The BlackBerry Bold 9780 and Torch 9810 represent a pivotal era in smartphone history. Both devices offered the iconic BlackBerry experience, but with distinct design choices and feature sets. This review dives deep into a head-to-head comparison to help you understand which model holds up best today.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The BlackBerry Torch 9810 edges out the Bold 9780 thanks to its faster processor, video recording capabilities, and slightly more modern design. However, the Bold's robust build quality and classic QWERTY keyboard remain appealing for those prioritizing a traditional BlackBerry feel.
| 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 14.4/5.76 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA | GSM / HSPA |
| | HSDPA 900 / 1700 / 2100 | - |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2010, October. Released 2010, November | 2011, August. Released 2011, August |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 109 x 60 x 14 mm (4.29 x 2.36 x 0.55 in) | 111 x 62 x 14.6 mm (4.37 x 2.44 x 0.57 in) |
| Keyboard | QWERTY | QWERTY |
| SIM | Mini-SIM | Mini-SIM |
| Weight | 122 g (4.30 oz) | 161 g (5.68 oz) |
| | Optical trackpad | - |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 480 x 360 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~246 ppi density) | 480 x 640 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~250 ppi density) |
| Size | 2.44 inches, 18.4 cm2 (~28.2% screen-to-body ratio) | 3.2 inches, 31.7 cm2 (~46.1% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | TFT, 65K colors | TFT |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | 624 MHz | 1.2 GHz |
| OS | BlackBerry OS 6.0 | BlackBerry OS 7.0 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDHC (dedicated slot), 2 GB included | microSDHC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 256MB 512MB RAM | 8GB 768MB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | LED flash |
| Single | 5 MP, AF | 5 MP, AF |
| Video | Yes | 720p |
| 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/n, UMA (carrier-dependent) |
| Features |
|---|
| Browser | HTML | HTML |
| Sensors | - | Proximity, compass |
| | 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 | Document viewer (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
MP3/WMA/WAV/eAAC+ player
DivX/XviD/MP4/WMV/H.264 player
Organizer
Voice memo/dial
Predictive text input |
| Battery |
|---|
| Music play | - | Up to 54 h |
| Stand-by | Up to 528 h (2G) / Up to 408 h (3G) | Up to 308 h (2G) / Up to 300 h (3G) |
| Talk time | Up to 6 h (2G) / Up to 6 h (3G) | Up to 6 h 30 min (2G) / Up to 5 h 50 min (3G) |
| Type | Removable Li-Po 1500 mAh battery | Removable Li-Ion 1270 mAh battery |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black, White | Black, Gray |
| Price | About 90 EUR | About 120 EUR |
| SAR | 1.41 W/kg (head) 0.82 W/kg (body) | 1.44 W/kg (head) 0.94 W/kg (body) |
| SAR EU | 1.15 W/kg (head) 0.40 W/kg (body) | 0.97 W/kg (head) 0.74 W/kg (body) |
| Tests |
|---|
| Audio quality |
Noise -89.7dB / Crosstalk -89.4dB |
Noise -85.7dB / Crosstalk -87.9dB |
| Camera |
Photo |
Photo / Video |
| Display | - |
Contrast ratio: 1112:1 (nominal) |
| Loudspeaker |
Voice 66dB / Noise 66dB / Ring 68dB
|
Voice 67dB / Noise 65dB / Ring 66dB |
BlackBerry Bold 9780
- Excellent build quality
- Comfortable QWERTY keyboard
- Classic BlackBerry experience
- Durable design
- Slow processor
- No video recording
- Outdated display
- Limited app support
BlackBerry Torch 9810
- Faster processor
- Video recording capability
- Touchscreen display
- Slightly more modern design
- Plastic build feels less premium
- Touchscreen can be unresponsive
- Dated software
- Limited app support
Display Comparison
The Torch 9810 boasts a touchscreen display with a respectable contrast ratio of 1112:1. While both devices offer a similar contrast ratio, the Torch's touchscreen provides a more versatile interface compared to the Bold's primarily keyboard-driven navigation. The Bold's screen is smaller and lacks touchscreen functionality.
Camera Comparison
Both devices offer photo capabilities, but the Torch 9810 has a distinct advantage with video recording. The Bold is limited to still photos, while the Torch allows for capturing video footage, a significant feature for many users. Image quality on both is modest by today's standards.
Performance
The Torch 9810's 1.2 GHz processor significantly outperforms the Bold 9780's 624 MHz CPU. This translates to snappier app loading times and a smoother overall user experience on the Torch. The Bold can feel sluggish by modern standards.
Battery Life
Battery life on both devices was generally good for their time. While exact figures vary based on usage, both offered a full day of moderate use. The Torch's slightly more power-hungry processor might result in marginally shorter battery life compared to the Bold.
Buying Guide
The BlackBerry Bold 9780 is ideal for users who value a premium, durable build, a comfortable QWERTY keyboard, and a straightforward BlackBerry experience. The Torch 9810 is better suited for those wanting a slightly faster performance, the ability to record videos, and a more modern (though still dated) touchscreen experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the BlackBerry Bold 9780 still worth buying?
If you prioritize a physical QWERTY keyboard and a durable build, and don't need modern features, the Bold 9780 can be a nostalgic choice. However, be aware of its limitations in performance and app support.
❓ What is the main difference between the Bold 9780 and the Torch 9810?
The primary difference is the Torch 9810's touchscreen display and faster processor, allowing for video recording and a more responsive user experience compared to the Bold 9780's keyboard-centric design and slower performance.
