I have a 7780 device, and I'm wondering if it's worth switching to a 7290?
Beside the bluetooth and the device being quadband, there is the possibility to upgrade to 4.1 that the 7780 doesn't have.
And switching to a 8700 is somehow a step backward because of the short battery life, casing durability.
So is it worth having a RIM device running on 4.1 OS?


Thanks.

Sammy

7290 is also dual backlit and 32MB. I had though the same but the BT, Quad Band reception and 4.1 make for a world of difference on my 7250.

I'm not seeing any evidence that the 8700 has less battery life or case durability than a 7290. The 8700 is more expensive in most cases than the 7290, which is the only drawback. Some feel the keyboard on the 7290 is better for typing speed than the 8700. After having used both for a while, I can both the 7290 and the 8700 are different with regards to keyboard, but one can adapt to either keyboard and still type quickly and accurately. The 8700 strengths are all well documented.

I think the upgrade to the 7290 or the 8700 is totally worth it. (more memory, 4.1 O/S, color screen, quad band, etc) It just depends on how much you want to spend.

While the 7780 is a tri-band unit, it runs on the two GSM bands that are used in the US. Assuming that you're located in the US (a lousey assumption perhaps) the only benefit you would get from a quad band device is when you use it overseas. Otherwise, quad band isn't really buying you anything.

From what I saw between the latest version of 4.0 on the 7780 I was using and 4.1 on the 7100g I'm using now, it looks like most of the changes are for eye candy or for hardware that the 7780 doesn't have anyway. The difference isn't much that I could see.

Were it me I would upgrade to the 8700 if I did anything. If you're going to spend the money get the better unit or hang onto the 7780 and wait for the price on the 8700 to fall. Or, if the 7780 is doing everything you want a BB to do than forget the upgrade for now and rock on.

The 7780 screen as you know is bigger. Also, the 7780 has the best keyboard RIM has ever produced: way better than the 8700 and slightly better than the 7290. The 7290 is however noticeably faster.

If you can afford an 8700 then I suggest going with it. 7290 will save you a few dollars but GPRS will piss you off...

I'm secretly hoping that RIM will bring out a new device like the 8700 with the larger screen. The 8700-class hardware in a 7780-style case with a 320x320 screen would be very nice.

I agree. It would be the perfect machine

My only input would be that using the 4.1 version of the software as you stated also eliminates the ability to sync to local fodlers if required.

If you're going to upgrade and can afford it I would go with the 8700 then you'll have a much faster processor, clearer screen, more memory and the list goes on.