Best Windows Phone - which should you buy?

When it comes to Windows Phone there's a new player in the starting line up in the form of Windows Phone 8 – Microsoft's latest attempt to make a significant dent in the mobile market.

While Android and iOS lead the way when it comes to mobile operating systems, you can draw many similarities between the two which may leave you feeling like you want some new. A fresh start, a new perspective.

That's exactly what Windows Phone, both versions 7 and 8, offers with a completely new way of providing you with your smartphone fill.

1. Nokia Lumia 920

What's better than a top Windows Phone 7 handset? A Windows Phone 8 one, and we've got no qualms about telling you this is the best Windows Phone out there.

Simplicity is the key here, the Lumia 920 does the basics well, from contact integration and calling, to web browsing and messaging – oh and it's 4G enabled

The 8MP camera on the back of the Lumia 920 is one of the best we've used and for anyone looking to get a top end cameraphone you need to seriously consider this Nokia.

The 4.5-inch display is also a good'un, crisp and clear it makes watching movies, surfing the web or Facebook stalking an enjoyable experience, thanks to the PureMotion HD technology on offer.

And you can even use it with gloves on... what more could you want? You're right: holograms. But they don't exist yet.

• Read: Nokia Lumia 920 review
• See the best Nokia Lumia 920 deals

2. Nokia Lumia 820

If you're pockets aren't so deep, or your hands are a little smaller you may want to take a look at the Lumia 820, which still provides you with the full Windows Phone 8 experience, albeit on a slightly smaller screen.

It still has the fancy tricks of Lumia 920, including wireless charging, 4G, NFC connectivity, but it also brings changeable covers so your phone can reflect your mood – exciting times.

• Read: Nokia Lumia 820 review
• See the best Nokia Lumia 820 deals

3. HTC 8X

Microsoft decided to shun Nokia when it came to championing Windows Phone 8, instead choose the HTC 8X to be the signature device for its new operating system.

While the 8X is by far the best looking of the Windows Phone 8 bunch it unfortunately doesn't have the prowess under the hood to match the powerhouse which is the Lumia 920.

You do get Beats Audio technology and a couple of amplifiers to enhance your tunes through the internal speaker as well as the headphone jack, plus the slender frame fits comfortably in the hand.

It's by no means a bad phone, it's just not the best Windows Phone 8 handset out there.

• Read: HTC 8X review
• See the best HTC 8X deals