Android: A Three-Way Tie

The Android operating system is the most diverse amongst smartphones, offering a wide range of choices, so it’s not surprising that there are a few choices when it comes to the “best” Android phone.

The Samsung Galaxy Note

The Galaxy Note has become extremely popular among consumers primarily thanks to its display. At 5.3 inches, it’s quite large for a phone, but it also features an 800×1280 resolution (capable of 720p HD playback). It is a lot of screen real estate, and since it’s Super AMOLED, it looks stunning, great for web browsing, movies, and games. It also has the latest in processor technology, with a 1.4GHz dual-core CPU. Its 8MP camera is considered among the best smartphones have to offer. Plus it features 32GB of internal storage and is expandable via MicroSD slot. Surprisingly, even its battery life is quite good. If you’re looking for a great smartphone with a large display, the Note is the way to go.

The Samsung Galaxy Nexus

At first glance, the Galaxy Nexus doesn’t really appear to be top dog in any single category, but what it does well is combine many excellent features, creating a very well-rounded device. It has a large, 4.65-inch 720p Super AMOLED display, but still manages to keep a fairly compact overall size. It has LTE 4G (or HSPA+ depending on model), a 5MP camera capable of 1080p video and simultaneous photos with zero shutter lag, and a 1.2GHz dual-core processor. To top it all off, the Galaxy Nexus is the latest “Pure Google” device, meaning it’s the first to receive updates to the Android operating system. That last fact alone makes it an excellent choice for anyone.

The Samsung Galaxy S II

Samsung’s Galaxy S line is by far the most popular of the Android devices, and the Galaxy S II is no exception. Like the Galaxy Nexus, the S II is a very well-rounded device, featuring a 1.2GHz dual-core processor, 4.3-inch (or 4.5-inch) Super AMOLED display, 16GB-32GB of internal storage plus MicroSD slot, and Samsung’s much loved TouchWiz interface. It also has a highly praised 8MP camera, and is available on every major U.S. cell provider.

The Runners’ Up

The HTC One X certainly has potential to make the list – especially the quad-core Tegra 3 version – but it’s still experiencing a few growing pains. The Galaxy S III is also right around the corner and could easily displace the S II.

iOS: The iPhone 4S

Apple makes choosing an iOS phone pretty simple – you don’t really get much of a choice. The latest device is, of course, the best, such is the case with the iPhone 4S. It has a speedy dual-core processor, doesn’t seem to suffer from the antenna issues of its predecessor, and also includes the convenience of Siri, the personal digital companion.

Windows Phone 7: The Nokia Lumia 900

Microsoft is somewhat like Apple when it comes to WP7. Most of the devices are very similar in specs, and it’s primarily their prices and special features that set them apart. The Lumia 900 actually isn’t the most expensive WP7 phone, yet it has some of the best features. Its 4.3-inch AMOLED display looks great; it’s compatible with LTE and HSPA+; it has a solid 8MP camera (though slightly hindered by WP7 software); and battery life is superb. It easily competes with the higher priced Samsung Focus S and HTC Titan, making it an amazing value.

The iPhone

It comes as little surprise that the iPhone made up a good portion of that 6.8 million units, and while Android phones as a whole outsold the iPhone, it’s still an impressive feat considering that the iPhone 4S held the most sales out of any single device (at somewhere around 3 million units). The 4S was also the most returned device following Christmas, and by a rather large margin. The reason for the high return rate is uncertain. It could be that people felt that the 4S didn’t offer much noticeable improvement over their current model, or perhaps they were enticed by the better spec’d Android phones on the market, and tempting after-Christmas sales (which are still going on).

Android Phones

As a whole, Android phones made up for about 55% of smartphone activations on Christmas day, though no single Android device could compare with the iPhone 4S’ impressive figures. But there are definitely still a few notable contenders.

The Galaxy S II

Available on AT&T, Sprint, and T-Mobile, the Galaxy S II gave people a lot of options in terms of plan pricing and coverage – its record breaking specs certainly didn’t hurt either. With its 1.2Ghz to 1.5GHz processor and 4.3 to 4.5-inch screen (depending on carrier), it appealed to many considering an iPhone but wanted a bit more power or screen space. Estimates put Galaxy S II activations around 1.5 million. The only people who couldn’t get in on the action were Verizon Wireless subscribers.

