HTC Sensation Review

"FOR: Fast interface; plentiful features including DLNA and video rental service; sounds good.
AGAINST: Video performance could be better; only 1GB internal memory as standard."

Zath were left in no doubt that the Sensation is a very powerful phone, and they thought this version of Android ran better on this phone than on any other they've seen. The combination of hardware with the bright screen and unibody enclosure, along side the HTC Sense software, makes this the phone that all other manufacturers should aspire to compete with.

Mobile Choice describes the HTC Sensation as being more powerful than it really needs to be, since its current software isn't able to take full advantage of its dual-core 1GHz chip and Adreno 220 GPU. Still, they were pleased with its performance, remarking that it's as pleasant to use as any other HTC model, and that its feature-list is as impressive as any of ts rivals.

Coolsmartphone found many positive points when they got their hands on the HTC Sensation. The build quality is first-rate with an excellent screen and improved 8MP camera. There are also good features like a camera on the front for video calling and an HTC Watch app for movie rental. The battery is dire though and the size of this 4.3in phone might be a deterrent for some.

It's a bit disappointing that it doesn't include an HDMI port, but aside from this it's difficult to find anything to fault in the Sensation. Wired.co.uk loved its huge 4.3in screen and praised both Android 2.3 and Sense 3.0 for the fantastic user experience they provide. The camera can't compete with those of Samsung or Nokia handsets, but at 8 megapixels it's not bad either.

There's no doubt that the HTC Sensation goes well beyond the previous offerings from the company, thanks to its snappy design, ease of use, and better battery life, says Expert Reviews. Unfortunately though, they just don't find it to be quite as good a deal, as the Galaxy S II, which not only has a slightly better operating system, but is also a tad cheaper.

Brilliantly designed and great looking, with a better-than-average-smartphone battery life and sporting the gorgeous HTC Sense interface, The Inquirer think that HTC's Sensation could well give the iPhone 4 and Samsung's Galaxy S II a run for their money. But although it's powerful, it's a bit on the heavy side, and the amount of RAM is only mediocre. It's also expensive too.

"Stuff.tv"

"... movies ... play back beautifully on the iPhone-baiting widescreen display ... While some rivals still have the edge in certain departments, if you want the best Android all-rounder, right now the Sensation is it."

The dual-core Sensation sits nicely at the top of the HTC range, according to IT Reviews. They loved the 4.3in high-resolution screen, although it wasn't great in the sun, and they thought build quality was excellent. They still consider Samsung's Galaxy S II to be the best dual-core smartphone around, but they say HTC fans shouldn't be disappointed.

TrustedReviews loved the gorgeously subtle design and brilliant build of the HTC Sensation. Performance is blisteringly fast, the 8mp camera is impressive and some of the software updates are excellent. But it's only nearly perfect, not completely; they're hoping battery life improves once usage is more stable, and the high-resolution screen is great, but not the very best quality.

FiveFwd says the HTC Sensation has a lot going for it, with a dual-core processor, 8MP camera, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth rammed into a nicely constructed body. The biggest problem is the battery life which is drained by the giant screen. If battery life is important to you, look elsewhere, otherwise this phone might be worthy of your attention.

Value for money: "good" (4 out of 6 stars)

PC Pro say that although really well built, and sporting the lovely Sense 3 interface, HTC's Sensation just doesn't live up to its name. It doesn't match up to the competition either; they think the Samsung Galaxy S II's screen and camera are better, and it's faster. As the two are almost the same price, PC Pro say if you're going to fork out, you may as well go for the best.

"Editor's Choice"

If money is no object and only the best will do, then you can't go wrong with the HTC Sensation, says Mobile Choice Online. They loved its generous array of features, brilliant display, and speedy performance. Reviewers were also taken with its excellent Sense user interface, which they feel sets this phone apart, and is a big reason why it's worth purchasing.

TechRadar couldn't wait to get their hands on HTC's dual-core Sensation, and they weren't disappointed, but then again, they weren't blown away either. They don't think it's one of HTC's very best, but with a premium-looking design, snazzy 3D graphics, great level of customisation, and speedy web browsing, it's definitely worth considering if you're after a dual-core device.

Without a doubt, the HTC Sensation boasts its fair share of appealing qualities, say the experts at IT PRO, who were especially pleased with its stylish design and top-notch performance. Unfortunately though, they felt that it just wasn't on the same level as their current favorite, the Samsung Galaxy S II, which runs a bit faster and has better battery life.