Back in the day, Blackberry used to be a pioneer at making mobile phones with a different style, design and elegance all together and Blackberry’s Key series is clearly an attempt to get back in the game and for good this time. The Blackberry KeyOne was released in April of 2017 and it was an attempt to replenish the nostalgia of the old Blackberry phones for instance; it had an actual physical keyboard. Despite the efforts, Blackberry KeyOne was host to mixed reviews once the Embargo lifted and a mixed response as well. Despite the setbacks, Blackberry Key 2 came forward with an attempt to revive all that was good about the old phones and mixing it with a touch of new technology.
Build and Design:
The Blackberry Key2 has a 4.5-inch display, fairly an inch taller than the predecessor but definitely thinner. The phone is now much more comfortable and easier to grip. The phone has USB - C type port and the speakers next to it, which users describe as fairly average for a phone with such a hefty price tag. All the buttons are on the side just like any other smartphone today and all of them are easy to access for the users. The back has a nice and soft material and does not leave fingerprints which is a plus thus maintaining it's beauty.
Display:
The screen size might be a go or a no for you and it totally depends on the preference of users. Some people complain about having phones with big screens, while others do the opposite. The 4.5 inch IPS LCD screen has 1620 x 1080 pixel resolution with a pixel density of 434 pixels per inch and 3:2 aspect ratio. Although the screen is absolutely beautiful, it is still a downer for many that it has such a small screen. The screen is protected by Gorilla Glass 3 which is a disappointment, to say the least. Most mobile phones with half the price tag offer Gorilla Glass 5 these days.
Camera:
The Blackberry Key2 has two rear cameras now both 12 Megapixels and also has a portrait mode now. The balance for the pictures is nice. The Camera does not have the HDR effect so expect your photos to be unrefined at times due to lack or excessive exposure. Lowlight photography is worse as compared to other cheaper alternatives.
The Blackberry Key2 comes with the latest Android 8.1 (Oreo). It has a Snapdragon 835 processor. The all Android software comes with some little modifications from Blackberry itself and you will see a lot of Blackberry applications.
Pros:
- Excellent keyboard, handy new Speed Key
- Compact, Nostalgic design
- Battery Life
- Security and Privacy
- Portrait Mode
Cons:
- Hefty price tag
- Average Camera
- Performance issues