Blackberry Aurora Review

• Overview
• Design and Build Quality
• Display
• Performance
• Software and User Interface
• Camera
• Battery Life
• Connectivity and Networking
• Additional Features
• Comparison with Other Related Phones
• Pros and Cons
• Conclusion

Overview

The Blackberry Aurora is a stylish and reliable smartphone that combines functionality and affordability. With its sleek design and impressive features, this device is sure to catch your attention. The 5.5-inch IPS LCD display offers vibrant visuals, while the quad-core Snapdragon processor ensures smooth performance. Capture breathtaking photos with the 13 MP rear camera and take stunning selfies with the 8 MP front camera. The 32GB internal storage provides ample space for all your files and apps, and the 4GB RAM ensures seamless multitasking. Plus, the long-lasting 3000mAh battery keeps you powered up all day. Available in Black, Silver, and Gold, the Blackberry Aurora offers great value for its price.

Design and Build Quality

The Blackberry Aurora boasts a sleek design with a premium look and feel, making it an aesthetically pleasing device. Its physical appearance is characterized by a glass front, plastic back, and plastic frame, giving it a modern and stylish appeal. The device has dimensions of 152 x 76.8 x 8.5 mm (5.98 x 3.02 x 0.33 in) and weighs 178 g (6.28 oz), which provides a comfortable grip and ensures one-handed usability.

In terms of build quality and durability, the Blackberry Aurora is constructed with robust materials, ensuring sturdiness and longevity. The device features a textured back panel, which not only enhances the grip but also adds a subtle touch of sophistication. The finishing touches on the device are refined, further adding to its overall appeal.

The bezels surrounding the 5.5-inch IPS LCD display are minimal, resulting in a larger screen-to-body ratio and an immersive viewing experience. The form factor of the device is compact, making it easily portable and suitable for daily use.

When it comes to ergonomics, the Blackberry Aurora is well-designed with strategically placed buttons and controls for easy access and navigation. The device also includes a 3.5mm audio jack and loudspeaker, allowing for an enjoyable audio experience.

Overall, the Blackberry Aurora combines sleek design, premium materials, and thoughtful construction to deliver a device that is not only visually appealing but also durable and user-friendly. Its blend of aesthetics and functionality makes it an attractive option for those seeking a reliable and stylish smartphone.

Display

The Blackberry Aurora features a 5.5-inch IPS LCD display with a screen resolution of 720 x 1280 pixels and an aspect ratio of 16:9. The screen size offers a comfortable viewing experience, allowing users to enjoy multimedia content and navigate through apps with ease. Though the resolution might not be as high as some other smartphones, it still provides decent clarity with a pixel density of approximately 267 pixels per inch.

With its LCD technology, the display offers good color accuracy and vibrancy, ensuring that images and videos appear true to life. The brightness levels provided are adequate for indoor usage, but it may struggle a bit under direct sunlight due to its average outdoor visibility.

The touch responsiveness of the display is smooth and efficient, allowing for seamless interaction with the device. Unfortunately, there is no mention of any specific display protection such as Gorilla Glass, which could potentially leave the device more susceptible to scratches and damage.

While the Blackberry Aurora does not boast any advanced display features like HDR or wide color gamut, it still provides satisfactory viewing angles and decent color reproduction. There is no mention of an anti-reflective coating or notch design, and the bezels around the display are noticeable, leading to a lower screen-to-body ratio.

Overall, the Blackberry Aurora's display offers a satisfactory viewing experience for everyday use, but it may not excel in terms of high-resolution content or advanced display technologies.

Performance

The Blackberry Aurora, released in March 2017, offers a solid performance for its price range. Powered by a Qualcomm MSM8917 Snapdragon 425 chipset and a Quad-core 1.4 GHz Cortex-A53 CPU, this smartphone provides efficient processing power for everyday tasks and multitasking. The Adreno 308 GPU ensures smooth graphics and enhances the gaming capabilities of the device.

In terms of GPU benchmarks and gaming performance, the Blackberry Aurora holds up well. The Adreno 308 GPU delivers satisfactory graphics scores, allowing for a decent gaming experience. Although it may not handle high-end, graphics-intensive games flawlessly, it performs admirably with less demanding games, providing a smooth user experience and lag-free performance.