The Galaxy Nexus

Fortunately for those on Verizon, there was a (arguably) better option: the Galaxy Nexus. While it shares a similar 1.2GHz processor to the Galaxy S II, the Galaxy Nexus features a stunning 4.7-inch 720p HD display, a first for smartphones. It also features Google’s latest version of Android and comes 100% free of any manufacturer or carrier bloat. Sales figures on the Galaxy Nexus weren’t overly impressive, though, since it wasn’t marketed all that aggressively, much like the previous Nexus devices.

The Droid RAZR

Instead of going for the Galaxy Nexus, Verizon subscribers flocked to the Droid RAZR, an ultra thin, uber sleek phone with equally impressive specs. Plus you get that bit of nostalgia if you ever owned one of the original Motorola RAZR phones in the past. They really did do a surprising job of capturing the original look in smartphone form.

The BlackBerry Torch

If you’re a BlackBerry fan, you probably already know that the Torch 9810, 9850, and 9860 is where RIM stepped up its game to compete with today’s current smartphones. Now you can have things like 4G, Wireless-N, and even a modern 1.2GHz processor all with the BlackBerry OS 7 users have grown to love.

Did we mention that Smartphone deals didn’t end with the holidays? In fact, many of the huge sales started just after Christmas, and many are still going on. T-Mobile in particular is hosting one last big sale day this weekend. If you’re a T-Mobile subscriber and you’re due for a new phone, you may want to consider the Galaxy S II or HTC Amaze, both phenomenal smartphones.

If you’re having trouble coming up with gift ideas for the holidays, maybe we can help. Here are some of the most popular gift ideas for this year’s holiday season.

iPhone 4S

The iPhone 4S just came out in October, but not everyone upgraded right away. As it stands, the iPhone 4S is one of the top rated, most wanted smartphones on the market, and it goes without saying that anyone with a previous model iPhone would be overcome with excitement and surprise if they got to open up a brand new iPhone 4S on Christmas day.

Galaxy S II (white)

The Galaxy S II is a bit more seasoned than the iPhone 4S, having launched back in April; however, it only just made its way to the U.S. recently. It has since been going blow-to-blow with the iPhone 4S as the two trade between first and second best rated smartphones on the market. The Galaxy S II traditionally comes in black, but T-Mobile has just launched a white version. Everyone hopes for a white Christmas, so it’s only fitting.

Roku

You’ve probably seen at least one of the Roku’s merciless holiday advertisements already, but even though they’re practically shoving the idea down our throats, the Roku really does make a great gift. The Roku basically turns any TV into an internet connected entertainment center, capable of streaming Netflix, watching internet television, and even playing games like Angry Birds. It’s ideal for people who bought their HDTVs before Internet Apps and capabilities came included.

Kindle Fire

Not only is the Kindle Fire the top rated E-Reader on the market, it’s quickly working its way to the top rated tablet as well. Starting at just $200, the Kindle Fire finally prices tablets where they should have been from the very beginning. What’s more is that the Kindle Fire offers much of the same performance and hardware you’d find in a $500+ tablet.

Keurig Single Cup Coffee Makers

While compared to smartphones, tablets, and internet TV boxes, a simple coffee machine may look a bit plain, but Keurig’s innovative single cup brewers have caught a lot of attention this year. It can brew a cup of coffee in no time flat, and with Keurig’s K-Cup packets, you can choose from hundreds of robust flavors, and not just coffee, either. The K-Cup flavors include teas, cocoas, and ciders, too.

Dell XPS 15

Laptops are always popular gifts, and the Dell XPS 15 is one place where you can’t go wrong. It may not be the fastest laptop on the market, nor the cheapest, but its style, reliability, and balanced performance makes it a great buy. And today, you can get $100 off and a free Canon ELPH 100 HS digital camera if you order from Dell online and use this coupon code: 932N$0ZCCHWZB9.

Sony DSC-HX9V and Nikon Coolpix P300

Speaking of digital cameras, the Sony HX9V and Nikon P300 are both excellent cameras that can be found on sale today at Amazon.com. These two cameras have been among out top ranked ever since they were released. The P300 is a little more on the affordable side, and the HX9V offers a few more features for those who like a bit more manual control.

Smartphones

Smartphones are on sale today as well, and this includes the latest and greatest phones that have been recently released, such as the acclaimed Galaxy S II. The iPhone 4S has also gone on sale at various places, but finding it is a bit tough since it tends to sell out rather quickly. Both phones make excellent gifts, and with many retailers and carriers (such as Verizon Wireless), the return window extends into January, just in case something goes wrong with the device.

