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The reason I could only give the HP iPaq a "good" is almost all on the software side, specifically MS Mobile Office and MS ActiveSync(XP) or Windows Mobile Device Center/WMDC (Vista/Win7). First is mobil office, it is now more crippled than prior versions, for example you can't use password protected Excel files, generated on your PC or even put a password using Mobile Excel. (You can still password protect the device) Next, ActiveSync/WMDM, lacks a full system back-up or even, a full "all your stuff and settings back-up". You have 3 options, ActiveSync everything (major pain unless you use USB or WiFi), copy manually (will protect your data but not your hours of install, config and set-up), or buy a 3rd party package that does a proper back-up job, I would mention what I got here but I don't know if it is allowed. (Check CNet Forums www.cnet.com, PDA forum, and there are good products named there) Now neither of these issues may be an issue for some or many, which is why I only hit it one point for that and it will be the same for any Win based new system (phone or PDA) that you get. Now for the HP iPaq itself, WOW, what a great step up over my last one, it has blazing speed, Bluetooth "beaming" to replace Infrared (IR would have been nice to keep), also Bluetooth Sync and BT network passthough, so you can partner with your phone or PC and surf the net. It also has WiFi (802.11 b/g), and USB that will also act as a passthough to your network, and all easy to set-up. They also beefed up the wireless security with several options now. This is a PDA for someone who needs a serious PDA, sure Mobile Office is a little weak in the PDA form, but it is still very good, the PDF reader is great also, as well as many tools now included. It is also a lot thiner and lighter than the older iPaq's and a real plus is a user replaceable battery, so far I can say the battery life has been pretty good and I keep the backlight up pretty high. Third Party Software you may want to consider: (anyone) - Full Back Up/Sync Software (what I got backs up & sync's my PDA, PC, and Phone) ($24.95) - 3rd Party Office Suit if you want password and a lot more Office functions to work ($80) - The one I think I am getting works with all MS Word, Excel, and Powerpoint files. - MS ActiveSync 4.5 (XP and below) or WMDC (Vista/Win7) free from MS. - Bluetooth keyboard if you plan a LOT of data entry. Things Techies will want: MS Mobile Tools (Free) RegEditor (Free - $20) FileManager (the one include hides things and has no search!) (Free - $20) Hex/Binary Editor (Free - $25) Overall: You will not be dissapointed if you are looking for a powerful PDA and the only downsides exist on all MS based PDA's and Phones, so it is hard to call them that big of a downside. It is fast and responsive and the screen is easy to read even in the sun.Read full review
This is my first PDA and I am very pleased with it. I am a traveling nurse and it has been invaluable for leaving myself voice or typed notes on the go. It was very easy to set up and I received a Bluetooth iGo Ultra Slim keyboard with it which is awsome for setting up at a coffee shop and getting charting done. I had a little trouble with getting to know the interface. It's not *quite* like a computer so it's not as intuitive and is why I couldn't give a full "excellent" rating. But, that's a minor quibble. I've not had too much experience with getting online as I am not always in a place with free wi-fi access when I need it (lots of secured access, just not free ones I can get onto.) Excellent ability to interface with my home and work computer for downloading later. Battery holds up and I love the way the USB cable doubles for both computer use and as a power source cord!! Wish I'd thought of that! All together, a great little gadget for this little Gadget Girl! :-D Highly recommended!!Read full review
Very light-weight handheld that is able to connect to internet (have to have wireless network to connect to like your internet service). SD card (not included) that gives you unlimited programs to load so as to not bog down your memory. It definately is not the end all for ipaqs, but it will be adequate for school programs. I am used to a smartphone with broadband etc. I noticed that this iPAQ moves quicker, has basic programs with room to add more, and is very easy to use. Can sync calendar/contacts etc with another user (spouse!) so we both have each others schedule. I give this an A+ in that arena. Also, can log into hotmail and download email and IM.
Even in 2010 this is a good deal. A lot of people like to use their phone as a PDA, but usually all in one pda phones like this are a bit expensive, require some kind of data plan which will add $50 or more to your phone, etc. I bought this used for $145 shipped on ebay and really like the features. This PDA doesn't have IR, but it does have bluetooth, and I was able to find a foldable keyboard for it for pretty cheap. So why a PDA over a netbook? Well it fits in your pocket, it's convenient to jot down notes, or even type during a lecture in class. Even with a foldable keyboard it's still smaller than a netbook's adapter. My main deal is I wanted something to keep organized. Something that I can keep track of my schedule, create tasks, check emails through wifi, keep track of my credit card/bank balances, etc. And this PDA really does fit the bill. Main advantage over a netbook is that this thing can go with you wherever you go, and you can always check it wherever you are to make sure you are keeping on top of things. Haven't tried to use this as an MP3 player only because I have an ipod Nano which is smaller, lighter, and of course, just has a better interface than this to play MP3s. So I can't really comment on this as an MP3 player, and I really doubt this would make a good MP3 player due to the relatively short battery life compared to an ipod nano at least. Battery life lasts me about 4-5 hours with off and on use. It could last for days if I don't use it that much as the battery doesn't seem to drain at all when turned off. But I find myself checking emails on it and browsing the internet at times. Remember I bought this used, so I'm not sure how old the battery is. Nice thing about this too is that it syncs with Office 2007 and Outlook Express. I don't think you will be disappointed in this if what your looking for is solely a PDA. If you want to use this as a MP3 player, it might be good for the car with a cigarette lighter, but for gym use and on the go you might find yourself having to charge up again. You could always just buy a spare battery which is relatively cheap, about $15 if you look around however. One of the problems I had is that after two weeks of use it started becoming a bit slow. A simple reset and it was fast again. I think it just needs a reset to clear junk every once in a while.Read full review
Good product! If you like a windows mobile device get this one. Only down side is no phone and battery life is good but not the best. i love the microsoft documents and excel that this device has and works great when you sinc it with you computer. i think this is much better then any phone pda combo you get from the wireless carriers. Even though i have to carry two devices around i dont mind because the hp ipaq is worth it. I looked at the cell phone pda'a but Ienjoy this because it is easy to use and organize things, the wifi works well and i do get my outlook email on this and is a nice feture. If you dont like carring around a cell and pda dont buy, but if you like a product that is easy to use nice and has windows mobile then buy this.
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