I bought my iPAQ on a whim. I wanted a PDA, and I wanted one that played MP3s. It’s a $500 toy, but I love it beyond belief. If you are in the market for a PDA, and don’t mind laying out the extra money, the iPAQ is the one to buy.
Features to Drool Over
Two features that stand out on the iPAQ are the sound and the color. The color display is clear, bright and easy to read. The stereo sound of the unit is better than many MP3 players I have tested. With headphones on, you won’t know if you are listening to a CD player or the iPAQ.
The iPAQ comes fully loaded with useful Windows software that is familiar and easy to use. It ships with pocket versions of Word, Excel, Outlook, and even Internet explorer. Of course, solitaire is also available. It wouldn’t be a Windows device without it. Also included is calendar and scheduling software that is available with the click of a single button. More software is readily available for download from a variety of sites. I have found enough free games and programs to keep me busy for a long, long time.
For those of you who like to know what’s under the hood, the iPAQ has 32 megs of RAM and 16 megs of ROM. More memory can be added by using an expansion pack and compact flash cards. It has a 206 MHz Strongarm processor, and weighs 6.3 oz.
Performance wise, I couldn’t be happier. I have had no problems with software crashes or device failure. The batteries stay charged for hours, and charge quickly. Software speed is awesome. I am able to run several applications simultaneously with no apparent loss of speed. All in all, it’s a great machine.
Things Needing a Little Work
I love my iPAQ, but even I will admit there are some things that could be improved. First, my stylus no longer seats snugly in it’s slot. It has a tendency to spring out slightly every time I insert it.
Second, the price is way too high. Yes, it is a beautiful, sleek gadget. However, most people aren’t going to want to pay $500 for a calendar / toy. Typing with the stylus is too cumbersome to make it practical as a replacement for a laptop; so it’s main competition is the Palm line. Palms are much cheaper, even the color versions.
Final Thoughts
Honestly, the only people who will buy iPAQs instead of Palm devices are gadget lovers. The bright colors, the sleek lines, and the great sound appeal to the geek in me. I love that it can play my music, and I love how easy it is to use. However, Compaq needs to bring the price down on the iPAQ so more people will be able to afford them. Otherwise, I am afraid the iPAQ is doomed to go the way of Apple. A few die hards will love them, but most people will go with the cheaper Palms.