The BlackBerry KEY2 is a unique smartphone that combines the functionality of a modern Android device with the classic tactile experience of a physical keyboard. Released in 2018, the KEY2 has garnered significant attention for its distinctive design and robust security features. However, with the rapid evolution of smartphones, potential buyers may wonder if the BlackBerry KEY2 is still worth considering. In this article, we will delve into the details of the KEY2, exploring its features, performance, and overall value to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Display
The BlackBerry KEY2 boasts a sleek and durable design, with a stainless steel frame and a textured back panel that provides a secure grip. The device measures 151.4 x 71.8 x 8.5 mm and weighs 168 grams, making it slightly heavier than some of its competitors. The KEY2’s most distinctive feature, however, is its physical keyboard, which offers a tactile typing experience that is unparalleled in the modern smartphone market. The keyboard is designed with a fingerprint sensor embedded in the space bar, adding an extra layer of security and convenience.
The KEY2 features a 4.5-inch IPS LCD display with a resolution of 1080 x 1620 pixels, resulting in a pixel density of 433 pixels per inch. While the display may not be as large or as vibrant as some of the newer smartphones on the market, it is more than sufficient for everyday use, offering crisp and clear visuals. The 3:2 aspect ratio of the display also makes it ideal for browsing the web, reading documents, and using productivity apps.
Performance and Hardware
Under the hood, the BlackBerry KEY2 is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 660 processor, which provides a smooth and efficient performance. The device comes with 6GB of RAM and 64GB or 128GB of internal storage, depending on the model. The KEY2 also features a microSD card slot, allowing users to expand their storage capacity up to 256GB.
In terms of performance, the KEY2 is more than capable of handling everyday tasks such as browsing the web, checking email, and using social media apps. However, it may struggle with more demanding tasks such as gaming and video editing. The device’s Adreno 512 GPU provides decent graphics performance, but it is not as powerful as some of the newer GPUs found in flagship smartphones.
Camera and Photography
The BlackBerry KEY2 features a dual-camera setup, with a 12-megapixel primary sensor and a 12-megapixel telephoto lens. The camera app is intuitive and easy to use, with a range of modes and features such as portrait mode, panorama, and slow motion video. The KEY2’s camera is capable of capturing high-quality images with good detail and color accuracy, especially in well-lit conditions.
In low-light conditions, the KEY2’s camera can struggle to produce noise-free images, but it is still capable of capturing decent photos with some tweaking of the settings. The device also features an 8-megapixel front-facing camera, which is suitable for taking selfies and making video calls.
Software and Security
The BlackBerry KEY2 runs on Android 8.1 Oreo out of the box, but it has since been updated to Android 9.0 Pie. The device features a customized version of Android, with a range of BlackBerry-specific features and apps such as the BlackBerry Hub and DTEK security suite. The KEY2 also features a range of security enhancements, including a hardware root of trust and secure boot process.
The KEY2’s software is designed with productivity and security in mind, with features such as BBM (BlackBerry Messenger) and BlackBerry Work spaces. The device also features a range of gesture controls, including a gesture keyboard that allows users to navigate and interact with their device using a range of swipe gestures.
Battery Life and Charging
The BlackBerry KEY2 features a 3500mAh battery, which provides all-day battery life with moderate use. The device supports QuickCharge 3.0, allowing users to quickly top up their battery when they’re on the go. The KEY2 also features a range of power-saving features, including a low power mode that can help extend battery life when needed.
In terms of charging, the KEY2 uses a USB-C port, which provides fast and convenient charging. The device also supports wireless charging, making it easy to keep your device charged without the need for cables.
Conclusion
The BlackBerry KEY2 is a unique and capable smartphone that offers a range of features and benefits that set it apart from other devices on the market. With its physical keyboard, robust security features, and productivity-focused software, the KEY2 is an ideal choice for business users and individuals who value a tactile typing experience.
