BlackBerry Tour

amazon BlackBerry Tour reviews

Introduction

The BlackBerry Tour 9630 was released in July 2009, a time when BlackBerry was still a dominant player in the smartphone market, particularly among business professionals. Known for its robust email capabilities, physical QWERTY keyboard, and secure messaging services, BlackBerry had built a loyal customer base. The Tour 9630 was designed as a world phone, supporting both CDMA and GSM networks, making it a versatile option for international travelers. This review delves into the various aspects of the BlackBerry Tour, including its design, hardware, software, performance, and overall value.

Design and Build Quality

Aesthetics

The BlackBerry Tour 9630 features a classic design that is instantly recognizable as a BlackBerry device. It has a compact and professional look, with a dark black finish accented by chrome edges. The device feels solid in hand, and its design exudes the kind of understated elegance that BlackBerry was known for.

The front of the device is dominated by the 2.44-inch display, which is complemented by the physical QWERTY keyboard below. The keyboard is a hallmark of BlackBerry devices, and the Tour 9630 does not disappoint in this regard. Above the keyboard, the device has the signature trackball, a navigation tool that was popular among BlackBerry users for its precision.

Build Quality

In terms of build quality, the BlackBerry Tour 9630 is a sturdy and well-constructed device. The materials used are of high quality, and the phone feels durable. It was designed to withstand the rigors of daily use, whether it be in an office setting or while traveling. The chrome accents add a touch of sophistication, but they also serve a functional purpose, providing additional protection against drops and scratches.

The device weighs around 130 grams, which gives it a reassuring heft without feeling too heavy. It measures 112 x 62 x 14.2 mm, making it compact enough to fit comfortably in a pocket or purse. The rounded edges and slightly curved back contribute to the device’s comfortable grip, making it easy to hold and use for extended periods.

The BlackBerry Tour 9630 is considered the successor to the BlackBerry Curve 8900 or Bold. It looks bigger than the Curve model, but is neat when standing next to the Bold. The whole body is sturdy, feels secure when holding on hand.

The front of the Tour, 2.4 inches wide TFT screen, 480 x 360 pixels resolution, with 65 thousand colors, for images and characters display clear and sharp. On the top of the machine is the power button and the silent key, and the right side includes the volume up key, 3.5 mm headphone jack, microUSB port.

Controller with call buttons, shortcut back to the BlackBerry menu, back movie is at the bottom of the screen. Right in the middle is the trackball, a QWERTY keyboard with 35 buttons designed very similar to the Bold, a little narrow but still enough to edit thanks to the centerline emerged. Below is the backlight system, which allows editing, working in low light conditions easily.

The tour continues to be equipped with the same intuitive interface as the Bold and Curve 8900. However, if not looking closely or use less, users can be easily confused by the icon quite similar. The machine supports setting the wallpaper, standby screen.

This is a strong office and social networking BlackBerry. Built-in Document To Go Standard Edition of Data Viz, which supports Word, Excel, and Powerpoint documents. The program only allows editing, want to create new text users have to upgrade to Premium Edition and take charge.

RIM also supports personal management tools such as calendaring, recording, recording, computer … Tour with strong connection, support for login programs and perform social tasks such as FaceBook, MySpare or Flickr are pre-installed.

One of the new features that this model supports comes in the App World for BlackBerry phones. Software repositories with programs sorted by name, groups of applications, most downloaded programs …

Like RIM’s BlackBerry phones, the Tour also supports robust e-mail with programs such as Microsoft Exchange, IBM Lotus Domino or Novell GroupWise. Users can access 10 POP3 or IMAP4 e-mail accounts through the BlackBerry Internet Service. The machine also supports connecting, logging online chat services such as Windows Live, Yahoo Messenger, Google Talk, and AIM.

The system allows for the choice between GSM and CDMA network mode. In particular, the connection on dual-band CDMA, while on the GSM network is full four bands, the machine supports roaming function, roaming call in 220 different countries.

One of the most unfortunate drawbacks to this model is that there is no Wi-Fi. Other connectivity of the device such as Bluetooth with A2DP, GPS global positioning.

The 3.2-megapixel camera of the machine is equipped with the ability to 2x digital zoom next to auto focus and flash. Users can also turn on the GPS, take pictures with the picture attached to the dealer location. The test showed that, the picture quality is slightly blurry, focusing speed, shooting is quite slow. However, good video recording features, clear images, even low light conditions.

where can you get a BlackBerry Tour online

BlackBerry Tour 9630, Black (Verizon Wireless): Buy it now

BlackBerry Tour 9630 Sprint Cell Phone: Buy it now

Tour supports multimedia player with popular music and video formats such as MP3, WMA, WMA, WMA, AAC, AAC +, AAC +, eAAC +, MPEG4 and WMV. In addition, users can customize such as create playlists, set play mode, search for songs or watch videos in full screen.

The BlackBerry Tour runs on a Qualcomm 528 MHz processor, features such as web browsing, software downloads, fast and smooth application switching. Good call quality, loudspeaker in. Battery 1400 mAh for 5 hours talk time, standby time is 14 days.

