Blackberry Key2 First Impressions: Too Big a Price for Security?

BlackBerry Key2 first impressions: A big price to pay for security with average specifications.

I really don’t remember when was the last time anyone said “I miss BlackBerry”. Once a prominent brand in the Indian mobile phone space, it has slowly waned into oblivion with traces of BlackBerry Messenger and the QWERTY keyboard left behind for a few to have nostalgic moments about.

After the launch of the BlackBerry KeyOne last year, the company has now launched the Key2 in India. It’s USP: Security.

The Key2 is a fortress when it comes to security. But, should you really spend Rs 42,990 on a phone just for its security features or are you getting anything extra here? We got to spend some time with the Key2 and here’s our first impression.

Specifications

• Display: 4.5-inch FHD
• Processor: Snapdragon 660, octa-core
• RAM: 6 GB
• Storage: 64 GB (expandable)
• Rear camera: 12MP+12MP dual
• Front camera: 8MP
• Battery: 3,500mAh
• Price: Rs 42,990

Design & Display

When it comes to design, the Key2 sports the same boxy design we saw on the KeyOne. Though I’m not really a fan of all that bulk, but it still gives the fingers something to grab on to and it doesn’t slip out of the hands thanks to the rubberised texture at the back.

The QWERTY keypad has been carried forward on the Key2. I didn’t have the best time typing on the phone because I am not used to this kind of an input method. Touch always works for me.

But, BlackBerry lovers are going to enjoy the keypad as it comes with a lot of shortcuts to interact with. Almost 52 of them!

The display is a standard 4.5-inch full HD touchscreen that is very clear and crisp. Despite the lesser pixels nothing to complain about.

Performance & Hardware

It’s heartbreaking to see that in this day and age when phones are coming with powerful processors like the Snapdragon 845, the Key2 (which is a flagship) comes with only a Snapdragon 660 octa-core processor. This phone isn’t meant to be a workhorse though the 6 GB RAM might help move things along smoothly.

Andorid 8.1 Oreo comes bundled with the package, but the most interesting offering here is the high level of DTEK security the phone offers. From malicious e-mails to viruses, the BlackBerry can handle all — at least that’s what the company says.

Plenty of storage here with 64 GB of on-board space with an option to expand it up to 256 GB. Apart from the other essentials like USB type-C charging and a finger sensor on the keypad, the phone also comes with a Speed Key that acts like a shortcut and helps you access apps quicker. Something similar to what you see on a OnePlus 6.

Camera & Battery

The BlackBerry Key2 for the first time is sporting a dual camera setup. It comes with a 12+12-megapixel sensor on the rear and an 8-megapixel front shooter. I wasn’t impressed with the phone’s low light pictures, although outdoors in sufficient light it performs well.

The front camera still struggles. Bitter disappointment there.

The Key2 is running on a 3,500mAh battery that also supports Quick Charge technology. Considering you won’t be playing PUBG on this phone, it’ll last you the entire day. Maybe even more.

Initial Verdict

There’s no easy way to say this, but for Rs 42,990 this smartphone s..., er it simply isn’t meant for everyone. Yes, there is a lot of PREMIUM attached to this brand and the Key2, but what BlackBerry is still missing is that X factor.

People working for the CIA or on some top secret project and who would like to keep their data super safe should consider this phone.

And, if you’re a spec hunter... go buy a Xiaomi or an ASUS, you’ll find the same specs and better battery for under Rs 15,000!