Having lost ground to Apple and Samsung in the smartphone market, RIM, the BlackBerry maker, wanted to make a comeback with the latest BlackBerry Q10 and BlackBerry Z10. The two handsets are conspicuously distinct from each other yet bear equally innovative features. How do they compare against each other?
Design
Both devices flaunt the distinct BlackBerry look that has always appealed to the business class. The Q10 features BlackBerry’s classic physical QWERTY keyboard, the main selling point of the device. The Z10, on the other hand, is fully touch-sensitive device, with a super-fast virtual keyboard. Both keyboards have auto-correct and next word functionalities. While the Z10 keyboard wins, the Q10’s ergonomically sound keyboard also excels with its grooved keys and metals frets between rows to allow easy strokes.
In terms of design and build quality, the Q10, with its carbon fiber rear and aluminum details is superior to the Z10, which features a plastic rear cover. Q10 bears a steel band in the center, a glass-weave rear plate, plus Kevlar coating, making it durable and rendering a premium look. Its curved edges are convenient in the pocket as well.
Measuring 4.71 x 2.63 x 0.41 inches, and weighing 139g, the Q10 is slightly broader, thicker and heavier than the Z10 which measures 5.12 x 2.58 x 0.35 inches and weighs 138g. Either device is comfortable to hold.
Display
Q10 has a 3.1-inch screen above its physical keyboard and offers a screen resolution of 720 x 720 pixels with a pixel density of 328ppi. Z10 has an all-touch 4.2-inch screen, with a resolution of 768 x 1280 pixels and pixel density of 355ppi, perfect for streaming videos. Its higher resolution provides better contrasts, colors and images compared to the Q10.
Hardware, Processor and Connectivity
Each phone features a micro HDMI and USB port, power button and metal volume control-button.
The features under the hood are similar as well. Each is powered by a 1.5GHz dual-core processor with 2GB RAM. The 16GB onboard storage capability can be expanded up to 64GB via microSD slot.
The BlackBerry 10 Operating System is the major advancement in either device. It allows both phones to offer similar functionalities, be it multi-tasking or playing HD video. The processor is apt for the revamped OS, allowing both phones to run apps in quick succession without any glitches.
In terms of connectivity, both support Wi-Fi, NFC, Bluetooth 4.0 and 4G. Both are available on Verizon Wireless, T-Mobile and Sprint. The Z10 is available on AT&T as well.
Camera
Both Q10 and Z10 share the same camera feature – an 8MP rear camera and 2MP front-facing camera. Both offer 1080p HD video recording.
Battery
The Q10 and Z10 each have a 1,800mAh battery. However, the smaller screen of Q10 provides better battery life compared to the larger display of Z10.
Pricing
The Q10 is priced at $249.99 while the Z10 costs $199.99.
Conclusion
BlackBerry has a reputation for its security features that have widely appealed to corporate customers. The advanced BB10 platform brings the BlackBerry Balance feature, which allows users to keep corporate apps separate from personal data. In other words, both Q10 and Z10 flaunt improved functionality for business users. At the same time, both can stream videos and play games with equal zest.
When it comes to making a choice, the Q10 is probably best to organize one’s work calendar and emails. Further, Q10 is the best device for those who fancy the physical keyboard. Those who have been using a BlackBerry as work phone and an iOS or Android device as personal phone, the Z10 can be the perfect replacement, serving as a work cum personal phone.
Though all-touch devices are the norm in today’s smartphone market, BlackBerry’s latest physical keyboard version seems to be doing well. Will BB Q10 and BB Z10 bring back the lost splendor of RIM and sustain the momentum if they do? It remains to be seen.
