I’ve received several e-mails lately asking which Blackberry I recommend for students, particularly those in college. Instead of responding to each of these e-mails separately, I’m going to give a brief overview of the currently available Blackberry’s geared towards students. Just to make note of any biases I may have, I currently own a Verizon 8830 Word Edition and consider myself a Blackberry addict. So here we go:
One of the first things you need to consider is which cell phone carrier you are currently using. Regardless of what you want, many students are going to be limited by which carrier they’re forced to use. As a result, you should check with your provider before getting your heart set on anything. Take it from me, not doing so can be pretty devastation (Why Blackberry Curve……..WHY!?!). Second, you need to decide what exactly you’re looking for in a phone. If you’re looking for a great phone with media capabilities, push e-mail, and great stability, then your best bet may be the 8100 series listed below. This phone is similar in size to the standard phone you’re used to, but also provides the benefits of owning a Blackberry. Unfortunately, it’s smaller size and non-QWERTY keyboard mean that e-mail capabilities and web browsing are limited. If, on the other hand, you plan on e-mailing frequently and browsing the web while also enjoying the features mentioned above, then the 8300 or 8800 are easily the best bet. The larger size is often inconvenient, but for me it was worth it for the screen size and ease of use that comes with it. In the end, all of these phones are great options. When coupled with StudentBerry, the Blackberry makes a great device for students.
I’m going to stick to pointing out the differences between the phones themselves, and therefore won’t be including the pros and cons that go with owning any of the devices, such as media capabilities, push e-mail, etc…
Blackberry 8800 series
Pros:
- Larger Screen size makes browsing the internet as good as it can be on a mobile phone
- Full QWERTY keyboard makes e-mailing or texting a breeze
- Great call quality
Cons:
- Larger size makes carrying it around inconvenient, I have to use the included holster which is often annoying
- Over-sensitive mouth piece picks up a little too much background noise
- No camera (this may be a pro for some people though)
Summary:
This is really a great option if you don’t mind the size of the phone. The only issues I’ve ever had are the lack of camera and not being able to keep it in my pocket.
Read a full review at:
http://laptopmag.com/Review/BlackBerry-8830-World-Edition.htm
Blackberry 8300 Curve series
Pros:
- Includes a camera
- Same great screen size as the 8800 series
- Smaller size than the 8800
- Full QWERTY keyboard makes typing out e-mails a breeze.
Cons:
- Still a little on the large size, but not by much
- I’ve heard some complaints about picking up background noise on this device as well
Summary:
This, to be honest, seems to be one of the best Blackberry options currently available. Online reviews are nothing but positive, and users seem highly satisfied. Unfortunately, it currently isn’t available on many networks.
Read a full review at: http://laptopmag.com/Review/BlackBerry-Curve.htm
Blackberry 8100 Pearl series
Pros:
- Smaller size makes it more comparable to a standard cell phone
- Includes a camera
- Though not full QWERTY, the keyboard is still larger than normal and with practice can become quite an efficient little tool
- Let’s face it, the thing’s just pretty
Cons:
- Smaller screen size (this may be a pro for some)
- Not a full size QWERTY (this may be a pro for some)
Summary:
Basically, this phone is the way to go if you want the smaller sized option.
Read a full review at: http://www.laptopmag.com/Review/BlackBerry-Pearl.htm
Overview:
What it all comes down to is what features you’re looking for, and what features you can actually get. If you don’t mind the size and your provider offers it, I think the Curve is the way to go. My 8830, however, has never disappointed and was still enough to get me hooked. If size is an issue, then the Pearl is an awesome option. Regardless of what you choose, however, you won’t be disappointed. The only complaint I’ve ever had is the default task manager included with the Blackberry OS. Quite simply, it doesn’t provide enough features to be called a suitable solution for students. That’s why I decided to make StudentBerry. Check it out at [www.studentberry.com]
Also Check out Getting your Blackberry Ready for School for what to do next!
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