Find Whirlpool Deals at Lowe’sSamsung Magnet SGH-A257 - orange (AT&T)
Manufacturer: Samsung Part number: SGH-A257URAATT
- More product information:
- Editors' review
- User reviews
- Specifications
- Accessories
- Manufacturer info
- Bottom Line:
- For AT&T customers looking for a basic messaging phone, the Samsung Magnet delivers with a slim QWERTY design and affordable price tag.
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Where to buy
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CNET editors' review
Samsung Magnet SGH-A257 - orange (AT&T) price range: $0.00
- Reviewed by: Bonnie Cha
- Reviewed on: 05/14/2009
- Released on: 05/11/2009
The good: The Samsung Magnet features a full QWERTY keyboard with support for numerous e-mail accounts and instant messaging. It also offers a slim design, Bluetooth, and excellent call quality.
The bad: The keyboard's buttons are a little stiff to press. The Magnet only has a VGA camera.
The bottom line: For AT&T customers looking for a basic messaging phone, the Samsung Magnet delivers with a slim QWERTY design and affordable price tag.
Messaging phones are the hot trend right now. We saw at least half a dozen QWERTY handsets debut at CTIA 2009, one of which was the Samsung Magnet for AT&T. The Magnet offers a nice alternative to the recent slider messaging phones from the carrier, such as the Pantech Matrix and the Samsung Propel, with its slim candy bar design. It has a full QWERTY keyboard, which will be put to good use with the handset's support for multiple e-mail accounts and instant messaging apps. The rest of the phone's feature set is pretty simple, and though its camera isn't as good as the similar-looking Pantech Slate, the Samsung Magnet provides excellent call quality and an extremely attractive price of $19.99 with a two-year contract. It's a good fit for those who don't need all the bells and whistles and just want a basic messaging phone that won't break bank.
Design
Unlike Samsung's recent messaging phones, like the Samsung Impression and the Messager, the Samsung Magnet forgoes the slider design and goes for a more straightforward candy bar chassis. However, don't mistake straightforward for boring. The Magnet is quite eye-catching with its orange color and slim profile. The handset measures 4.2 inches tall by 2.3 inches wide by 0.4 inch thick and weighs 3 ounces, and it has a nice, solid construction. The back of the phone also includes a patterned soft-touch finish to give it a nonslippery texture.
The Magnet's display certainly doesn't attract big praises. The 64,000-color, 2.2-inch TFT display is bright enough, but with a 176x220-pixel resolution, it isn't the sharpest. Text has some slight fuzziness around the edges and pixels are visible in pictures. That said, everything was still readable and it's on par with other lower-end handsets. The user interface is basic and easy to use. You can choose from various menu styles and themes and change the wallpaper and backlight times.
Below the display, you have a navigation array of two soft keys, Talk and End buttons, a Back and Clear button, a message shortcut, and a four-way directional keypad with a center select key. The outer controls (soft keys and Talk and End buttons) are spacious but we had some problem with the center set since they were a bit cramped. Sometimes we'd accidentally hit the End key when trying to press the back button, or we'd end up hitting some letter keys when trying to press the down button.
The full QWERTY keyboard is quite decent. The shape of the keys are a little reminiscent of the BlackBerry Bold's: rectangular with a slight bump to make them easier to press. They are a good size but just a little stiff to press, which slowed us down a bit but nothing horrible. The number keys are highlighted in orange and the bottom row includes shortcuts to the camera, instant messaging, and games and applications.
On the left side, there's a volume rocker, and you'll find Samsung's proprietary headset jack/power connector on the right. AT&T packages the Samsung Magnet with an AC adapter and reference material. For more add-ons, please check our
Features
If the full QWERTY keyboard didn't give it away, the Samsung Magnet's main attraction is its messaging capabilities. The handset includes a Mobile Mail app that allows you to connect to various accounts, including Yahoo, AOL, Windows Live, Comcast, Earthlink, and other providers. We received a "Communication Error" the first time we tried to hook up our Yahoo account, but we entered our ID and password again and everything went smoothly, though it took a couple of minutes for the phone to retrieve our messages.
