We don't normally make a fuss over budget phones, and we definitely don't readily recommend that people buy them (even when they're free). For the Pantech Marauder on Verizon Wireless, however, we'll make an exception. Its Snapdragon S4 processor, slide-out QWERTY keyboard, and 4G LTE connectivity make this a budget device that stands out from the pack.

For the unfamiliar, the Marauder is a new offering from Verizon, packing some very respectable hardware (for the most part, anyway):

  • Processor: 1.2GHz dual-core Snapdragon S4
  • RAM: 1GB
  • Storage: 4GB
  • Display: 3.8" 480x800
  • Battery: 1680mAh
  • OS: Android 4.0
  • Dimensions: 5.07" (H) x 2.57" (W) x 0.46" (D)
  • Camera: 5MP rear, VGA front
  • Connectivity: Bluetooth 4.0, 802.11b/g/n, WiFi Direct

The clear downside of the Marauder is its smaller-ish 3.8" display, but if you loved the OG Droid and no other phone has been able to fill that void since, the Marauder is your best choice. And now, you can get it for free from either Amazon Wireless or Wirefly, so long as you're willing to sign up for two more years with Big Red.

If you're convinced that this is your next device, pick your poison below.

Amazon Wireless

Wirefly