Multimedia Mobiles Under Rs. 4,000

We can’t expect everything form all the handset’s in this category of course. I you were considering any from this list the short review will help you decide if it’s what you need. All the prices quoted are Market Operating Prices (MOP) and not the MRP which in some case will drastically vary. If you have other options for other readers please feel free to leave your suggestions.

Motorola W230 - MOP Rs. 2,911

Motorola's MOTOYUVA series has been a popular range of low end handsets for a long time now but a bit low key of late. One of the better handsets in the series to offer a little more media capabilities than just an FM radio is the W230 candy bar handset. The form factor is simplistic in styling with non-rubberized keys to make for easy typing. The lack of a hot swap slot for the memory card is a bit of problem but since it supports up to 2GB one card is all you'll ever need without having to remove it too often. A 2.5mm earphone socket will also allow you to use a converter to a standard 3.5mm so you can use your own earphones.

The handset doesn't offer any extravagant features of course. To begin with the FM radio offers really good reception in most areas and saving presets is as simple as holding down a key from the keypad to designate its position. The MP3 player is strictly a no-frills job. It has a simple interface and the handset's nav-pad can be used as controls for the player. The output is not too loud but the quality of sound provided via the bundled earphones is decent. Motorola's CrystalTalk technology also makes calls a lot clearer than most other handsets in its class.

For – Comfortable and easy to use, good FM radio reception, MP3 player is not too bad.
Against – No currency converter, the FM auto-scan takes too long.
Verdict – It’s a simple entry-level handset that offers very basic multimedia functionality and offers it quite well.

Samsung Guru E1410 - MOP Rs. 3,000

Samsung's all black Guru E1410 is quite the looker as far as basic candy bar handsets go. It's simple, neat, light weight and comes with a set of stereo speakers at the rear that are comfortably loud. The design makes it convenient to hold and tote around without creating too much of a bulge in your tight jeans. Just one minor drawback to the overall design schematic of the handset is the absence of a hot swap slot for the microSD card. 2GB is the highest it'll support which is more than adequate.

The music player was quite impressive for a budget handset. The levels were well adjusted and sound quality was quite good. The bass line comes with a very resounding thump and the highs are well designed and not too sharp. For audio adjustments there are plenty of EQ presets to choose from including Surround, Wide and Dynamic options that dramatically alter the audio. Even the FM radio worked like a charm - clear reception in most places. This handset is pretty well equipped when it comes to connectivity from its default WAP browser and Opera Mini as well to its A2DP Bluetooth capabilities and USB 2.0. Samsung's Mobile Tracker is also available. The E1410 also manages to provide a pretty decent battery life as well.

For – Great audio player, FM radio reception is decent, decent battery life.
Against – No Hot Swap slot for the memory card, No preloaded games.
Verdict – It’s a well priced handset that offers great music quality and quite a few relevant features.