Size-wise, the N97 is a typical QWERTY-equipped side-slider at 117.2×55.3×15.9 mm (though around the camera module its thickness reaches 18.2 mm). Thanks to its increased length, the N97 doesn’t feel all that chubby and seems well-proportioned when compared to the 5800.
At 150 grams the N97 is a pretty large smartphone, although its nearest competition isn’t that far ahead at 140 grams or so.
There are two choices of colors – white and dark-brown. White would be the ideal choice for women. Both look great though.
Running along the N97’s front fascia is a metallic strip that isn’t as tall as that found on the Nokia 5800, so its display isn’t sunk so far into the casing, plus the physical size of the N97’s screen allows for more comfortable operation. Sitting above the display are the forward-facing video camera and ambient light sensor.
One thing of note about the N97’s casing is that it’s made entirely of velvety plastic. The handset’s front fascia is glossy and is prone to smudges. All in all, the N97’s build quality is fine, even though it doesn’t utilize any metal parts like many o2 mobile phones.
But that’s where the benefits of its unique sliding mechanism surface – the halves don’t feel wobbly at all; furthermore you can kick it open only by pushing both parts in opposite directions at the same time. Basically, trying to slide the display upward won’t open the N97, and this distinctive feature allows it to boast a very solid setup, both when the halves are slid open and closed.
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