There are phones and there are phones, but what if you must choose between two workable, no-fuss entry-level smartphones that are also easy on the wallet?
Here, we bring you a comparison between BlackBerry's rather dated Curve 8520 and LG's Optimus P500 Android phone so you can decide for yourself if one of these meets your requirements better.
BlackBerry Curve 8520
1. QWERTY phone for the workaholik
Performs core functions quickly and reliably. If you need a phone for messaging, mail, and work, the Curve 8520 should be a better choice.
2. Total Cost of Ownership
From email to messenger and apps, to actually get all smarts on your BlackBerry phone, you need to sign on to a BIS internet plan. Works best for postpaid users.
3. Specs
Has a QVGA screen, optical trackpad, and no 3G connectivity. Released in July 2009, the 8520 is certainly showing its age.
4. Verdict
If you've waited this long for a BlackBerry, you might as well wait for an upcoming entry-level BB Curve codenamed Apollo. It was last spotted on a Vietnamese website with new and improved hardware.
LG Optimus P500
1. Touch phone for the Android adopter
If you want an entry-level Android phone, the Optimus P500 gets most things right. However it is by no means fast. There will be lag.
2. Total Cost of Ownership
Subscription to Android Market and services only requires a Wi-Fi connection. A cheap prepaid GPRS data plan won't set you back by much.
3. Specs
It has a 3.2-inch HVGA screen, a 1500 mAh battery, supports 3G, and runs Android 2.2 Froyo, with a promised upgrade to Android 2.3 Gingerbread. The P500 has a decent 3.1 megapixel camera and FM Radio too.
4. Verdict: It lacks an Optical trackpad, secondary camera, LED flash. 3.2-inch screens are a bit of a compromise, and that 600 MHz processor struggles to keep pace with twitchy fingers. Buy this if you want an affordable, touch-based Android phone with tolerable battery life.