Sony Ericsson’s Cyber-shot camphones have always been solid enough to survive the odd scrape but its new 3.2-megapixel packing, HSDPA-careering C702 model is ruggerdized for extra protection against life’s more severe assaults.
Or so we thought, because the C702 tough guy image is seemingly all front. Sure enough, its plastic is a tad more durable than your average Joe handset and the rubberised battery cover is locked tight by a screw mechanism, but the compact C702 is nowhere near as ‘nails as the JCB Toughphone and Samsung Solid dogs of war. And while it been stamped with an IP54 tough certificate to prove it dust and water resistant, just don’t be taking it with you in the shower or on a trip to the Sahara desert.
The C702 maintains the Cyber-shot’s burgeoning rep for sharp shooters with an accomplished 3.2-megapixel lens complete with autofocus. Like the K810i, the top line of the keypad moonlights as shortcuts in camera mode while the sliding lens cap is reassuring sturdy, but the C702 is nevertheless not without its disappointments: Sony Ericsson’s essential BestPic picture wizardry is absent while the flash is only a feeble LED variety.
The built-in GPS is a boon for a middle class handset although its performance mirrors the skittish nature of its Sony Ericsson W760 compadre when holding onto a satellite fix in more high-rise city streets. That said, its general performance with the on-board Google Maps and the more fully feature Wayfinder software trial was reliable.
Verdict
A capable mid-range camphone but if you’re looking for an ultra-ruggerdized handset then we suggest you look elsewhere.
Best features
Compact, solid and easy-to-use handset
Sharp autofocus-led 3.2-megapixel camera
Fast HSDPA download speeds
Not so good
Only slightly ruggerdized
Feeble camera flash
Occasionally flighty GPS performance
Closest rivals
Nokia 5500 Sport
This diddy but tough cookie Symbian smartphone is designed for active types who need a pocket-sized fitness coach.
Nokia N73
Another Symbian smartie with a strong eye for mobile photography, thanks to its eagle-eyes Carl Zeiss carved 3.2-megapixel camera lens.
Samsung F400
This dual slider music phone may be all about the music but its autofocus-led 3.2-megapixel snapper shouldn’t be overlooked.
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