While the KEY2 may not be the most powerful or feature-rich smartphone available, it is a solid choice for anyone looking for a reliable and secure device that can keep up with their daily needs. With its affordable price point and long-term software support, the BlackBerry KEY2 is definitely worth considering for anyone in the market for a new smartphone.
Who Should Buy the BlackBerry KEY2?
The BlackBerry KEY2 is an ideal choice for:
- Business users who value security and productivity
- Individuals who prefer a physical keyboard
- Those who want a reliable and durable smartphone
- Anyone looking for a unique and distinctive device
Overall, the BlackBerry KEY2 is a solid choice for anyone looking for a smartphone that offers a unique blend of style, substance, and security. With its range of features and benefits, the KEY2 is definitely worth considering for anyone in the market for a new device.
Is the BlackBerry KEY2 worth buying for its physical keyboard?
The BlackBerry KEY2 is indeed worth considering for its physical keyboard, which is one of its standout features. The device boasts a sleek and compact design, with a physical QWERTY keyboard that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The keyboard is designed to provide a tactile typing experience, with a fingerprint sensor embedded in the space bar for added convenience and security. For those who prefer the feel of physical keys, the KEY2’s keyboard is a major selling point, offering a unique and satisfying typing experience that is hard to find on modern smartphones.
The physical keyboard on the KEY2 also offers a range of features and shortcuts that can enhance productivity and efficiency. For example, the keyboard includes a Speed Key that allows users to quickly access frequently used apps and functions, as well as a range of customizable shortcuts that can be tailored to individual needs. Additionally, the keyboard is designed to be durable and long-lasting, with a sleek and premium design that complements the device’s overall aesthetic. Overall, the physical keyboard on the BlackBerry KEY2 is a major draw for those who value tactile typing and are looking for a unique and functional smartphone experience.
How does the BlackBerry KEY2 perform in terms of battery life?
The BlackBerry KEY2 offers impressive battery life, with a large 3500mAh battery that provides all-day power and then some. The device is designed to be power-efficient, with a range of features and optimizations that help to minimize battery drain and maximize runtime. For example, the KEY2 includes a power-saving mode that can be activated to reduce battery consumption, as well as a range of settings and options that allow users to customize their battery experience. In real-world testing, the KEY2 has been shown to provide up to 2 days of moderate use, making it an excellent choice for those who need a device that can keep up with their busy lifestyle.
In addition to its large battery, the KEY2 also supports fast charging, which allows users to quickly top up their battery when they’re on the go. The device includes a range of charging options, including QuickCharge 3.0 and USB-C, which provide fast and convenient charging. Overall, the BlackBerry KEY2 offers excellent battery life, making it an excellent choice for those who need a device that can keep up with their demands. Whether you’re a heavy user or just need a device for occasional use, the KEY2’s battery life is sure to impress, providing a reliable and long-lasting power source that you can count on.
What are the key camera features of the BlackBerry KEY2?
The BlackBerry KEY2 boasts a range of impressive camera features, including a dual-camera setup with a 12MP primary sensor and a 12MP telephoto lens. The camera is designed to provide excellent image quality, with a range of features and modes that allow users to capture stunning photos and videos. For example, the KEY2 includes a portrait mode that allows users to capture professional-looking photos with a shallow depth of field, as well as a range of other modes and settings that can be used to customize the camera experience. The camera also includes optical zoom, which allows users to zoom in on their subject without sacrificing image quality.
In addition to its impressive hardware, the KEY2’s camera also includes a range of software features and optimizations that help to enhance image quality and provide a more intuitive camera experience. For example, the device includes a range of automatic modes and settings that can be used to optimize camera performance, as well as a range of manual controls and options that allow users to fine-tune their camera settings. The KEY2 also includes a range of video recording features, including 4K video and slow-motion capture, which provide a range of creative possibilities for users. Overall, the BlackBerry KEY2’s camera is an excellent choice for those who need a device that can capture high-quality photos and videos.
Is the BlackBerry KEY2 secure enough for business use?
