RIM Blackberry Pearl 8110 - Expert Reviews

Review summary: For AT&T customers who are constantly on the road or are a little directionally challenged, the RIM BlackBerry Pearl 8110 and its integrated GPS can help you keep on track.

Review summary: The new BlackBerry Pearl 8110 has the same overall design as its stylish predecessor, but adds a snazzy new blue finish. The keyboard sits in a wave-like design on the front of the device, along with a really easy-to-use trackball, which lets you scroll u

Pros: Attractive design, Scroll ball is comfortable and easy to use, Works with Windows and Mac systems, Integration with Tiger is flawless

Cons: Side buttons are hard to squeeze, Comfort could be improved

Review summary: The 'pearl' rollerball is a great navigation tool, but the two-letters-to-a-button keyboard

Pros: Solid GPS solution; Packed with features; Beloved by systems admins

Cons: Software subscription needed for GPS; No help given to Mac users; Not a joy to use

Verdict: There's no help for Mac users given either, and though PocketMac is licensed by RIM for syncing contacts, calendars and more for Mac users, it's a bit flaky and is in any case not promoted as a solution

Review summary: The 8110 isn't so much an updated model as its virtually identical to the previously released Pearl 8120, excluding the fact that the 8110 includes a GPS chipset, but is without Wi-Fi.

Pros: Well designed and lightweight, SureType predictive messaging is excellent, Integrated GPS

Cons: No 3G or HSDPA, No widescreen for video, Poor quality camera, No Wi-Fi

Verdict: If you're choosing between the 8110 and the Wi-Fi enabled 8120 we recommend you choose the latter. Both handsets are virtually identical, however, the absence of GPS in the 8120 is easily replaced with a Bluetooth GPS receiver.