Mobile Fun Blog » 8310

BlackBerry Buyers Guide

Andy Simpson — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 17:24:31 +0000

Which BlackBerry should I go for?

BlackBerry handsets used to be all about email, but not any more. Although email is still a very important part of a BlackBerry, its not their only feature. BlackBerry have realised that we want more from our phones than just basic functionality, and their range now has a handset that should suit just about everyone. They come in a range of shapes, sizes and colours, and can match, if not beat, the features of most phones made by Nokia and Sony Ericsson. Most BlackBerrys now feature a digital camera, music player, expandable memory and Sat Nav, eliminating the need to carry several devices around with you.

My personal favourite is the 8900 Curve, its small enough to carry in your pocket, but big enough to use easily and the Sat Nav works exceptionally well. There are currently 8 devices in the BlackBerry handset range. They range from the smaller BlackBerry Pearl, right through to the full touch screen BlackBerry Storm.

Here’s a quick summary of each of the handsets:

First time users, or people that aren’t quite sure about making the switch to BlackBerry should consider the BlackBerry Pearl. The BlackBerry Pearl is more of a cross-over device. It has all the standard BlackBerry features, but looks and feels more like a normal handset. The Pearl series have a "SureType" keypad. A cross between the standard keypad found on most phones and a full QWERTY keypad found on most BlackBerry’s.

BlackBerry Pearl 8100 is the original Pearl and has a 1.3MP Camera with flash, expandable memory and internet access.
BlackBerry Pearl 8110 has all the features of the 8100, but with the addition of built in GPS and a 2MP camera.
BlackBerry Pearl 8120 has all the features of the 8100, but with the addition of Wi-Fi for faster internet browsing and a 2MP Camera with Flash.

Not everyone that likes to email likes to carry round a big phone, BlackBerry knew this, hence the BlackBerry Pearl, but for some, even that was too bulky, so they have now introduced the BlackBerry Pearl Flip 8220 . The specification of the phone is very similar to the BlackBerry Pearl 8210; 2MP Camera, Wi-Fi, Suretype keypad, expandable memory, but in a more compact flip design and with a newer version of the BlackBerry Menu System.

The BlackBerry Curve is the most popular range of BlackBerry handsets. They feature a full QWERTY keyboard, making typing much quicker. A larger screen than that on the Pearl makes reading emails and browsing the Internet much easier. If you use email regularly then the Curve is a good all round handset.

Blackberry Curve 8300 is the original Curve and has a 2MP Camera with flash, expandable memory and and high resolution light sensing screen.
Blackberry Curve 8310 has all the features of the 8300, but with the addition of a 2MP camera and built in GPS. The mapping software is subscription based.
Blackberry Curve 8310 Maps for Life Edition has no subscription costs for the mapping software.
Blackberry Curve 8320 has all the features of the 8300, but with the addition of Wi-Fi for faster internet browsing.

The BlackBerry 8800 is aimed at the business user. The 8800 has a longer life battery giving up to 22 days standby times. Built in GPS allows it to be used as a Sat Nav device (although there is an extra subscription cost for this). The 8800 is ideal for those that work in places where cameras are not allowed as there is no camera on the 8800.

The BlackBerry 8820 is an updated version of the 8800 and has the same specification, with the addition of Wi-Fi for faster internet access and support for Stereo Bluetooth and higher capacity memory cards.

BlackBerry’s first 3G device for a few years was the BlackBerry Bold. The Bold is a more advanced handset that will appeal to people that need their phone to do pretty much everything. The screen is a higher resolution than most other BlackBerry’s, making images and videos appear exceptionally clear. The Bold is one of two BlackBerry devices that support 3G, and gives download speeds of upto 3.6Mbps. The Bold can be used as a modem to connect your laptop to the internet. WordToGo software allows you to edit attachments, as well as view them. The MP3 player on the Bold is compatible with iTunes, making it easy to sync your music.

The BlackBerry 8900 Curve is the replacement for the original Curve series. It has both GPS and Wi-Fi, unlike the 8310 or 8320 which made you choose one or the other. The 8900 Curve is essentially the baby brother to the BlackBerry Bold. The only real missing feature is 3G, but BlackBerry devices have been running perfectly well without it for years, so unless you do a lot of internet browsing, the 8900 Curve is a better priced alternative. Screen resolution is the same as on the Bold, but the phone is smaller and lighter and is the first BlackBerry to feature a 3MP Camera.

