Top 5 BlackBerry alternatives

One key feature of BlackBerry devices is the QWERTY keyboard. Even with scaled-down ones like the Pearl series, there will still be a QWERTY layout with physical keys. That's why it can be difficult for some people to switch from a BlackBerry to another device. Of course, there's a lot more to RIM's products than just the keypad. The simplicity of its pushmail service as presented to the user is one of its biggest draws.

But the BlackBerry is not perfect. For one, if you want HSDPA connectivity, the only viable model in Asia is the Bold, and that may be a bit too chunky for some. The desire for a touchscreen display is also another factor--most BlackBerrys don't come with one. So if you really need to switch to another device, here are five possible alternatives. Each one of these handsets comes with the requisite physical keypad laid out in a way that's similar to the famous BlackBerry email device you've grown to be dependent on. And with a bit of work, you can get pushmail on each one of them, too. So don't worry about having to wean off having anytime, anywhere email.

Click here for a feature comparison table.

	1.	Nokia E71          CNET Asia rating: 8.7 out of 10 The good: Slim and stylish design; solid build quality; full range of wireless features; works right out of the box; snappy performance; excellent battery life. The bad: Counter-intuitive camera autofocus; media browser could do with a little upgrade; Easy Dial feature not available. The bottom line: The Nokia E71 is easily one of the best QWERTY smart phones that combine strong features as well as a good balance between business and entertainment, at a competitive price. Review | See full specs | Rate this
	2.	Samsung Omnia Pro (B7320)   CNET Asia rating: 6 out of 10 The good: Decent QWERTY keypad; 7.2Mbps HSDPA; Wi-Fi; compact form factor; low price. The bad: Custom interface is merely skin deep; no dedicated audio port; inconveniently located microSDHC slot; camera has no autofocus feature. The bottom line: This Omnia Pro is a basic WM6.1 smartphone with its affordable price tag as its most outstanding feature. Review | See full specs | Rate this
	3.	HTC Snap   CNET Asia rating: 7 out of 10 The good: Great keyboard; good Inner Circle software. The bad: Short battery life; awkward Windows Mobile interface; poor camera. The bottom line: The HTC Snap is one of the better messaging-focused Windows Mobile smartphones around at the moment, but look out for its confusing user interface and poor battery life. Review | See full specs | Rate this
	4.	Palm Treo Pro   CNET Asia rating: 7.4 out of 10 The good: Compact size and lightweight; convenient Wi-Fi switch; 3.5mm audio jack; simple setup with PC; full range of connectivity options; GPS built in. The bad: QWERTY keypad not as good as previous Treos'; fingerprint magnet; micro-USB port instead of more common mini-USB; 2-megapixel camera. The bottom line: Finally, a HSDPA Treo with built-in Wi-Fi and GPS. It's a pity the keypad doesn't live up to its predecessor's high standards. Review | See full specs | Rate this
	5.	Nokia E63   CNET Asia rating: 7.9 out of 10 The good: QWERTY keypad; Wi-Fi. The bad: Lack of HSDPA and GPS. The bottom line: The Nokia E63 is a good phone that delivers a competent texting and email experience, but its E71 predecessor is better, offering more features and greater finesse. If you want a smartphone that stands out from the crowd, however, the colorful E63 is worth checking out. Review | See full specs | Rate this