Day 2 using the HTC ThunderBolt 4G LTE on Verizon

Today is day #2 using the HTC HTC ThunderBolt 4G LTE on the Verizon Wireless network. I've used the Droid X, the HTC Droid Incredible, and the HTC Droid Eris on Verizon.

Before I got the ThunderBolt, I was using the Droid X. Here are the main reasons why I chose to upgrade:

1. 4G is lighting fast (and if you're using the WiFi Mobile Hotspot feature, you can connect up to 8 devices)
2. Front-facing camera (which is great for interviewing or taking self-portraits when I'm blogging at various conferences)
3. It comes with a 32 GB microSD card
4. HTC Sync™ to synchronize Outlook contacts and calendar
5. Kickstand - works in both portrait and landscape modes
6. Simultaneous voice and data: You can talk on the phone and use the Internet at the same time



Here are some initial disappointments:

1. Battery life when you're on 4G is very short (I already knew this and I generally carry a backup battery)
2. The phone is large, but it's not overwhelming
3. When you're using the kickstand in landscape mode, the USB charging port is covered

If you buy a ThunderBolt today, you can get unlimited free Mobile Hotspot usage until May 15!

The phone also has a built-in FM tuner, but you need a wired headset to use this (the headset serves as an antenna). The ThunderBolt also uses the HTC Sense interface, so those of you who use the Incredible or Eris will be familiar with that. No HDMI output for Droid X users who got used to that feature.

So, should you get the ThunderBolt? There are other 4G smartphones coming to Verizon over the next few months, so you may want to wait. I generally like HTC phones (I've had about 5 of them) and I also have the luxury to upgrade and sell my old phones fairly easily (when you have a family plan, you can upgrade more frequently).