The in-box view is simple but it works. There are tabs for your Draft and Sent messages, though you have to go through a couple of menus to get to your other folders. The Magnet also comes preloaded with three instant messaging clients: AIM, Yahoo, and Windows Live.
The phone comes with a 500-contact address book and includes room for multiple numbers, an e-mail address, and notes. For caller ID purposes, you can assign a photo, a group ID, or a custom ringtone. Other phone features include Bluetooth, quad-band world roaming, three-way calling, a speakerphone, a vibrate mode, text and multimedia messaging, a WAP browser, as well as organizational tools like a calendar, a task list, notepad, and currency converter.
The Samsung Magnet is equipped with a VGA camera with 4x digital zoom and a self-timer. You can choose from three sizes, and you also get white balance settings and effects. Picture quality is pretty much what you'd expect from a VGA camera. You could make out the objects in the image but it wasn't the clearest shot and colors were a bit washed out. Once done, you can send your photos via multimedia message, upload them to HP's Snapfish photo service, or set it as your background image. The Magnet offers 16MB of RAM.
Performance
We tested the quad-band (GSM 850/900/1800/1900; GPRS/EDGE) Samsung Magnet in San Francisco using AT&T service and call quality was excellent. The audio was quite crisp and clear with very little background noise. Our callers were equally impressed with the Magnet's sound quality, and one friend even said it's one of the better-sounding cell phones he's heard in a while.
Speakerphone quality was exceptional--almost better than a regular voice call--with plenty of volume and no hints of an echo or tinniness. We were also able to use an airline's voice-automated system with no problem, and we didn't experience any dropped calls during our testing period. We successfully paired the Magnet with the Logitech Mobile Traveller Bluetooth headset.
The Samsung Magnet has an 800mAh lithium ion battery with a rated talk time of 5 hours and up to 10 days of standby time. We were able to get a whopping 12 hours of continuous talk time from the Magnet in our battery drain tests. According to FCC radiation tests, the Magnet has a digital SAR rating of 0.637 watt per kilogram.
User reviews
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I really like this phone...
by ellenxrawr on July 25, 2009
Pros: The QWERTY keyboard. The battery life is sufficient. The shortcuts from the main buttons make it easy. The sound is awesome. You can actually hear...
Cons: It didn't have that many graphics, backgrounds etc., like other phones. Few decent ringtones. There isn't a video feature. The buttons on the keyboard seem to get stuck occassionally...
Summary: Samsung always seems to make awesome phones. I just got this phone and I really actually LOVE it. Like I said before, the QWERTY keyboard is awesome, just have to ...
Summary: Samsung always seems to make awesome phones. I just got this phone and I really actually LOVE it. Like I said before, the QWERTY keyboard is awesome, just have to practice a bit and get used to it, though the buttons do seem to get stuck, but get better with use. The battery life is amazing. It's really accessible with the main buttons to get to your Inbox, create a message, whatever you want set for yourself to get to easily. And the sound is awesome. On my old phone (Pantech Duo //:<), I couldn't really hear and would break up in places I can hear clearly on this phone, hence it gets better service, even in the same places as before with my old phone...
It didn't have that many graphics, backgrounds etc., like many other phones. Though I did take pictures myself and just set those as the background; even computer graphics. There isn't a video feature, but not a big deal seeing as I didn't really use it before. Just carry around your camera? And the camera on this isn't too bad, for a cellphone, which you can't expect to be that good. It's better than other phones, I'd say. It didn't have that many ringtones, though I didn't expect many...the ones that came with it aren't that great. Though you can record music, albeit fuzzy music, but you can then set that as your ringtone.
Hope this helps! (:4 out of 4 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Good basic reliable usable phone
by crescen7 on June 23, 2009
Pros: Full keyboard, decent menu, very visible display - even in daylight while riding a motorcycle. Excellent audio quality - probably the best I've ever had. Durable case, already dropped it several times - not even a scratch. LONG battery life.
