5140i

The 5140i is an extension of Nokia's rugged phone line, successfully providing both resilience and water resistance. While the target of this phone is the user who is into outdoors-oriented sports, it really is suited to anyone looking for a handset that can handle the rough and tumble.

We tested this phone over a period of nine months and it lived up to its rugged looks. It came out unscathed through ski trips, mountain bike expeditions, bucks' parties, house renovations and train trips. It comfortably survived being dropped on carpet and concrete, and was not hindered by splashes and rain. After this time the only noticeable impact was some minor scratching on the plastic protective screen that covers the LCD panel.

The 5140i provides only the standard Nokia phone features, including a VGA camera and FM radio, but where this model really shines is its sporty inclusions. A mini flash light and compass are present - it even includes a spirit bubble built into the face of the phone to keep it level. The compass itself appears on the LCD panel and a bearing can be set - sure it doesn't compete with a GPS unit but it could be enough to get the user out of trouble. Other 'active lifestyle' features include a thermometer, stopwatch and countdown timer.

The features perform admirably, however the absence of Bluetooth doesn't fit the action-oriented nature of the model, with hands-free operation only provided by the included single-bud ear piece.

The 5140i is no ugly duckling, however the black case with rubber edging will appeal to those who put functionality ahead of style. And don't let the bulky design put you off - the phone is surprisingly light at only 100g.

The case design is not new, and we've described it previously as opening up like the protective shell of a cicada to reveal the sensitive components within. This design successfully protects the phone and is still reasonably easy to open by pressing on two sides of the bottom half of the 'shell' in much the same manner as the lid of a child proof container.

A flip out rubber cover at the base of the phone opens to reveal a Nokia port for power and another for attaching the ear piece or other accessories. A wrist strap is also included in the pack. The battery is rated by Nokia for 150 to 300 hours on standby and two to five hours calling time; the phone lived up to our battery life expectations.

Overall we were impressed with the Nokia 5140i. It certainly has its place in the market and if you are prone to breakages then this phone should go the distance.