The CPU benchmarks and processor performance of the Blackberry Aurora are commendable. The Quad-core 1.4 GHz Cortex-A53 CPU ensures efficient processing and handles tasks with ease. App loading speeds are relatively fast, and the device handles multitasking efficiently. The system optimization and thermal management contribute to a consistent and reliable performance, even during extended usage.

Benchmark tests and scores further support the performance analysis of the Blackberry Aurora. Synthetic benchmarks demonstrate the device's capabilities, with satisfactory performance metrics across various tests. Gaming benchmarks also indicate that the smartphone can handle most games without significant issues, providing an enjoyable gaming experience.

One of the notable aspects of the Blackberry Aurora is its processor efficiency. Despite being a mid-range device, it manages to balance performance and power consumption effectively. This efficiency allows for a longer battery life and ensures that the device remains responsive throughout the day.

Overall, the Blackberry Aurora offers a commendable performance within its price range. With its efficient chipset, capable GPU, and reliable CPU, it delivers a smooth user experience, whether it be for everyday tasks, multitasking, or gaming. While it may not excel in high-end gaming or demanding applications, it provides a satisfactory performance for most users' needs.

Software and User Interface

The Blackberry Aurora runs on the Android 7.0 (Nougat) operating system, which provides users with a familiar and user-friendly interface. This allows for easy navigation and a seamless user experience. The device comes with a few pre-installed apps, but it does not come loaded with bloatware, which is a welcome feature for many users. The operating system also allows for customization, so users can personalize their device to suit their preferences.

In terms of performance, the Blackberry Aurora is equipped with a Qualcomm MSM8917 Snapdragon 425 chipset and a Quad-core 1.4 GHz Cortex-A53 CPU. This ensures smooth and efficient multitasking, allowing users to run multiple apps simultaneously without any lag. The device also has 4GB of RAM, which provides ample memory for storing files, apps, and media.

The Blackberry Aurora features a 5.5-inch IPS LCD display with a resolution of 720 x 1280 pixels. While the resolution may not be the highest, the display still offers good clarity and vibrant colors, making it suitable for watching videos and browsing the web. The device also has a decent 13 MP rear camera with features like dual-LED flash, HDR, and panorama mode, allowing users to capture high-quality photos and videos.

In terms of connectivity, the Blackberry Aurora supports Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n and Bluetooth 4.0, allowing users to easily connect to the internet and other devices. It also has GPS, GLONASS, and BDS positioning systems, ensuring accurate navigation. However, it does not have NFC or a radio.

The Blackberry Aurora is powered by a non-removable 3000 mAh Li-Ion battery, which provides sufficient battery life for a day of regular usage. Additionally, the device comes in three color options - Black, Silver, and Gold, allowing users to choose a color that suits their personal style.

Overall, the Blackberry Aurora offers a user-friendly interface, decent performance, and a good set of features for its price range. It is a reliable choice for those who prefer the familiarity of Android operating system with customization options, without the burden of excessive pre-installed apps.

Camera

The Blackberry Aurora comes equipped with a single 13-megapixel rear camera that offers a decent photography experience. The camera features autofocus and a dual-LED flash, which helps capture well-lit images even in low-light conditions. The inclusion of HDR and panorama mode enhances the dynamic range and allows for breathtaking wide-angle shots. The camera's image stabilization ensures steady and blur-free photos, particularly useful when shooting in challenging situations or capturing fast-moving subjects. The Aurora also performs well in daylight photography, producing images with natural colors and good sharpness. Its low-light performance is satisfactory, thanks to its noise reduction capabilities and night mode feature. The camera's low-light sensitivity helps in capturing details even in dimly lit environments.

Video recording on the Blackberry Aurora is limited to 1080p at 30fps, which is a standard quality for capturing everyday moments. The device also lacks 4K video recording capability. However, it offers video stabilization to minimize shakiness while recording and slow-motion video for adding a creative touch to your videos. Additionally, the Aurora supports time-lapse video, allowing you to capture long events in a condensed form. The camera's AI scene recognition feature intelligently identifies different scenes and adjusts the settings accordingly, resulting in optimized image quality. Overall, the Blackberry Aurora's camera offers a satisfactory photography experience with its range of features and capabilities.

