After doing some searches I've found a few people asking the question but still no answer...
I have an 8700 and an 8703 (just got a box of them in so I'm trying it out). I like that it has a few things the 8700 doesn't (GPS, etc.) and also due to the different carrier I'd like to stay with the 8703. However, one thing I've noticed is it appears to be a LOT slower than the 8700. OK, now I'm not talking about fluffy stuff like web browsing or email - honestly I can't really tell the difference between the two devices there (only had the 8703 for a day now). But when it comes to mission critical stuff like Spider Solitaire it is night and day how much slower the 8703 runs versus the 8700.
Now, is it my imagination or possibly s/w version (latest -yes I'm sure it's- on both) that is causing this or are the processors vastly different between the two models?
If you had to pick between the two devices, which way would you go?
I bought the 8703e based on the Carrier I wanted to go with, so that pretty much nails down my reason for purchasing it. I've tried both, and am glad I went with the 8703e. The 8700 and 8703e differ in that the CDMA in the 8703e is provided for by Qualcomm, unlike the GSM/EDGE chip in the 8700. Although EVDO is much faster downloading than EDGE, the 8703e is not quite as powerful internally as the 8700, and I think that is where you are noticing the difference. Personally I have not noticed any speed difference between the 8700r and 8703e. Perhaps it is just the software, or the number of Programs you have loaded on your BB.
I've had the 8700c since before it came out...and now use the 8703e. Much prefer the latter. Three reasons: GPS, the feel of the 8703 (with the beveled sides) is much more comfortable and, for me, Sprint service works best. I also do note EV-DO is slightly faster than EDGE.
8700 vs. 8703 - processing speed
BB PIN: 2333C6FD on a Torch 9800 
