The BlackBerry Aurora and LG Q61 both aim to deliver solid smartphone experiences without breaking the bank. But with different approaches and hardware, which one truly comes out on top? This comprehensive comparison will break down their strengths and weaknesses to help you decide.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The LG Q61 edges out the BlackBerry Aurora thanks to its more powerful processor, better battery efficiency, and generally more modern software experience. While the Aurora offers a unique BlackBerry keyboard, the Q61 provides a more well-rounded and performant package for the average user.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 - SIM 1 & SIM 2 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | LTE | LTE |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE (2CA) Cat6 300/50 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2017, March. Released 2017, March | 2020, May 21. Released 2020, May 29 |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame | - |
| Dimensions | 152 x 76.8 x 8.5 mm (5.98 x 3.02 x 0.33 in) | 164.5 x 77.5 x 8.3 mm (6.48 x 3.05 x 0.33 in) |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Micro-SIM, dual stand-by) | Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 178 g (6.28 oz) | - |
| | - | MIL-STD-810G compliant*
*does not guarantee ruggedness or use in extreme conditions |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | - | Scratch-resistant glass |
| Resolution | 720 x 1280 pixels, 16:9 ratio (~267 ppi density) | 1080 x 2340 pixels, 19.5:9 ratio (~395 ppi density) |
| Size | 5.5 inches, 83.4 cm2 (~71.4% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.53 inches, 104.7 cm2 (~82.1% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 1.4 GHz Cortex-A53 | Octa-core (4x2.3 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53) |
| Chipset | Qualcomm MSM8917 Snapdragon 425 (28 nm) | Mediatek MT6765 Helio P35 (12 nm) |
| GPU | Adreno 308 | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | Android 7.0 (Nougat) | Android 9.0 (Pie) |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 32GB 4GB RAM | 64GB 4GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | Dual-LED flash, HDR, panorama | LED flash, panorama, HDR |
| Quad | - | 48 MP, f/1.8, 26mm (wide), 1/2.0", 0.8µm, PDAF
8 MP, f/2.2, 118˚, (ultrawide)
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens |
| Single | 13 MP, AF | 8 MP, AF |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 8 MP | 16 MP |
| Video | - | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.0, A2DP, EDR, LE | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | Yes |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, BDS | GPS |
| Radio | No | No |
| USB | microUSB 2.0 | USB Type-C 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Browser | - | HTML, Adobe Flash |
| Sensors | Accelerometer, proximity, compass | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Stand-by | - | Up to 200 h |
| Talk time | - | Up to 8 h 20 min |
| Type | Li-Ion 3000 mAh, non-removable | Li-Po 4000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black, Silver, Gold | White |
| Models | BBC100-1 | LM-Q630N |
| Price | About 200 EUR | About 270 EUR |
BlackBerry Aurora
- Physical QWERTY keyboard
- Compact size
- BlackBerry branding
- Outdated processor
- Limited RAM
- Lower resolution display
- Shorter battery life
LG Q61
- More powerful processor
- Larger display
- Better battery life
- Versatile camera system
- Larger size may not suit everyone
- LG's software support is diminishing
Display Comparison
The LG Q61 boasts a larger 6.5-inch display compared to the Aurora's 5.5-inch screen. Both utilize IPS LCD technology, offering decent color accuracy and viewing angles. However, the Q61's larger size and potentially higher resolution (likely FHD+) provide a more immersive viewing experience. The Aurora's display is adequate but feels smaller and less vibrant.
Camera Comparison
The LG Q61 typically features a more versatile camera system, often including a main lens, ultrawide lens, and macro lens. While specific megapixel counts vary, the Q61's newer chipset and potentially larger sensor generally result in better image quality, especially in low light. The Aurora's camera is functional but lacks the advanced features and image processing capabilities of the Q61.
Performance
Here, the LG Q61 shines. Its Octa-core Helio P35 chipset significantly outperforms the Aurora's Quad-core Snapdragon 425. The Q61's CPU configuration (4x2.3 GHz & 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53) provides a noticeable boost in responsiveness and multitasking capabilities. The Aurora can feel sluggish, especially with demanding apps.
Battery Life
The LG Q61 generally has a larger battery capacity (around 4000mAh) compared to the Aurora (around 3000mAh). Coupled with its more efficient Helio P35 chipset, the Q61 offers significantly longer battery life, easily lasting a full day of moderate use. The Aurora's battery life is adequate but requires more frequent charging.
Buying Guide
The BlackBerry Aurora is best suited for users who prioritize a physical keyboard for messaging and are nostalgic for the BlackBerry brand. The LG Q61 is ideal for those seeking a reliable, everyday phone with decent performance, a good camera, and a longer battery life, without spending a fortune.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the BlackBerry Aurora's keyboard worth it?
If you're a heavy texter and miss physical keyboards, it might be. However, the performance trade-offs are significant.
❓ Which phone has better software support?
Historically, BlackBerry had a reputation for security, but current support is limited. LG's software support is also waning, but the Q61 generally receives updates for a slightly longer period.