Cons: Bluetooth works well but doesn't have a data card slot, so you can't really use it for music.
Summary: I previously used a BlackJack, but rarely accessed any features other than phone, text, and camera. The BlackJack, (and most 3g pda's) eat batteries so fast that I have ...
Summary: I previously used a BlackJack, but rarely accessed any features other than phone, text, and camera. The BlackJack, (and most 3g pda's) eat batteries so fast that I have to carry two extra to get through the day - if I'm going to be away from a charger. When the BlackJack died, Att tried to sell me the new "Jack" but would only make a good deal on it if I got the "data" package. Well, I already have an ATT broad band card for my laptop, and I'm not crazy about watching TV on my phone - so I wasn't thrilled with the idea of another 40 bucks a month ( 500/yr) for data.
Similar story for all the other full "PDA" phones. When I asked about the Magnet - they said, "oh, that ones free." The did tell me it had a data card slot - which would have been great - but I'm ok with using my mp3 player for music.
I've had the phone for about 3 weeks now. Already dropped it several times. It doesn't even show a scratch. For the first 3 days, it took some getting used to the menu layout, and I even considered returning it and going back to "full PDA". But after about a week I really started liking the large display, long battery life, and very clear sound. The text message display is very readable - even for geezers without glasses. Can't say that about the blackjack!
All in all, if you use your phone for; calls, texts, and camera; I don't think there is a phone out there with better voice quality, text display, battery life - for any price. Ok, the camera isn't great - but it's adequate, and I've got a real camera for serious photo's anyway.3 out of 3 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Good for basic users and small business users
by jac6195 on July 2, 2009
Pros: Battery Life, Durable, Texting, Mobile Email, WAP connection, Display, Feel of the phone, Sleek (design), Ease of Use, Tools
Cons: Keys are somewhat small, No Video capabilites, Camera is Blurry
Summary: I really like this phone. I am a constant email and texter and this is exactly the phone I need for that. I love the design of Blackberries but I ...
Summary: I really like this phone. I am a constant email and texter and this is exactly the phone I need for that. I love the design of Blackberries but I didn't need all the extra apps and capabilities never mind the outrageous data plan you must purchase so with my needs this phone was perfect. Mobile email, text and i/m are the highpoints of this phone which is exactly what I need. It has a very sleek look to it. Overall I am very happy with this phone and reccomend it to basic users who like to text, i/m and email.
2 out of 2 users found this user opinion helpful.
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If you're considering it, it's perfect for you.
by unmarked-van on September 11, 2009
Pros: easy-to-use letter keys;
great battery life;
good text capacity;
great speakerphone;
good voice quality;
quiet vibrate function (remains quiet over time);
very light;
very durable;
very simple to learn/use;
great price.Cons: no 3G capability;
somewhat basic;
not enough 'Cons'Summary: Chances are: if you are seriously considering the Samsung Maagnet, it's perfect for you. By this, I mean you are probably looking at the more basic phones, and will ...
Summary: Chances are: if you are seriously considering the Samsung Maagnet, it's perfect for you. By this, I mean you are probably looking at the more basic phones, and will be thoroughly satisfied with it. Being that it is from AT&T, it will most likely be delivered within 2 business days. I have had the phone for a few weeks now, and I am nothing short of impressed. It has shattered my opinion of what a 'free' phone could be. The battery life is great, the speakerphone is great, and it is amazingly light yet surprisingly durable. Although you should remember that this IS a base model and doesn't have all the frilly applications (but does have mobile e-mail, and moblie IM with AIM, Windows Live, and Yahoo! IM [<--these may all be used simultaniously]). The main negative (something to which you'l probably becomed acustomed) is the long process for sending the first message in a text conversation. Doing so requires pressing 5-7 buttons. (as opposed to just pressing 'send' on other phones) It is a great phone, an I would definitely recomend it to anyone.
