The Best Smartphones for College Students

Heading off to college is an enormous change. It's a time of life when people are constantly on the move -- from dorm room to classroom, from class to class, then back to the dorm, and later off to the library. You're going to need a computer that's just as mobile as you are.

A smartphone is just what you're looking for -- a good phone can keep you on track, balancing your classes and social life, as well as keep you in touch with Mom and Dad. There is a dizzying array of options to choose from, so let the editors of Brighthand make some suggestions for new or returning college students.

These are also good options for more than just students -- Fathers Day is on Sunday, and a good smartphone makes a great gift for Dad!
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1. Motorola Atrix 4G
Anyone looking for loads of power should take a look at AT&T's Motorola Atrix 4G. Its 1GHz dual-core processor makes it the fastest smartphone available, plus it has a 4-inch, 960 x 540 (qHD )
touchscreen. Because it runs the Android OS, it's easy to use and there are thousands of third-party apps available. And, unique to the Atrix 4G, accessories can turn this smartphone into a simple laptop or desktop. 

Motorola Atrix 4G Review

2. Samsung Droid Charge
The Droid Charge can connect to Verizon's 4G LTE wireless network, giving it fast access to the Internet. It's no slouch in other areas too, with a 4.3-inch, 800 x 480 (WVGA) display and 1GHz processor. Be warned, though, it's battery life can be a bit short.

Samsung Droid Charge Review

3. Apple iPhone
If someone knows they want a smartphone, but doesn't know anything else about them, the latest iPhone is usually the safest option. This series of devices from Apple has become very popular with its combination of ease of use and power. The most recent model, the iPhone 4, is available from both AT&T and Verizon. Just keep in mind, the iPhone 5 will likely be on the market around the time school starts this fall. 

Apple iPhone 4 Review

4. Kyocera Echo
If you're in the market for something cutting-edge, take a look at the Echo, which has two 3.5-inch, WVGA touchscreens that can be assembled into one 4.7-inch, 960 x 800 viewing area. This Android OS smartphone from Sprint also sports a 5-megapixel camera and 8GB of storage capacity. 

Kyocera Echo Review

5. BlackBerry Torch
BlackBerrys are most often used by business people, but millions of students have them, too. The Torch from AT&T has loads of consumer-friendly features, like an easy-to-use sliding keyboard, good web browser, audio and video player, and much more. It also has a 3.2-inch, 320 x 480 (HVGA) display and a 5-megapixel camera.

BlackBerry Torch Review

6. T-Mobile Sidekick 4G
The Sidekick is a model that offers a handy keyboard for people intending to send a lot of messages from this phone, or those just don't like on-screen keyboards. This Android-based smartphone also has a 3.5-inch, WVGA touchscreen, and it supports T-Mobile's 4G network.

T-Mobile Sidekick 4G Review

Still aren't sure which model is right for you? The availability of games and productivity software is something to consider. Take a look at App Stores Matter in Buying a Smartphone

If you're looking for more than just a smartphone, read TechnologyGuide's Mods, Dads, and Grads Gift Buying Guide for tips on the best tablets, laptops, desktops, cameras, and printers.