Though the Nokia 3210 is no longer in production, this was a model that was around for a long time. Mobile phones have moved on considerably since this model was first released, and I remember at the time of purchase this was an innovative phone that offered huge versatility. Comparing it to models of today however, it appears bulky, its processing slow and its memory pitiful. However, it was always a reliable product, and the tough outer casing afforded excellent durability. If you want a simple phone that you can rely on and are not too concerned by its unwieldiness, this may be the phone for you.

Using the phone to make calls could not be simpler. You merely type the number you wish to dial and hit the Call key. Sending text messages is also a relatively simple process. You need to select Menu, then scroll to Messages. From here you can choose whether to access messages received, view messages sent or draft messages, or compose a new message. The phone is equipped with predictive text, which is designed to make text composition more rapid. I have always found this to be a hindrance however, as the word I am attempting to type is rarely the word the phone suggests. You can opt to switch this feature off however, although it does mean you must repeat this process every time you begin a new message.

In terms of calls you can view missed calls and call duration. The phone is also equipped with a contacts list, so you can store your important numbers and not have to worry about remembering them. The phone allows you to store upwards of one hundred contacts in its memory, which is more than sufficient for most people's requirements. Similarly, when you receive a call, if the incoming number is already one of your contacts their name will show up on the screen.

The phone is equipped with a variety of games including Snake and Memory, which are classic games and ideal for passing the time on long journeys, etc. You can also choose between a variety of ringtones and text alerts, although many of them are shrill and grating, and the process of working through the options yet more so. This model was one of the first to offer Xpress-On, which gives the user the choice to change the outer appearance of the phone by replacing its skin. The choice is extensive, and you can choose neutral or pastel skins, graffiti-inspired skins and even skins embellished with cartoon characters. This makes the phone very versatile, and you can dramatically alter its appearance without purchasing a new model. I did not indulge in this process, as the appearance of my phone concerns me less than its functioning.

I have found the screen to be of ample size so you do not have to squint to view characters, and the contrast between the black letters and the neutral background makes reading off the screen simple. The buttons on the keypad are somewhat larger than those on some more modern designs, but this suits me better as I find that with smaller keys I frequently overreach my target and end up hitting the wrong key inadvertently. The 3210 weighs around 150g, so while it will hardly weigh you down it is noticeably heftier than many new models. Although this may not be the most elegant of models, its durability is commendable. I have dropped the phone on more than one occasion and even scratched the screen, and yet none of these events prevented it from delivering perfect service. It provided me with many years of dependability, and even by today's standards this is a decent phone whose simplicity will suit many people perfectly.