When Apple introduced the iPhone, BlackBerry gradually lost its dominant position in the business smartphone market. Apple’s device captured widespread attention, challenging Research In Motion’s (RIM) once-uncontested lead. Despite declining sales in some regions, RIM remained determined to compete, preparing to launch BlackBerry 10 devices in January to reclaim market share. That does not mean BlackBerry 7 was weak—on the contrary, several BlackBerry smartphones continue to offer robust performance and features.
Below is a look at some of the top BlackBerry phones available today, their strengths, and who they’re best suited for.
BlackBerry Bold 9900
The Bold 9900 succeeded the Bold 9700 and 9780 and introduced a refined touchscreen while retaining BlackBerry’s hallmark build quality. Many reviewers consider it the finest BlackBerry device at the time of its release. With its balanced feature set and polished interface, the Bold 9900 set a high bar for the BlackBerry 10 lineup to match.
BlackBerry Torch 9810
The Torch 9810 followed the Torch 9860 and returned closer to the original Torch design by combining a touchscreen with a sliding physical keyboard. It’s well-suited for multimedia thanks to a fast processor, long battery life, and a clear display, and web browsing is generally smooth. This model appeals to users who want both touch interaction and a tactile keyboard.
BlackBerry Torch 9860
The Torch 9860, released alongside the 9810, is a pure touchscreen model without a physical keyboard. With Liquid Graphics technology on its 3.7-inch display and a 1.2 GHz processor, it delivers a fluid interface and responsive performance. While longtime BlackBerry fans may prefer physical keys, newcomers to the platform will find the Torch 9860 an attractive and capable touchscreen option.
BlackBerry Curve 9380
The Curve 9380 expanded the Curve family into full-touch devices. Priced similarly to the Curve 8520, it targets budget-conscious buyers. Although it has modest CPU performance and a lower-resolution display, it still offers 3G and A-GPS functionality, making it a sensible choice for those seeking an affordable BlackBerry with essential connectivity features.
BlackBerry Curve 9320
For users on a tighter budget, the Curve 9320 provides a cost-effective BlackBerry experience. Despite its low price, it includes useful features such as DLNA support, FM radio, and Wi‑Fi. While it doesn’t compete with higher-end models in raw power or display quality, it delivers reliable everyday functionality at a modest cost.
BlackBerry Bold 9790
The Bold 9790 is a more compact alternative to the Bold 9900, designed with slimmer profiles and reduced pocket bulk in mind. The smaller chassis still accommodates a capable touchscreen and adds NFC functionality. Its compact form factor makes it an appealing option for users who prefer a pocket-friendly device without sacrificing key features.
BlackBerry Curve 9360
Although part of the Curve lineup, the Curve 9360 sits above entry-level models in terms of features and price. It offers a crisp display, a 5-megapixel camera, and NFC support, making it one of the more accomplished Curve devices. This model is well-suited to users who want a polished, mid-range BlackBerry experience without stepping up to the Bold series.
Conclusion
These models represent some of the best BlackBerry phones on the market prior to the BlackBerry 10 launch. If you’re not waiting for the new BlackBerry 10 devices and want a reliable BlackBerry now, there are several strong choices depending on your priorities: the Bold 9900 for a premium experience, the Torch series for those who like touchscreens (with or without a physical keyboard), and the Curve models for budget-friendly options with solid everyday features. Each offers a distinct balance of design, performance, and functionality—so choose the one that best fits your needs.