Dell XCD28

Overview

Enjoy ultrafast connectivity with Dell XCD28

Design and Build Quality of Dell XCD28

The budget Dell XCD28 handset has a resistive touchscreen 2.8 inch TFT LCD display. The design has a tapering chassis that allows for a firm grip on the device. Business and pleasure go hand in hand in this Smartphone that lets you work wherever you are. It has access to corporate exchange emails and has built-in document Reader for Word, PDF, Excel, and PowerPoint files. The Dell XCD28 also comes with other features like GPS, Advance Exchange Warranty, Accelerometer, and Google Apps.

User Interface and Ease of Use

Powered by Android 2.1 operating system, the XCD28 runs like what you would expect from a Google based device. The icons should all be familiar for users who have used Android devices. The touchscreen display has 3 layers and requires pressure to be put on the area of touch. This means that it will work with any device like a pen, stylus, or nail.

Messaging and E-mails

As a smartphone, messaging and email ability comes standard on the XCD28. Once you become used to the resistive touchscreen, it is easy to type on. E-mail support includes Gmail, Hotmail, Yahoo, and others. You can also connect a Corporate Exchange e-mail to your device provided you have the server settings.

Gallery, Photo Viewer, and Video Player of Dell XCD28

There is only 200 MB of user memory on the device so you will want to install a microSD card for photo storing. The gallery is an average Android OS, allowing you to cycle through your pictures one by one or view multiple on the same screen. Video support includes MP4, H.264, and H.263.

Music Player and FM radio of Dell XCD28

There is a stereo FM radio with RDS to listen to your favourite station on the device. The music player is average at best. The sounds come out clear enough from the speakers.

Dell XCD28 Still Camera and Image Camera

Equipped with a 3.2 MP camera, the XCD28 also has auto focus and a brightness level slider. The quality is very poor, as pictures show up blurry and will remind you of using a VGA camera.

Connectivity Options

You can connect the XCD28 to a 2G GSM networks in the 850, 900, 1800, and 1900 bands. In addition, there is support for 3G HSDPA 2100. You can also use Wi-Fi to connect to the internet. Bluetooth support will allow you to transfer data as well.

Organizer and Other Utility Tools

A document viewer will allow you to edit Word, PDF, Excel, and PowerPoint files. There is also a voice memo and organizer.

Web browser and Applications

The web browser on the XCD28 supports kinetic scrolling and hand touch-gestures. YouTube streaming is available straight from the browser. You also have access to Android's vast application store.

Google Maps and GPS

GPS support is available with A-GPS. There is also Google Maps installed on the device for navigation needs.

Value for Money

The XCD28 is priced at ?7180 (approx.). Its price range is for the budget conscious consumer looking for a smartphone.

Dell XCD28 Call Quality and Battery

Call Quality on the XCD28 is average at best. The 1000 mAh battery hardly manages to last you through a day of use.

Verdict

Some users will be frustrated with the resistive touchscreen display. Another pain point is that the device does not support adobe flash player, so you will not be able to play a lot of videos. The only thing that the XCD28 really has going for it, is its low price. You are better off looking at other budget Android devices.