HTC Evo Shift 4G Review - Less Is Sometimes More
Introduction and Specifications


4G, where available, is of course all about speed. By the end of 2010, Sprint had rolled out its 4G WiMax network to 70 cities across the U.S. The service provider claims that 4G offers peak download speeds of more than 10Mbps and peak upload speeds of 1Mbps. Since you probably won't get "peak" performance all of the time, Sprint says average download speeds range from 3 to 6 Mbps. When a 4G network is not available, the EVO Shift automatically connects to Sprint's 3G network which offers average download speeds of 600kbps – 1.4Mbps. If Wi-Fi is available, the Shift will choose to connect to that as its preferred network.
Sprint offers various plans for its 4G phones. The least expensive is $79.99 per month, which you'll notice is higher than the company's standard $69.99/month "Everything Data Plan." That's because the company charges an extra $10/month for any 4G phones on any plan. Another hidden service cost is that Sprint charges $29 per month to use the device as a hotspot. You can, however, also pay for a $10 one-day hotspot pass. The Evo Shift can become a hotspot for up to eight other devices.
When you add it up, including taxes and fees, you'll likely spend about $90 or more per month for any 4G smartphone on Sprint including the new EVO Shift 4G. If that's the case, should you opt for the new EVO Shift over the acclaimed EVO? Read on as we answer this question and many more in our hands-on review.
Sprint offers various plans for its 4G phones. The least expensive is $79.99 per month, which you'll notice is higher than the company's standard $69.99/month "Everything Data Plan." That's because the company charges an extra $10/month for any 4G phones on any plan. Another hidden service cost is that Sprint charges $29 per month to use the device as a hotspot. You can, however, also pay for a $10 one-day hotspot pass. The Evo Shift can become a hotspot for up to eight other devices.
![]() |
|