Motorola Droid 2 Global Review

Motorola's Droid 2 Global (free, Amazon) is a pretty decent choice for smartphone users who may find themselves roaming the world. As a Motorola Droid 2 Global review by PC Magazine points out, this model connects to networks that operate outside the U.S., so you can make and receive calls and send and receive text messages from most anywhere you travel. This expert Motorola Droid 2 Global review commends the speed of its 1.2GHz processor, the quality of its reception (except that the included earpiece apparently muddies the aural experience), and the life of its battery. CNET dissents on the issue of battery life and says in its Motorola Droid 2 Global review that a test resulted in slightly more than five hours of talk time rather than the eight-plus hours indicated in the manufacturer specs. Reviewers say the camera is acceptable but doesn't impress, delivering images that seem a bit dull.

A 3G Android-based phone, the Droid 2 Global sports a 5 mp camera and a 3.7-inch display running at a resolution of 854x480. Its 1.2GHz CPU is a little faster than that of most budget smartphones. Like most, it supports wireless and Bluetooth 802.11b/g/n connections.

If you're looking for a cheap international phone on the Verizon network, the Motorola Droid 2 Global is a good option. The excellent performance is only slightly offset by its middling battery life, which means regular re-juicing, and its so-so camera. At the moment the Droid 2 Global is free with a new contract, so if global compatibility and speed are your top priorities, don't hesitate.