Performance

Processor and Memory

The BlackBerry Tour 9630 is powered by a 528 MHz ARM 11 processor, which was adequate for the tasks the device was designed for. It’s paired with 256 MB of RAM, which might seem minimal by today’s standards, but was sufficient for the multitasking needs of the time. The device was designed to handle email, messaging, browsing, and basic multimedia tasks, all of which it does with reasonable efficiency.

While the processor and RAM combination is not suited for heavy applications or gaming, it performs well for the device’s intended purpose. Navigating through the user interface is generally smooth, with only occasional slowdowns when multiple apps are running simultaneously. The Tour 9630 is not a powerhouse, but it delivers reliable performance for everyday tasks.

Software and User Interface

The BlackBerry Tour 9630 runs on BlackBerry OS 4.7, which was later upgradable to OS 5.0. BlackBerry OS was known for its secure and reliable platform, particularly for email and messaging. The operating system is optimized for productivity, with features like push email, which allows users to receive emails in real time.

The user interface is straightforward and designed for efficiency. The home screen displays notifications for email, SMS, and calendar events, allowing users to quickly access important information. The menu system is organized and easy to navigate, thanks to the trackball and keyboard shortcuts.

However, the operating system does show its age in terms of app availability and customization options. The BlackBerry App World, the company’s app store, had a limited selection compared to iOS and Android. Additionally, the OS lacks the visual polish and fluidity of more modern platforms. Despite these limitations, the BlackBerry Tour 9630’s software is robust and reliable, particularly for users who prioritize productivity over entertainment.

Multitasking and App Performance

Multitasking on the BlackBerry Tour 9630 is functional but limited by the device’s hardware. Users can switch between running apps using the “Alt” key and trackball, but too many open apps can slow down the device. It’s advisable to close unused apps to maintain optimal performance.

In terms of app performance, the device handles basic tasks like email, messaging, and web browsing with ease. However, it struggles with more demanding apps, particularly those that require a lot of processing power or memory. The BlackBerry Tour 9630 is best suited for users who need a reliable device for communication and productivity, rather than for multimedia or gaming.

Connectivity

Network Support

One of the key selling points of the BlackBerry Tour 9630 is its ability to support both CDMA and GSM networks, making it a true world phone. This feature is particularly beneficial for international travelers who need to stay connected while moving between different regions.

The device supports 3G connectivity, which was the standard at the time of its release. This allows for relatively fast data speeds for browsing, email, and app usage, although it’s significantly slower than the 4G and 5G networks available today. Call quality is generally good, with clear audio on both ends and minimal dropped calls.

Wi-Fi and Bluetooth

The BlackBerry Tour 9630 does not have built-in Wi-Fi, which is one of its major drawbacks. At the time of its release, Wi-Fi was becoming increasingly common in smartphones, and its absence on the Tour 9630 is noticeable. Users are limited to using their cellular data connection for internet access, which can be a disadvantage in areas with poor network coverage or when traveling internationally.

The device does support Bluetooth 2.0, allowing users to connect to Bluetooth headsets, speakers, and other peripherals. The Bluetooth functionality works as expected, with reliable pairing and stable connections. However, the lack of Wi-Fi remains a significant limitation for users who rely on wireless internet connectivity.

GPS

The BlackBerry Tour 9630 includes built-in GPS, which is useful for navigation and location-based services. The GPS performance is generally good, with accurate location tracking and fast satellite acquisition. The device can be used with BlackBerry Maps or other compatible navigation apps, making it a useful tool for travelers.

Camera and Multimedia

Camera Performance

The BlackBerry Tour 9630 is equipped with a 3.15-megapixel rear camera, which was standard for smartphones at the time. The camera includes autofocus and an LED flash, allowing for basic photography in a variety of lighting conditions.

In good lighting, the camera produces decent images with acceptable levels of detail and color accuracy. However, the camera struggles in low-light conditions, where images can appear grainy and lacking in detail. The autofocus can be slow at times, particularly in dim lighting, and the shutter lag is noticeable, making it difficult to capture fast-moving subjects.

The camera is also capable of recording video at 480p resolution. The video quality is adequate for casual use but lacks the clarity and smoothness of higher-resolution video formats. The absence of advanced features like optical image stabilization means that videos can appear shaky, especially when recording while in motion. The camera on the BlackBerry Tour 9630 is functional and suitable for basic photography, but it doesn’t compete with the higher-end cameras found in other smartphones of its time, let alone modern devices.

Multimedia Experience

The BlackBerry Tour 9630 isn’t designed to be a multimedia powerhouse, but it does offer some basic capabilities in this area. The device supports playback of common audio and video formats, including MP3, AAC, and MPEG-4. The built-in media player is straightforward and easy to use, with basic controls for play, pause, skip, and volume adjustment.

The audio quality through the built-in speaker is average, with a lack of bass and somewhat tinny sound. However, the experience improves significantly when using a good pair of headphones, thanks to the 3.5mm headphone jack. The music player includes standard features like playlists, album art display, and shuffle mode, making it suitable for casual listening.

