Tips for Choosing a BlackBerry
How to Select a New Smartphone Carrier and Model from RIM
Jun 20, 2008
When shopping for a new BlackBerry smartphone, the choices can seem almost overwhelming. But by choosing a carrier, a device keyboard, and then other features, the pool of possible devices can be narrowed to a manageable number.
Carrier Choice
The choice of carrier should be your first decision, according to CrackBerry.com. And since the BlackBerry will be used primarily for data transfer, speed of the network should be a consideration.
Currently, the fastest network for BlackBerry smartphones is EVDO-Rev A, which allows a maximum speed of up to 2.4 Mbps in the forward link and 153 kbps in the reverse link, according to the CDMA Technology Group. This is the network Sprint and Verizon use. When choosing between these two carriers, compare coverage and rate plans. Generally, Sprint is lower priced than Verizon, so Sprint is a good choice provided the coverage is good. For more details, check the carriers' sites for coverage maps and rate plans.
AT&T actually has the fastest network at 3.6 Mbps downloads and 384-Kbps uploads, according to smartdevicecentral.com. Unfortunately, there is no BlackBerry today that can handle that speed. However, when the 3G BlackBerry Bold launches this fall, this will be the fastest device and network combination. The 3G network has a limited footprint at this time, though, so again you will want to check the coverage maps on the website.
T-Mobile also has BlackBerry options available, although the data speeds are slower than the options outlined above as the company just started rolling out 3G coverage this summer (according to their website).
Keyboard Type
Research in Motion (RIM), the BlackBerry manufacturer, currently has two main device types: the full QWERTY keyboard and the “SureType” keyboard.
The full QWERTY keyboard looks like a regular computer keyboard. This is a better choice for email addicts and people who do a lot of typing on the keyboard. There are several full QWERTY keyboard devices on the market, including the Curve and the 8830.
If, however, the BlackBerry is to be used primarily as a phone, the “SureType” devices are smaller more phone-like. These devices can also be used to respond to emails or text messages, but typing will be more like using a dial by name directory from your home phone. If a SureType phone is desired, the Pearl is the best choice.
Device Generation
Generally, newer is better when it comes to BlackBerry smartphones. There have been many enhancements to both the hardware and software in the phones, and so when purchasing a device it makes sense to purchase the latest and greatest. The current generation includes the following devices:
• The Pearls
• The Curves
• The 8800s
Going back to the older devices (8700 or 7000 series) would not be recommended, as they will become obsolete faster.
Extra Features
After choosing on a carrier, keyboard type, and limiting selection to the newest devices, there are still multiple devices to choose from. At this point, the selection becomes a feature of how the device will be used.
GPS - if the device will be used for maps and GPS, a device with this feature should be purchased. Choices include the Curve and, from the 8800 series, the 8800, 8820, and 8830.
Wi-Fi - if the device will be used to get on the internet from a wireless modem at home or at a hotspot, look for a device with Wi-Fi service. You'll be able to identify it from the "20" in the last two digits of the model number. Currently, WiFi devices are only available from AT&T and T-Mobile.
Other Resources
If you still aren't sure which device to purchase, contact your carrier sales representative, visit a carrier's store, or check out RIM's device comparison tool online.
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