Samsung Galaxy Note 5 vs. BlackBerry Priv: Specs, Features, Price Faceoff

Samsung’s Galaxy Note 5 is a power-packed, note-worthy replacement of the well-received Note 4. The device comes with a premium-design, an advanced stylus with auto-eject mechanism and cutting-edge configurations. The new BlackBerry Priv, on the other hand, features a retro-inspired slider keyboard, along with dual-curved edge display and Android OS on board. For those planning to purchase one of these devices, here is a comparison of configurations, design and price.

Galaxy Note 5 vs. BlackBerry Priv: Design

The Galaxy Note 5 sports a 5.7-inch Super AMOLED display, while the BlackBerry flagship settles for a 5.4-inch AMOLED screen. Similar to other high-end devices, both the phones pack the same 1,440 x 2,560 pixels resolution. With more than 500 ppi pixel strength on board, the handsets’ screen look sharp with in-depth color reproduction.

When it comes to design, the Priv stands out with a retro keyboard and dual-curved-edge display. According to Tech Buffalo, the handset’s curved edges make the phone look virtually bezel-free and the rear panel of the device apparently carries a glass weave look. The Priv seems to give good grip for the most part. However, the ones with bigger hands might find it a little odd, unit they get used to it.

CNet, on the other hand, noticed that the Priv’s screen does not wrap effortlessly around the handset as the Galaxy S6 Edge+, because of the slider. Moreover, the curved display apparently does not add any value to the device, except for contributing to the aesthetics. According to Tech Radar, the glass front panel is balanced by a metal rim running through the corners of the phone, assuring premium flagship look.

Speaking of Galaxy Note 5, Samsung has opted for a concoction of glass and metal design, similar to the bold construction of the flagship Galaxy S6. In comparison, 2014’s Galaxy Note 4 came with a textured plastic construction, which ultimately made the device’s exterior design look inexpensive. However, in order to achieve the new sleek design, Samsung decided to get rid of the microSD card slot and the removable battery unit, Tech Radar reported.

Galaxy Note 5 vs. BlackBerry Priv: Under The Hood

The Galaxy Note 5 comes powered by an Exynos 7420 processor and backed by 4 GB of RAM, while the BlackBerry Priv is powered by a Snapdragon 808 SoC and 3 GB of RAM. Both Samsung and BlackBerry handsets run Android 5.1.1 Lollipop OS. However, they are upgradable to Android 6.0 Marshmallow.

Speaking of memory specification, both the handsets come equipped with 32 GB of native storage space. In addition, the Samsung device has a 64 GB variant as well. While the Priv supports microSD card for expansion, the Galaxy Note 5 doesn’t.

Galaxy Note 5 vs. BlackBerry Priv: Camera, Battery

The Galaxy Note 5 sports a solid 16-megapixel rear-facing sensor with OIS support, in addition to a 5-megapixel selfie-clicker. The BlackBerry Priv, on the other hand, houses a stunning 18-megapixel Schneider-Kreuznach camera unit with OIS support and a 2-megapixel front-facing snapper. While the Note 5 settles for a regular LED flash, the Priv carries a dual-LED flash.

When it comes to battery configuration, the Priv beats the Galaxy Note 5 with a removable Li-Ion 3,410 mAh cell. The Samsung handset comes equipped with a non-removable Li-Po 3,000 mAh unit. Nevertheless, both the phones support wireless charging option.

Galaxy Note 5 v. BlackBerry Priv: Misc

While the Galaxy Note 5 houses a fingerprint sensor, the BlackBerry handset doesn’t. In addition, an advanced S Pen stylus comes along with the Samsung device. The Priv, on the other hand, features a capacitive 4-row BlackBerry keyboard.

Galaxy Note 5 vs. BlackBerry Priv: Price

The BlackBerry Priv with 32 GB storage can now be ordered from the official store for $699 in the U.S. The 32 GB Samsung Galaxy Note 5, on the other hand, will set the buyers back by $749.99 in Best Buy.