BlackBerry KEY2 vs KEYone: Smartphone Is Worth Buying in the UK (2025)?

In today’s touchscreen-dominated world, physical keyboards have all but disappeared. But for many UK professionals and productivity-focused users, BlackBerry phones still hold a unique appeal. With their blend of QWERTY keyboards, Android OS, and enterprise-level security, models like the BlackBerry KEY2 and BlackBerry KEYone remain attractive in 2025.

If you’re wondering whether to upgrade to the KEY2 or stick with the KEYone, this article will guide you through design, performance, cameras, battery life, and pricing—so you can decide which model best suits your needs.

👉 Check the latest UK availability here:

Design & Build Quality

BlackBerry KEY2: Sleeker and lighter than its predecessor, the KEY2 sports an aluminium frame, soft-touch textured back, and slimmer bezels. Its keyboard is 20% larger, making typing more comfortable.
BlackBerry KEYone: Chunkier and heavier, but solidly built. It features an aluminium body with a textured grip that feels robust in hand.

Verdict:
The KEY2 offers a more refined and modern design, while the KEYone has a sturdier, traditional BlackBerry build.

Keyboard & Typing Experience

The keyboard is the star of both models.

KEY2: Features a larger physical QWERTY keyboard with improved key travel. It also includes the Speed Key, allowing quick app switching without going back to the home screen.
KEYone: Offers a solid typing experience with capacitive touch navigation (swipe across the keyboard to scroll). However, the smaller keys make long typing sessions less comfortable.

Verdict:
If typing speed and comfort are your priorities, the KEY2 keyboard is significantly better.

Display & Multimedia

KEY2: Has a 4.5-inch IPS LCD display with 1080 x 1620 resolution. Bright and sharp for a compact device.
KEYone: Similar 4.5-inch IPS LCD but with slightly lower brightness and contrast compared to the KEY2.

Verdict:
Both displays are practical, but the KEY2 offers better clarity and colour accuracy.

Performance & Software

KEY2: Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 660, paired with 6GB RAM. Runs on Android with BlackBerry’s security enhancements. Smooth for multitasking, emails, and business apps.
KEYone: Runs on the Snapdragon 625 with 3GB or 4GB RAM. Adequate for basic tasks but noticeably slower with modern apps in 2025.

Verdict:
The KEY2 is far more capable for modern use, while the KEYone feels dated in performance.

Camera Comparison

KEY2: Features a dual 12MP rear camera system with better low-light performance, portrait mode, and 4K video recording.
KEYone: Single 12MP rear camera, good in daylight but weaker in low light.

Verdict:
If photography matters, the KEY2’s dual camera system is a clear upgrade.

Battery Life

KEY2: Equipped with a 3500mAh battery, offering up to two days of moderate use.
KEYone: Slightly smaller 3505mAh battery but less efficient processor means shorter endurance.

Both support Quick Charge 3.0.

Verdict:
Battery life is excellent on both, but the KEY2 manages power better thanks to its upgraded chipset.

Storage & Expandability

KEY2: Available in 64GB and 128GB, expandable via microSD up to 256GB.
KEYone: Offers 32GB or 64GB storage, expandable via microSD.

Verdict:
KEY2 wins with more storage and faster performance.

Security & Productivity

Both phones integrate BlackBerry’s reputation for security.

KEY2: Comes with the DTEK security suite, monthly Android security updates, and BlackBerry Hub for unified messaging.
KEYone: Offers similar features but updates and long-term support are less frequent in 2025.

Verdict:
If you want enterprise-level protection, the KEY2 is the smarter investment.

Price & Value in the UK (2025)

BlackBerry KEY2 – New & Sealed, Unlocked → Premium BlackBerry with improved performance and typing experience.
BlackBerry KEYone – New & Sealed, Unlocked → More affordable, still offers the classic BlackBerry experience.

Explore more deals in the BlackBerry Collection or browse the complete LowPricePhonesUK collections for other budget-friendly smartphones.

Who Should Buy the BlackBerry KEY2?

UK professionals who rely on emails, messaging, and multitasking.
Buyers who want a faster, more future-proof BlackBerry.
Users who need better cameras and longer support.
Anyone seeking the best modern BlackBerry experience.

Who Should Buy the BlackBerry KEYone?

UK buyers on a tighter budget.
Users who want the classic BlackBerry feel without spending extra.
Those who only need basic apps, calling, and messaging.
A good option for a secondary or backup phone.

Final Verdict

If you’re choosing between the BlackBerry KEY2 vs KEYone in 2025:

The KEY2 is the superior option with a better keyboard, stronger performance, dual cameras, and longer-lasting support. It’s the ideal BlackBerry for professionals and heavy users.
The KEYone remains an affordable alternative for buyers who simply want the classic QWERTY keyboard experience at a lower price.

👉 Ready to decide? Browse the full range of BlackBerry phones at LowPricePhonesUK or explore the wider collections of smartphones for more great deals.

No matter which model you choose, the BlackBerry KEY series proves that physical keyboards and productivity-first design still have a place in today’s smartphone market.