CNET.com.au's quick guide to handheld operating systems

In this quick guide, we take a look at the functionality and applications of the four main handheld operating systems -- Palm, Windows Mobile, Symbian and BlackBerry.

When shopping for a new PDA or smart phone, you probably weigh your decision based on factors such as the size of the device, its features, and its price. These are important considerations, to be sure, but more importantly, what about the operating system, the core software that runs these devices?

Most users know the differences between Windows and Macintosh, but what about Palm and BlackBerry? Symbian and Windows Mobile? How do these handheld platforms compare, and should you use them as the basis of your buying decision?

After weeks of poking, prodding, and tapping on screens, we found the answers. We put the BlackBerry 4.1, Palm 5.4, Symbian 9.2, and Windows Mobile 5 operating systems through the wringer, checking their strengths and weakness in areas such as e-mail, multimedia, Microsoft Office compatibility, and ease of use.

We looked at the number (and quality) of third-party applications, which can make the devices more like pocket computers than pocket organisers. And we delved into the core apps themselves to see which OS does the best job managing your contacts, calendars, and other critical info. Read on to see how they compare.

Palm
Ease of use and solid PIM apps have always been a hallmark of the Palm OS.
See what else it has to offer.

Windows Mobile
Windows Mobile 5 offers more than just a stripped-down version of Microsoft's Office suite. Multimedia, anyone?

BlackBerry
Find out why BlackBerrys have earned the CrackBerry nickname and what the future holds for these devices.

Symbian
Though not as well known as the other OSs, Symbian brings solid productivity tools and versatility to the table.

Which OS is right for you?
Now that you have an overview of each OS, find out which one is best for you and check out some of our top product picks.