1 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
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5 words THIS CELL PHONE IS AWESOME!
by lollaughlots23 on August 4, 2009
Pros: okay so they have awesome backrounds like hot air balloons and cool punk sneakers this phone has alot of great features and anyone who just texts,calls and takes pics would absolutely luv it i cannot believe i have it!!!!!!!!!! im so happy i got it!!
Cons: the only con about this phone is that well there aren't any cons for me!
Summary: this is a really fast phone but not too fast. it comes with guitar hero wow how sick is that! any kid from about 12 to like 19 would luv ...
Summary: this is a really fast phone but not too fast. it comes with guitar hero wow how sick is that! any kid from about 12 to like 19 would luv it. adults might also. if you want a amazing phone with not too many complicated apps awesome and a bright orange color pretty cheap too then go out and buy this phone its not junky or cheap looking well what are you wating for go! thanks for reading my review!
1 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
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This is the best phone that I have been able to use.
by bnina123 on August 3, 2009
Pros: One is it is with AT&T so that makes it good. Also it comes FREE with a contract and it gets world wide coverage.
Cons: Maybe they should come in other colors other than orange.
Summary: Basically this is one of the best phones out there!!!! :)
Summary: Basically this is one of the best phones out there!!!! :)
1 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Went from Flip to Flat and love it.
by texmateo on May 21, 2009
Pros: Audio quality is great all around when talking and listing, even the speaker phone and blue tooth are good. The size is just right, with a nice slim design but wide and long enough to easily handle in your hands.
Cons: The keyboard is a little cramped but not much more difficult to use compared to my Blackberry. There is no music player app. Since phone is so new, there are no accessories specifically for it like a gel case or belt clip.
Summary: I went from a flip phone to this flat phone, and I am really happy with it. I have had it for 2 weeks. I was looking for a basic ...
Summary: I went from a flip phone to this flat phone, and I am really happy with it. I have had it for 2 weeks. I was looking for a basic phone that had a full keyboard to easily send messages. It has a lot of extra features for a phone in this price range. The phone is easy to use and set up. The camera is not the greatest, but for those impromptu picture moments where you forget your good digital camera, this will do the job. Hopefully accessories will come out for the phone soon. It is brand new and store said it may be a month before accessories come out.
1 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Great phone except if you are a fast texter.
by eterntyinanhour on May 20, 2009
Pros: Very cute layout, great call quality, great speakerphone quality, easy to use, very lightweight, very thin
Cons: If you are a very fast typer, letters will be left out of words.
Summary: This is an overall phone, especially for someone that isn't a very speedy typer. I just couldn't handle the leaving out of letters.
Summary: This is an overall phone, especially for someone that isn't a very speedy typer. I just couldn't handle the leaving out of letters.
1 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
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not as good as this site says - forget the hype
by idbtc on November 24, 2009
Pros: voice quality, adjustable font size for display
Cons: limited bluetooth capability (the ad video is b.s.), battery life is 3 days max, navigation is a pain, functionality is not intuitive, key unlock requires 2 steps - 1 too many, can't see missed calls or time when unit is idle - not user friendly.
Summary: I bought this phone after reading the comments on this site - particularly from viewing the video presentation from cnet. They really overhyped this phone and I was so disappointed ...
Summary: I bought this phone after reading the comments on this site - particularly from viewing the video presentation from cnet. They really overhyped this phone and I was so disappointed when I tested it out myself. Notice cnet says bluetooth, but they don't say it is bluetooth only with headset...why should I buy additional equipment just to get bluetooth capability when 90% of phones out there don't require it?? then the navigation is horrible and there is no easy way to get back to the main menu if you are done, you have to go back like 5 times - even if you close the unit and reopen the phone, it leaves you where you left off in the menu - I'm comparing this to my old phone the Ericsson 520a where things were so simple and easy to use. There is digital power meter so you really can't tell how much juice you have left and the power on this phone is 3 days max. I'm returning this phone and getting something else. Won't trust this site for recommendations anymore.
i meant to say that there is NO digital power meter so it is not possible to see how much power is charged.
