The BlackBerry Torch 9850 and Curve 9380 represent different eras of BlackBerry design and functionality. Both phones hold a special place in the hearts of many, but which one offers a better experience today? Let's dive into a detailed comparison to help you decide.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Torch 9850 boasts a significantly faster processor and a touchscreen, offering a more modern feel. However, the Curve 9380 excels in battery life and retains the beloved physical QWERTY keyboard. For performance, choose the Torch; for endurance, the Curve.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | CDMA 800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 1900 / 2100 |
| Speed | HSPA 14.4/5.76 Mbps, EV-DO Rev A 3.1 Mbps | HSPA |
| Technology | GSM / CDMA / HSPA / EVDO | GSM / HSPA |
| | CDMA2000 1xEV-DO | HSDPA 900 / 1700 / 2100 |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2011, August. Released 2011, August | 2011, November. Released 2011, December |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 120 x 62 x 11.5 mm (4.72 x 2.44 x 0.45 in) | 109 x 60 x 11.2 mm (4.29 x 2.36 x 0.44 in) |
| SIM | Mini-SIM | Mini-SIM |
| Weight | 135 g (4.76 oz) | 98 g (3.46 oz) |
| | - | Optical trackpad |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 480 x 800 pixels, 5:3 ratio (~252 ppi density) | 360 x 480 pixels, 4:3 ratio (~188 ppi density) |
| Size | 3.7 inches, 39.0 cm2 (~52.4% screen-to-body ratio) | 3.2 inches, 31.7 cm2 (~48.5% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | TFT | TFT |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | 1.2 GHz Scorpion | 806 MHz |
| Chipset | Qualcomm MSM8655 Snapdragon S2 | - |
| GPU | Adreno 205 | - |
| OS | BlackBerry OS 7 | BlackBerry OS 7.0 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDHC (dedicated slot) | microSDHC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 4GB 768MB RAM | 512MB 512MB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | LED flash |
| Single | 5 MP, AF | 5 MP |
| Video | 720p | 480p |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 2.1, A2DP, EDR | 2.1, A2DP, EDR |
| NFC | - | Carrier dependent |
| Positioning | GPS, A-GPS | GPS, A-GPS |
| Radio | No | No |
| USB | microUSB 2.0 | microUSB 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, UMA (carrier-dependent) |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, proximity, compass | Proximity |
| | Social feeds
BlackBerry maps
Document viewer
MP3/WMA/eAAC+/FlAC player
DivX/XviD/MP4/WMV/H.264
Organizer
Voice memo/dial
Predictive test input | MP3/eAAC+/WMA/WAV/FLACplayer
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 320 h | Up to 360 h (2G) / Up to 360 h (3G) |
| Talk time | Up to 6 h 50 min | Up to 5 h 30 min (2G) / Up to 5 h 40 min (3G) |
| Type | Removable Li-Ion 1230 mAh battery | Removable Li-Ion battery (JM-1) |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black | Black |
| Price | About 130 EUR | About 120 EUR |
| SAR | 0.90 W/kg (head) 0.66 W/kg (body) | 1.38 W/kg (head) 0.77 W/kg (body) |
| SAR EU | 0.76 W/kg (head) 0.43 W/kg (body) | 1.09 W/kg (head) 0.59 W/kg (body) |
| Tests |
|---|
| Audio quality | - |
Noise -85.8dB / Crosstalk -80.3dB |
| Battery life | - |
Endurance rating 39h
|
| Camera | - |
Photo |
| Display | - |
Contrast ratio: 863:1 (nominal) |
| Loudspeaker | - |
Voice 61dB / Noise 64dB / Ring 66dB
|
BlackBerry Torch 9850
- Faster Processor
- Touchscreen Display
- Slightly More Modern Design
- Better Multitasking
- Shorter Battery Life
- Camera Quality is Average
- Can Feel Dated
BlackBerry Curve 9380
- Excellent Battery Life
- Physical QWERTY Keyboard
- Compact and Durable
- Traditional BlackBerry Experience
- Slower Performance
- Smaller Display
- Outdated Design
- Limited App Support
Display Comparison
The Torch 9850 features a 3.7-inch capacitive touchscreen with a resolution of 480x854 pixels. The Curve 9380 has a smaller 3.2-inch display with a resolution of 360x480 pixels and a contrast ratio of 863:1. While both offer decent visibility, the Torch's larger size and capacitive touchscreen provide a more responsive and immersive experience.
Camera Comparison
Both devices feature a 5-megapixel camera. Image quality is adequate for basic snapshots, but don't expect exceptional results. Low-light performance is a weakness on both phones. The Torch's touchscreen interface might offer slightly easier photo management.
Performance
Here's where the Torch 9850 truly shines. Its 1.2 GHz Scorpion processor significantly outperforms the Curve 9380's 806 MHz CPU. This translates to faster app loading times, smoother multitasking, and a generally more responsive user interface. The Torch handles more demanding tasks with greater ease.
Battery Life
The Curve 9380 takes the crown in battery life. Its endurance rating of 39 hours is impressive, allowing for extended use without frequent charging. The Torch 9850's battery life is noticeably shorter, particularly with heavy touchscreen usage.
Buying Guide
The BlackBerry Torch 9850 is ideal for users who prioritize speed, a touchscreen interface, and a slightly more contemporary design. The BlackBerry Curve 9380 is a great choice for those who value long battery life, a reliable physical keyboard, and a more traditional BlackBerry experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the BlackBerry Torch 9850 worth buying in 2023?
It depends on your needs. If you want a fast BlackBerry with a touchscreen, it can be a fun retro experience. However, be aware of its limited app support and shorter battery life.
❓ Which BlackBerry is better for typing: Torch or Curve?
The Curve 9380 is the clear winner. Its physical QWERTY keyboard is superior for comfortable and accurate typing compared to the Torch's touchscreen.
