I am planning on getting the 8820 when it rolls out on AT&T this month but also noticed the 8310 is probably going to launch as well. I do not really care about the camera but wanted to get the opinion of user on which of the two devices has the better keyboard? the 8300 seems to have a similar layout to the 8700 which I loved. The 8800 seems like it has smaller keys. Is anyone who has used the 8700 or 8300 who is or has used the 8800 notice a big difference in typing on the 8800?

there is a difference. You can get used to either one but the 8300 keys are spaced out like the older BB and the 8800 are tight and its a little different to get used to. Using the finger dragging technique works for me on the 8800 and im as fast as ever. The 8300 is however easier IMO because its more of what everyone is used to.

FYI the 8820 has GPS and Wifi, 8310 has Camera and GPS

Keep in mind that the keys on the 8800 feel more solid and have less of a clicky feel than the 8300. The 8300 keys move around a bit and seem more flimsy. They do not feel as high quality as the 8800 keys that do not move around in the case.