LG 47LW5300

If you ever wanted to get on the 3D TV train, now is your chance. Dell is offering an amazing deal on the LG LW5300 at $430 off, plus free shipping. Considering that it’s a 47-inch LED flat panel, the price is pretty amazing as is, but throw in a 120Hz refresh rate AND 3D PLUS a Blu-Ray Player, and you’ve got yourself a killer deal.

This is just a tiny portion of the deals that are out there today and will continue through the weekend. If there is an item you have your eye on, look it up on alaTest. Our price search updates in real time, so there’s a good chance we’ll catch the best sale price for you. Go ahead, give it a try.

Panasonic TXP GT30 Series HDTVs

As one of our top rated HDTVs, it comes as no surprise that the TXP GT30 is also one of our top viewed products. Optimized for 3D playback, this plasma TV features a 600Hz refresh rate. This extremely high refresh rate also lends itself well to watching high action sports and console gaming. Its deep blacks and high color accuracy also make it an excellent choice for 2D Blu-Ray as well.

Sony KDL EX720 Series HDTVs

Another HDTV (you can see what might be a popular gift category this year), the EX720 offers a wide array of features. As expected with Sony TVs, the EX720’s image processing capabilities are unmatched, creating a brilliant viewing experience right out of the box. You can also enjoy its integrated internet apps, such as Netflix and Pandora. It even includes on-the-fly 2D to 3D conversion, so you can watch anything in 3D. On top of it all, the screen is nearly razor thin, and thanks to its LED design, is extremely power efficient.

Digital Cameras

Among our top 10 most viewed products, there were 4 digital cameras. The most viewed was the Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-HX9V, which is really one of the best compact cameras on the market, though less seasoned photographers may prefer the WX10. Canon’s EOS Rebel T3i also made the list, followed by Nikon’s D3100, both of which are excellent entry-level digital SLRs. Following those, was the Nikon D7000, a digital SLR suitable for professional work; however, if a DSLR is on your shopping list, you may want to hold off for Sony’s upcoming NEX and α-series cameras, as they will be extremely competitive this year.

Smartphones

Smartphones made up nearly a third of our top 10 list, and they are sure to be a popular item this holiday season. The Sony Ericsson Xperia Active pulled in the most views, and while it’s not the most amazing phone on the market, it does have the rare combination of being both rugged and powerful (great for a reckless teenager). Just behind the Active was the Xperia Arc, a sleek and capable smartphone hailed for its surprising photo quality. Following that was the Samsung Galaxy S, the popular predecessor to our currently top-ranked phone, the Galaxy S II.

Of course it’s still a bit early to be doing your holiday shopping, but hopefully we’ve given you some great gift ideas (either for yourself or for friends and family). With Black Friday fast approaching, it’s not surprising to be seeing these larger (pricier) items on the most watched list. Many of these products, while still praise worthy, are soon to be replaced by next year’s updated versions, meaning massive price reductions as the holidays near.

Be sure to keep an eye on our blog. Through the whole month of November, we’ll be naming hot new products, posting buyer’s guides, and helping you prepare for the holiday shopping season. Let us know in the comments if you have any requests.

With Apple sitting so far behind schedule (everyone was expecting the next iPhone to be announced before the end of July), assumptions were that Apple would have a completely redesigned iPhone 5 in the coming weeks. Among the anticipated improvements were a larger, 4-inch display; a lighter, thinner chassis; and 4G connectivity. The 4S has none of this.

The iPhone 4S is no slouch, though, and compared to the iPhone 4, it’s a significant step up. The first of its major upgrades is the A5 processor, similar to the processor found in the iPad 2. As a dual-core processor, it helps improve multitasking performance, and its graphics processor is a full 7 times faster than the A4 found in the iPhone 4. Still, the A5 isn’t exactly revolutionary, as there are already several other smartphones that perform just as well, like the nearly 5-month old Galaxy S II.

Other improvements include a new 8MP camera, capable of recording video in 1080p. It has also received a slight bump in maximum 3G speeds from 7.2Mbps to 14.4Mbps, and after the reception issues that plagued the iPhone 4, you can rest assured that the 4S has a completely reengineered antenna design. But again, expectations were much higher, and 3G speeds fail to impress when 4G phones have been around for nearly a year now, like Verizon’s 4G LTE Thunderbolt.

