Sanyo SCP 2400 (Sprint Nextel)

My latest swapout makes this the fourth Sanyo phone that I've had, in nearly 10 years with Sprint - and all of them have been excellent. (Note: The longer you stay with Sprint, the better offers they extend to you on service plans and phone replacements. Good customer loyalty program.)

My previous Sanyo's have all been straight-handset models, which I preferred - but the world is going to Flip-Phones, so I decided to put some trust in Brand Experience when making the move. I haven't been disappointed.

The 2400 has the Largest Screen that I have ever had on a phone - and the large number display is a relief for aging eyes. The Separate Keys are far superior to the membrane keyboards I have suffered with on other brands.

Unlike many Flip-Phones, the 2400 has an Extendable Antenna. You don't need to extend it in strong signal areas, but out in the fringes it is often the difference between connecting and not connecting. The 2400's performance is right up there with the best straight handsets I ever had - definitely superior to those with internal antennas.

I am a traditionalist, who believes a Phone should just be a Phone, as that is what I use it for. And the 2400 does a fine job as just a Phone.

For those who just HAVE to do Internet, Walkie-Talkie, etc. - the 2400 does support Sprint's Vision and Ready Link services, with nicely placed controls and easy menus. Unlike many other modern phones, though, it also has menu options to completely disable those extras - for guys like me, who don't want to be bothered every time they brush the wrong button.

For those of you who must have a Camera Phone, check out the Sanyo 3100. Same Case design and size as the 2400, with a 1.3mp digicam in the lid. Many accessories - such as Belt Holsters, Cases, and Chargers - are interchangeable between the two models. Both are available in at least five different color schemes (a different five for each model).

The 2400 (and its camera-cousin, the 3100, which my wife has) are both solid performers. If you're outfitting the whole family, a blending of these two models should cover everyone's tastes in both features and colors - with full compatibility of accessories.