BlackBerry Key2
BlackBerry Key2

The BlackBerry Key2, launched in June 2018 by TCL Communications under the BlackBerry Mobile brand, is the successor to the KeyOne, refining the physical keyboard experience. Priced at $649/£579 at release, it features a 4.5-inch IPS LCD, Snapdragon 660 chipset, dual 12MP cameras, and a 3500 mAh battery, targeting productivity users with BlackBerry’s security suite. It introduced the Speed Key for faster app shortcuts and a sleeker design. A Key2 LE variant offered a cheaper alternative with downgraded specs. In 2025, the Key2 is outdated, with no software updates beyond Android 8.1 Oreo, no 5G support, and hardware that struggles with modern demands. Still, its keyboard and security features appeal to BlackBerry enthusiasts, available used for around $150-$200.

 

Feature

BlackBerry Key2

Release Date

June 2018

Display

4.5" IPS LCD, 1080 x 1620, 3:2 aspect ratio, 434 ppi, Gorilla Glass 3

Processor

Qualcomm Snapdragon 660, 14nm, Octa-core (2.2 GHz)

RAM

6GB

Storage

64GB/128GB, microSD support (up to 256GB)

Rear Camera

Dual: 12MP (f/1.8, 1.28μm, PDAF) + 12MP (f/2.6, 1.0μm), LED flash

Front Camera

8MP, f/2.0

Battery

3500 mAh, Quick Charge 3.0

OS

Android 8.1 Oreo (no further updates)

Build

Aluminum frame, textured plastic back, no IP rating

Connectivity

4G LTE, Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.0, USB-C, NFC, 3.5mm headphone jack

Price (Launch)

$649 / £579

  • Improved Keyboard: The QWERTY keyboard is larger than the KeyOne’s, with a Speed Key for two-key app shortcuts, a trackpad function, and a fingerprint sensor in the spacebar.
  • Dual Cameras: The 12MP + 12MP setup adds portrait mode and 2x optical zoom, a step up from the KeyOne.
  • Security Features: BlackBerry Hub, DTEK, and Private Locker offer a unified inbox and robust security, ideal for privacy-conscious users.
  • Sleek Design: At 168g, the aluminum frame and textured back provide a modern, grippy feel.
  • Good Performance for Its Time: The Snapdragon 660 and 6GB RAM were solid for 2018, handling productivity tasks well.
  • Outdated Software: Stuck on Android 8.1 Oreo with no updates since 2019, posing security risks and app compatibility issues.
  • No 5G Support: Lacks 5G connectivity, a major drawback in 2025.
  • No Water Resistance: Lacks an IP rating, making it vulnerable to water damage.
  • Small Display: The 4.5-inch screen feels cramped compared to modern all-screen designs.
  • Limited Availability: No longer in production, only available used, with no official repair support.

To make a modern BlackBerry Key2 competitive in 2025, the following enhancements could address its shortcomings while preserving its productivity focus:

  • 5G Connectivity with Full Band Support: Integrate a 5G modem supporting sub-6 GHz and mmWave bands for faster data speeds, low-latency gaming, and secure cloud productivity, ensuring the Key2 meets 2025’s connectivity standards for business users.
  • Upgraded Chipset to Snapdragon 7 Gen 3: Replace the Snapdragon 660 with a Snapdragon 7 Gen 3, featuring a 4nm process, up to 3 GHz clock speeds, and enhanced AI capabilities. This would provide a 60% performance boost, better efficiency, and support for modern apps, making the Key2 a strong mid-range option.
  • 90Hz AMOLED Display: Upgrade the 4.5-inch IPS LCD to a 5.0-inch AMOLED panel with a 90Hz refresh rate and FHD+ resolution (1080 x 2160). This would offer smoother scrolling, deeper blacks, and more vibrant colors, improving the viewing experience while keeping the display compact for the keyboard.
  • Enhanced Camera System with OIS: Upgrade to a triple 48MP (main, f/1.8, OIS) + 8MP (ultra-wide, f/2.2) + 5MP (telephoto, f/2.4, 3x zoom) setup, adding optical image stabilization, night mode, and 4K video at 60fps. This would address the Key2’s lack of OIS and poor low-light performance, enhancing its photography capabilities.
  • Latest Android with Long-Term Support: Ship with Android 15 and commit to 4 years of OS updates and 5 years of security patches. This would ensure app compatibility, enhance security, and rebuild trust in BlackBerry’s software support, which has been absent since TCL’s exit.
  • Improved Battery and Charging: Increase the battery to 4000 mAh, support 45W wired fast charging, and add 15W wireless charging with 5W reverse wireless charging. This would cater to power users needing all-day battery life and versatile charging options for accessories.
  • IP68 Water and Dust Resistance: Add IP68 certification for water resistance (up to 1.5m for 30 minutes) and dust protection, addressing the Key2’s lack of ingress protection and enhancing durability for users in varied environments.
  • Advanced Security with Biometric Upgrades: Enhance BlackBerry Hub and DTEK with AI-driven threat detection and upgrade the fingerprint sensor to an in-display ultrasonic sensor. Add 3D facial recognition with infrared mapping for secure face unlock in all lighting conditions, reinforcing BlackBerry’s security-first ethos.
  • Global Availability and Repair Support: Expand availability to global markets like the US and Europe, ensuring compatibility with regional 5G bands. Establish a repair network with official service centers and spare parts availability, addressing the current challenge of sourcing repairs for the Key2.
  • Sustainable Design with Modular Components: Use recycled materials for the frame and back, and introduce a modular design allowing users to replace the battery, camera, or display without professional help. This would extend the device’s lifespan and appeal to eco-conscious consumers in 2025.

The BlackBerry Key2 refined the KeyOne’s formula in 2018, offering a larger, more functional QWERTY keyboard with the Speed Key, dual cameras with portrait mode, and a sleeker design. Its security features like BlackBerry Hub and DTEK, paired with a decent Snapdragon 660, made it a productivity powerhouse for its time. However, in 2025, the Key2 is outdated, with no software updates beyond Android 8.1 Oreo, no 5G support, and a small 4.5-inch display that feels cramped compared to modern smartphones. The lack of water resistance and limited availability further diminish its appeal. If you’re a BlackBerry enthusiast who values a physical keyboard and can find a used Key2 for $150-$200, it might suffice for basic productivity tasks. For most users, however, newer mid-range phones like the Samsung Galaxy A55 or Google Pixel 8a offer superior performance, 5G support, and long-term software updates, making them far better choices in 2025.

 

Our Rating

The overall rating is based on reviews by our experts

Overall Score

No reviews yet.

How Is the Design?

How is the Display?

How is the Camera?

How are the Features?

How is the Connectivity

How is the Usability?

How is the Performance?

How is the Battery Life?

No prices available.

Give Your Opinion :



  • Published: 4/16/2025
  • Company: BlackBerry
  • Category: Mobile