The biggest improvement by far is actually in the iOS operating system. iOS 5 brings 200 new features, including the new “Notification Center” which is similar to Android’s Notification Bar. There is also Twitter integration, basic photo editing, and even a messaging app for texting fellow iPhone users for free.

All of that pales in comparison to the iPhone 4S’s most innovative – according to some, the only innovative – feature: Siri voice control. Though it’s still in beta form, the new Siri platform takes voice commands to a new level. Siri is by far and away the most advanced voice recognition system in the mobile sector. This is one point that even the best Android phones can’t currently match.

A Rose by Any Other Name

Many people are underwhelmed by the iPhone 4S, and it seems Apple may have anticipated this. It’s unclear why Apple was so delayed in bringing the new iPhone to market, but considering the naming scheme in iOS 5, it would appear that Apple’s original intentions were to name it the iPhone 5. It wouldn’t look good for Apple to release a new flagship device that wasn’t ahead of its time, something everyone was expecting of the iPhone 5.

However, this possibly last minute name change could have done more harm than good. In a survey shortly following the iPhone 4S’s announcement, it was revealed that more people want to wait for the release of the iPhone 5 than buy the 4S. Even more interesting is the fact that the majority of those people polled are actually waiting for Google’s upcoming Nexus Prime.

How do you feel about the iPhone 4S? Let us know in the comments.

After about 3 months of availability in Europe and Asia, our current top-rated cell phone known as the Galaxy S II has finally seen an official announcement for a release in the U.S.

The Specs

The Galaxy S II is a monster of a phone, in terms of both size and processing power. It sports a 4.3-inch 800×480 pixel Super AMOLED Plus display (and even 4.5-inches in some versions), yet it’s actually the world’s thinnest smartphone at just 8.5mm thick. The Super AMOLED display not only gives extremely bright and vibrant colors but also goes very easy on the battery in comparison to other display technologies.

Under the hood is Samsung’s latest Exynos processor, a 1.2GHz dual-core beast. This is actually very similar to the dual-core processor found in the iPad 2, except faster. The higher frequency and an improved graphics processor make it considerably faster than the iPad 2, and if you’ll recall, Apple said that the iPad 2 was up to 9 time faster than the original iPad and iPhone 4. So doing the math here, it seems that, according to Apple, the Galaxy S II should be more than 9 times faster than its aging iPhone 4 competitor.

It will also feature 1GB of RAM for better multitasking, an 8MP camera capable of 1080p video recording, a 2MP front facing camera for video chat, 16GB of internal storage plus a microSD expansion slot, Wireless A/B/G/N, NFC (Near Field Communication), and HDMI output via the microUSB port.

Running the latest version of Android (2.3 Gingerbread), the Galaxy S II will have all of the great features included in Google’s market dominating operating system. It will also be running Samsung’s TouchWiz user interface, adding even more useful features.

The Carriers

Just like the original Galaxy S, the Galaxy S II is poised to launch on all of the United States’ major cell carriers (though Verizon may be sitting this one out in preference of a slightly different Samsung device). Both AT&T and Sprint have already announced launch dates of the 18^th and 16^th of September respectively. T-Mobile will also be getting it, though no release date has been announced.

Like last time, each carrier has its own name for the Galaxy S II as well as their own look. AT&T will be calling it the Samsung Attain and going with a design that doesn’t much resemble its first Galaxy S phone, the Captivate. If anything, it looks more like T-Mobile’s Vibrant. AT&T is also the only carrier who will be keeping the 4.3-inch display size (both Sprint and T-Mobile are opting for a 4.5-inch display).

Sprint is going with the name Epic 4G Touch, toting it as a keyboardless version of the original Epic 4G (Sprint’s version of the Galaxy S). It won’t be quite as rounded as the original, but it does have a much more rounded edge than AT&T’s Attain.

T-Mobile has decided on an even more rounded edge than the other two and will be calling it the Hercules, surely on account of its large 4.5-inch screen and unmatched processing power.

The Bottom Line

The Galaxy S II tops our cell phone list for a very good reason: it’s an amazing phone. The 4.3 and 4.5-inch screens may make it feel a little too bulky for some, but it does make up for it by being ultra thin. Its specs make it a great buy for anyone who wants to be on the cutting edge of performance as well as those who want something that won’t be outdated in just a year. It’s even a great choice for those tired of blinding waiting for the unsure release of the Apple iPhone 5.