With almost every new phone coming out now with a touchscreen, BlackBerry didn’t want to be left behind so they introduced the BlackBerry Storm. Its touchscreen interface is unique, as rather than being touch sensitive, the glass screen presses in. It’s something you need to see really as its not easy to explain! The device is (and we expect it to always be) exclusive to the Vodafone network, so no sim free version will be available. Featurewise, it has a high resolution screen, 3MP Camera, GPS, and 3G connectivity, but interestingly lacks Wi-Fi support, meaning that all your downloads will need to go through your mobile network, rather than your free home Wi-Fi network.

As touchscreen is new for BlackBerry, its getting some very mixed reviews, so if its one you’re considering, check out some reviews online first, and go and have a play in your local Vodafone store before comitting to a lengthy contract!

If you’ve already got a BlackBerry, let us know what you think of it by leaving a comment below.

BlackBerry Cases Guide

Andy Simpson — Thu, 18 Sep 2008 10:20:09 +0000

BlackBerry devices normally take a fair few knocks in their day to day use, and in order to look after yours and keep it working as hard as you do, a case is a worthwhile investment. Leading manufacturers such as Krusell, PDair, Piel Frama and BlackBerry themselves make cases specifically for the BlackBerry devices, but which case is right for you?

Genuine BlackBerry Cases

Genuine BlackBerry
Genuine BlackBerry cases are designed to compliment your BlackBerry, while keeping your phone as accessible as possible. BlackBerry are one of the only manufacturers who offer phone specific cases in a range of styles and colours – and the only manufacturer that offer silicone cases. Genuine BlackBerry cases range from Protective Skins to Executive Leather Pouches. BlackBerry Skins protect your device from knocks and scrapes, without adding any extra bulk to your phone while the leather cases add style to your BlackBerry and normally cover the whole device. Your BlackBerry can still be charged and synchronised with out having to be removed from the case thanks to cut outs in the case for chargers and data cables. The BlackBerry pouches are similar in design to the original pouch provided with the BlackBerry Curve. They protect the phone from everyday knocks and some some also feature the magnet that puts your BlackBerry into quiet mode when insterted into the case.

Piel Frama BlackBerry Cases

Piel Frama
The Piel Frama range of BlackBerry cases are hand made, with meticulous attention to detail. Every Piel Frama case is assembled by hand, to create designs that perfectly complement your BlackBerry. As with the Genuine BlackBerry cases, your BlackBerry can be charged and synchronised without having to be removed from the case thanks to cut outs in the leather. Each case has space for storing credit cards or business cards. All Piel Frama cases are a vertical flip design and have a removable belt clip.

PDair BlackBerry Cases

PDair
PDair BlackBerry cases are Executive Leather cases that protect your phone and keep it looking stylish. PDair BlackBerry cases are available in a range of styles, including; Book Case, Sleeve Case and Flip Case. Most of the PDair BlackBerry cases have a magnetic sensor built in that activates the “In-Holster” profile settings. They have a secure belt clip that can be easily removed if not required and have cut outs in the leather to allow your BlackBerry to be charged or connected to your PC with out having to be taken out of the case.

Krusell BlackBerry Cases

Krusell
Krusell BlackBerry cases are designed for the everyday user. Krusell’s “cabriolet” design leaves the keyboard open, making typing much easier, and the open top allows for quick removal of your BlackBerry device. Krusell cases are also compatible with the Multidapt range of holders – a unique interchangeable clip stystem. Learn more about Multidapt.

BlackBerry Curve 8310 Pouches

Jazz — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 09:31:50 +0000

As an 8310 owner one of the biggest difficulties I faced was getting a case for my phone. I’m not joking, I see a lot of cases listed in various sites but they all have 8300 in the name. Do all 8300 cases fit the 8310? Do only some cases fit? Is it just me??

So after hours (well actually minutes) of pain staking work, I can confirm the cases below not only fit, but where appropriate leave charging points accessible. So despite the names these will definitely work with the 8310.

PDair Pouch for the BlackBerry 8300 Curve

Genuine BlackBerry 8300 Curve Vinyl Pouch

Genuine BlackBerry 8300 Curve Skin Pouch