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Samsung Propel review

7.7/10 AVG.
RATING
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Samsung Propel
Samsung Propel
...


7.7/10
Informr score
The Samsung Propel currently has an Informr score of 7.7 out of 10. This score is based on our evaluation of 39 sources including reviews from users and the web's most trusted critics.

The Samsung Propel is a sturdy QWERTY slider (say THAT five times fast!) that puts texting front and center.

While QWERTY keypads are usually found on smartphones, Samsung uses said keypad effectively on the Propel to enhance and expedite text messaging. Users will enjoy the advantages offered by such a layout over a traditional nine-key, alpha-numeric keypad. The keypad also has a dedicated camera key, making the 1.3 megapixel camera easy to access.

That said, the keypad was a bit disappointing. They keys did not have the non-slip feel and texture of, say, a BlackBerry, and the top row of keys were challenging, since they are just below the bottom edge of the top half of the phone when open.

Overall, this probably won’t be a problem, since this phone is geared toward people who are most likely transitioning from an alpha-numeric keypad, in which case the benefits far outweigh the small inconveniences.

The 2.2 inch display is large and adequate, but its 176 x 220 pixel display is unfortunately not as crisp as other displays on lesser phones.

With the Samsung Propel, you can text quickly, MMS, and email via MSN Messenger, Yahoo! Messenger and AOL Instant Messenger. The WAP 2.0 browser provides internet access, though not to be confused with a full HTML experience. The Propel also offers Bluetooth, speakerphone, MP3 player and microSD memory expansion.

Pros: QWERTY keypad, thoughtful design.

Cons: A bit of an “unfinished” feel.

Verdict: The Samsung Propel is a sturdy phone that makes texting quick and easy. If you do a lot of texting but do not want to move up to a smartphone, Samsung offers a great alternative in the Propel.


Custom
Operating system
Operating system
Custom
Unknown
Processor
Processor
Unknown
2.2"
Screen Size
Screen Size
2.2"
1+ MP
Camera
Camera
1+ MP
1000 mAh
Battery


What the Critics Are Saying...


Phone Scoop
Phone Scoop

Propel has a great (and hopefully soon-to-be-imitated) form factor, a handy QWERTY keyboard, an above average music player and camera, above-average talk-time battery life, speedy Web access, and plenty of other extras, all for a bargain price. Propel is perfect if you're less a talker than texter a...

- Stewart Wolpin, Phone Scoop
MobileBurn
MobileBurn

Overall, Samsung delivers an excellent messaging device with the Propel slider. I like its sturdy build, compact size, QWERTY keyboard and ability to quickly load the mobile web. Most importantly, as a phone, it maintained a full 3G signal for the entirety of my review. I give it a "Recommended" rat...

- Marc Lynde, MobileBurn


Prices (Where to Buy)




Common Questions


We've got you covered! Download a free PDF copy of the Samsung Propel user manual here.


Samsung backs up the Propel with a 1 Year parts & labour warranty.


If your Propel has problems and is still within its warranty period, you could contact Samsung support or the retailer you purchased the phone from. You'll find Samsung's contact information here. If your phone is off warranty and needs repair for a physical problem such as a broken screen or bad battery, you should visit an authorized service centre or a local phone repair shop. You can also connect with others in The Informr Community Forum to find and share answers to questions.



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Quick view

Screen Size
2.2"

The Samsung Propel's screen size is 2.2 inches with x pixels resolution.

Processor
Unknown

There is a processor (CPU).

OS

The phone runs on proprietary operating system firmware.

Camera
1+ MP

You can take photos or capture video with the phone's onboard 1+ MP camera.

There's no secondary front camera.

Storage
50 MB

Internal memory is 50 MB. An external, MicroSD, MicroSDHC expansion slot is available for increased storage capacity.

Battery
1000mAh

The phone is powered by a Lithium-Ion (Li-Ion), 1000 mAh battery. Samsung's performance ratings are 10.5 days standby time.

