Samsung Wave II

The basics

Nearly every recent touchscreen handset that we've seen has featured Android, so the affordable Samsung Wave II makes a pleasant change. This device runs Samsung's own Bada operating system – read on to find out if it has what it takes to beat more expensive rivals.

The good

Despite being affordable, the most impressive thing about the Samsung Wave II is its screen. Measuring in at 3.7 inches, it boasts a pin-sharp resolution of 480 x 800 pixels – easily enough to match or better most high-end smartphones.

Whether you'll like the Samsung Wave II or not depends almost entirely about what you want in a phone. If apps are important to you, and the ability to download new software on a whim, then you'd be better served by an iOS or Android smartphone. However, with Bada, you'll find everything you need on the Wave II for everyday life.

You'll still be able to browse the internet, still be able to check out Facebook or Twitter, and texting on the move is no trouble at all. There's a Swype-style keyboard in place on the Wave II, and although it takes some getting used to, it's fairly accurate. The biggest benefit of using Bada, however, is that the Wave II can offer a decent battery life.

The bad

Although the integrated approach of the Bada operating system will please those looking for something a little more simple, it's also the Wave II's downfall. Granted, the majority of apps available for Android or Apple handsets are trivial and pointless, but some are genuinely useful, and it's easy to feel lost without them on the Samsung Wave II.

The bottom line

The Samsung Wave II is a decent feature phone. Sure, it can't match the best smartphones for apps, but it doesn't try to. If you just want a simple touchscreen handset for texts, calls and browsing the web, the decent screen and battery life make it well worth a look.