The Nokia 920 and the Samsung Ativ S both run Windows 8 and although the operating systems are Windows-based, each device is very different.
Both phones were operating on the Telecom network and were provided by Gen-i in Dunedin. Being something of a Samsung aficionado these days, I automatically assumed the Nokia would not suit at all. But I was mistaken.
The Nokia Lumia is a work phone, heavy and thick but with a really good feel to it. There is an advertisement around showing how Apple has designed its new phone to fit into someone's hand. The Lumia fitted my hand, but I doubt it would fit someone of a small stature. This is not a phone for wimps.
Nevertheless, the phone felt comfortable. It was incredibly easy to use and setting up my email accounts, social network accounts and contacts was effortless.
The phone came with all the usual Windows options and some music options that so far, I have resisted on phones. Nokia does not supply the plethora of apps Samsung Android users will be used to, and some of the apps are not as user-friendly as those available on Android phones.
But that is a small complaint because with some thought, apps can be downloaded to replace most of those installed. The maps app provided on
The Lumia 920 came without a charger, but having been advertised as breaking new ground with wireless charging. However, the Samsung charger that remains in my office fitted and charging in the usual manner was completed.
In contrast, the Samsung felt like it would break in my hand each time I picked it up. In keeping with Samsung's usual design, the back plate seemed almost fragile in comparison to the Lumia.
The Samsung had a brighter display than the Lumia and is an attractive device with nice rounded features that will appeal to those who like to have their phone on display at a bar.
The Samsung Ativ S bears a strong resemblance to the S3, to the point where it almost feels like the S3 has been re-released with the Windows operating system.
Other reviewers complained about how slippery the Ativ S is, but this reviewer did not find that a problem. Fans of removable batteries and micro-SD cards will be pleased the Ativ S has both.
Setting up email and social network accounts was again easy, with the Lumia having the edge on usability. Both phones will have their own market, with the Lumia 920 appealing to those people who work their phones hard each day. The Ativ S will appeal to those having a lighter workload and use phones as a more overall device, with an emphasis on style.
