Manage updates with the Download AppBlackBerry Curve 8530 - black (Verizon Wireless)
Manufacturer: BlackBerry Part number: Curve 8530 in Black
- More product information:
- Editors' review
- User reviews
- Specifications
- Product series
- Manufacturer info
- Bottom Line:
- While we're not huge fans of the design, the RIM BlackBerry Curve 8530 is a good choice for first-time smartphone buyers and offers more than its GSM counterpart.
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CNET editors' review
BlackBerry Curve 8530 - black (Verizon Wireless) price range: $119.99
- Reviewed by: Bonnie Cha
- Reviewed on: 12/04/2009
The good: The RIM BlackBerry Curve 8530 has 3G and GPS support, which the T-Mobile version did not. The compact smartphone also offers Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and a 2-megapixel camera.
The bad: The smartphone feels a bit cheap in the hand and has a low-resolution screen. You can only save apps to the phone's main memory.
The bottom line: While we're not huge fans of the design, the RIM BlackBerry Curve 8530 is a good choice for first-time smartphone buyers and offers more than its GSM counterpart.
User reviews
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powerful smart phone, with very minor setbacks
by naboh_148 on December 31, 2009
Pros: phone has nice sleek design with rubberized top/sides. the only protruding buttons are the qwerty keyboard. all other face buttons as well as the side and top buttons are flush with the surface. keyboard is easy to use. track pad is a nice addition.
Cons: the device feels a bit light in the hand. it is constructed well but made with plastic. the battery cover is thin and made of plastic, but it stays in place.
Summary: the first thing you notices about this device is the track pad instead of the usual track ball. the pad works better than expected and works exactly as the track ...
Summary: the first thing you notices about this device is the track pad instead of the usual track ball. the pad works better than expected and works exactly as the track ball did. the upside of the pad is that there is no moving parts to get dirty and gummed up with lint and other debris. the screen looks very nice for its size and can produce accruate representations of web pages. one thing i have noticed about the browser is the speed. i haven't yet encountered any load times longer than a few seconds. the main downside to the phone is the cheap plastic battery cover, but this is a very minor complaint and can easily be overlooked. this phone sports an extremely user friendly operating system, with a built in help app that is easy very easy to navigate.
5 out of 5 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Good for some, terrible for most...
by stoneage_tbag on March 9, 2010
Pros: Light, better web access, WIFI is good, but can kill battery when left on, no trackball to bust...
Cons: hands down the worst battery life of any Blackberry ever in history of Blackberry...
Summary: In one 8 hour time frame I checked my email maybe 20 times and made 1, yes 1 45 minute call and my battery was totally dead. I mean blinking ...
Summary: In one 8 hour time frame I checked my email maybe 20 times and made 1, yes 1 45 minute call and my battery was totally dead. I mean blinking light, beeping dead. This phone is tially useless for someone who uses it as a work phone. My wife had the EXACT same problem. Verizon gave us both new batteries - We still have the exact same issue. Oh course they also totally deny that there are any issues. We have 1 week left to return and we will. If you use your BB for work, or plan to actaully talk on the phone. DO NOT BUY THE CURVE 8530 - THE BATTERY IS TERRIBLE!!!!
5 out of 7 users found this user opinion helpful.
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big improvement over 8330's glaring shortcomings
by pacey_waring on April 26, 2010
Pros: This 8530 corrects 3 major issues from the 8330:
1) the 8330's trackball would get debris inside.
2) the 8330 struggled to play music reliably - "Device Media Processor Busy" - required a battery pull every time
3) No threaded SMS conversations.Cons: Call clarity. Also, email delivery to the device for users without a corporate Enterprise server is extremely difficult (impossible?). For my Hotmail account, I have to access email through the mobile site on my browser. Emails are not delivered.
Summary: The 8530 is a fun device that is usually easy to use, and it beats the pants off my 8330 (which frustrated me greatly after only 1 month of use). ...
Summary: The 8530 is a fun device that is usually easy to use, and it beats the pants off my 8330 (which frustrated me greatly after only 1 month of use). The 8530 is a much-needed upgrade of the deficiencies of the 8330.
Dedicated music keys on top of the device are wonderful to use, and the 8530 processor can handle initializing/closing the music player without compromising the device's ability to produce a single sound (this frustrated many 8330 users, who were forced to pull the battery in case of "Device Media Processor Busy" error message). Additionally, the tiny speakerphone does a mighty job of playing songs out loud. I can put the 8530 in my pocket and go for a stroll, or ride my bike (headphones are illegal for cyclists here), or go skiing.
