Its texting, e-mailing, and Web browsing depend on the traditional "abc" multiple-button press system, which is to be expected. The problem is that the keys are not intuitive: The backspace button is a key labeled "C"; moving to and fro along the text requires entering multiple menus; and doing consecutive letters on one button--say, ab--is very difficult. Even numpad texting veterans will probably be frustrated by the setup. Text conversations are displayed in an instant-messenger-style interface, but that's an unwanted consolation prize next to easy texting. Web browsing is through the T-Mobile web2go browser, which offers only a kind of Internet lite because it can't handle more-complex Websites. Along with the rough key presses, the limited Internet options make Web browsing a chore.

The 3.2-megapixel camera is about average, as is the camcorder. There is a general dimness to the Equinox's pictures. Its other problem is that the Equinox doesn't have a particularly high mic, so the camcorder mode doesn't pick up on sounds as well as it should. Video can't be transferred onto the phone, but recorded movies can be transferred to computers, sent via e-mail or uploaded to .

The music capabilities are straightforward and average. No music software here: Use the included USB cord to plug the phone to your computer and drag and drop your tunes. Compatible with MP3 and AAC files, the music player has the traditional touchpad setup (rewind, play/pause, skip ahead) along with playlists, shuffle, and repeat options. It also holds audiobooks and podcasts. Music sounded weak belted out of the phone's external speaker and slightly better with the included headphones.

The Sony Ericsson Equinox is far from a bad phone, but the rough texting/e-mailing setup, mediocre camera, and average music capabilities pale compared with those of . The low price, however, helps mitigate the mistakes.