The BlackBerry KEY2 LE, launched in October 2018, is a lighter, more affordable version of the BlackBerry KEY2, designed for users who value productivity and security. With a QWERTY keyboard, 4.5-inch display, and powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 636 chipset, the KEY2 LE delivers solid performance for business professionals and BlackBerry enthusiasts alike. This smartphone combines the classic BlackBerry design with modern Android features, offering both nostalgia and practicality. Supporting a wide range of LTE networks, the KEY2 LE is ideal for global use, making it a versatile choice for travelers and business users.
BlackBerry KEY2 LE Specifications
Below is a responsive table that highlights the key specifications of the BlackBerry KEY2 LE:
| Category | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Network | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| 2G Bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 (SIM 1 & SIM 2 for dual-SIM) |
| 3G Bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G Bands | BBE100-1, BBE100-4 DS (EU, Africa, AU): 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 17, 19, 20, 26, 28, 32, 38, 40, 41 BBE100-2, BBE100-5 DS (NA, LATAM): 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 13, 17, 20, 28, 29, 66, 38, 39, 40, 41 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE |
| Dimensions | 150.3 x 71.8 x 8.4 mm |
| Weight | 156 g |
| Build | Gorilla Glass front, plastic back, aluminum frame |
| SIM | Single SIM (Nano-SIM) or Hybrid Dual SIM (Nano-SIM, dual stand-by) |
| Display Type | IPS LCD, 1080 x 1620 pixels (~434 ppi density) |
| Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass |
| OS | Android 8.1 (Oreo) |
| Chipset | Qualcomm SDM636 Snapdragon 636 (14 nm) |
| CPU | Octa-core (4×1.8 GHz Kryo 260 Gold & 4×1.6 GHz Kryo 260 Silver) |
| GPU | Adreno 509 |
| Internal Memory | 32GB/64GB, both with 4GB RAM |
| Main Camera | Dual: 13 MP f/2.2 + 5 MP f/2.4 (depth) |
| Selfie Camera | 8 MP, 1080p@30fps |
| Battery | Li-Ion 3000 mAh, non-removable |
| Colors | Slate, Champagne, Atomic |
| Price | About 440 EUR |
BlackBerry KEY2 LE Review
Design and Build Quality
The BlackBerry KEY2 LE features a familiar BlackBerry design with a physical QWERTY keyboard, making it unique in a sea of touchscreen-only smartphones. Measuring 150.3 x 71.8 x 8.4 mm and weighing 156 grams, the KEY2 LE feels sturdy yet lightweight. The device is constructed with an aluminum frame, a plastic back, and a Corning Gorilla Glass front, giving it durability without sacrificing portability. The textured back provides a secure grip, which is essential for users who rely on the keyboard for fast typing.
Display Quality
The 4.5-inch IPS LCD screen, with a resolution of 1080 x 1620 pixels and a 3:2 aspect ratio, offers sharp visuals with a high pixel density of ~434 ppi. While smaller than most modern smartphones, the display is crisp and ideal for tasks like reading emails, browsing, and typing documents. The Gorilla Glass protection ensures durability against everyday scratches and minor drops.
Performance and OS
Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 636 chipset and an octa-core CPU, the BlackBerry KEY2 LE handles multitasking efficiently. The Adreno 509 GPU provides decent performance for basic gaming and video playback. While not the fastest in its class, the KEY2 LE is optimized for productivity rather than high-end gaming. The device runs Android 8.1 Oreo, which offers smooth performance and access to a wide range of apps from the Google Play Store. BlackBerry’s security features, including DTEK security app and regular updates, enhance the phone’s appeal to business users.
Keyboard and Usability
The standout feature of the BlackBerry KEY2 LE is its QWERTY keyboard, which includes a fingerprint sensor embedded in the space bar. The tactile feedback from the keyboard is satisfying, making it perfect for users who prefer physical keys over touchscreen typing. Though it may take some time to adjust for those new to physical keyboards, the typing experience is efficient for productivity tasks like emailing, messaging, and note-taking.
Camera Quality
The dual-camera setup on the back includes a 13 MP primary sensor and a 5 MP depth sensor, which work together to deliver sharp images with HDR and panorama features. The camera can shoot videos at 4K@30fps and 1080p@30fps, offering good quality for capturing moments on the go. The 8 MP front-facing camera is suitable for selfies and video calls, providing decent image quality in well-lit conditions.
Battery Life
The 3000 mAh Li-Ion battery in the KEY2 LE delivers reliable performance, offering up to a full day of usage with moderate tasks. The phone supports fast charging via its USB Type-C port, ensuring that users can quickly top up the battery when needed. For business professionals or travelers, the battery life is more than adequate for a day of productivity.
Connectivity and Storage
The BlackBerry KEY2 LE supports a wide range of LTE bands, making it ideal for users who travel frequently or require seamless connectivity across multiple regions. It offers Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, Bluetooth 5.0, and NFC for wireless payments via Google Pay. The 32GB or 64GB of internal storage, expandable via microSDXC, provides sufficient space for apps, documents, and media.
Conclusion
The BlackBerry KEY2 LE is a niche device that appeals to users who prioritize productivity, security, and the unique experience of a physical keyboard. While its hardware specs may not compete with flagship smartphones, its combination of business-friendly features, BlackBerry’s security software, and a reliable battery make it a solid choice for professionals. If you’re looking for a smartphone that stands out from the crowd with a focus on typing and productivity, the KEY2 LE is worth considering.
Disclaimer
We cannot guarantee that the information on this page is 100% correct.
