Unlocked U.S. E71 for $280, N97 for $599 from Amazon & Costco

If HTC’s Windows Mobile 6.1 based Touch Pro2 had not finally become available in the U.S., I probably would be looking at buying an unlocked Symbian S60 based Nokia N97. Touch screen, physical QWERTY keyboard, 32GB storage, and a great 5 megapixel camera with a real glass lens. What’s not to like? Its specs are better than the Touch Pro2.

Unlocked Nokia N97 at Costco.com

But, where could I buy one at a somewhat reasonable price? Unsubsidized smartphones are not cheap. Just ask unfortunate iPhone 3G owners (like me) who do not qualify for Apple’s subsidized 3GS price.

The N97 launched with the relatively high price of $700. However, the NokiaUSA.com site itself lists it for $629 at the moment. And, both Amazon.com and Costco.com (online store, not the physical warehouse) sell it for $599.99. Amazon ships it free in the U.S. Costco.com charges for shipping.

The even more interesting price note is that Amazon has unlocked U.S. version Nokia E71 units selling for $280 (retail is $449). And, shipping is free.

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