The optical trackpad is more accurate than the trackball, and less prone to interference from debris (snowflakes, dust, etc). Because it does not use capacitive touch sensitivity, I can even use it with gloves on when I am skiing!
Threaded SMS conversations cleans up the inbox nicely, preventing pages of SMS texts with a single contact from accruing and blocking your other conversations. A simple fix in code-writing, but a big difference for the end user. I'm still learning shortcut keys to navigate the inbox. Top, Bottom, Unread, etc...
One durability feature is a thoughtful addition: the rubber coating on the top + bottom on the reverse side. This absorbs impact of accidental fumbles, and keeps scuffs at bay. I am concerned that my battery cover will lose its grip; I am frequently removing the cover to swap in a pre-charged replacement battery.
One ultra-specific gripe: the Alt and Shift keys on the bottom left are too staggered. On the 8330 it was easy to hold Alt and roll down to Shift, thereby locking the keyboard into "Alt" mode - I liked that feature. On the 8530 this thumb-ballet is a little trickier.
Bottom line: my previous phone was an ancient, decrepit, broken-down Sanyo Katana 6600, and I moved up to a used 8330... which I was unsatisfied with after only 1 month. I upgraded to an 8530 (ProTip: use Craigslist to avoid getting stuck with a carrier contract), and it makes me very happy! Having Google Maps in my pocket is a wonderful thing.2 out of 2 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Cheap build
by areyoudreaming on March 10, 2010
Pros: WiFi and the updated touch version of the track ball.
Cons: Very cheap build for a blackberry. Anyone who has had an older version knows the quality of the keyboard. Now it's very difficult to use because the keyboard is too small and one piece of plastic instead of individual keys. No camera light.
Summary: I believe this is the cheapest version of a blackberry I've ever seen. I want a phone, not a cereal box toy. One thing I didn't see anyone ...
Summary: I believe this is the cheapest version of a blackberry I've ever seen. I want a phone, not a cereal box toy. One thing I didn't see anyone else mention is the call quality. I picked this phone up as an upgrade to my 8330 - well, the voice quality is very poor when you compare it to previous Blackberry's. I've always been a fan of blackberry's because of the high voice quality. This phone sounds more like a cell phone while the 8330 sounded crisp and clear to the people I'm calling. That's the main issue I have - for work I need a phone that is clear and professional - I don't like clients telling me I sound like I'm calling them from a cell phone and asking me to call back using a land line. I never once had this problem with the 8330. On the flip side I can hear the people I'm calling very well - I think Blackberry just used a cheaper mic or something in this one to save $'s or weight??
Sorry - this phone is not something I would spend money on - not even as a backup.2 out of 2 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Breaking the "Curve" of Blackberry
by ltedesco86 on February 8, 2010
Pros: This phone is super light, which is a plus because I can't stand bulky phones.
Excellent feel of the phone, feels like a built on case.
THE TRACKPAD IS SO MUCH BETTER THAN THE TRACKBALLCons: No Memory Card unlike other Blackberry's
Battery life is a little shorter than Curve 8330
No flash on the cameraSummary: This phone is a must have for a entry level blackberry user or for someone who doesn't need the "global" capabilities of the Tour and don't want the ...
Summary: This phone is a must have for a entry level blackberry user or for someone who doesn't need the "global" capabilities of the Tour and don't want the touch screen feel of the Storm 1 or 2. I have been a hardcore Blackberry user for 4 years now, having used everything from the original 7250, to the Pearl, to the new Curve 8530. While it doesn't come with a flash for the camera, the resolution is amazing and is one of the best that I have had. I like the feel of the phone, it feels rugged on the outside like it has a built on case. The trackpad is an excellent addition and I think will absolutely change the future of Blackberry phones and do away with that damn track ball. Screen resoluation is rich and wonderful and teh addition of WiFi is excellent, I love the facy that I can talk on the phone and still search the web/answer emails (I think someone should let Luke Wilson know that his AT&T commericals are wrong...you can talk and surf the web with Verizon). The keyboard has strong raised keys that click when you press them so there is no question about whether you hit the key or not. Over all, I am extremely satisfied with this phone and am not disappointed. Recommend it to anyone not wanting the Tour or Storm.
2 out of 2 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Great Blackberry
by BFPNick on December 29, 2009
Pros: Trackpad, better internet, better OS
Cons: no flash (not that i use this as my main camera anyway)
Summary: Much improved over the 8330 Curve and a good alternate if your not into the Global Tour. I had many track ball problems with the 8330 and Tour and this ...
