Blackberry, once the king of QWERTY smartphones, is making a surprising comeback with the Blackberry Key 3. After years of silence, the iconic brand is now tapping into the modern Android ecosystem while staying true to its roots — yes, the physical keyboard is still here.
In a market flooded with mid-range Androids, the Blackberry Key 3 offers something refreshingly different. Its launch in Pakistan has sparked curiosity among tech lovers and nostalgia-driven fans alike. But does the phone live up to the hype? Let’s find out in this complete review of the Blackberry Key 3.
Blackberry Key 3 Specifications
Display
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Screen Size | 6.4 inches |
| Display Type | AMOLED |
| Resolution | 2400 x 1080 pixels (FHD+) |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz |
| Protection | Gorilla Glass 6 |
Camera
| Specification | Rear Camera | Front Camera |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Sensor | 64MP (f/1.8) Wide | 16MP (f/2.0) |
| Secondary Sensor | 13MP Ultra-wide | — |
| Tertiary Sensor | 5MP Macro | — |
| Video Recording | 4K @30fps, 1080p @60fps | 1080p @30fps |
| Features | Dual-LED flash, HDR, Night Mode | Beauty Mode, AI Selfie |
Battery
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 4500 mAh |
| Charging Speed | 33W Fast Charging |
| Charging Port | USB Type-C |
| Wireless Charging | No |
| Battery Life | Up to 1.5 days |
Processor
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 778G |
| CPU | Octa-core (4×2.4 GHz + 4×1.8 GHz) |
| GPU | Adreno 642L |
RAM and Storage
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| RAM | 8GB |
| Internal Storage | 256GB |
| Expandable | Up to 1TB via microSD |
Operating System
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| OS | Android 13 (Stock UI) |
| Security Features | Fingerprint (Side-mounted), Face Unlock |
Connectivity
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| SIM Support | Dual SIM (Nano) |
| 5G Support | Yes |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.2 |
| NFC | Yes |
| GPS | A-GPS, GLONASS, BDS |
| Audio Jack | 3.5mm |
Design and Build Quality
The Blackberry Key 3 takes a bold step by blending the classic QWERTY keyboard with a modern smartphone design. The body is crafted from high-grade aluminum with a matte finish on the back, giving it a premium, sturdy feel in hand.
It’s slightly heavier than most modern smartphones due to the built-in keyboard, but that’s a trade-off many Blackberry fans will happily accept. The keyboard itself is tactile, responsive, and backlit — ideal for typing in dark environments.
Bezels are minimal, and the 6.4-inch AMOLED display feels vibrant and immersive. The side-mounted fingerprint scanner adds convenience without compromising aesthetics. Overall, the design is unique — a mix of nostalgia and modernity.
Key Features and Unique Selling Points
- QWERTY Physical Keyboard: Still Blackberry’s biggest flex — for users who love typing accuracy and productivity.
- Secure Stock Android: Near-stock Android 13 ensures smooth performance and better privacy.
- Strong Build Quality: Premium aluminum body for better durability.
- Expandable Storage: Up to 1TB expansion — ideal for professionals and media-heavy users.
- Business-Ready Design: Perfect for users who want a serious, no-nonsense phone with solid multitasking capabilities.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Iconic QWERTY keyboard | Slightly heavier than typical phones |
| Excellent battery life | No wireless charging |
| AMOLED Display with 120Hz refresh rate | Limited availability in stores |
| Strong performance with Snapdragon 778G | Not for gaming enthusiasts |
| Clean, secure Android experience | Camera performance is average in low light |
Comparison with Similar Phones in the Same Price Range
| Phone Model | Blackberry Key 3 | Samsung Galaxy A54 | Xiaomi 13 Lite |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price (PKR) | Rs. 119,999 | Rs. 114,999 | Rs. 108,999 |
| Display | 6.4″ AMOLED, 120Hz | 6.5″ Super AMOLED, 120Hz | 6.55″ AMOLED, 120Hz |
| Processor | Snapdragon 778G | Exynos 1380 | Snapdragon 7 Gen 1 |
| RAM/Storage | 8GB / 256GB | 8GB / 128GB | 8GB / 256GB |
| Camera Setup | 64+13+5MP / 16MP | 50+12+5MP / 32MP | 50+8+2MP / 32MP |
| Special Feature | Physical Keyboard | IP67 Water Resistance | Slim & lightweight design |
Official Price in Pakistan and Availability
The Blackberry Key 3 is officially priced at Rs. 119,999 in Pakistan. It is currently available through select online retailers and major tech stores in Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad. Stock availability is limited, so if you’re planning to grab one, act fast before it sells out.
Final Verdict: Should You Buy the Blackberry Key 3?
The Blackberry Key 3 is not for everyone — and that’s exactly what makes it special.
If you’re someone who values productivity, privacy, and a physical keyboard, this phone is absolutely made for you. It brings back Blackberry’s legacy with a modern twist, offering a secure and smooth Android experience without the distractions of bloatware.
On the other hand, if you’re into mobile photography, gaming, or sleek minimalism, there are better options in the same price range.
Buy the Blackberry Key 3 if you’re a business professional, a writer, a hardcore multitasker, or just someone who misses the feel of real keys under your thumbs. It’s not trendy — it’s timeless.
Also Read More: BlackBerry Evolve X | Features & Price | Mobile Updates
