Top 5 PDA-phones for the business user
Staying connected is crucial for the business user. Getting emails and being able to reply them fast can make or break a deal, so having the right device to help do that is important. It's not only about receiving and replying emails. Getting online wherever you are also helps, so the more wireless options, the better.
Some things are standard for all handhelds these days, like the ability to open and edit documents attached to email messages. It's how well it gets the job done that sets one handheld apart from the rest of the pack. Some of the products featured here even connect to external displays for simple presentations, letting the user leave the notebook at home. Here are our top PDA-phone picks for the business user.
Click here for a feature comparison table.
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BlackBerry Bold
CNET Asia rating: 8.8 out of 10
The good: HSDPA; Wi-Fi; GPS; QWERTY keypad; bright screen.
The bad: Camera could be better.
The bottom line: Unlike Palm, RIM has built up an impressive product portfolio that is made even better by the addition of the Bold. Aside from offering a plethora of features, the Bold's screen is one of the best we've ever seen.
Key features for business users: First BlackBerry with HSDPA connectivity; screen is viewable even in bright sunlight; peerless push email features.
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HTC Touch Pro
First take We got some quality time with the HTC Touch Pro and left with a few thoughts about this upcoming PDA-phone from the Taiwan-based manufacturer.
Key features for business users: Five-row QWERTY keypad; TV-out available with optional cable.
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i-mate Ultimate 9502
CNET Asia rating: 7.3 out of 10
The good: Full suite of connectivity features; VGA display; separate mini-USB and audio jack; TV-out for presentations.
The bad: Large and heavy; lacks user-available RAM; security software needs improvement; no bundled GPS software or maps; can be unresponsive at times.
The bottom line: Though it comes with a ton of features including a sharp VGA display, the implementation of its software needs refinement for it to live up to its "Ultimate" title.
Key features for business users: QWERTY keyboard for messaging/email; TV-out for presentations; built-in security software for data protection.
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4. |
HTC Advantage (X7510)
CNET Asia rating: 7.5 out of 10
The good: Screen; storage QWERTY keyboard; connectivity; battery life; good features.
The bad: Price; practicality; camera; graphics performance.
The bottom line: The cost will automatically put the X7510 out of reach for most buyers, but it does possess great qualities for business users.
Key features for business users: Large QWERTY keyboard for messaging; TV-out; screen large enough for one-on-one presentations.
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5. |
Samsung SGH-i780
CNET Asia rating: 8 out of 10
The good: Attractive price; good QWERTY keyboard; convenient shortcuts; slim design; extra battery included.
The bad: Square screen may not work well with third-party programs; optical joystick not as fast as regular directional pad; bundled GPS app not optimized.
The bottom line: Though not perfect, the i780 is an excellent choice for those who want the most features in a sub-S$1,000 PDA-phone.
Key features for business users: Convenient QWERTY keyboard for messaging/email; extra battery included for those frequently on the move.
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