BlackBerry Bold 9700 vs. BlackBerry Bold 9780: What's the Difference?
By Janet White || Published on September 13, 2024
The BlackBerry Bold 9700 features a 2.44-inch display, 3.2MP camera, and BlackBerry OS 5, while the BlackBerry Bold 9780 upgrades to a 5MP camera and BlackBerry OS 6.
Key Differences
The BlackBerry Bold 9700 and BlackBerry Bold 9780 are two smartphones from the BlackBerry Bold series, known for their physical QWERTY keyboards and business-oriented features. The 9700, introduced first, laid the groundwork with its compact design, efficient performance, and BlackBerry OS 5. It was targeted at professionals seeking a reliable device for communication and productivity. Following the 9700, the BlackBerry Bold 9780 was introduced as an upgrade, retaining much of the 9700's design but enhancing its capabilities. The most notable upgrade was the operating system, moving from BlackBerry OS 5 to BlackBerry OS 6, offering a better user experience with improved browser, graphics, and navigation.
Both devices share the iconic BlackBerry design elements, including the physical keyboard and trackpad navigation. However, the 9780's enhancements in software and camera capabilities reflect BlackBerry's efforts to provide incremental improvements without altering the fundamental design philosophy that appealed to its user base.
Memory capacity also saw an improvement in the 9780, with more onboard storage to accommodate the needs of users for more apps and media. This upgrade, along with the improved OS, made the 9780 a more versatile device, capable of better multitasking and a richer multimedia experience.
The BlackBerry Bold 9700 was celebrated for its reliability and performance at the time of its release, the BlackBerry Bold 9780 built upon its predecessor's success by offering significant software and hardware improvements, catering to a market that demanded more advanced features without compromising on the physical keyboard and professional design that BlackBerry users valued.
Comparison Chart
Camera
3.2 Megapixel
5 Megapixel
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Operating System
BlackBerry OS 5
BlackBerry OS 6
Memory
Lower onboard storage
Higher onboard storage
User Experience
Basic BlackBerry services
Enhanced features, including better browser
Release Date
2009
2010
BlackBerry Bold 9700 and BlackBerry Bold 9780 Definitions
BlackBerry Bold 9700
Features a 2.44-inch display for clear viewing.
The display on my 9700 is perfect for reading texts.
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BlackBerry Bold 9780
Improved user experience with new OS features.
The BlackBerry Bold 9780's interface is user-friendly and efficient.
BlackBerry Bold 9700
Comes equipped with BlackBerry OS 5.
My 9700's operating system is great for multitasking.
BlackBerry Bold 9780
Offers more memory for apps and media.
I store all my work documents on my BlackBerry Bold 9780.
BlackBerry Bold 9700
A classic BlackBerry smartphone with a QWERTY keyboard.
I used my BlackBerry Bold 9700 to manage emails on the go.
BlackBerry Bold 9780
Upgraded BlackBerry with a 5MP camera.
The camera on my BlackBerry Bold 9780 captures crisp images.
BlackBerry Bold 9700
Designed for professional use.
The BlackBerry Bold 9700 keeps me organized with its calendar and email functions.
BlackBerry Bold 9780
Maintains the iconic BlackBerry QWERTY design.
Typing on my 9780 is fast and accurate.
BlackBerry Bold 9700
Has a 3.2MP camera for quick photos.
Taking pictures at work events is easy with my 9700.
BlackBerry Bold 9780
Runs on BlackBerry OS 6 for enhanced browsing.
Navigating the web on my 9780 is a breeze.
FAQs
What is the main difference in the camera between the 9700 and 9780?
The 9700 has a 3.2MP camera, while the 9780 has a 5MP camera.
Is the physical keyboard the same on both models?
Yes, both feature the iconic BlackBerry QWERTY keyboard.
Can I upgrade the OS on my 9700 to BlackBerry OS 6?
Officially, no. The 9780 comes preloaded with OS 6.
Which BlackBerry model was released first?
The BlackBerry Bold 9700 was released before the 9780.
Which operating system does the BlackBerry Bold 9780 use?
BlackBerry OS 6.
Do both models support WiFi?
Yes, both the 9700 and 9780 support WiFi connectivity.
Which operating system does the BlackBerry Bold 9700 use?
BlackBerry OS 5.
How do I back up data on my BlackBerry Bold?
Use the BlackBerry Desktop Software for PC or Mac.
Can I expand the storage with a microSD card?
Yes, both models support microSD card expansion.
Are these BlackBerrys good for email and messaging?
Yes, they excel in email and messaging functions.
Can I use social media apps on these BlackBerrys?
Yes, but availability and functionality might be limited compared to newer smartphones.
Is the battery life comparable between the two models?
Battery life varies based on usage, but both models are designed for extended use.
Can I watch videos on these devices?
Yes, but the experience may not be as good as on modern smartphones.
Do the 9700 and 9780 support 3G networks?
Yes, both support 3G for mobile data.
Is BlackBerry Messenger available on both?
Yes, BBM is a key feature of both devices.
How do I update the apps on my BlackBerry Bold?
Updates can be done through the BlackBerry App World, though availability may be limited.
Which model has more onboard storage?
The BlackBerry Bold 9780 has more onboard storage.
Are both models compatible with BlackBerry Enterprise Server?
Yes, they are designed for professional use and compatible with BES.
Can I use GPS on these BlackBerry models?
Yes, both come equipped with GPS functionality.
What is the screen resolution of the 9700 and 9780?
Both have a screen resolution of 480x360 pixels.
About Author
Written by
Janet WhiteJanet White has been an esteemed writer and blogger for Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Science and Medical Journalism from the prestigious Boston University, she has consistently demonstrated her expertise and passion for her field. When she's not immersed in her work, Janet relishes her time exercising, delving into a good book, and cherishing moments with friends and family.