Summary: Much improved over the 8330 Curve and a good alternate if your not into the Global Tour. I had many track ball problems with the 8330 and Tour and this is the perfect solution (The storm 1 & 2 didn't do it for me) Very good for the price. Had no problems and the battery life is great
2 out of 2 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Fabulous Improvements in a thin and light smartphone
by Deepsongs on January 15, 2011
Pros: Small size, excellent features, ding-proof edges, fast wi-fi browsing, large bright screen, intuitive trackpad
Cons: Needs a flash to really use the camera
Summary: I loved my Pearl 8130, but when it came time to upgrade, the Curve seduced me with it's intuitive touch-pad, the added Wi-Fi, and it's bumper that made ...
Summary: I loved my Pearl 8130, but when it came time to upgrade, the Curve seduced me with it's intuitive touch-pad, the added Wi-Fi, and it's bumper that made dings a thing of the past.
The Curve made good on all it's promises, the trackpad is a pleasure to use, there are plenty of free apps (I hate to pay for them) to take care of all my daily needs, shopping lists, fitness trackers, games, even a kindle reader. Battery power is fantastic and the Blackberry maps takes me where I need to go so I never get lost. I love being able to use the Wi-Fi network for browsing, it is faster than the wireless network, which is always another option. I also found the keyboard much easier to use than the other models that were on the market at the time.
The only improvement I would recommend on this model is to return the flash to the camera. I can only take photos outside and I miss being able to use the flash as a light, although the display is bright enough and large enough to get me around a dark room without bruising my shins.1 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Good if you understand what you're getting.
by 30127cnet on August 24, 2010
Pros: Good screen, decent reception and decent call quality. Pocketable.
Cons: Plastic feel. The 2MP camera is only so-so even for low res. Even with bluetooth and GPS/WiFi turned off, battery life is a bit skimpy.
Summary: One mention I'll point out based on some previous comments is that the trackpad is adjustable, folks. Buried in the menu, you CAN adjust the sensitivity of this thing, ...
Summary: One mention I'll point out based on some previous comments is that the trackpad is adjustable, folks. Buried in the menu, you CAN adjust the sensitivity of this thing, so if it zips around too much for you, you can slow it down to meet your comfort level. Also, while the battery is still short regardless, remember, if you leave your WiFi, GPS, and Bluetooth on when not using them, it kills the battery much more quickly.
That being said, yes, it's rather cheap feeling for a Blackberry, and once you factor in the Verizon contract fees, you're paying $100+ a month to use it. Alternate: If you are in a strong cell area, you can get this phone through Virgin Mobile as a non-contract phone. You do have to pay up to $300 for it, but you're paying less than half per month (compared to Verizon or AT&T) to use it - so it'll pay for itself. It makes the few flaws this phone has more tolerable. I'd recommend this phone if you go this route, but not so much if you do it at contract monthly prices.1 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
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No problems here
by MrsSmithII on June 23, 2010
Pros: Faster than my 8330
Lighter/thinner
separation of sms from email
higher level of customization for profiles
far more reliableCons: -too many similar folder icons; difficult to quickly tell which folder you need
- doesn't use a universal USBSummary: I'm not sure why the previous reviews are so negative. I especially don't understand the complaints of the phone 'not working'. If it doesn't work then it'...
Summary: I'm not sure why the previous reviews are so negative. I especially don't understand the complaints of the phone 'not working'. If it doesn't work then it's broken - take it back.
** I also have NO problem with battery life. I use several networking apps that update information constantly through the day and I still have at least 30% of my battery left when I plug it in at bedtime.
I had the 8330 previously and had many problems with it. I have had no problems at all with my 8530. Compared to the 8330 it is so easy to use. My browse and app speed is amazing, and get all my messages on time. I also have no problem getting my Hotmail messages and my call clarity is excellent.
If you're a power user then sure, this might be a simple phone to you - but for someone who just needs reliability and speed for messages, calls, and email: this phone is perfect.
Updated on Jun 23, 20101 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Not all it's "Cracked" up to be...
by ndmorespd on December 14, 2009
Pros: Familiar Interface and Operating System
Cons: Cheap/Light Feel, No Flash, Micro-USB (RIM normally uses Mini-USB), Less than perfect thumb sensor...
Summary: I ordered this phone for my fiance to replace her Pink Pearl (another failure amongst typically good Blackberrys). Upon receiving it I am about to return it and she hasn'...
Summary: I ordered this phone for my fiance to replace her Pink Pearl (another failure amongst typically good Blackberrys). Upon receiving it I am about to return it and she hasn't even seen it. To start it feels very cheap in hand, I know the trend to be lighter is prevalent these days, but my kid has Hot-Wheels that weigh more... Then I noticed the lack of a flash, while my flash on my older Curve isn't perfect it helps sometimes when I need it... After booting the phone I realized that while I was looking forward to something better than the Trackball this new sensor is hit and miss when it comes to accurate tracking. Last but certainly not least is the new Micro-USB cord as opposed to everything RIM has used before (Mini-USB) I now need to replace half the accessories we have so she can charge it in the car etc... Ohh, and no free magnetic sleeve either....