Video playback is limited by the small screen size and relatively low resolution. The Tour 9630 can handle basic video files, but watching longer videos or movies on the device isn’t particularly enjoyable due to the small display. The device does not support HD video playback, which further limits its appeal as a multimedia device.

Battery Life

Battery Performance

The BlackBerry Tour 9630 is equipped with a 1400 mAh removable battery, which provides decent battery life given the device’s modest hardware requirements. For typical use, which includes email, messaging, occasional browsing, and a few phone calls, the Tour 9630 can easily last a full day on a single charge. Power users who are constantly on their devices might find themselves needing to recharge by the evening, but this would involve heavy usage.

The battery life is one of the stronger points of the device, especially considering that it’s designed primarily for business users who need reliable performance throughout the workday. The ability to remove and replace the battery is also a plus, as users can carry a spare battery for extended use when traveling.

Charging

Charging the BlackBerry Tour 9630 is done via the microUSB port, which was the standard at the time. The device does not support any form of fast charging, so it takes about two to three hours to fully charge the battery from empty. Given the relatively small battery capacity, this is an acceptable charging time, but it’s not particularly impressive by today’s standards.

Software Ecosystem

BlackBerry OS and App World

The BlackBerry Tour 9630 runs on BlackBerry OS 4.7, which can be upgraded to OS 5.0. BlackBerry OS was once celebrated for its security features, push email capabilities, and robust messaging services like BlackBerry Messenger (BBM). The operating system is designed to maximize productivity, with a focus on email, calendar, and contact management.

However, BlackBerry OS falls short when it comes to app availability. The BlackBerry App World, the official app store, had a limited selection of apps compared to the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. While the basics like email clients, social media apps, and productivity tools are covered, the lack of variety in entertainment, gaming, and lifestyle apps is a significant downside.

Moreover, as BlackBerry began to lose market share, developers became less inclined to create or update apps for the platform, which further limited the device’s appeal. For users who prioritize a wide range of apps and customization options, the BlackBerry Tour 9630 may feel restrictive.

Productivity and Security

Where the BlackBerry Tour 9630 shines is in its productivity and security features. The device offers strong email management, with support for multiple accounts and push email. The physical keyboard makes typing long emails or documents more manageable compared to touchscreen devices of the era.

Security is another strong point, with BlackBerry OS offering robust encryption for email and data. This made BlackBerry devices a favorite among business professionals and government agencies. The security features extend to device management, with options for password protection, remote wipe, and encrypted file storage.

The calendar and contact management features are also well-implemented, with seamless integration with email and messaging. These tools make the Tour 9630 a reliable companion for users who need to manage a busy schedule and stay connected with clients and colleagues.

Value for Money

Pricing

At the time of its release, the BlackBerry Tour 9630 was positioned as a mid-to-high-end device, with a price tag to match. It was marketed primarily to business users who needed a reliable communication device with international capabilities. While the price was justified by the build quality, keyboard, and enterprise features, it was on the higher end for consumers who didn’t need the full range of business functionalities.

As of today, the BlackBerry Tour 9630 is considered outdated, both in terms of hardware and software. For collectors or those with a specific need for a physical keyboard and robust email capabilities, the device might still hold some appeal. However, for the average consumer, there are far better options available at similar or lower price points, especially in the used or refurbished market.

Competitors

When the BlackBerry Tour 9630 was released, it faced competition from several other smartphones, including the iPhone 3GS, Palm Pre, and various Windows Mobile devices. Each of these competitors offered different strengths, such as the iPhone’s app ecosystem, the Palm Pre’s innovative user interface, and the Windows Mobile devices’ integration with Microsoft Office.

In comparison, the BlackBerry Tour 9630 was seen as the go-to choice for business professionals who needed a reliable and secure device. However, as consumer preferences shifted toward touchscreens and more versatile operating systems, the Tour 9630’s appeal began to wane.

Today, even among older smartphones, the Tour 9630 struggles to compete due to its limited app selection, lack of modern features like Wi-Fi, and outdated operating system. However, its keyboard, security, and build quality still stand out as key advantages for certain users.

Conclusion

The BlackBerry Tour 9630 is a device that represents a bygone era of smartphones, where physical keyboards, secure messaging, and email were the most sought-after features. For business professionals in 2009, the Tour 9630 was a reliable and versatile device, especially for those who traveled internationally.

Its design, build quality, and keyboard remain its strongest points, offering a comfortable and productive user experience. However, the lack of Wi-Fi, limited app ecosystem, and aging software make it difficult to recommend in today’s market, even for nostalgic users.

For those who need a device with a physical keyboard and robust email capabilities, the BlackBerry Tour 9630 still has some appeal. However, for most users, there are better options available that offer more modern features, better connectivity, and a wider range of apps. The Tour 9630 is a reminder of BlackBerry’s once-dominant position in the smartphone market, but it also highlights the challenges the company faced as the industry evolved.

In summary, the BlackBerry Tour 9630 is a solid device for its time, particularly for business users who valued productivity and security. However, it is not well-suited for modern smartphone users who expect high-resolution displays, a wide range of apps, and fast, reliable connectivity.