Conclusion:

The BlackBerry Pearl 8100 may not be the most modern or exciting smartphone on the market, but it is still an appealing option. Given the variety of functions, compact size, and decent battery life, it is worth considering by anyone who wants to upgrade their mobile phone without getting locked in to a new deal or spending a lot of money.

The compact size makes it better suited for smaller hands, which coupled with the pearlescent white finish might make it a good choice for women looking to upgrade to a BlackBerry. That said, I doubt the phone was intended to be gender specific, and other than with the compact size of the keyboard I had no issues while using it for a couple weeks.

All things considered, my main complaint was that it just seemed too quiet. I didn't always hear it ringing and I couldn't always hear conversations if there was the slightest bit of background noise. Other phones I use don't share this trait, or I might be willing to admit I am getting old and that it was my fault.



A Google search finds a variety of online stores selling BlackBerry Pearl 8100 smartphones, but none can compete with the price from Geeks.com. Their price of $138.99 is $30+ cheaper than anything else Google found when considering refurbished units, and much more appealing when considering new.

The big savings come if you have a wireless service plan already, and merely want to switch phones. Instead of paying the wireless company for a phone, and then continuing to pay as you get locked in to a two year deal, you can pick up something like this and merely swap your current SIM card in to it and continue on with your existing plan.

Pros:

» Compact and lightweight
» Decent battery life
» Plenty of features you would expect in a modern phone
» Functionality and external aesthetics could pass for new
» Decent option for upgrading without having to commit to a new wireless contract

Cons:

» May be too small for larger hands
» Two letters sharing one key can slow down typing
» Housing and on-screen elements provide constant reminder that it was from T-Mobile
» Micro SD card slot inconveniently located under battery
» Too quiet... Ringer, ear piece, and speaker phone should all be louder

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