Hey there,

I've seen there have been some topics on this subject a while ago, haven't seen any recent ones, so I thought I'd update. I'm currently living in Beijing and planning to buy a smartphone in the next few days.

Question 1)
This is a general question which should be useful to most.
Which is the best Android phone to run Skritter?

Question2)
I have a budget of 1,500 to 2,500 RMB, and I could go a little above. I have looked on the net, and now I'm hesitating between the Nexus One, Motorola Droid X2, and the HTC Evo 4G.
Are those choices better than getting an iPhone 3 ? Do I have better options?

Well, when the iOS app comes out, an iPhone will be a much better choice. You'll be able to use it offline and it'll run smoother. It's not out yet though.

I'd also suggest going for an iDevice; that's based on personal preference, but also on the fact the the iOS Skritter app will definitely be out early, soon, and unless there is a really killer app you need for Android (which I consider Skritter to be for iOS), there isn't really a big differentiation between the two for an average user.

A uncontracted 3GS is in your price range and if you're willing to spend 1000 RMB more you can get an iPhone 4 (8 GB model). When I was in Beijing I ordered my 3GS through a Taobao seller with a trusted rating - it ended up coming from Hong Kong and I never had any issues with it.

Someone mentioned awhile ago that a iPhone 4 or 4S could be had with a 2-year contract that cost about 5000 RMB (pay up front - then get free cell service for 2 years, with data) - which in my opinion is a steal *if* you know you'll be in China for the next 2 years. I suppose there must be a discounted rate for the 3GS that maybe would be in your price range and include that cell plan...

You could also get an iPod Touch for the upcoming Skrit app and stick to your old crappy phone in the meantime, or simply buy a new crappy phone for 300rmb. I've just bought an iPod Touch today and if my 3yo phone breaks down, I still have another few old but good phones I can use.
Just thought it was a waste of money to buy an iPhone 4(S) which is like 2500-4000rmb more than an iPod Touch. The downside is obviously you'll be carrying two devices, but I don't mind since the iPod is so light and thin, plus I wanna wait a little bit longer for iPhone 5 or 6 which will have bigger screens, or probably buy an Android phone when the Android app is out, someday:)

Like icebear mentions, the Skrit app for iOS is a 'killer app' and if the Android Skrit app takes another year and a half to come out, you might be a little bit disappointed that you hadn't purchased an iPhone or iPod Touch at this time. And I'm just saying this in a nice way, actually I think you'll be kicking yourself for it!!

Note also that the 3GS will be the minimum to run the Skritter app, although thins load a bit faster on 4/4S.

Well I guess that's what happens when you ask a question on a forum... you don't always get the answer you'd like.
Now I need to do a little soul-searching: why am I reluctant to buy an iPhone? As Nick notes, the 4/4S are faster, and I'm thinking the phones I listed above are more or less equivalent (just in terms of power) for half the price.

So the real question is: How good are the internet plans in China? Could I use Skritter on the bus with such a plan?

Because if I persist in my stubborn attitude, I'll end up buying an Android phone with an internet plan, waiting for the Android skritter app (it shouldn't take that long to come at after the iPhone one gets out).