BlackBerry Curve 8300 review
Network and connections
A device dedicated to a Business-type user base, but one that also adapts well to less demanding use. The technical features are of quality, starting with the GSM Quadband receiver, capable of guaranteeing optimal coverage in any area of the world. UMTS network is not supported, however thanks to GPRS it is possible to comfortably browse the Web, opening HTML pages with the dedicated browser. Unlike its older sibling the 8320, the Curve 8300 does not have Wi-Fi support. Clearly, Bluetooth is not missing, handy for exchanging files with other devices; nor is the USB 2.0 data output.
Design and features
At first glance, the Curve 8300 resembles a classic PDA, with the addition of an extended QWERTY keyboard that is really useful for quickly writing any type of text. Just above the screen, a 320x240 pixel TFT, capable of delivering vivid and bright images up to 65,000 colors. The dimensions are compact, exactly right to fit in the palm of your hand. Hence the 15.5 mm thickness and a weight of just 111 grams. The finishes are well cared for, to give elegance and importance to the device. A directional pad and some function keys help in managing operations. The body is one-piece, slightly curved to increase the feeling of grip and comfort. In the purchase package you will find the data cable and the USB headset, as well as the handy protective case.
Main features
The BlackBerry platform is famous for its functions dedicated to office management, for making conference calls, for managing email on the go and checking any type of document. The extended keyboard immediately proves to be an excellent tool for quickly writing messages and E-mails. There is also advanced contact management with the address book, a calendar to keep track of personal appointments, alarm clock, calculator and clock. You can also install applications compatible with BlackBerry, to be downloaded from the dedicated portal. Instant Messaging utilities are supported. Clearly, speakerphone, voice recorder, and voice-command calling are present.
Entertainment and multimedia
For leisure moments outside of work, it is convenient to have a device that can offer good multimedia capabilities. Hence the Curve 8300 is equipped with a digital camera, with a resolution of 2 megapixels. It allows you to take good quality photographs, even in unfavorable light conditions, thanks to integrated Zoom and Flash. In addition, you can record short videos, to be saved on the 64 MB internal memory, expandable via microSD cards. This way you will also have space for your favorite audio and video files, to be played with the multimedia player. Interesting is the presence of the GPS receiver, to use additional functions such as satellite navigation. Battery life is a strong point of BlackBerry devices; the lithium battery in fact guarantees up to 408 hours in Stand-by.