Battery Life

The Blackberry Aurora is equipped with a non-removable Li-Ion 3000 mAh battery, which provides a decent battery life. With its optimized power efficiency and battery management features, the device offers a good balance between performance and battery endurance. The battery capacity allows for a satisfactory screen-on time and standby time, providing users with enough usage throughout the day. Although the phone does not support fast charging or wireless charging options, the Li-Ion battery performs well in terms of charging speed and efficiency. The device also includes a battery saver mode, which helps extend battery life by reducing background activities and optimizing power usage. Overall, the Blackberry Aurora offers a reliable battery performance and optimization, ensuring that users can rely on its battery backup and longevity for their daily usage needs.

Connectivity and Networking

The Blackberry Aurora offers a range of connectivity options to keep users connected on the go. It supports GSM, HSPA, and LTE network technologies, ensuring compatibility with various carriers. With its dual SIM capability, users can easily switch between two different SIM cards for added convenience. The device also features Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n and Wi-Fi Direct, providing fast and reliable wireless internet connectivity. Bluetooth 4.0 enables seamless wireless connections to other devices, allowing for easy file sharing and hands-free communication. Unfortunately, NFC is not available on this device. For data transfer and charging, the Blackberry Aurora utilizes a microUSB 2.0 port. Additionally, it includes GPS, GLONASS, and BDS for accurate navigation and positioning. Whether it's browsing the internet, streaming media, or using navigation apps, the Blackberry Aurora offers a range of connectivity features to keep users connected and productive.

Additional Features

• Blackberry Aurora has some standout features that set it apart from other smartphones in its price range.


• One of its notable features is its water and dust resistance, making it durable and reliable in various environments. Although it doesn't have a specific IP rating, it offers a level of protection against water and dust.


• Unfortunately, the Blackberry Aurora does not support wireless charging or Qi wireless charging. You will need to charge it using a microUSB cable.


• In terms of sensors, it comes with a range of advanced sensors including an accelerometer, gyroscope, and additional environmental sensors. These sensors enhance the user experience and provide accurate data for various applications.

Comparison with Other Related Phones

The Blackberry Aurora, released in March 2017, is a mid-range smartphone that offers a decent set of features at an affordable price. When comparing it to other related gadgets in the market, there are a few key points to consider.

In terms of its specifications, the Blackberry Aurora features a 5.5-inch IPS LCD display with a resolution of 720 x 1280 pixels. While this may not be the sharpest display on the market, it still provides a satisfactory viewing experience. The phone runs on Android 7.0 (Nougat) and is powered by a quad-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 425 processor, coupled with 4GB of RAM. This combination allows for smooth multitasking and decent performance for everyday tasks.

When comparing it to other phones in its price range, such as the Xiaomi Redmi Note 9S or the Samsung Galaxy A20s, the Blackberry Aurora falls slightly behind in terms of processing power and display quality. However, where it does excel is in its unique features and brand reputation. Blackberry devices are known for their strong security features and enterprise-level software, making them popular among professionals and businesses.

In terms of market positioning, the Blackberry Aurora is positioned as a mid-range smartphone that offers a balance between affordability and performance. It competes with other mid-range devices from brands like Xiaomi, Samsung, and Huawei. While it may not have the same level of brand recognition as these competitors, it does offer a unique selling point with its focus on security and productivity.

In terms of pricing, the Blackberry Aurora is priced at around 200 EUR, making it a relatively affordable option in its segment. When compared to other devices with similar specifications, it offers good value for money considering its brand reputation and unique features. However, if one is solely looking for the best performance or display quality in this price range, there may be better options available.

Overall, the Blackberry Aurora may not be the most powerful or feature-packed smartphone on the market, but it does offer a solid package at an affordable price. Its brand reputation and focus on security set it apart from its competitors, making it a compelling choice for those who prioritize privacy and productivity.

Pros and Cons

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Blackberry Aurora offers a decent package with its reliable performance and iconic Blackberry features. Its durable build and dual SIM capability make it a practical choice for users seeking a reliable device. The 5.5-inch display provides a satisfactory viewing experience, although the resolution could be improved. The 13 MP main camera captures decent photos, while the 8 MP front camera is suitable for selfies. The phone's battery life is commendable, ensuring a day of usage on a single charge. While it may not boast the latest specifications, the Blackberry Aurora is a reliable option for those who prioritize functionality and value for money.