Blackberry Passport In 2020! (Still Worth It?) (Review)

TL;DR

A thorough review of the BlackBerry Passport's capabilities and limitations in today's smartphone market.

Transcript

while everyone you guys already know I had to do it on you it's like the weirdest way I could say it I did this video last year and you know it's not every day I talk about a BlackBerry device but in the beginning of the year I'm trying to get out as many of these videos as possible so today we're going to be talking about none other than the black... Read More

Key Insights

• 🎹 The BlackBerry Passport stands out for its physical keyboard, appealing to those nostalgic for tactile typing, though it limits typing flexibility compared to modern virtual keyboards.
• 😀 Its hardware specifications reflect typical devices from 2014, which may not meet the demands of today’s apps and functionalities, leading to potential frustration for users.
• 👤 Despite being considered obsolete by many, the BlackBerry Passport can still serve specific markets, particularly among users who prioritize productivity over multimedia capabilities.
• 😀 The outdated BlackBerry OS limits access to modern apps, requiring users to install APKs manually, representing a significant hurdle compared to devices with mainstream operating systems.
• 🏛️ Built with a sturdy design, the Passport offers a uniquely compact size and weight, built for ease of portability, although its aesthetics may not appeal to users seeking contemporary smartphone designs.
• 🔋 Battery life is one of the Passport's strong suits, thanks to its efficient power management given the device's screen size and resolution, allowing for decent usage throughout the day.
• 📱 The physical characteristics of the phone, including its mix of plastic and metal, give it a premium feel, but many find it lacks the modern, sleek designs characteristic of recent smartphones.

Questions & Answers

Q: What are the standout features of the BlackBerry Passport?

The BlackBerry Passport features a unique physical keyboard designed for productivity, a 4.5-inch 1440p IPS display that, although it feels dated, remains visually appealing, and it includes a micro SD card slot for expandable storage. The keyboard also functions as a trackpad for easier navigation, which makes certain tasks more seamless than on standard touch screens.

Q: How does the Passport’s performance compare to modern smartphones?

The BlackBerry Passport runs on a Qualcomm Snapdragon 801 chipset with 3GB RAM, which is suitable for basic tasks but not for demanding applications. Users may notice lag or slower operation when compared to the latest smartphones. While its performance was decent for its time, it’s considered outdated now, impacting multitasking capabilities and overall user experience.

Q: What are the main drawbacks of using the BlackBerry Passport in 2020?

Key drawbacks include outdated software that no longer receives updates and limited app availability since it lacks Google Play Store. Additionally, the phone's single-camera setup does not support the varied imaging options available in current smartphones, making it less suitable for photography enthusiasts who prefer multifunctional camera systems.

Q: Is the BlackBerry Passport still worth buying today?

Whether the BlackBerry Passport is worth buying depends largely on user needs. Those seeking a unique typing experience and a focus on productivity may find it valuable. However, for most users, the lack of modern features, software support, and performance capabilities will likely lead them to choose newer devices that offer better functionalities.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The BlackBerry Passport, released in 2014, remains a unique device with its physical keyboard and 1440p display, appealing to niche users despite its outdated software and performance by 2020 standards.

• While its keyboard offers some advantages, modern software keyboards provide more flexibility, including features like swipe typing and frequent updates, which the Passport lacks.

• Users looking for enduring connectivity and productivity may find value in the Passport's core functionalities, but the design and technology feel outdated compared to newer smartphones.