Samsung Propel Specs

Overview
Release Date October 15, 2008
Regions Available USA, Canada
Operating System No

Compare Custom Smartphones

Processor
Internal Storage 50 MB
RAM No
Hearing Aid Compatible Yes
TTY/TDD Yes
Noise Cancellation No
SAR Head: 0.97 W/kg
Body: 0.82 W/kg
Manufacturer Warranty 1 Year
Accessories Included AC Charger, Manual, Standard Battery
Cellular
Networks
GPRS, EDGE, HSDPA
Mobile / Cellular Data
Push-to-talk (PTT) No
Wi-Fi Calling No
Voice over LTE (VoLTE) No
SIM card size
Yes
Dual SIM No
Connectivity
USB Yes
USB OTG Support No
GPS Type A-GPS
Infrared No
Bluetooth Yes
Bluetooth Profiles A2DP, AVRCP, BPP, DUN, OPP/FTP, HFP, HSP
Bluetooth Audio Codecs SBC
Wi-Fi No
Mobile Hotspot No
Memory Expansion Slot Yes
Expansion Slot Info MicroSD, MicroSDHC
NFC No
Data Tethering Compatibility No
Camera
Main Camera
Resolution / Aperture
1+ Megapixels
Zoom
Yes
Flash
No
Additional Rear Camera Info
Brightness control, Multi-shot, Self-timer
Video Recording Parameters
Front Camera
Resolution / Aperture
Additional Front Camera Info
No
Video Recording Parameters
Display / Screen
Type Color
Technology LCD (STN)
Colors 65k
Resolution x pixels
Pixel Density Unknown
Size 2.2 inches
Secondary Display No
Multi-Touch No
Fingerprint-Resistant Coating No
Additional Display Features -
Power & Battery
Battery Type Lithium-Ion (Li-Ion)
Battery Capacity 1000 mAh
Removable Battery Yes
Wireless Charging
Fast Charging No
Video Playback Time Unknown
Internet Use (Wi-Fi) Unknown
Internet Use (Cellular) Unknown
Talk Time Unknown
Standby Time Up to 10.5 days
Mixed Usage
Physical Characteristics
Design Type Slider
Colors White, Blue, green
Dimensions [H x W x D] 9.8 x 5.9 x 1.5 cm (3.9 x 2.3 x 0.6 in)
Weight 107 grams
Water Resistant / Waterproof Unknown
Rugged design No
IP Rating No
Headset Jack 2.5mm
External Speakers No
Input / Navigation
Sleep / Wake Key No
Home Key No
Input / Keyboard Type QWERTY
Navigation Type D-pad
External Volume Control Yes
Fingerprint Sensor No
More
Additional Information Messaging: SMS, EMS, MMS, AIM, Yahoo, Windows Live
Graphics: Yes
Backlit Illumination: Yes
Predictive Text Entry: T9
Voicemail Key: Yes
Any Key Answer: Yes
Keypad/Screen Lock: Yes
Contact List Capacity: 1000
Multiple Numbers Per Contact: 6 numbers, Email address
Voice Activated Dialing: Yes
Photo Caller ID: Yes
Web Browser: Yes
Email Client: Yes
PC Synchronization: Yes
Java Application: Yes
Audio Formats: MP3
Video Playback Formats: Unknown
Streaming Video: Yes
Custom Ringtones: No
Vibration Alert: Yes
Downloadable Ringtones: Yes
Ringer ID: Yes
Speakerphone: Yes
Wi-fi Encryption: -
Games: No
Apps: -
Included Software / Apps: -
To-Do / Task List, Calendar, World Clock, Alarm, Timer, Calculator, Weather, Stocks, Maps, NotePad, Voice Memos / Recorder

Other Names (AKA): Samsung SGH-A767
Related Links Manual (PDF)
Samsung Propel Reviews
Where to buy Samsung Propel
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