The BlackBerry KEY2 is an extremely secure device, making it an excellent choice for business use. The device includes a range of security features and technologies, including a secure bootloader and a range of encryption options that help to protect user data. The KEY2 also includes a range of features and modes that are designed to enhance security, such as a secure folder that allows users to store sensitive data and a range of remote wipe and lock options that can be used to protect the device in the event of loss or theft. Additionally, the KEY2 includes a range of software updates and patches that are designed to keep the device secure and up-to-date.
In addition to its built-in security features, the BlackBerry KEY2 also includes a range of features and technologies that are designed to enhance enterprise security. For example, the device includes support for a range of enterprise mobility management (EMM) solutions, which provide a range of tools and features that can be used to manage and secure mobile devices. The KEY2 also includes a range of features and modes that are designed to enhance compliance and regulatory requirements, such as support for GDPR and HIPAA. Overall, the BlackBerry KEY2 is an extremely secure device that is well-suited for business use, providing a range of features and technologies that can help to protect user data and enhance enterprise security.
How does the BlackBerry KEY2 compare to other smartphones in its class?
The BlackBerry KEY2 is a unique device that offers a range of features and capabilities that set it apart from other smartphones in its class. One of the key advantages of the KEY2 is its physical keyboard, which provides a tactile typing experience that is hard to find on modern smartphones. The device also includes a range of other features and technologies, such as a large battery and a dual-camera setup, that help to enhance its overall value and appeal. In terms of performance, the KEY2 is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 660 processor, which provides fast and efficient performance that is well-suited for a range of tasks and applications.
In comparison to other smartphones in its class, the BlackBerry KEY2 offers a range of advantages and disadvantages. For example, the device’s physical keyboard may be a major draw for some users, but it may also be a turn-off for others who prefer the convenience and flexibility of a touchscreen keyboard. Additionally, the KEY2’s camera and performance capabilities may not be as advanced as some other devices in its class, but they are still highly competitive and provide excellent value and quality. Overall, the BlackBerry KEY2 is a unique and compelling device that offers a range of features and capabilities that make it an excellent choice for those who are looking for a smartphone that is a little bit different.
Can the BlackBerry KEY2 run the latest Android apps and games?
The BlackBerry KEY2 runs on Android 8.1 Oreo, which provides access to a wide range of apps and games through the Google Play Store. The device is fully compatible with the latest Android apps and games, and includes a range of features and technologies that help to enhance the overall app experience. For example, the KEY2 includes a range of optimizations and enhancements that help to improve app performance and reduce lag, as well as a range of security features and technologies that help to protect user data and prevent malware and other threats.
In terms of gaming, the BlackBerry KEY2 is a highly capable device that can run a wide range of games and other graphics-intensive apps. The device is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 660 processor, which provides fast and efficient performance that is well-suited for gaming and other demanding tasks. The KEY2 also includes a range of features and technologies that help to enhance the gaming experience, such as a high-resolution display and a range of audio enhancements that provide immersive and engaging sound. Overall, the BlackBerry KEY2 is an excellent choice for those who need a device that can run the latest Android apps and games, providing a highly capable and versatile platform for entertainment and productivity.
Is the BlackBerry KEY2 a good choice for those who value durability and build quality?
The BlackBerry KEY2 is an extremely durable and well-built device, making it an excellent choice for those who value durability and build quality. The device is constructed from high-quality materials, including a durable aluminum frame and a scratch-resistant display, that provide excellent protection against drops and other forms of damage. The KEY2 also includes a range of features and technologies that help to enhance durability, such as a water-resistant design and a range of seals and gaskets that help to prevent dust and moisture from entering the device.
In terms of build quality, the BlackBerry KEY2 is an extremely solid and well-constructed device that feels premium and luxurious in the hand. The device’s physical keyboard is particularly noteworthy, with a tactile and responsive design that provides excellent feedback and accuracy. The KEY2’s display is also highly impressive, with a high-resolution panel that provides excellent color accuracy and contrast. Overall, the BlackBerry KEY2 is an excellent choice for those who value durability and build quality, providing a highly capable and long-lasting device that can withstand the rigors of daily use.