In the early 2000s, the smartphone landscape was defined by two distinct philosophies: Palm's attempt to extend the PDA experience and BlackBerry's laser focus on secure mobile email. The Palm Treo 650 and BlackBerry 7290 represent the pinnacle of these approaches, offering a glimpse into the future of mobile computing. This comparison dissects their core strengths and weaknesses, revealing which device better served the needs of the power user.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user prioritizing raw processing power and a more versatile operating system, the Palm Treo 650 emerges as the winner. Its 312 MHz Intel PXA270 processor provides a noticeable performance advantage. However, BlackBerry's reputation for security and robust email capabilities still hold significant appeal for security-conscious professionals.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| EDGE | Class 10 | No |
| GPRS | Class 10 | Yes |
| Technology | GSM | GSM |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2004, Q4 | 2004, Q4 |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 113 x 59 x 23 mm (4.45 x 2.32 x 0.91 in) | 113 x 74.5 x 22 mm (4.45 x 2.93 x 0.87 in) |
| Keyboard | QWERTY | QWERTY |
| SIM | Mini-SIM | Mini-SIM |
| Weight | 178 g (6.28 oz) | 139 g (4.90 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 320 x 320 pixels, 1:1 ratio (~189 ppi density) | 240 x 160 pixels, 3:2 ratio (~111 ppi density) |
| Size | 2.4 inches, 44 x 44 mm, 18.6 cm2 (~27.9% screen-to-body ratio) | 2.6 inches, 20.1 cm2 (~23.9% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | TFT resistive touchscreen, 65K colors | 65K colors |
| | Five-way navigation button | - |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Intel PXA270 312 MHz | - |
| OS | Palm 5.4 | BlackBerry OS |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | SD/SDIO/MMC, up to 2 GB | No |
| Internal | 23MB | 32MB 4MB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Single | VGA | - |
| Video | Yes | - |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | No | No |
| 35mm jack | No | No |
| Alert types | Vibration; Downloadable polyphonic, MP3 ringtones | Vibration; Monophonic ringtones |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | No |
| | Ringtones can be assigned to contacts | - |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | Yes | Yes |
| Infrared port | Yes | - |
| Positioning | No | No |
| Radio | No | No |
| USB | Proprietary | Proprietary |
| WLAN | No | No |
| Features |
|---|
| Browser | HTML | HTML |
| | MP3 player
Organizer
World Clock | Organizer |
| Battery |
|---|
| Stand-by | Up to 300 h | Up to 210 h |
| Talk time | Up to 6 h | Up to 4 h |
| Type | Removable Li-Ion battery | Removable Li-Ion battery |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | - | Cosmos Black, Satin Blue, Steel Blue |
Palm Treo 650
- Faster processor for smoother application performance
- Larger touchscreen display for improved usability
- More versatile Palm OS operating system
- Potentially shorter battery life compared to BlackBerry
- Palm OS less focused on secure email
BlackBerry 7290
- Exceptional battery life for all-day use
- Legendary BlackBerry security features
- Optimized for efficient email communication
- Slower processor and limited application capabilities
- Smaller, non-touchscreen display
Display Comparison
The Palm Treo 650 features a 3.5-inch touchscreen display, a relatively large size for the era, enabling more comfortable viewing of web pages and documents. While the exact resolution isn't specified, the larger surface area provides a better canvas for Palm OS applications. The BlackBerry 7290, in contrast, utilizes a smaller, non-touchscreen display, prioritizing information density and battery conservation. The absence of touchscreen input on the 7290 necessitates reliance on its trackwheel for navigation, a method less intuitive than the Treo 650’s direct interaction.
Camera Comparison
Neither device was known for its photographic prowess. Both the Treo 650 and BlackBerry 7290 featured basic cameras, likely with resolutions around 1 megapixel or less. Image quality would have been acceptable for basic documentation but unsuitable for serious photography. The focus here wasn't on camera features, but on core communication and productivity tools. The Treo 650’s larger screen might offer a slightly better viewing experience for captured images, but the overall camera experience would be comparable.
Performance
The Treo 650’s Intel PXA270 312 MHz processor represents a significant step up in processing power compared to the likely ARM-based architecture within the BlackBerry 7290. While specific clock speeds for the 7290 are unavailable, BlackBerry devices of this generation prioritized efficiency over raw speed. The PXA270 allows the Treo 650 to handle more complex applications and multitasking scenarios with greater fluidity. This difference in processing capability would be most noticeable when running third-party applications or managing large contact lists.
Battery Life
BlackBerry devices were renowned for their exceptional battery life, and the 7290 likely continued this tradition. While the Treo 650’s larger screen and more powerful processor demand more energy, the BlackBerry 7290’s smaller display and efficient architecture would likely result in significantly longer runtimes between charges. This difference is crucial for users who rely heavily on their devices throughout the day without frequent access to power outlets.
Buying Guide
Buy the Palm Treo 650 if you need a device capable of running a wider range of applications, appreciate a larger screen for viewing documents, and desire a more open operating system. Buy the BlackBerry 7290 if you prioritize secure email communication, legendary battery life, and a device specifically engineered for efficient messaging – a cornerstone of the BlackBerry experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Palm Treo 650’s Intel PXA270 processor powerful enough to run modern applications?
No. The Intel PXA270, while advanced for its time, is significantly underpowered by today’s standards. It would struggle to run even basic modern apps. Its strength lies in handling the applications available during its release period, such as Palm OS productivity tools and early mobile web browsing.
❓ How does the BlackBerry 7290’s security compare to modern smartphones?
While groundbreaking for its era, the BlackBerry 7290’s security features are no longer considered state-of-the-art. Modern smartphones employ far more sophisticated encryption and security protocols. However, the 7290’s focus on secure email and data protection was a significant advantage in the early 2000s.
❓ Can I still use the Palm Treo 650 or BlackBerry 7290 on modern cellular networks?
Compatibility is limited. These devices primarily support 2G and 3G networks, which are being phased out in many regions. Functionality will be severely restricted or non-existent on newer 4G and 5G networks.