2 out of 4 users found this user opinion helpful.
Specifications
- Manufacturer: BlackBerry
- Part number: Curve 8530 in Black
- Description: BlackBerry Curve 8500 series smartphones neatly fit in your hand. Comfortably send messages with the full QWERTY keyboard. The bright 320 x 240 pixel screen displays over 65,000 colors, and delivers a great viewing experience. Know where you stand - and where you're going. GPS on your BlackBerry Curve 8530 smartphone works with BlackBerry Maps. Pinpoint your location and get turn-by-turn directions to your destination.
General
- Packaged Quantity 1
- Product Type Smartphone
- Form Factor Full keyboard
- Phone Design PDA
- Integrated Components Digital camera,
Digital player,
Voice recorder - Width 2.36 in
- Depth 0.55 in
- Height 4.29 in
- Weight 3.7 oz
- Body Color Black
Cellular
- Technology CDMA2000 1X
- Band CDMA2000 1X 1900/800
- Service Provider Verizon Wireless
- Operating System BlackBerry Handheld Software
- Input Device(s) QWERTY keyboard
- Phone Navigation Buttons Trackball
Messaging & Internet
- Cellular Messaging Services MMS,
SMS - Instant Messaging Services RIM BlackBerry VM Client
- Messaging & Data Features Text messages,
Multimedia messages (MMS),
Instant messages,
E-Mail - Mobile Services VCAST
Communications
- Data Transmission EV-DO
- Wireless Interface IEEE 802.11b/g,
Bluetooth 2.1 EDR - Bluetooth Profiles Serial Port Profile (SPP),
Object Push Profile (OPP),
Hands Free Profile (HFP),
Headset Profile (HSP),
Dial-up Networking Profile (DUN),
Phonebook Access Profile (PBAP),
Advanced Audio Distribution Profile (A2DP),
Audio/Video Remote Control Profile (AVRCP) - Communication Features Internet browser,
Mobile Email client Phone Features
- Phone Functions Call timer,
Conference call,
Speakerphone,
Vibrating alert - Polyphonic Ringer Yes
- Polyphonic Ring Tone Voice Qty 32
- Ring Tone Formats MP3,
MIDI - Additional Features GPS,
Trackpad,
Voice dialing,
microSD card slot Organizer
- Personal Information Management Calendar,
Calculator,
Reminder,
Alarm clock Media Player
- Supported Digital Audio Standards eAAC+,
AAC +,
MP3,
WMA,
AAC,
AMR - Supported Digital Video Standards MPEG-4,
H.263,
H.264
Memory
- RAM 128 MB
- ROM 256 MB - Flash
- Supported Flash Memory Cards microSDHC
Digital Camera
- Sensor Resolution 2 megapixels
- Focus Adjustment Focus free
- Digital Zoom 5
- Video Recorder Resolutions 176 x 144 (QCIF),
320 x 240 (QVGA) Navigation System
- GPS Navigation A-GPS receiver
- Navigation Software & Services VZ Navigator
Display
- Type LCD display
- Technology TFT Transmissive
- Diagonal Size 2.5 in
- Display Resolution 320 x 240 pixels
- Color Depth 16-bit (65000 colors)
Battery
- Technology Lithium ion
- Capacity 1150 mAh
- Run Time Details Talk - up to 270 min,
Standby - up to 252 hour(s) Miscellaneous
- Compliant Standards HAC(Hearing Aid Compatible)
- Included Accessories Power adapter , Power adapter
Product series
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BlackBerry Curve 8530 - black (Verizon Wireless)
Manufacturer: BlackBerry
Specs: Verizon Wireless,
CDMA2000 1X,
With digital camera / digital player,
3.7 oz,
2 megapixels,
2.5 in -
BlackBerry Curve 8530 - smoky violet (Verizon Wireless)
Manufacturer: BlackBerry
Specs: Verizon Wireless,
CDMA2000 1X,
Up to 270 min,
With digital camera / digital player,
3.7 oz,
2 megapixels,
2.5 in
Manufacturer info
- Manufacturer profile
- Browse BlackBerry products on Shopper.com
-
- Manufacturer:BlackBerry
- Address:
295 Phillip Street, Waterloo, ON N2L 3W8 - Phone: 1-519-888-7465
- Email: webinfo@rim.net
- Fax: 1-519-888-7884
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