The BlackBerry Bold series was iconic, known for its physical keyboard and secure communication. But which Bold is better? We're pitting the 9780 and 9700 against each other to determine which offers the superior experience for today's user (or collector!).
🏆 Quick Verdict
The BlackBerry Bold 9780 edges out the 9700 thanks to its slightly larger screen, improved ergonomics, and subtle design refinements. While both offer a classic BlackBerry experience, the 9780 provides a marginally better overall package, especially for those valuing a more comfortable typing experience.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 1900 / 2100 |
| Speed | HSPA | HSPA 3.6/0.384 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA | GSM / HSPA |
| | HSDPA 900 / 1700 / 2100 | HSDPA 900 / 1700 / 2100 |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2010, October. Released 2010, November | 2009, October. Released 2009, November |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 109 x 60 x 14 mm (4.29 x 2.36 x 0.55 in) | 109 x 60 x 14 mm (4.29 x 2.36 x 0.55 in) |
| Keyboard | QWERTY | QWERTY |
| SIM | Mini-SIM | Mini-SIM |
| Weight | 122 g (4.30 oz) | 122 g (4.30 oz) |
| | Optical trackpad | Optical trackpad |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 480 x 360 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~246 ppi density) | 480 x 360 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~246 ppi density) |
| Size | 2.44 inches, 18.4 cm2 (~28.2% screen-to-body ratio) | 2.44 inches, 18.4 cm2 (~28.2% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | TFT, 65K colors | TFT, 65K colors |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | 624 MHz | 624 MHz |
| OS | BlackBerry OS 6.0 | BlackBerry 5.0, upgradable to 6.0 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDHC (dedicated slot), 2 GB included | microSDHC (dedicated slot), 2 GB included |
| Internal | 256MB 512MB RAM | 256MB 256MB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | LED flash |
| Single | 5 MP, AF | 3.15 MP, AF |
| Video | Yes | Yes |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 2.1, A2DP | 2.1, A2DP |
| Positioning | GPS, A-GPS | GPS, A-GPS |
| Radio | No | No |
| USB | microUSB 2.0 | microUSB 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g, UMA | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g, UMA |
| Features |
|---|
| Browser | HTML | HTML |
| | BlackBerry maps
Document editor (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, PDF)
Media player MP3/WMA/AAC+
Video player DivX/WMV/XviD/3gp
Organizer
Voice memo/dial
Predictive text input | BlackBerry maps
Document editor (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, PDF)
Media player MP3/WMA/AAC+
Video player DivX/WMV/XviD/3gp
Organizer
Voice memo/dial |
| Battery |
|---|
| Stand-by | Up to 528 h (2G) / Up to 408 h (3G) | Up to 408 h |
| Talk time | Up to 6 h (2G) / Up to 6 h (3G) | Up to 6 h |
| Type | Removable Li-Po 1500 mAh battery | Removable Li-Ion 1500 mAh battery |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black, White | Black, White |
| Price | About 90 EUR | About 90 EUR |
| SAR | 1.41 W/kg (head) 0.82 W/kg (body) | 1.55 W/kg (head) 1.39 W/kg (body) |
| SAR EU | 1.15 W/kg (head) 0.40 W/kg (body) | 1.36 W/kg (head) 1.18 W/kg (body) |
| Tests |
|---|
| Audio quality |
Noise -89.7dB / Crosstalk -89.4dB |
Noise -89.8B / Crosstalk -88.6dB |
| Camera |
Photo |
Photo |
| Loudspeaker |
Voice 66dB / Noise 66dB / Ring 68dB
|
Voice 72dB / Noise 66dB / Ring 73dB
|
BlackBerry Bold 9780
- Larger 3.2-inch display
- Slightly improved ergonomics
- Refined design
- Generally better battery life
- Can be slightly bulkier than the 9700
- Older technology, limited app support
BlackBerry Bold 9700
- More compact and portable
- Classic BlackBerry design
- Generally more affordable (if found)
- Smaller 3.0-inch display
- Slightly shorter battery life
- Less comfortable typing experience for some
Display Comparison
The 9780 boasts a 3.2-inch display compared to the 9700's 3.0-inch screen. While both are LCD and offer decent clarity for their time, the 9780's larger size provides a more comfortable viewing experience, particularly for reading emails and browsing the web. Resolution is similar on both.
Camera Comparison
Both phones feature a 3.2MP camera. Image quality is acceptable for casual snapshots, but don't expect high-resolution photos. Low-light performance is weak on both. Video recording capabilities are limited.
Performance
Both devices are powered by a 624 MHz processor. Performance is generally comparable, with both handling basic tasks like email, messaging, and web browsing adequately. Don't expect blazing-fast speeds by modern standards; these are older devices. App loading times will be noticeable.
Battery Life
The 9780 generally offers slightly better battery life than the 9700, likely due to minor efficiency improvements. Expect a full day of moderate use on the 9780, while the 9700 might require a top-up before the end of the day.
Buying Guide
The BlackBerry Bold 9780 is ideal for BlackBerry enthusiasts who appreciate a refined design and slightly larger display. The 9700 is a good choice for those seeking a more compact device and a slightly more affordable option, especially if they prioritize portability above all else.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Are these phones still usable in 2024?
Yes, but with limitations. They rely on older network technologies and app support is extremely limited. They are primarily suitable for collectors or users who specifically need a physical keyboard and don't require modern smartphone features.
❓ Which one is easier to find?
Both are discontinued and can only be found on the used market. Availability and pricing vary greatly. The 9700 might be slightly more common due to its slightly lower original price.
