple TV is the only one of this set that offers proper movies and shows, obviously via the iTunes Store. If you buy a lot from there, no problem.

Further afield, you're out of luck. Of the others, Boxee has the best range of online content, including the BBC iPlayer. The catch is that not all of it is guaranteed to play, and the way it categorises its collection leaves much to be desired. A movie about Hitler's bunker heading up Comedy? A dodgy-sounding Japanese film in Animation? Okay...

The others offer a mix of content. Almost all - even Apple TV - offer YouTube and Flickr, though neither iPlayer nor web shows are yet guaranteed. Only Boxee and Apple TV (if you're willing to pay) feel like devices you'd sit down in front to see what's new, which is a shame.

In almost every case, you're limited to what can be streamed for free over the web, and there's no guarantee that your device's Flash player will ever be updated.

Test three: Ease of use

Every media streamer here is very similar. Take it out of the box, plug in the HDMI cable (the PopBox also supports component or composite), Ethernet cable or wireless dongle and plug it in, and only punching in your internet settings should be left.

Apple TV is by far the easiest to get running on your network, thanks to iTunes Sharing. With the exception of the PopBox (which took much fiddling) none had any trouble connecting to our NAS either.

Mac-based sharing was a different story, with lots of error messages and cases where the streamers would see our test Mac but not actually be able to connect to it. A UPnP server is usually your friend here, but an added point of failure: none offer much, if anything, in the way of manual-based help.

With everything running, you're left with simple menus. The Boxee and Iomega win bonus points for their keyboard/remote control hybrids. Otherwise, there's little in it to separate them.

Test four: Interface

For pure sleekness, nothing beats the Apple TV. It doesn't do anything like as much as the others, but what it does, it does beautifully.

Boxee too stands out, with its heavy use of images and transitions between its own interface and services like iPlayer; we also liked options such as being able to prioritise your own content over web-based content.

The only downside is that often, you're not getting as much as it looks like - a single episode of a show via Five's catch-up service being displayed as if it was a full series to sink into. It's disappointing when you're busy virtually channel-hopping.

The other streamers are all solid but unexceptional lookers - no interfaces that you'd be ashamed to have on your screen when guests are around, but with little that makes them more than the glorified Finders they basically are. The PopBox is rough and black, the WDTV Live colourful and chunky. The others land somewhere in the middle.

The best media streamer for Mac is: PopBox

If all your content is in iTunes-friendly form or bought from the iTunes Store, you really can't go wrong with the Apple TV. For most users though, it's just going to be too limited.

Elsewhere, in terms of pure features, the Boxee Box would easily take the prize if it hadn't spent much of our test time falling on its face with goofs like insisting an old TV episode was the movie Salt…

Having said that, it's still by far the best performer for web-based content. Unfortunately the cost of the Boxee still brings it down a peg or two.

That leaves the PopBox as the best all-round media streamer in our test - it offers iPlayer and other web content, good categorisation and a wide range of extra features. But be warned: the catch is that it can be a real pain to get running on first attempt.

If you're not comfortable getting your hands dirty, don't rule out the Apple TV or WDTV Live Hub. We're confident either of those two will get you going much faster.

Updated: Latest mobile phones 2011: hottest handsets reviewed

In the ever-changing mobile market, it can be hard to keep pace with the latest mobile phones. That's why we've put together this hub for our latest mobile phone reviews: to give you the ideal jumping-on point for choosing the best handset for you out of the most current models around.

We cover a plethora of brands, including Apple, HTC, Nokia, Palm and Blackberry, and operating systems, such as Android, iOS and Windows Phone 7, so you should find something that piques your interest here.

In short, if you're seeking a new mobile phone, this is a great place to start.

HTC Wildfire S

The first Wildfire from HTC spread almost like its moniker, so popular did its blend of HTC Sense, durable form factor and affordable pricing prove. Now that it's burnt out, however, it needs a successor to carry the torch. Rising from the ashes is the Wildfire S.

The handset carries on the legacy well enough, with an impressively solid chassis, great social features and responsive touchscreen. The market's changed since the first Wildfire blazed its trail into history, though. With dual-core 'superphones' to contend with, it's hard to consider a 600Mhz processor hot stuff.

And while HTC's Sense interface proves as compelling as ever, the lack of grunt means missing out on Flash support for iPlayer and the like.

