| Design | 3/5 |
| Display & Interface | 4/5 |
| Calling | 4/5 |
| Talk time | 4/5 |
| Messaging | 4/5 |
| Music | 2/5 |
| Video | 2/5 |
| Camera | 0/5 |
| Memory | 2/5 |
| Web browsing | 3/5 |
| Connectivity | 3.5/5 |
| Productivity | 2/5 |
| Scheduling | 3/5 |
| Laptop sidekick | 4/5 |
| Navigation | 3/5 |
| Gaming | 2/5 |
| Mobile services | 2.5/5 |
| Accessories | 4/5 |
| Value | 3.5/5 |
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Pros:
3G networking for tethered modem support. Global calling and e-mail. Trackball makes navigating easier. |
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Cons:
Interface needs polishing. Battery life suffers with 3G. Multimedia experience is poor. No GPS. |
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| Conclusion: |
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| In many ways, Verizon Wireless has users backed into a corner with the BlackBerry 8830. For world travelers who need a 3G BlackBerry at home and e-mail abroad, the 8830 is the only option on any network. Business users won't be disappointed by the device's e-mail and scheduling prowess, it is a BlackBerry, after all, but considering this phone represents the current pinnacle of BlackBerry devices, we expected more. Besides our old complaints about the BlackBerry interface, we would have liked better battery life, some useful productivity apps, and a better Web browsing experience. The lack of GPS is disappointing, and we think business travelers would have appreciated a better music experience. If you are deciding between the 8800 and this phone, we think the 8830's better tethered modem support and faster Web browsing, on Opera perhaps, makes it the better choice. Still, it's a close call, and GPS fans might prefer the 8800, even with slower EDGE networking, to the 8830. |
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