Oh, how quickly techies turn down their noses at emerging devices that don’t meet their rigorous spec expectations.

It is no secret that the Blackberry Torch has been met with disdain by certain industry experts. After all, its processor isn’t as fast as those powering its competitors’ models. It also doesn’t have the protection of being a mass marketed media darling like the iPhone (News - Alert). And it lacks the trendy-cool-George-Lucas-endorsed pro sci-fi tech vibes that accompany the Droid models.

But the Torch manages to retain certain meager distinctions. After all, PC Magazine said it was the “best” Blackberry ever. And any compliment is a good one – even if it comes after a lengthy summary of why the Torch can’t hold a candle to its competition.

Other techie reviewers have echoed that sentiment – most of the official reviews focus on the smartphone’s negative qualities or poor sales performance. The Wall Street Journal reported that the Torch sold a paltrey 150,000 units its first weekend – a pittance in comparison to 1.6 million iPhones.

So it’s a good thing for RIM that the opinions and outlooks expressed in both PC Magazine and The Wall Street Journal are… wrong.

A great phone’s worth isn’t in its processor speed, its marketing budget -- or in its celebrity-jedi endorsements.

A great phone’s value is in its usability, its ingenuity, its longevity. And the Blackberry Torch has all of those qualities. In addition to being extremely secure – it is easy to use. You literally turn the thing on and go. All of your Facebook (News - Alert) feeds stream over instantaneously, popping up right next to your text messages and work emails -- allowing you to stay connected while on the go. The Torch’s other features, such as integrated Google (News - Alert) browser and YouTube apps, ensure a permanent plugged-in experience.

I can almost hear my old Curve crying from inside the deep, dark filing cabinet I have thrown it in.

And I’m not alone.

According to the 17 reviewers currently lending their feedback on Amazon.com (News - Alert), most of them are big fans. The Torch currently carries a 4.5 rating, which is pretty snazzy considering the oft-jaded consumer base tends to be harsher than any paid journalist.

So while the Torch might not have all the stats of its competitors – its attractive, easy-to-use, intuitive platform make it appealing to the mass market.