All that wouldn't matter if the Wildfire S only required liberating a token sum from your account, but you'll need a fair few sheets burning a hole in your pocket (around £220 SIM-free, or £15 a month) to lay claim to this little fella.

In the highly competitive market of 2011, that makes the Wildfire S a tricky proposition. Beginners will be well-served by the Wildfire S's rounded package, but you can certainly get a lot more for not much extra cash.

HTC Wildfire S review • HTC Wildfire S deals

Samsung Galaxy S2

It's rare that a direct sequel to something awesome – be it film, game or hardware – is anything other than a disappointment when it comes to a new phone.

Rarer still is when the second instalment surpasses the original. We can think of just a scant handful of cases off the top of our heads: The Empire Strikes Back, Terminator 2 and Left 4 Dead 2.

Well, add the Galaxy S2 to that list, because this phone is awesome.

Thin, light and with an amazingly clear 4.3-inch Super AMOLED plus screen behind its toughened Gorilla Glass front panel, this is one handset you won't be pocketing in shame when your mates pass by.

In fact, we suspect you'll be evangelising about it to anyone who'll listen. That's because the dual-core processor within its tiny shell isn't just a marketing bullet point, but rather powers an experience that we're nothing short of effervescent about. For instance, web browsing is blisteringly fast and the Galaxy S2's Flash support is second to none.

We're thrilled to say that the plus points are just too numerous to do justice of here. Check out the full review to find out why this is one of the best smartphones we're likely to see in 2011.

Samsung Galaxy S2 review • Samsung Galaxy S2 deals

HTC ChaCha

If you're aged 14-21 and are after a fun mobile rather than a black slab of raw processing power, we reckon you'll find it hard not to like (or +1, if you prefer) the new 'Facebook phone'.

As the nickname suggests, Mark Zuckerberg's blue-hued brand of social media is at the heart of the experience – HTC even going as far as to give the site its own dedicated button beneath the ChaCha's decent QWERTY keyboard.

Break through the wall of modified HTC Sense and you'll note that Android Gingerbread is powering the experience, which should be welcome for the tech-savvy target audience. Less warmly received will be the Flash integration, which is a bit iffy to say the least.

With a funny shape and small screen to boot, you're really going to have to want the ChaCha's style of social oh la la to buy into this. Still, if you do, then this is something to post home about.

HTC ChaCha review • HTC Cha Cha deals

HTC Sensation XE

This phone is so brand spanking new that it was announced just a day before we first held it in our palms. It adheres to the sensational HTC Sensation's template, but with the addition of ear-pleasing Beats Audio processing and a few spec upgrades.

You needn't be an audiophile to enjoy the new profile, but you will need a set of Beats Audio headphones.

Thankfully, a pair come with the device. In our tests so far, we've noticed a real difference, with the tinny edge of HTC's sound enhancer diminished, the crispness of sounds augmented and the only potential grounds for minor quibbles being the ear canal-shaking levels of bass.

The good news continues elsewhere, with a 1730mAh battery that should have more staying power than the original Sensation, a 1.5GHz dual-core processor to keep the experience smooth and an eye-pleasing design.

Treat your senses and check out the full review when it lands.

HTC Sensation XE review

Sony Ericsson Xperia Arc

Could Sony Ericsson finally be about to deliver on the promise of, well, every smartphone it's ever made that wasn't quite good enough? Maybe it was stupid to hope, but we did anyway with this new mobile phone.

An attractive design with a curved back that's just 8.7mm thick in the middle? Check. Impressive new Exmor camera technology? Check. Good spec list, including HDMI output? Check. Superb video player? Check.

The hardware is extremely impressive, both in terms of looks and performance. Forget the fashionable dual-core phones – when done right, a single-core 1GHz processor can do it all, although busy, dynamic websites will cause the phone to chug a little.

As it is, we're prepared to overlook the Xperia Arc's few minor flaws (small buttons, odd text entry) thanks to its stunning good looks, superb screen and very decent photo performance. You can't help but love it once you've held its magically thin body and gazed adoringly into its dazzling Reality Display.

Sony Ericsson Xperia Arc review • Sony Xperia Arc deals

HTC Desire S

Though the HTC Desire's technology is now being surpassed, it's aged beautifully thanks to some timely price drops. However, all things must come to an end (or at least be supplanted by something new). The HTC Desire S has arrived to take over from its predecessor in the Android race.

