X

Photos: RIM BlackBerry Curve (aka BlackBerry 8300)

On the heels of the <a href="http://reviews.cnet.com/RIM_BlackBerry_8800/4505-6452_7-32329098.html">BlackBerry 8800</a> release, Research in Motion has introduced an even sexier model. Oh, the world of technology can be so cruel. Take a gander at the crave-worthy RIM BlackBerry Curve (aka BlackBerry 8300) and read our full review to see if this smart phone offers more than just good looks.

CNET Reviews staff
32434383-2-440-0.jpg
1 of 12 Corinne Schulze/CNET Networks
The RIM BlackBerry Curve (aka BlackBerry 8300) is the smallest and lightest full-QWERTY BlackBerry to date, and we're absolutely stoked on the design. The device is really more about the revamped look rather than new features (though there are a few enhancements), but it's still a good choice for consumers and mobile professionals alike.
32434383-2-440-FT.jpg
2 of 12 Corinne Schulze/CNET Networks
Simply put, it was love at first sight. Though we don't fully understand the name--it's no curvier than the BlackBerry Pearl or any of the other latest BlackBerrys--the RIM BlackBerry Curve offers a best-of-breed design that beautifully combines a full QWERTY keyboard into a sleek and compact design.
32434383-2-440-PALM.jpg
3 of 12 Corinne Schulze/CNET Networks
The BlackBerry Curve is comfortable to hold and use as a phone, even though it has a wider body than regular cell phones. The outer edges also have a soft-touch finish to give them a rubbery texture, thus making it easier to grip.
32434383-2-440-BUTTONS.jpg
4 of 12 Corinne Schulze/CNET Networks
As with all BlackBerry models, the Curve does not have a touch screen, but we still found the device easy to use and navigate with the provided controls.
32434383-2-440-SD.jpg
5 of 12 Corinne Schulze/CNET Networks
On the left spine of the Curve, you will find a mini-USB port as well as another programmable convenience key, and--good news--the BlackBerry 8300 is equipped with a 3.5mm headset jack, so you can plug in Walkman-style headphones.
32434383-2-440-TP.jpg
6 of 12 Corinne Schulze/CNET Networks
The top view of the phone--not much to see here, but there is a mute call button.
32434383-2-440-DT1.jpg
7 of 12 Corinne Schulze/CNET Networks
Hey, slim! The sleek RIM BlackBerry Curve (middle) is shown compared to the BlackBerry 8700c (left) and the T-Mobile Dash (right).
32434383-2-440-PURSE.jpg
8 of 12 Corinne Schulze/CNET Networks
With its compact dimensions, you'll have no problem slipping the BlackBerry 8300 into your bag or purse. It still might make for a bit of a tight fit in a pants pocket, but it's much improved over past models.
32434383-2-440-DT2.jpg
9 of 12 Corinne Schulze/CNET Networks
Fortunately, the Curve's QWERTY keyboard is much improved over that of the BlackBerry 8800. It reverts back to the styling of past models, with more spacing between the keys for easy typing. As with the latest BlackBerrys, the 8300 also features the trackball navigator.
32434383-2-440-DT3.jpg
10 of 12 Corinne Schulze/CNET Networks
The BlackBerry Curve gets a camera upgrade with a 2-megapixel sensor and a 5x zoom lens. Yet, despite this improvement, we were a bit disappointed by the picture quality. The 8300 produced clear pictures, but the colors had a gray overtone.
32434383-2-440-DT4.jpg
11 of 12 Corinne Schulze/CNET Networks
Though it's inconveniently located behind the battery, the Curve is equipped with a microSD card slot for carrying tunes, videos, and other files.
32434383-2-440-DT5.jpg
12 of 12 Corinne Schulze/CNET Networks
The BlackBerry 8300 ships with a number of accessories, including a belt holster and wired earbuds. You also get a USB cable and a travel charger. For more BlackBerry add-ons and downloads, check out our cell phone accessories page.

More Galleries

My Favorite Shots From the Galaxy S24 Ultra's Camera
A houseplant

My Favorite Shots From the Galaxy S24 Ultra's Camera

20 Photos
Honor's Magic V2 Foldable Is Lighter Than Samsung's Galaxy S24 Ultra
magic-v2-2024-foldable-1383

Honor's Magic V2 Foldable Is Lighter Than Samsung's Galaxy S24 Ultra

10 Photos
The Samsung Galaxy S24 and S24 Plus Looks Sweet in Aluminum
Samsung Galaxy S24

The Samsung Galaxy S24 and S24 Plus Looks Sweet in Aluminum

23 Photos
Samsung's Galaxy S24 Ultra Now Has a Titanium Design
The Galaxy S24 Ultra in multiple colors

Samsung's Galaxy S24 Ultra Now Has a Titanium Design

23 Photos
I Took 600+ Photos With the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max. Look at My Favorites
img-0368.jpg

I Took 600+ Photos With the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max. Look at My Favorites

34 Photos
17 Hidden iOS 17 Features You Should Definitely Know About
Invitation for the Apple September iPhone 15 event

17 Hidden iOS 17 Features You Should Definitely Know About

18 Photos
AI or Not AI: Can You Spot the Real Photos?
img-1599-2.jpg

AI or Not AI: Can You Spot the Real Photos?

17 Photos