If you’re in the market for a new smartphone, the BlackBerry Passport has likely come up in your research. This unique device was introduced by BlackBerry in 2014 and features a refreshing new design, a physical keyboard, and a focus on productivity. But is it worth buying in 2021? In this review, we’ll take an in-depth look at the BlackBerry Passport and give you our recommendation.

Key Takeaways

• The BlackBerry Passport has a unique and stylish design with a physical QWERTY keyboard.
• It’s great for productivity thanks to its large square screen and powerful processor.
• However, the device runs on the outdated BlackBerry 10 operating system, which limits app availability and support.
• The camera and battery life are both average and may not meet the needs of heavy social media users.
• Overall, the BlackBerry Passport is a great choice for professionals who value productivity and style, but it may not be the best fit for everyone.

Design and Features

The BlackBerry Passport has a distinctive design that sets it apart from other smartphones on the market. Its square shape and physical keyboard are reminiscent of classic BlackBerry devices, but with a modern twist. The device measures 5.04 x 3.56 x 0.37 inches and weighs 6.91 ounces, making it larger and heavier than many competitors.

The device features a 4.5-inch IPS LCD display with a resolution of 1440 x 1440 pixels. While the size and screen ratio may take some getting used to, it’s great for multitasking and viewing documents. The display is also protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 3.

Under the hood, the BlackBerry Passport is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 801 processor and 3GB of RAM, which is more than enough power for most users. However, the device runs on BlackBerry 10, an operating system that is no longer supported by the company. While you can still access certain apps, the selection is limited and may not meet the needs of all users.

Productivity and Performance

For users who prioritize productivity, the BlackBerry Passport can’t be beaten. The physical keyboard is a standout feature that allows for easier typing and more accuracy than on-screen keyboards. The Passport also has a wide range of keyboard shortcuts and gestures that make navigating the device faster and more efficient.

Thanks to its powerful processor and large square screen, the BlackBerry Passport can handle multitasking with ease. You can have multiple apps open at once, and the device won’t slow down or freeze. This is ideal for professionals who need to switch between apps frequently throughout the day.

However, the outdated operating system may limit your ability to use certain productivity apps that are only available for more modern platforms like iOS or Android. Also, the battery life is average and may not be enough to get you through a full day of heavy use.

Camera and Multimedia

The BlackBerry Passport’s camera is decent but not exceptional. It features a 13-megapixel rear camera and a 2-megapixel front-facing camera. The rear camera takes good pictures in well-lit environments but struggles in low light. The front-facing camera is fine for video calls but may not meet the needs of selfie enthusiasts.

The device also features a built-in music and video player, which is nothing to write home about. While it gets the job done, it doesn’t offer any standout features that make it a must-have for multimedia enthusiasts.

Recommendation

So, should you buy the BlackBerry Passport in 2021? The answer depends on your needs and priorities. If you’re a professional who values productivity and wants a device that stands out from the crowd, the BlackBerry Passport is a great choice. The physical keyboard and large square screen make it ideal for multitasking, and the device is powerful enough to handle most tasks.

However, if you’re a heavy social media user or value the latest apps and features, the BlackBerry Passport may not be the best fit. The outdated operating system limits app availability, and the camera and battery life may not meet your needs.

Overall, the BlackBerry Passport is a unique and stylish device that is worth considering if you prioritize productivity over all else. Just be aware of its limitations before making your purchase.

Useful FAQ

What operating system does the BlackBerry Passport run on?

The BlackBerry Passport runs on the BlackBerry 10 operating system, which is no longer supported by the company. While you can still access certain apps, the selection is limited.

Is the BlackBerry Passport good for productivity?

Yes, the BlackBerry Passport is great for productivity thanks to its physical keyboard, large square screen, and powerful processor. It also has a wide range of keyboard shortcuts and gestures that make navigating the device faster and more efficient.

How long does the BlackBerry Passport’s battery last?

The BlackBerry Passport’s battery life is average and may not be enough to get you through a full day of heavy use. However, the device does feature fast charging capabilities, allowing you to quickly charge it when needed.