HTC Touch Pro2 vs. HTC Imagio

If you're on the Verizon Wireless network and you're debating between the HTC Touch Pro2 vs. the HTC Imagio, let me offer you my 2 cents.

I'll start with the features that are common to both smartphones:

• They both will eventually run Windows Mobile 6.5 (the Imagio comes with 6.5 now while the Touch Pro2 comes with 6.1 but you'll get an upgrade to 6.5). 
• They both have a nice large 3.6" screen at 480x800 pixels.
  
• They are both fast and have a nice amount of RAM.
• The both come with a 1500 mAh battery.
• You can tether using either device (Mobile Broadband Connect)
  
• They both have a micro SD card slot.
• They are both world phones with CDMA and GSM capabilities.
• They both have internal GPS so they can be used as a GPS navigator.
  
• They are both made by HTC, so you're getting a high-quality phone.
  

Now, let's talk about the pros/cons (+/-)

HTC Touch Pro2

• + You'll get a nice slide-out QWERTY keyboard.
• - You'll end up with a thicker device
• - no V Cast TV
  

HTC Imagio

• + Thinner and narrower (not by much)
  
• - No hardware QWERTY keyboard 
• + V Cast TV (great for those slow nights when you're on call)
• + better camera (5 MP vs. 3.2 MP on the Touch Pro2)
  

So, the verdict? In my opinion, it's worth having a slightly thicker device if you do a fair bit of texting, e-mail, or any other form of text entry. So, the HTC Touch Pro2 wins. Maybe I'm biased because I've always had a smartphone that's had a hardware keyboard. After trying the BlackBerry Storm for a week, I realized that I am much more productive when I have a physical QWERTY keyboard (or thumb board to be more precise).

However, if you want something that closely resembles an Apple iPhone, go with the thin and sleek HTC Imagio. I don't think you'll be disappointed because the on-screen keyboard is very easy to use and it comes with large on-screen buttons.

Verizon HTC Imagio to replace iPhone?

The Verizon HTC Imagio is an exciting addition to the list of Verizon smartphones. This device runs Windows Mobile 6.5, so it won't replace the Apple iPhone. However, I wonder if this will be the phone of choice for current Verizon customers who don't want to wait for an iPhone.

The Imagio has a nice large screen and it is the first Verizon smartphone to support V CAST Mobile TV. So, if you hope to stay current on all your favorite television shows while you're on call at the hospital, this may be the perfect phone for you. It even has a kickstand so that you can prop it up.