HTC Touch Pro2 vs. HTC Imagio

If you're on the Verizon Wireless network and you're debating between the HTC Touch Pro2 vs. the HTC Imagio, let me offer you my 2 cents.

I'll start with the features that are common to both smartphones:

• They both will eventually run Windows Mobile 6.5 (the Imagio comes with 6.5 now while the Touch Pro2 comes with 6.1 but you'll get an upgrade to 6.5). 
• They both have a nice large 3.6" screen at 480x800 pixels.
  
• They are both fast and have a nice amount of RAM.
• The both come with a 1500 mAh battery.
• You can tether using either device (Mobile Broadband Connect)
  
• They both have a micro SD card slot.
• They are both world phones with CDMA and GSM capabilities.
• They both have internal GPS so they can be used as a GPS navigator.
  
• They are both made by HTC, so you're getting a high-quality phone.
  

Now, let's talk about the pros/cons (+/-)

HTC Touch Pro2

• + You'll get a nice slide-out QWERTY keyboard.
• - You'll end up with a thicker device
• - no V Cast TV
  

HTC Imagio

• + Thinner and narrower (not by much)
  
• - No hardware QWERTY keyboard 
• + V Cast TV (great for those slow nights when you're on call)
• + better camera (5 MP vs. 3.2 MP on the Touch Pro2)
  

So, the verdict? In my opinion, it's worth having a slightly thicker device if you do a fair bit of texting, e-mail, or any other form of text entry. So, the HTC Touch Pro2 wins. Maybe I'm biased because I've always had a smartphone that's had a hardware keyboard. After trying the BlackBerry Storm for a week, I realized that I am much more productive when I have a physical QWERTY keyboard (or thumb board to be more precise).

However, if you want something that closely resembles an Apple iPhone, go with the thin and sleek HTC Imagio. I don't think you'll be disappointed because the on-screen keyboard is very easy to use and it comes with large on-screen buttons.