I was wondering if anyone here has gone from a 72XX series BlackBerry to the 8800 series, and how they would compare the 2 keyboards. Is it easy to get used to the 8800 keyboard from the 72XX? What's the learning curve to get proficient with the 8800 coming from the 72XX?

I've found the keyboard a little harder to get used to (I switched to 8800 from 7100, but support both Querty devices).

I think it will be harder for me to switch from the 7100 (instead of a full keyboard) because I was used to the multi-tap (and I'm still multi-tapping keys on the 8800!).

The 8800 keys are definately closer together, so you really have to pay attention as you're typing. Not as easy to type one handed while driving (not that I'd ever do that.......much....)

The 8800 is a fine machine but I will tell you that RIM dropped the ball on the keyboard. Its too small. The 7200 series was great, perfect size. 8800 series is a joke. I thought engineers are supposed to make things better.

Me like the 8800 keyboard..... Call me crazy...

I'll second that. I went from an 7290 to the 8800 and it took a little getting used to but I think I'm actually faster on the 8800 that i was on the 7290. I'd say that it took me a good week or two to get used to it but I have no problems with it now. I have large fingers too and thought that I would have a problem but have been another happy customer with it.

Wirelessly posted (BlackBerry7130/4.1.0 Profile/MIDP-2.0 Configuration/CLDC-1.1 VendorID/102)

The difference between the 72xx & 8800 keyboard is massive. I have had the 7290, 8700c, & 8800. In my opinion the 72xx keyboard was the best ever. When I got my 8700, that had a terrible keyboard. My 8800 has a good keyboard much better than the 8700, yet not as good as the 72xx by any measure.



The upcoming 8300 Curve has a nice keyboard. It's smaller than the others but it has properly shaped & spaced keys. From the initial reports I've read, its very good and the best of the current models.

I have gotten quite used to the 8800 keyboard and like it now two. I love the feel of the entire package which is huge over the 7280 and 8700 I had.

Thanks for the input everyone. I reckon I'll be picking up an 8830 soon. Worst case scenario, I always have a month to send it back.

The 7290 and 8700 keyboards are definitely easier to pick up but give the 8800 keyboard some time and odds are that you'll be fine.