HTC Sensation XE with Beats Audio

(This review is regarding the Sensation XE with Beats Audio)

I could talk for months about how excellent this phone is, I may be even inclined to say I'm in love with it.

After owning a HTC Tattoo for a year (my first 'smartphone') I was more than eager to upgrade to something a lot better! Tired of a resistive low-res touchscreen, weak audio, small storage space, slow performance and a tiny megapixel camera. I was on the hunt for the best phone I could possibly get my hands on.

An avid fan of the Android OS - and after the reliability of my previous HTC (which withstood many trips down the stairs and too the floor) - I was looking for a phone with both criteria. I had already looked at the Wildfire (performance wasn't that superb) and the Desire (which was adequate to say the least) - but I was curious to find a contentder for the almightly iPhone 4. And I found it, the HTC Sensation.

Originally I had intended on getting the basic Sensation from O2 with discount from a family member who works for the company, but to much of my dismay and anguish I was turned away the door of the store being told 'We don't stock that anymore' which was most likely for the iPhone 4S release which was happening that day! Luckily, quick thinking me popped into my local Phones4U around the corner and there stood my dream phone. But wait, what is that beside it? Yes the Sensation XE WITH BEATS AUDIO - yep, the phone which isn't actually 'available' yet (not for another few weeks!). It was about £5 more than the basic version, and so I brought it.

I've owned the phone for nearly a month now (seems longer); and my god I wouldn't change it for the world. Keep your Galaxy S2's, keep your 4S' - In my eyes the sensation is just as good, IF better. Here's why:

- Performance

The speed of this phone is maybe quicker than my laptop. To think I was using a mid-range computer 3 years ago which had the same specifications as my sensation is amazing. Why close apps? There isn't a need to. Android's built in memory management makes sure you're phone never crashes, never runs slow, lags nothing.

- Internet

This phone has become my favorite internet device. Everywhere I go I'm checking emails, browsing funny image websites, looking for reviews, checking out movies, looking for offers, updating my twitter and facebook, researching new facts. Paired with Dolphin HD browser (free app) internet use on the HTC Sensation is comfortable, and practical - mainly due to its highly responsive and large touch-screen. Tip: set your mobile network to