In many ways, it's quite similar. We'll still be looking at a 3.7-inch 480 x 800 screen, Android overlaid with HTC's Sense UI and a 1GHz processor. However, HTC hasn't totally rested on its laurels with its new mobile phones.

The design and build of the handset is excellent, save for a slight Wi-Fi cutting-out issue. The camera is good quality, producing serviceable still and HD video that would be quite good if it weren't for a small stuttering issue.

Call quality was excellent, with voices coming through crisp and clear, and it's a shame how little we get to say that about handsets these days.

The browsing experience was generally strong, with the speed that web pages load still impressing us, and Flash is taking yet more steps forward in its 10.2 guise. It was still finicky at times, but when it did work, it was fairly smooth, which is more than we could say for many Flash 10.1 single-core phones.

However, the reason the Desire has kept up with everything that's come after is because it was so far ahead in the first place. The Desire S isn't. It's a great phone, and one we would wholeheartedly recommend in a vacuum.

The HTC Desire led the revolution, but the Desire S could be just another member of the rabble.

HTC Desire S review • HTC Desire S deals

BlackBerry Bold 9900

While RIM has a great reputation for push email and corporate handsets, it's not known for being an innovator. For this reason, the Blackberry Bold 9900 is an intriguing proposition, packing some higher-end tech into a rather attractive shell.

The capacitive (and high resolution) touchscreen screen is a particular marvel, but the inclusion of a near-field communications chip and the brand new OS 7 show that the Bold 9900 was made to break new ground for RIM.

The result is impressive, but only if you're happy to operate within the boundaries of BlackBerry's traditional strengths. Those looking for an outstanding web browsing or media experience will still find themselves disappointed. Still, head over to the review to find out more about what our review dubbed the best BlackBerry to date.

BlackBerry Bold 9900 review • BlackBerry Bold 9900 deals

HTC Sensation

The HTC Sensation is meant to be the new alpha smartphone from the Taiwanese firm, and it certainly lives up to expectations.

With a 1.2GHz dual core processor from Qualcomm and a whopping 4.3-inch high-res qHD screen, this is the phone with best specs yet from HTC, plus it's the first smartphone with the new HTC Watch movie download service.

Is it better than the Samsung Galaxy S2? We think it's just a shade behind thanks to a slightly larger chassis and less advanced screen technology, but that's going to be a debate that rumbles on and on.

HTC Sensation review • HTC Sensation deals

HTC Incredible S

Incredible by name and only slightly less so by nature, this phone is HTC's entry into the underpopulated 4-inch touchscreen arena. In fact, it's among the first UK handsets to fill that niche, but more are on the horizon.

It's blessed with HTC's slick Sense UI and a high-quality screen, but is this latest mobile phone's foibles enough to warrant waiting for its incoming competitors, or the HTC Desire S?

HTC Incredible S review • HTC Incredible S prices

Samsung Galaxy Ace

With a middle-of-the-range spec, 800MHz processor and iPhone-aping looks, it may be hard to see why it's worth buying into the new Galaxy Ace. However, its Android 2.2 (Froyo) OS makes a considerable difference and is, in fact, this phone's ace (yes! We said it) in the hole.

It won't cost you the Earth either, so look deeper and you may find just what you were looking for.

Samsung Galaxy Ace review • Samsung Galaxy Ace prices

BlackBerry Torch 9810

This update of the Torch 9800, the first touchscreen-equipped BlackBerry, is mighty similar to its predecessor at first glance. But fire up the 3.2-inch touchscreen and you'll start to notice the difference, with a VGA 640 x 480 resolution making the whole experience far crisper.

The processor is fast, the battery life is good, and contacts and messaging are fantastic, but we do have a few gripes. This, folks, is an incremental upgrade and one that struggles to find its niche in BlackBerry's pantheon.

There are RIM handsets that are more focused on the demographics that this phone lightly touches, and those who already own a Torch 9800 may well be still locked into a contract, so there'll be little chance to upgrade.

It's by no means a bad handset, though, so it's well worth a look alongside phones such as the Bold 9900 or Curve as a point of comparison.

