Introduction

As the widely and eagerly anticipated successor to the Nokia 6102i, the Nokia 6133 was slated to be a sophisticated update to Nokia's line of flip phones, and chosen by T-Mobile over the internationally released Nokia 6126.

With an eye catching clamshell design, the Nokia 6133 offers a sleek push-button flip release unleashing multimedia features such as an FM radio, 1.3-megapixel camera, dual vibrant color LCDs, and video options such as video ring displays. However, the pros lead to cons that have some consumers upset.

The classic Nokia reputation of simplicity is inherent in the Nokia 6133, however the quality is somewhat lacking with a flimsy flip frame, lower than documented battery life, odd numeric design and misplaced camera button and microSD slot.

Design

At first glance, the most striking feature of the Nokia 6133 is its solid black front and large display. Measuring in at 92 x 48 x 20 mm and weighing 112 g, the 6133, while not as slim as the Motorola RAZR series, has a nice round compact design that makes it easy to slip into one's pocket.

The clamshell layout ideally protects the keys and internal screen; however the style of the black soft rubber exterior is debatable. Not quite the phone for the fashionista, the muted black silhouette against the shiny silver makes the 6133 look rather sporty.

At the top of the frontplate sits the 1.3-megapixel camera. While it does not have a mirror for vanity shots, the 120 x 160 px exterior display works as a mirror in Camera Mode.

The backplate is constructed with the same rubbery texture as the front, protecting the battery, SIM card, and oddly placed microSD slot. Able to be removed while the phone is in use, the microSD card is inconveniently located under the backplate. The battery charger and USB port plug into the top of the phone making it extremely difficult to talk on the phone while charging it. The power button lies below the camera button on the left side of the phone, making it difficult for left-handed consumers to take vanity shots, and making it easy for the camera button to be accidentally pressed.

The highlight of the Nokia 6133 that sets it apart from many clamshell phones is the inclusion of a flip button that when pressed, opens the phone. This brilliant addition seems obvious so consumers can open the phone with just one hand. While a savvy addition, the placement is a bit awkward on the top plate of the phone, and the spring is rather strong. The flip design also seems somewhat flimsy, appearing as though the top plate of the phone could easily become removed.

Once opened, the strengths of the Nokia 6133 become apparent. At 2.2-inches (240 x 320 px resolution), the 16.7 million-color screen is a true highlight. Users can choose from an array of stored themes for the interior and exterior displays. Animation, photos, graphics and text are vivid; however navigating the menu is somewhat difficult. The text is not well distinguished and as users scroll through the menu, a faded, almost non-existent marker guides them. The layout of the keypad is a bit boxy but a nice texture gives text messaging a tactile feel.

Out of the box, the Nokia 6133 comes with an 820 mAh Li-Ion Battery, Power Cable, Headphones, Quick Start Guide, and User Manual. Some users may despair the lack of a USB cable.

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