The BlackBerry Bold Touch 9930 and BlackBerry 9720 represent different eras of BlackBerry, both offering the iconic keyboard and BlackBerry OS. But with varying specs and performance, choosing between them can be tricky. This comprehensive comparison will help you decide which device best suits your needs.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The BlackBerry Bold Touch 9930 wins overall thanks to its significantly faster processor, larger screen, and improved camera. However, the 9720 offers a more budget-friendly option with solid battery life and the classic BlackBerry experience for those prioritizing simplicity and affordability.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 |
| Speed | HSPA 14.4/5.76 Mbps, EV-DO Rev.A 3.1 Mbps | HSPA 7.2/5.76 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / CDMA / HSPA / EVDO | GSM / HSPA |
| | CDMA2000 1xEV-DO | - |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2011, May. Released 2011, August | 2013, August. Released 2013, August |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 115 x 66 x 10.5 mm (4.53 x 2.60 x 0.41 in) | 114 x 66 x 12 mm (4.49 x 2.60 x 0.47 in) |
| Keyboard | QWERTY | QWERTY |
| SIM | Mini-SIM | Mini-SIM |
| Weight | 130 g (4.59 oz) | 120 g (4.23 oz) |
| | Optical trackpad | Optical trackpad |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 640 x 480 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~286 ppi density) | 480 x 360 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~214 ppi density) |
| Size | 2.8 inches, 24.3 cm2 (~32.0% screen-to-body ratio) | 2.8 inches, 24.3 cm2 (~32.3% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | TFT | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | 1.2 GHz QC 8655 | 806 MHz Tavor MG1 |
| OS | BlackBerry OS 7.0 | BlackBerry OS 7.1 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDHC (dedicated slot) | microSDHC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 8GB 768MB RAM | 512MB ROM, 512MB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | LED flash |
| Single | 5 MP | 5 MP |
| Video | 720p | 480p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 2.1, A2DP, EDR | 2.1, A2DP, EDR |
| NFC | Yes | No |
| Positioning | GPS, A-GPS, BlackBerry Maps | GPS |
| Radio | No | Stereo FM radio, RDS |
| USB | microUSB 2.0 | microUSB 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, hotspot |
| Features |
|---|
| Browser | HTML | - |
| Sensors | Accelerometer, proximity, compass | Accelerometer, proximity |
| | BlackBerry maps
Document viewer
MP4/WMV/H.264 player
MP3/eAAC+/WMA/WAV player
Organizer
Voice memo/dial
Predictive text input | BBM key
MP3/eAAC+/WMA/WAV/Flac player
MP4/H.264/WMV player
Organizer
Document viewer
Voice memo/dial
Predictive text input |
| Battery |
|---|
| Music play | Up to 50 h | Up to 30 h |
| Stand-by | Up to 307 h (2G) / Up to 307 h (3G) | Up to 432 h |
| Talk time | Up to 6 h 40 min (2G) / Up to 5 h 50 min (3G) | Up to 7 h |
| Type | Removable Li-Ion 1230 mAh battery | Li-Ion 1450 mAh, removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black | Black, White, Purple, Blue, Pure Pink |
| Price | About 120 EUR | About 130 EUR |
| SAR | 1.38 W/kg (head) 0.78 W/kg (body) | - |
| SAR EU | 0.77 W/kg (head) 0.84 W/kg (body) | 1.10 W/kg (head) |
BlackBerry Bold Touch 9930
- Faster Processor
- Larger Display
- Better Camera
- More Features
- Premium Build Quality
- Higher Price (if found)
- Potentially Shorter Battery Life than 9720
BlackBerry 9720
- More Affordable
- Good Battery Life
- Classic BlackBerry Experience
- Durable Build
- Slower Performance
- Smaller Display
- Lower Quality Camera
- Fewer Features
Display Comparison
The Bold Touch 9930 boasts a 3.7-inch capacitive touchscreen with a resolution of 640 x 480 pixels. The 9720 features a smaller 3.5-inch display with the same resolution. The 9930's larger screen provides a more immersive experience for browsing and media consumption.
Camera Comparison
The Bold Touch 9930 features a 5MP camera with autofocus and image stabilization, while the 9720 has a 2MP camera. The 9930's camera delivers significantly better image quality, especially in low-light conditions, and offers more features.
Performance
Here's where the 9930 truly shines. Its 1.2 GHz QC 8655 processor offers a noticeable performance boost compared to the 9720's 806 MHz Tavor MG1. Expect smoother multitasking, faster app loading times, and a more responsive user interface on the 9930.
Battery Life
The BlackBerry 9720 generally offers slightly better battery life due to its less power-hungry processor and smaller screen. However, both devices provide a respectable battery life for moderate usage.
Buying Guide
The BlackBerry Bold Touch 9930 is ideal for users who value performance, a larger display, and a better camera experience. The BlackBerry 9720 is a good choice for those on a tighter budget who want a reliable BlackBerry with a long-lasting battery and a focus on core messaging and productivity features.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the BlackBerry 9930 worth the extra cost?
If performance and a better camera are important to you, then yes. The 9930 offers a significantly improved experience. However, if you're on a budget and prioritize battery life, the 9720 is a solid choice.
❓ Can I find these phones new?
Both phones are discontinued and are primarily available on the used market. Exercise caution when purchasing from third-party sellers and ensure the device is in good working condition.