BlackBerry Torch 9810 review • BlackBerry Torch 9810 deals

LG Optimus 3D

It's big, it's weighty and it's pretty darn expensive, but that pair of characters tacked on the end of the LG Optimus 3D's name might justify all that and more for you. For this, ladies and gents, is a technological milestone: the first 'glasses-free' 3D phone.

The good news is that the effect works brilliantly and that all-important screen is complemented by some great Android customisations on the software side.

Web performance is stellar too.The bad news is that even for a dual-core, the Optimus 3D can feel sluggish, the battery life is poor and – oddly for a phone sold on the back of cutting-edge tech – it's 'only' running Android 2.2.

If you're undecided about joining the 3D revolution, then head on over to the review to find out more.

LG Optimus 3D review • LG Optimus 3D deals

Sony Ericsson Xperia Mini

Mini by name and by nature, this is a refresh of the concept behind Sony Ericsson's X10 Mini and X10 Mini Pro, the pint-sized and ultraportable handsets launched in mid-2010.

It packs a new 1GHz processor, and a bigger 3-inch screen with the Bravia Engine Reality Display tech used in the Xperia Arc (read: you get a 320x480 resolution touchscreen that's a bit brighter at times).

The user interface has received an overhaul too, so on paper the new Xperia Mini looks like a big leap forward for the tiny form factor.

And so it proves to be, offering a very usable – dare we say, pretty – interface that makes the small screen totally workable. Social media integration is great too.

The story's not perfect, though, with less-than-brilliant video codec support and a weak camera offering. The titchy screen won't suit gamers either, but those after a great little phone that won't keep their hands full with glitches and faffing about could be in for a treat.

Sony Ericsson Xperia Mini review • Sony Ericsson Xperia Mini deals

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Updated: Latest mobile phones 2011: hottest handsets reviewed

In the ever-changing mobile market, it can be hard to keep pace with the latest mobile phones. That's why we've put together this hub for our latest mobile phone reviews: to give you the ideal jumping-on point for choosing the best handset for you out of the most current models around.

We cover a plethora of brands, including Apple, HTC, Nokia, Palm and Blackberry, and operating systems, such as Android, iOS and Windows Phone 7, so you should find something that piques your interest here.

In short, if you're seeking a new mobile phone, this is a great place to start.

HTC Wildfire S

The first Wildfire from HTC spread almost like its moniker, so popular did its blend of HTC Sense, durable form factor and affordable pricing prove. Now that it's burnt out, however, it needs a successor to carry the torch. Rising from the ashes is the Wildfire S.

The handset carries on the legacy well enough, with an impressively solid chassis, great social features and responsive touchscreen. The market's changed since the first Wildfire blazed its trail into history, though. With dual-core 'superphones' to contend with, it's hard to consider a 600Mhz processor hot stuff.

And while HTC's Sense interface proves as compelling as ever, the lack of grunt means missing out on Flash support for iPlayer and the like.

All that wouldn't matter if the Wildfire S only required liberating a token sum from your account, but you'll need a fair few sheets burning a hole in your pocket (around £220 SIM-free, or £15 a month) to lay claim to this little fella.

In the highly competitive market of 2011, that makes the Wildfire S a tricky proposition. Beginners will be well-served by the Wildfire S's rounded package, but you can certainly get a lot more for not much extra cash.

HTC Wildfire S review • HTC Wildfire S deals

Samsung Galaxy S2

It's rare that a direct sequel to something awesome – be it film, game or hardware – is anything other than a disappointment when it comes to a new phone.

Rarer still is when the second instalment surpasses the original. We can think of just a scant handful of cases off the top of our heads: The Empire Strikes Back, Terminator 2 and Left 4 Dead 2.

Well, add the Galaxy S2 to that list, because this phone is awesome.

Thin, light and with an amazingly clear 4.3-inch Super AMOLED plus screen behind its toughened Gorilla Glass front panel, this is one handset you won't be pocketing in shame when your mates pass by.

In fact, we suspect you'll be evangelising about it to anyone who'll listen. That's because the dual-core processor within its tiny shell isn't just a marketing bullet point, but rather powers an experience that we're nothing short of effervescent about. For instance, web browsing is blisteringly fast and the Galaxy S2's Flash support is second to none.

We're thrilled to say that the plus points are just too numerous to do justice of here. Check out the full review to find out why this is one of the best smartphones we're likely to see in 2011.

