Touchscreen technology is fast becoming the must-have feature on mobile phones. Ever since Apple wowed us with its nifty iPhone -- letting you pinch its screen and brush your way through the menu -- everyone's gagging for a screen they can touch.
With so many touchscreen phones flooding the market, how do you know which one is the right one for you? Just because a phone has a touchscreen, it doesn't mean it's going to provide exactly the same experience as a similar gadget. It can be alarmingly different, so always try before you buy.
One of the main things to watch out for when buying a touchscreen phone is how responsive it is to your gentle prodding. When you tap the screen, you want it to react accordingly and if it doesn't, move on to a different phone.
A touchscreen phone's interface is also very important. Some feature tiny on-screen icons and aren't really designed for using your fingers. If you don't like the idea of having to use a stylus, don't be afraid to try something else.
A large screen means it'll be prone to fingerprint marks and potential cracks if you sit on it or drop it. Keeping your kit in good shape is important -- look into what kind of accessories you can buy, such as cases or protective screens.
Last but definitely not least, watch out for battery life. Having a large screen is a real battery drainer, so find out how long the battery lasts. If the option is available, one way of saving energy is to turn down a screen's brightness.
Have a look below for the best touchscreen mobiles we've reviewed recently.
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Reviewed on 19 June 2009
Editors
4.5 stars out of 5
The iPhone 4 adds a spectacular-looking new screen, a slim glass body and some scintillating software features to the smart-phone mix. It also promises to deliver longer battery life. But is it enough to ensure Apple retains the smart-phone crown in the face of stiff Android competition?
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Reviewed on 24 June 2010
Editors
4.5 stars out of 5
The Desire is an Android smart phone that fills our hearts with lust. It packs in every feature under the sun, along with a slick user interface, plenty of processing power and a whopping touchscreen that's a beauty to behold. If the iPhone isn't your cup of tea, you should check this handset out
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£400 check prices
Reviewed on 29 March 2010
Editors
4.5 stars out of 5
The Legend takes everything that was great about its predecessor, the Hero, and makes it even better. The tweaked Sense user interface is slicker than ever, the handset's a feast for the eyes and it's a speed demon too. If you're seeking an alternative to the iPhone, check it out
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Reviewed on 8 March 2010
Editors
4.5 stars out of 5
The Galaxy S rocks a huge Super AMOLED screen and the Google Android operating system, but it looks like an iPhone 3GS both inside and out. Check out our review to find out if the Galaxy S is a smart phone with brains or just another iPhone wannabe
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£450 check prices
Reviewed on 28 June 2010
Editors
4.0 stars out of 5
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