Updated on Nov 24, 2009 -
Good Free Phone
by SaysSimpleSimon on September 16, 2009
Pros: Free with purchase of 2 year contract from AT&T. It's a slim phone with a full QWERTY keypad. Messaging is extremely easy with the phone. Creating new contacts is fast. Camera isn't too bad. Very light. Fits well in hand.
Cons: Keys are small. DIaling numbers is tricky due to small keys. The phone does not come with alot of bells & whistles. The phone feels a bit like a toy due to its light weight. Software is fairly basic.
Summary: For a free phone, it is an excellent product. It is far better than my previous phone purchased two year ago. Text messaging is extremely easy. For an individual who ...
Summary: For a free phone, it is an excellent product. It is far better than my previous phone purchased two year ago. Text messaging is extremely easy. For an individual who is looking for a phone to talk and text, this is a great option. The camera isn't the greatest, but gets the job done. Orange color is very sharp. Fit and finish of the phone is good. Calls are very clear. My biggest gripe is punching in phone numbers. Due to the small keys I input the wrong number.
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Samsung
- Part number: SGH-A257URAATT
- Description: Introduce the Samsung Magnet - the ultimate expression in messaging, style and value. Heavy on functionality and light on the budget, the Magnet boasts a full QWERTY keyboard so you can express yourself through text messaging, mobile email and instant messaging. And, with one-touch messaging, you can share the latest news with your crew starting with one super quick key. It's pretty much everything you need to stay in the loop whenever and wherever. Go ahead and express yourself with the Magnet from Samsung.
General
- Product Type Cellular phone
- Service Provider AT&T
- Width 2.3 in
- Depth 0.5 in
- Height 4.3 in
- Weight 3.1 oz
- Body Color Orange
Cellular
- Technology GSM
- Band GSM 850/900/1800/1900 (Quadband)
- Phone Design Candy bar
- Antenna Internal
- Vibrating Alert Yes
- Call Timer Yes
- Conference Call Capability 3-way
- Voice Recorder Yes
- Speakerphone Yes
Phone Memory
- Phone Book Capacity 500 names & numbers
- Missed Calls Memory 20
- Dialed Calls Memory 20
- Received Calls Memory 20
Messaging & Data Services
- Messaging Services Yahoo! Messenger, AOL Instant Messenger Service (AIM), Windows Live Messenger (MSN Messenger)
- Mobile Email Yes
- GPRS (General Packet Radio Service) Yes - Class 10
- EDGE (Enhanced Data Rates For Global Evolution) Yes - Class 10
- Internet Browser Yes
- JAVA applications Yes
Ring Tones
- Polyphonic Ring Tone Voice Qty 64
- Ring Tone Formats MP3, MIDI
Multimedia Features
- Downloadable Content Games, Ring tones, Wallpapers, Audio files, Video files, Screensavers
Digital Camera
- Sensor Resolution 0.3 megapixels
- Still Image Resolutions 320 x 240, 640 x 480
- Digital Zoom 4
- Self Timer Delay 3 sec, 5 sec, 10 sec
Organizer
- Alarm Clock Yes
- Calendar Yes
- Calculator Basic
- Conversion Currency
Display
- Type LCD display
- Technology TFT
- Display Resolution 176 x 220 pixels
- Diagonal Size 2.2 in
- Color Support Color
- Color Depth 16-bit (65000 colors)
- Multi-language Menu Yes
- Display Languages French, English, Spanish
Power
- Type Power adapter
Battery
- Technology - Lithium ion
- Capacity 800 mAh
- Talk Time 300 min
- Standby Time 250 h
Manufacturer info
- Samsung
- Manufacturer profile
- Browse Samsung products on Shopper.com
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- Website: http://www.samsungusa.com/
- Address:
105 Challenger Road, Ridgefield Park, NJ 07660 - Phone: 1-800-726-7864
- Fax: 1-973-601-6001
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