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The HTC 8X is a fantastic ambassador to Windows Phone 8, but we're longing for a similar phone running Android -- at least until a stronger app ecosystem develops for Microsoft's latest mobile OS.

With top specs and a striking design, HTC's Windows Phone 8X makes a smart choice for anyone ready to dive into the Windows Phone OS.

If you're on the fence about making the switch, you probably want to hang back and see what the Lumia 920 looks like. Then, maybe wait a bit longer to see if the ecosystem actually manages to populate itself. But for the Windows Phone faithful, this is a hell of a makeup present from HTC.

I like the HTC 8X enough that as soon as I can find a model for T-Mobile, I'm going to carry it around as my primary phone for a while. For me, it's the best balance of Windows Phone power and usable size. If size doesn't matter to you, the Lumia 920 is an even better experience...

Be prepared to at best be patient and wait for developers to take it seriously. At worst, be comfortable with the reality it may never rise to the top of any development studio's to-do list.

The HTC Windows Phone 8X is a slim and sexy vehicle for Microsoft's much improved operating system.

The HTC Windows Phone 8X is a slick, beautifully designed phone that shows off the new Windows Phone 8 software well, especially if you buy into the Windows 8 ecosystem of devices. It's fast and has a beautiful screen, although you may be put off by the limited storage.

With the 8X from HTC the Windows Phone platform has a new leader, being called the “signature handset” of Windows Phone 8 — and it delivers just the qualities that Microsoft was looking for. This embodies their OS’ style and design. It’s elegant, sleek, and powerful!

The HTC Windows Phone 8X is set to go head-to-head against Nokia’s Lumia 920 and Samsung’s ATIV S in the Windows Phone marketplace. Windows Phone 8 shines on the 8X and the phone is a pleasure to both hold and carry around.

If you’re hankering for Windows Phone 8 specifically, the HTC Windows Phone 8X is easily one of our top choices on any carrier it’s with.

If apps aren't an issue for you, the HTC 8X offers some really nice features.

While it did take a little bit of time to get used to the UI, Microsoft clearly made a clean and and stylish mobile operating system, and it ran great on the 8X. Overall, if you’re wanting to stick with Verizon as a carrier ... the 8X is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a Windows Phone...

If you're dead-set on a Windows 8 phone, it's really a toss-up with the Lumia 920. The 8X is better if you're a music devotee who'd like a lighter device, while the Lumia boasts a better camera. But either way, the 8X is a solid option for any Windows fan.

The HTC Windows Phone 8X is a beautiful device with a delightful form factor. It is without doubt the best phone that HTC has made and has enough punch to be seriously considered alongside the iPhone 5 and the Galaxy SIII.

Ultimately, the HTC 8X is surely a strong competitor in the Windows Phone camp, but as we look at the broader spectrum, it pales in comparison to some of the smartphone elites out there.

The HTC 8X promised so much on paper and the excitement leading to it arriving was building up for us. Yet when it arrived, we found it to be a mediocre handset and this is the best of the two WP8 phones HTC is launching. Which means it's not even the best value.

If you’re willing to make do with Windows Phone in its current state and play the waiting game, I wholeheartedly recommend the Windows Phone 8X. This phone is awesome. The hardware is outstanding and the operating system is unique and smooth.

There’s no doubt the Windows Phone 8X is a win for HTC. It’s a stellar device that does everything I expect from a Windows Phone, and more, and it gives me a ton of confidence for the future of Windows Phone overall.

A competent Windows Phone 8 handset, but it's worth spending a bit more for the superior Nokia Lumia 920.