Weighing in at 115 g and measuring 100 x 46 x 21 mm, the Nokia 6280 easily outperforms the 6270 as a slim slider phone, but doesn't even come close to other 3G offerings such as the wafer-thin Samsung SGH-Z150. The 6280 does, however, offer very comfortable numerical buttons, accompanied by action buttons and a navigation pad of similar build and quality. While the buttons also offered low audible feedback, the slider-mechanism of the 6280 unfortunately turned out to be a little sloppy.

As for phone-centric features, the Nokia 6280 operates on GSM 850/900/1800/1900 MHz networks, and offers up WCDMA (3G), EDGE, GPRS and HSCSD for high-speed data transfers. Furthermore, we find an FM radio, a miniSD card slot and a bundled 64 MB miniSD card, as well as operator-dependent features such as Push-To-Talk and Visual Radio. The 6280 also supports Java MIDP 2.0, MP3 and polyphonic ringtones, SMS and MMS messages, in addition to sporting Bluetooth 2.0, Infrared and USB 2.0 via Pop Port as connectivity options. Somewhat mediocre stereo soundspeakers are also available, as well as a music player of average quality.

Nokia's 6280 is the most capable Nokia Series 40 handset to date, however fails to impress in light of its fierce competition. Its battery life, browsing and video calling capabilities are all of mediocre quality, resulting in an average overall impression as a 3G handset. On the other hand, the upgraded Series 40 user interface and decent 2 Megapixel camera with VGA video recording could very well render the 6280 this year's ultimate handset for those who favour Nokia handsets.

What's positive: Upgraded Series 40 user interface; comfortable keypad

What's negative: Mediocre battery life; average 3G performance