Remember the BlackBerry days? Two popular models, the Leap and the Z30, offer a glimpse into BlackBerry's past. But which one holds up better today? This comparison dives deep into their specs, performance, and features to help you choose.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The BlackBerry Z30 edges out the Leap thanks to its slightly faster processor, improved chipset, and generally more refined software experience. While both offer the classic BlackBerry security and keyboard, the Z30 provides a more modern and capable package, despite their age.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700 / 1900 / 2100 - North America | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 / 800 |
| 4G bands | 1, 2, 4, 5, 7, 13, 17 - North America | 1, 3, 7, 8, 20 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| | 1, 3, 7, 8, 20 - Global | - |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2015, March. Released 2015, April | 2013, September. Released 2013, October |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 144 x 72.8 x 9.5 mm (5.67 x 2.87 x 0.37 in) | 140.7 x 72 x 9.4 mm (5.54 x 2.83 x 0.37 in) |
| SIM | Micro-SIM | Micro-SIM |
| Weight | 170 g (6.00 oz) | 170 g (6.00 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1280 pixels, 16:9 ratio (~294 ppi density) | 720 x 1280 pixels, 16:9 ratio (~294 ppi density) |
| Size | 5.0 inches, 68.9 cm2 (~65.7% screen-to-body ratio) | 5.0 inches, 68.9 cm2 (~68.0% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, | Super AMOLED |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Dual-core 1.5 GHz Krait | Dual-core 1.7 GHz Krait |
| Chipset | Qualcomm MSM8960 Snapdragon S4 Plus | Qualcomm MSM8960T Snapdragon S4 Pro |
| GPU | Adreno 225 | Adreno 320 |
| OS | BlackBerry OS 10.3.1 | BlackBerry OS 10.2, upgradable to 10.3.1 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 16GB 2GB RAM | 16GB 2GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash, HDR, panorama | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.2, 31mm (standard), AF | 8 MP, f/2.2, 31mm (standard), AF |
| Video | 1080p@30fps, 720p@60fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 2 MP | 2 MP |
| Video | 720p | 720p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes, with stereo speakers |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.0, A2DP, EDR, LE | 4.0, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | Yes |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS, GLONASS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio (after SW upgrade) |
| USB | microUSB 2.0 | microUSB 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, hotspot | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct, hotspot |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, proximity | Accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass |
| | - | HDMI port |
| Battery |
|---|
| Stand-by | - | Up to 384 h (3G) |
| Talk time | Up to 25 h | Up to 25 h (2G) / Up to 18 h (3G) |
| Type | Li-Ion 2800 mAh, non-removable | Li-Ion 2880 mAh, non-removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black, White | Black |
| Price | About 80 EUR | About 140 EUR |
| Tests |
|---|
| Battery life |
Endurance rating 45h
| - |
| Camera |
Photo / Video |
Photo / Video |
| OUR TESTS |
|---|
| Battery (old) | Endurance rating 45h | - |
| Camera | Photo / Video | Photo / Video |
BlackBerry Leap
- Compact and pocketable
- Classic BlackBerry keyboard
- Good security features
- Decent battery life
- Older chipset and CPU
- Lower screen resolution compared to Z30
- Limited app support now
- Camera quality is basic
BlackBerry Z30
- Larger display
- Faster processor and chipset
- More premium design
- Good battery life
- Classic BlackBerry keyboard
- Larger size may not suit everyone
- Older software
- Limited app support now
- Camera quality is basic
Display Comparison
The Z30 boasts a larger 5.0-inch display compared to the Leap's 4.5-inch screen. Both use IPS LCD technology, but the Z30's larger size offers a more immersive viewing experience. Resolution is similar, but the Z30's screen feels more modern.
Camera Comparison
Both phones feature similar camera hardware, but the Z30's software and processing algorithms are slightly better, resulting in marginally improved photo quality. Low-light performance is still limited on both devices, reflecting their age.
Performance
The Z30's Qualcomm MSM8960T Snapdragon S4 Pro chipset and 1.7 GHz Krait dual-core CPU provide a noticeable performance boost over the Leap's MSM8960 Snapdragon S4 Plus and 1.5 GHz Krait CPU. Apps launch faster, and multitasking feels smoother on the Z30.
Battery Life
The Leap and Z30 both claim impressive battery endurance ratings (45h and unspecified, but generally considered good for the time). However, the Z30's larger size allows for a larger battery capacity, potentially translating to slightly longer real-world usage.
Buying Guide
The BlackBerry Leap is a good choice for users prioritizing a compact form factor and a slightly more affordable option. The BlackBerry Z30 is better suited for those who want a larger screen, a bit more processing power, and a more premium feel, assuming they can find one in good condition.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Are these phones still supported with software updates?
No, both the BlackBerry Leap and Z30 have reached their end of life and no longer receive official software updates from BlackBerry. Security patches are no longer provided.
❓ Can I use these phones with modern apps?
While both phones can run older Android apps, compatibility with newer apps is limited. The BlackBerry 10 operating system is not widely supported, and app availability is significantly reduced compared to modern smartphones.
