BlackBerry Torch Review

The BlackBerry Torch (starting at $49 with AT&T, Amazon) is RIM's version of a multimedia phone. BlackBerry Torch reviews, however, say phone functionality is good but the multimedia component still needs work. All the BlackBerry Torch reviews we read note that the Torch has a better operating system and a superior web browser than previous BlackBerry models. Still, CNET criticizes the smartphone's slow performance and low-resolution screen, which dampen its appeal. PC Magazine weighs in by saying the Torch lags in gaming, web surfing, and video playback but dazzles when it comes to messaging, long a BlackBerry staple; the excellent physical keyboard keeps text zipping right along. Indeed, Gizmodo says the Torch's keyboard is one of the best.

The BlackBerry Torch, available through AT&T, runs on a proprietary BlackBerry operating system (the new OS 6) and supports 3G speeds. It features a smaller-than-average 3.2-inch, 480x360 screen and a standard 5 mp camera that BlackBerry Torch reviews say produces sharp images and good color. Like most budget smartphones, this one is Bluetooth-compatible, supporting 802.11b/g/n connections.

Your opinion of the BlackBerry Torch will depend pretty heavily on whether you like slick multimedia phones that are business-friendly or a more business-oriented phone that has decent multimedia capabilities. If you're in the former camp, you probably won't like the Torch that much. If you're in the latter, the Torch maintains the messaging prowess for which BlackBerry is famous but with a little more multimedia kick than its sibling models. We'd be more excited about the Torch if it had a larger, higher resolution screen. Even so, the fact that RIM is even attempting to build a smartphone with multimedia appeal is a step forward for the BlackBerry brand.