Eten X610 Review

Introduction:

One of the latest additions to Eten’s line of Windows Mobile based phones is the X610. It is the successor of X600 and packs a lot of features in a sleek body. Hardware wise, the device is almost identical with the one it replaces, but on the software side, there are some pleasant differences. Its operating system is now Windows Mobile Professional 6.1 and packs the full SPB Shell personalized interface, which makes it easier to use by fingers only and definitely looks better than the plain WM OS.

The retail package contains:

Design:

The new Eten X610 definitely reminds us of its predecessor the X600 and  sports a similar look, but employs the manufacturer’s new design language with a completely flat front. Though the glossy look is definitely an eye candy, unfortunately, it is also a fingerprint magnet. Overall, the device feels solid and secure in the hand, mainly thanks to the rubbery-like back and fits well in a pocket. Nevertheless, it is best to use the included carrying case. X610’s dimensions haven’t changed at all compared to its predecessor and it still is one of the smallest Windows Mobile Professional devices on the market.




You can compare the Eten X610 with many other phones using our Size Visualization Tool.

The display is 2.8” QVGA and is capable of reproducing 65,536 colors. The picture has good contrast and saturation, but the screen’s performance suffers when exposed to direct sunlight and becomes difficult to read. Above it are located two discrete service lights, which are almost unnoticeable unless they are blinking.


In contrast to the X600, the new Eten has gotten rid of a full row of keys from its face. The remaining ones are the accept/reject call keys, GPS and one providing access to the QuickBar shortcuts menu. The keys provide a very good tactile feedback, but being completely leveled with the front panel makes them hard to find only by touch. Another change is the way the device is navigated; the joystick found on its predecessor is replaced by a 5-way D-pad, which is a bit on the small side, but feels good under your finger and is comfortable to use.


On the left side of the X610 are placed the volume rocker, voice commander, the small soft reset button and the 2.5mm headset jack. The opposite one houses the camera and power keys. Overall, they are usable, but the power button and voice commander aren’t protruding enough from the phone’s body, making them difficult to find by touch. The bottom of the phone contains the microphone, microSD card slot, mini USB port and the telescopic stylus, residing in its slot.