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Motorola L2 .hectate 07/07/2006 - 21:22 EST Here at netlate.com, I like to review things that I actually use. And when it comes to things I use, well, a cell phone just isn't one of those things that I use frequently. But use it I do, so review it I will. 
I just recently purchase (upgraded actually, via my long-time carrier) to a Motorola L2 cell phone. The L2 is the "scaled down" version of the highly marketed SLVR. One of the main selling points of the SLVR is it's iTunes capabilities. The absence of this feature is most likely why the L2 is not advertised as being a model of the SLVR phone, despite the fact that they share the same dimensions (to the best that I can tell).Also noticably absent from the L2 is a camera. Personally I don't mind one bit. If I was out looking for a digital camera, I could do a lot better than what typically comes in a cell phone. Since my goal was to purchase a cell phone, I comfortably feel that I met that objective. Still, if you are considering this phone, either be aware or beware. Another difference is in the keypad itself. The layout is identical to that on the RAZR and SLVR, however it is not made of the same "cut-metal" material as them. Instead it seems to be the same material as the rest of the phone. All the keys are responsive with a definite "click" to them, and I have no complains. I do like the little nub on the 5 key. Any touch-typist automatically knows where to find the home-row keys, and this phone caters to my impulses on that level. Nothing is worse than a program or device where the user interface seems to be an attempt to give me an opportunity to learn how to deal with frustration. Happily, the phone's OS is a breeze to use. It is functionally and visually identical to my wife's RAZR, and only took me a few minutes to completely configure it to my preferences. I haven't attempted any email or IM use through it, however using Cingular Media Mall was simple. I can say that I prefer the calculator system that was on my Motorola T720, however, I'm pretty sure that's just because I'm used to it. I can be stubborn about change :D. The calculator is definitely faster with fewer keystrokes required to perform it's functions. And finally, making and taking phone calls themselves! Three words; I love it. The phone performs admirably in any situation. I have no issues with getting a signal (my city has excellent coverage). I really like the speakerphone, it's great for use while riding in the car. Obviously if there is a lot of noise around, the speakerphone option decreases in usefulness dramatically. Switching back to regular use, however, eliminates any difficulty in hearing and being heard. My only issue with the phone is that, due to its small size, (IMHO) the vibrate function is proportionally downsized as well. It's still sufficient to provide the necessary warning, however when it first starts I'm not sure if my leg is just twitching or I've actually got a call. Other than all that, I'm glad that I got it. It's bright, loud, and small! If you happen to be in the market for a phone and just need something small and simple (and in my case, very inexpensive), give this one a look or two. |