The Nokia Lumia 920 stands tall as the company's flagship Windows 8 Phone, but consumers and critics alike suggest that the 810 series is a good investment for T-Mobile subscribers looking for a sturdy, straightforward phone with access to Microsoft's productivity suite. While the phone's design leaves something to be desired, several user reviews either praise the practical build of the device or fail to label it as a noticeable drawback. Potential buyers should note that the Lumia 920 is $99 with a two-year AT&T contract, the same price the 810 is being sold for under T-Mobile. Let's take a look at the reviews.
Critics
CNET
If you're deciding between the Nokia Lumia 810 and the HTC Windows Phone 8X for T-Mobile, the Lumia 810 is both less expensive and also has a few more software enhancements such as Nokia Music and Nokia Drive. However, if those whistles and bells don't stir your imagination and looks could tip the balance, choose the HTC Windows Phone 8X
The Nokia Lumia 810 is an undoubtedly solid smartphone, but its ultimate undoing is the Lumia 920, a better device that costs less money. If you're unwilling to jump ship from T-Mobile, Nokia's custom software also throws a wrench in the equation, because you'll need to choose between superior hardware that does less (HTC 8X), or a relatively inferior smartphone that does more (Lumia 810).
As you can see above, most of the competition the Nokia Lumia 810 comes within its own family. The good news is that below its unassuming looks, this handset has more than enough oomph to stand its ground against most the competition an offer in this price range. The Nokia Lumia 810 is a true no-nonsense Windows Phone 8 workhorse. It may not grab your heart, but it would surely earn its keep.
Existing T-Mobile customers who want a Windows Phone will appreciate the upgrade in operating system and specs the Lumia 810 offers over the Lumia 710. However, the HTC One S offers better specs at the same price over on the Android side. If you have the budget and want a Windows Phone, HTC's 8X is only $50 more.
Consumers
My last phone was a Android Samsung Galaxy S II. I would rate the Nokia 810 the superior of the two phones for ease of use and being uncomplicated.
Integration with work environment is a real plus, such as SharePoint Online access to documents via Office hub and the ability to use Lync 2010 in conjunction with Office 365's Lync Online service... I think some reviewers may be locked in some kind of mental paradigm on iPhones and not really looking closely at what Windows Phone is really capable of doing.
In conclusion the phone is great for a midrange device and in terms of performance and apps Nokia has worked hard in bringing a nice device to T-mobile. In terms of looks the design is beautiful, simple and elegant. Of course it's not as good looking as the Lumia 920 and the HTC 8x but it is not ugly.
I purchased four of these for my family last week. Windows Phone 8 on a Nokia is a winning combination. Fast, simple, easy to customize, great display, good feel. Really pleased. I've had blackberry, Iphone, Android and Palm (YES! Palm)...happy to be out of them and have the whole family on WinPhone 8 on a solid phone like the Nokia.