As a replacement, I was encouraged to explore the BlackJack and, as being a very heavy Blackberry user for the last 4 years, I first sought some internet literature/advice about how these devices would compare. Even though I found a considerable amount of BlackJack vs Treo comparison - I could not find a single one with the Blackberry.
I'd just like to clear from the beginning that after the 30days period, I opted for the BlackBerry as my personal device.
Also, as I handle emails on 3 different languages on a daily basis, I am comparing the full keyboard models ( does not apply to the BlackBerry Pearl ), as the word recognition double keys does not work on multiple languages
- Camera: Works great on the BlackJack - too bad there's no flash. Both pics and video with good quality. The MMS function is also great, allowing the user to immediatly send the pictures/video taken. It's not available on the BlackBerry.
- Watching Video: With the 3g connectivity and windows platform, the BlackJack not only provides you access to viral videos on internet, but also allows you to download and storage videos on the phone as well as let the mobile version of SlingBox works perfectly. I was really impressed by the prospect of being able to watch my home television from anywhere, with virtually no delay and very high quality. This function is also not available on the BlackBerry
- IMing: The BlackJack already comes with AOL, MSN and Yahoo messenger as defaults, allowing full connectivity to internet users. Blackberry has its own messenger that even though does the job, has a very limited universe of users
- Address Book: Both devices very similar, slight advantage for the BlackJack as you may include pics on the address book, so when you receive SMS, Emails and phone calls, you actually get to see their pictures
- Battery: Simply no comparison, Blackberry may last up to 5 days, whereas the Blackjack, whenever heavily used, will last about 5 hours
- Connectivity: That's was one of the deal breakers I encounter, while BlackBerry has worked on developing a network of partners across the globe (through which one can use the device by a flat fee), for other manufacturers you will pay roaming fee. AS can be imagined, this may get quite expensive, specially if you plan to use the gadgets available on the blackjack (Slingbox, IMing, Picture/Video posting and etc)
Anyway, in the end, most of the advantages of the blackjack turned out to be canceled by either lack of battery power or usage rates.
