[berankin99]

Hello,

I am looking for a replacement for an aging 7290. The 87xx series looks to be the newest that still has a track-wheel... correct?

So my questions are:

1) Are the 87xx models as rugged as the 72xx units are?

2) What are the differences between the various 87xx versions?

The device will be US based, but travel to Europe is frequent. Will just be used for basic email. (no 3rd party apps, etc.)

[Heresy]

GO here and take a look. BlackBerry - BlackBerry 8700 Series | 8700c, 8700g, 8700r & 8703e Wireless Handheld Devices
Yes the devices are just a rugged as the 7290. CUrrently the 8703e cdma device only supports 4.2 OS so dont expect to get 4.5 OS and have html email. BUt since your still using the trusty 7290 it shouldnt be a problem for you.

[skin_psv]

I have 8700f as one of my phones, the other one is HTC touchscreen that I used to love.
But this 8700 made me almost not use the pda, I made a good software pack, i now used it from surfing the web, editing office files, emailing, i use opera mini, and check the email easily, this way I can view them in html with no problem, i don't use the build in softwares to much. The phone is worth ten times it's money.
The battery life is great, realiable, software's are still compatible in their overwhelming majority. Themes as well.
I have a friend who uses the 8310 curve. He can listen to music because of sd card,store more files with him and take pictures.
I'll say that if you have other alternatives to listen to mp3-s when you're on the go, and take pictures (like another phone you use in the same time, don't know) this device it's a good investment.

[Heresy]

AHH yes....but I must say..if the 87xx's or 72xx's had an sd slot I'd toss my curve to someone else.

[VIDGMER]

AHH yes....but I must say..if the 87xx's or 72xx's had an sd slot I'd toss my curve to someone else.

............1+

[anandsihra]

AHH yes....but I must say..if the 87xx's or 72xx's had an sd slot I'd toss my curve to someone else.

I agree that I would take an 8700 with a sd slot over my Bold any day.