Whatever your BlackBerry model, there is a desktop cradle for you - so why not treat your smartphone with a useful device to keep your device in one place, avoid constant connection and reconnection with the USB cable and generally keep you desk tidy!
3 Things To Check
There are several different types of cradle for BlackBerry devices, and your choice of purchase should be determined by your model, your need and your price range.
You might also want to consider purchasing a cradle with USB connection or serial connection to your PC - however the majority of cradles are now USB.
Whether you've got a nice hi-tec BlackBerry Curve or a standard Pearl 8100 series, the first thing you need to bear in mind is whether or not the cradle is compatible with your phone.
Cradle Model
Naturally as there are many different models of BlackBerry, there are many different types of cradle, based on form factor (shape) of your smartphone, required charge (as nearly all cradles as as a phone charger) and most importantly the position of your mini USB connector.
One thing to note on the matter of USB connector position - a basic leather or plastic desktop stand can be employed if you opt instead to use a USB cable from your PC. However a cradle offers a fixed connection from the cradle to the BlackBerry.
A popular choice is the Amzer Desktop Cradle which is available for around $31 (£19) for a device to fit any model, regardless of the position of the USB connector.
Cradle Purpose
As prices come down on cradles, the features that are added by the manufacturers increases. The majority of cradles are now suitable both for basic PC connection with your BlackBerry and charging.
More and more manufacturers are extending the recharge capabilities of BlackBerry cradles by offering the ability to charge secondary batteries.
This is a great function, meaning you almost never need to leave your BlackBerry behind when you leave the office.
BlackBerry manufacturers RIM provide the BlackBerry Power Station with Extra Battery Charger for around $70 (£44) which allows you to charge your BlackBerry, a BlackBerry HS-655+ Bluetooth Headset, and a spare battery all at the same time.
Cradle Cost
As always when making a purchase, choose a device that meets your needs and fits in with your budget. The leather desk stands are cheaper than a sturdy plastic device with a built in mini USB connector - but not dramatically, so purchasing a leather stand might be more of an aesthetic accessory than a functional piece of hardware.
With the most expensive multifunction chargers costing around $79.99 (£48.99) and the cheapest cradles available from $26 (£15.99) there are plenty of options to suit every sort of BlackBerry user, from the casual Pearl smartphone owner to the executive Curve user.
Choosing the Right Cradle for Your BlackBerry
This series looks at the best cradles for the current BlackBerry device series, and gives pointers on how to make the right choice in your purchase