Handhelds buying guide

Choosing the right handheld is all about finding the perfect balance of size, weight, performance, features, and cost. From there, a PDA can become an indispensable tool for staying organised, connected, productive, and entertained. This guide steps you through the decision-making process.

What handheld fits my needs?
Handheld manufacturers offer dozens of models, each targeting a slightly different user. Your first step should be to decide which of the following profiles best suits your wants and your lifestyle.

User types: Budget buyer/student | Businessperson | Road warrior | Trendsetter | All-in-one fanatic

Budget buyer/student
For students and those on a budget who need a pocket-size device to keep their address book, their calendar, their to-do list, and their notes organised, as well as synchronise that information with a PC, a basic handheld will suffice. By adding software and other accessories later, when their budgets permit, they can easily enhance their PDA's functionality.

Businessperson
In order to get the job done, you need a tool that can keep you organised and has software that works with Microsoft Word and Excel. To accommodate such features, look for models that have ample memory or expansion slots and a sharp colour screen. Staying connected is also a key factor, so be sure it works with your company's e-mail.

Road warrior
For those who get most of their work done on the go, a handheld can stand in for a full-fledged laptop in many situations. In this category, connectivity, battery life, and size are key factors. Integrated Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity lets you check and send e-mail outside of the office, while the right software lets you edit Word and Excel files. If you plan on typing away a lot of short e-mails or memos, a PDA with an integrated keyboard will come in handy. Many models are powered by batteries that are both replaceable and rechargeable, so you can swap in a fresh cell when needed. You'll also appreciate a device that's truly pocketable.

Trendsetter
If you're a trendsetter, you always want the latest and greatest technology. For handhelds, this means models that let you listen to music, watch videos, play games, surf the Web, and snap photos. You will get the most out of high-end handhelds with fast processors, lots of built-in memory, high-resolution colour screens, graphics accelerators, expansion slots, and other bells and whistles.

All-in-one fanatic
If you prefer to only carry a single gadget, a smart phone that combines the features of a traditional handheld with those of a mobile phone is the right choice. Striking the balance between size, ease of use, and convenient data entry is especially important with these devices. You'll find some models that are more phone-centric and others that are designed for those who can't be separated from their e-mail.