Samsung Galaxy S2 review • Samsung Galaxy S2 deals

HTC ChaCha

If you're aged 14-21 and are after a fun mobile rather than a black slab of raw processing power, we reckon you'll find it hard not to like (or +1, if you prefer) the new 'Facebook phone'.

As the nickname suggests, Mark Zuckerberg's blue-hued brand of social media is at the heart of the experience – HTC even going as far as to give the site its own dedicated button beneath the ChaCha's decent QWERTY keyboard.

Break through the wall of modified HTC Sense and you'll note that Android Gingerbread is powering the experience, which should be welcome for the tech-savvy target audience. Less warmly received will be the Flash integration, which is a bit iffy to say the least.

With a funny shape and small screen to boot, you're really going to have to want the ChaCha's style of social oh la la to buy into this. Still, if you do, then this is something to post home about.

HTC ChaCha review • HTC Cha Cha deals

HTC Sensation XE

This phone is so brand spanking new that it was announced just a day before we first held it in our palms. It adheres to the sensational HTC Sensation's template, but with the addition of ear-pleasing Beats Audio processing and a few spec upgrades.

You needn't be an audiophile to enjoy the new profile, but you will need a set of Beats Audio headphones.

Thankfully, a pair come with the device. In our tests so far, we've noticed a real difference, with the tinny edge of HTC's sound enhancer diminished, the crispness of sounds augmented and the only potential grounds for minor quibbles being the ear canal-shaking levels of bass.

The good news continues elsewhere, with a 1730mAh battery that should have more staying power than the original Sensation, a 1.5GHz dual-core processor to keep the experience smooth and an eye-pleasing design.

Treat your senses and check out the full review when it lands.

HTC Sensation XE review

Sony Ericsson Xperia Arc

Could Sony Ericsson finally be about to deliver on the promise of, well, every smartphone it's ever made that wasn't quite good enough? Maybe it was stupid to hope, but we did anyway with this new mobile phone.

An attractive design with a curved back that's just 8.7mm thick in the middle? Check. Impressive new Exmor camera technology? Check. Good spec list, including HDMI output? Check. Superb video player? Check.

The hardware is extremely impressive, both in terms of looks and performance. Forget the fashionable dual-core phones – when done right, a single-core 1GHz processor can do it all, although busy, dynamic websites will cause the phone to chug a little.

As it is, we're prepared to overlook the Xperia Arc's few minor flaws (small buttons, odd text entry) thanks to its stunning good looks, superb screen and very decent photo performance. You can't help but love it once you've held its magically thin body and gazed adoringly into its dazzling Reality Display.

Sony Ericsson Xperia Arc review • Sony Xperia Arc deals

HTC Desire S

Though the HTC Desire's technology is now being surpassed, it's aged beautifully thanks to some timely price drops. However, all things must come to an end (or at least be supplanted by something new). The HTC Desire S has arrived to take over from its predecessor in the Android race.

In many ways, it's quite similar. We'll still be looking at a 3.7-inch 480 x 800 screen, Android overlaid with HTC's Sense UI and a 1GHz processor. However, HTC hasn't totally rested on its laurels with its new mobile phones.

The design and build of the handset is excellent, save for a slight Wi-Fi cutting-out issue. The camera is good quality, producing serviceable still and HD video that would be quite good if it weren't for a small stuttering issue.

Call quality was excellent, with voices coming through crisp and clear, and it's a shame how little we get to say that about handsets these days.

The browsing experience was generally strong, with the speed that web pages load still impressing us, and Flash is taking yet more steps forward in its 10.2 guise. It was still finicky at times, but when it did work, it was fairly smooth, which is more than we could say for many Flash 10.1 single-core phones.

However, the reason the Desire has kept up with everything that's come after is because it was so far ahead in the first place. The Desire S isn't. It's a great phone, and one we would wholeheartedly recommend in a vacuum.

The HTC Desire led the revolution, but the Desire S could be just another member of the rabble.

HTC Desire S review • HTC Desire S deals

BlackBerry Bold 9900

While RIM has a great reputation for push email and corporate handsets, it's not known for being an innovator. For this reason, the Blackberry Bold 9900 is an intriguing proposition, packing some higher-end tech into a rather attractive shell.

The capacitive (and high resolution) touchscreen screen is a particular marvel, but the inclusion of a near-field communications chip and the brand new OS 7 show that the Bold 9900 was made to break new ground for RIM.

