QWERTY mobile phones

As phones have become less like standard telephones and more and more like consummate messaging devices, the QWERTY mobile has become increasingly prevalent.

Unlike traditional mobiles that use a numeric keypad, QWERTY phones have a physical keyboard that is laid out like a computer keyboard or typewriter. This means they are optimised for entering large amounts of text on the go.

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Why choose a QWERTY phone?

Using a physical keyboard to type is the fastest way of entering text on a mobile phone, meaning that you’ll be able to write emails, instant message and compose lengthy texts much more efficiently.

If you’re likely to use your handset extensively for messaging and emailing, a QWERTY mobile phone is a perfect choice.

They’re also ideal if you work remotely and need to attend to business while you’re on the move. This is especially true given that many newer mobiles come equipped with a variety of business applications. With a QWERTY phone that also supports Microsoft Office suite, you can work on Word, PowerPoint and Excel documents wherever you are.

Touchscreen QWERTY phones

Some handsets feature a touchscreen version of a QWERTY keyboard, whereby the keyboard layout is replicated on the display of your handset. However, while these are fine for typing shorter messages, it is fair to say that in general heavier mailers prefer a physical keyboard.

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Aren’t QWERTY phones bulky?

QWERTY mobiles are surprisingly compact. This is in part because the QWERTY keyboard tucks away neatly underneath the display via a slick sliding mechanism.

However, the need to incorporate a keyboard does mean that most QWERTY phones are not usually the smallest around. Although, there are some notable exceptions, such as the Sony Ericsson Xperia Mini Pro. This is no larger than a credit card, but still finds room for a full, physical QWERTY keyboard.

Which QWERTY phones are best?

This is largely a matter of opinion, but some of the highest rated QWERTY phones are those in the Nokia NSeries. These are hugely multi-functional, next-generation communications devices that are closer to a pocket computer than a traditional handset.

Just as well regarded are the BlackBerry Curve, Bold and Pearl range that have enterprise email capabilities at their core, making them excellent business tools.

History of QWERTY phones

The QWERTY phone form factor was popularised by BlackBerry mobiles. These combine advanced email and instant messaging functionality with physical keypads that made them hugely popular with business users and teenagers alike.

BlackBerry also pioneered push email. This technology sends automatic notifications to your handset every time you receive a new message, so it’s much easier to keep on top of important mails and allows you to respond more quickly than with other email services.

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