The result is impressive, but only if you're happy to operate within the boundaries of BlackBerry's traditional strengths. Those looking for an outstanding web browsing or media experience will still find themselves disappointed. Still, head over to the review to find out more about what our review dubbed the best BlackBerry to date.

BlackBerry Bold 9900 review • BlackBerry Bold 9900 deals

HTC Sensation

The HTC Sensation is meant to be the new alpha smartphone from the Taiwanese firm, and it certainly lives up to expectations.

With a 1.2GHz dual core processor from Qualcomm and a whopping 4.3-inch high-res qHD screen, this is the phone with best specs yet from HTC, plus it's the first smartphone with the new HTC Watch movie download service.

Is it better than the Samsung Galaxy S2? We think it's just a shade behind thanks to a slightly larger chassis and less advanced screen technology, but that's going to be a debate that rumbles on and on.

HTC Sensation review • HTC Sensation deals

HTC Incredible S

Incredible by name and only slightly less so by nature, this phone is HTC's entry into the underpopulated 4-inch touchscreen arena. In fact, it's among the first UK handsets to fill that niche, but more are on the horizon.

It's blessed with HTC's slick Sense UI and a high-quality screen, but is this latest mobile phone's foibles enough to warrant waiting for its incoming competitors, or the HTC Desire S?

HTC Incredible S review • HTC Incredible S prices

Samsung Galaxy Ace

With a middle-of-the-range spec, 800MHz processor and iPhone-aping looks, it may be hard to see why it's worth buying into the new Galaxy Ace. However, its Android 2.2 (Froyo) OS makes a considerable difference and is, in fact, this phone's ace (yes! We said it) in the hole.

It won't cost you the Earth either, so look deeper and you may find just what you were looking for.

Samsung Galaxy Ace review • Samsung Galaxy Ace prices

BlackBerry Torch 9810

This update of the Torch 9800, the first touchscreen-equipped BlackBerry, is mighty similar to its predecessor at first glance. But fire up the 3.2-inch touchscreen and you'll start to notice the difference, with a VGA 640 x 480 resolution making the whole experience far crisper.

The processor is fast, the battery life is good, and contacts and messaging are fantastic, but we do have a few gripes. This, folks, is an incremental upgrade and one that struggles to find its niche in BlackBerry's pantheon.

There are RIM handsets that are more focused on the demographics that this phone lightly touches, and those who already own a Torch 9800 may well be still locked into a contract, so there'll be little chance to upgrade.

It's by no means a bad handset, though, so it's well worth a look alongside phones such as the Bold 9900 or Curve as a point of comparison.

BlackBerry Torch 9810 review • BlackBerry Torch 9810 deals

LG Optimus 3D

It's big, it's weighty and it's pretty darn expensive, but that pair of characters tacked on the end of the LG Optimus 3D's name might justify all that and more for you. For this, ladies and gents, is a technological milestone: the first 'glasses-free' 3D phone.

The good news is that the effect works brilliantly and that all-important screen is complemented by some great Android customisations on the software side.

Web performance is stellar too.The bad news is that even for a dual-core, the Optimus 3D can feel sluggish, the battery life is poor and – oddly for a phone sold on the back of cutting-edge tech – it's 'only' running Android 2.2.

If you're undecided about joining the 3D revolution, then head on over to the review to find out more.

LG Optimus 3D review • LG Optimus 3D deals

Samsung Galaxy Mini

Mini by name and by nature, this is a refresh of the concept behind Sony Ericsson's X10 Mini and X10 Mini Pro, the pint-sized and ultraportable handsets launched in mid-2010.

It packs a new 1GHz processor, and a bigger 3-inch screen with the Bravia Engine Reality Display tech used in the Xperia Arc (read: you get a 320x480 resolution touchscreen that's a bit brighter at times).

The user interface has received an overhaul too, so on paper the new Xperia Mini looks like a big leap forward for the tiny form factor.

And so it proves to be, offering a very usable – dare we say, pretty – interface that makes the small screen totally workable. Social media integration is great too.

The story's not perfect, though, with less-than-brilliant video codec support and a weak camera offering. The titchy screen won't suit gamers either, but those after a great little phone that won't keep their hands full with glitches and faffing about could be in for a treat.

Sony Ericsson Xperia Mini review • Sony Ericsson Xperia Mini deals

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