How to Choose a PDA or Smart Phone
You've decided you need your cell phone for more than making calls - you need to stay productive while you're on the go. With the amazing array of features and choices available these days how can you tell which one is right for you? And with prices ranging from $50 - $500, what do you get for the money?
Here are some things you'll want to consider when shopping for your PDA or smart phone so you'll pick the one that's best for you and be happy with your choice.
Which Cell Phone Carrier?
Where will you want to use your new PDA or smart phone the most? At home, on the road, traveling for business? Check the coverage where you'll be the most for different cell phone carriers - you'll make a robust connection for the best experience with your smart phone.
An increasing number of smart phones and PDAs now offer both WiFi and cellular data connections, so if cellular data connectivity leaves something to be desired where you are, consider a device that also offers WiFi.
Keyboard Format
Virtually all PDAs and smart phones have QWERTY keyboards - designed like your computer keyboard. One distinguishing feature is whether they have dedicated number keys or whether there are dual purpose keys on the keyboard that also function as your dialing keypad. Check the location of special function keys to see if they make sense to you.
Navigating
Many PDAs or smart phones offer a trackball, wheel or some other navigation shortcut. Make sure that the navigation on the PDA or smart phone feels good in your hand and makes sense to you.
What Operating System?
Palm OS, Windows Mobile, Pocket PC - each has advantages depending on your goals and what you're used to. If you've had a Palm Pilot and are familiar with scheduling meetings and events through that interface, then a Palm device might be the best solution for you.
What Applications are available?
Nearly all smart phones and PDAs allow you to open Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint files as well as PDFs. Some also allow creation and editing of Word and Excel files.
What Email is supported?
PDAs and smart phones are designed to keep you in touch - most allow for the integration of multiple email accounts and many have a real-time "push" function. If you want to keep up with a corporate email system, check with your IT department on the mail format to ensure that it's supported.
Synchronizing with your computer
Since the point of a smart phone is to work smarter not harder, you won't want to have to double-enter appointments and contacts. That means you'll need a way to synchronize information between your smart phone or PDA and your computer. That is generally done by connecting via USB cable, infrared or Bluetooth wireless technology. Check to see if the smart phone comes with the necessary equipment and software to synchronize with your email and contact system already on your computer. If you want it to work with your corporate system, it's probably a good idea to talk to your IT department.
Battery Life?
How long should you be able to work without recharging? How long do you want to stand-by without needing to recharge? Web surfing and email tend to drain the batteries much more quickly than phone conversations, so if that's your primary concern, check on the expected battery life between charges.
Instant Messenger?
Do you send text messages or use Yahoo, AOL or MSN Instant Messenger? Many smart phones and PDAs come with Instant Messenger capability integrated so it's easy to set up and get started. Some let you run up to 10 chats simultaneously.
How does it perform for Web surfing?
Most PDAs and smart phones now offer a HTML web browsing experience with near broadband surfing speeds but you'll want to know whether you'll be using an HTML browser or stripped down mobile version. Connection speeds matter - how does the smart phone connect. An increasing number of devices offer WiFi capability as well. And many PDAs can also act as a wireless modem for your laptop if that's a feature you'll need.
Expandability
When you first get your new PDA or smart phone the storage might seem like a lot but once you start putting contacts, files, email, photos, music, etc. it can quickly dwindle down. While it might not come up right away, better to know what the options are for adding more storage.
Multimedia Features
Camera
Are you looking for a casual snapshot or to remember where you parked at the airport (a great use of a camera phone)? The cameras on most PDAs and smart phones range from 1.2 to 2.0 megapixels which will take clear, crisp pictures but won't replace a camera on vacation. Some PDAs and smart phones even allow for video capture (usually of 15 seconds up to 2 minutes). Think about what you'll want to use the camera for and the quality of photo you'll need.
MP3 player
Do you want to be able to listen to music on your PDA? Many smart phones offer that capability. If you already have music, check if you can put your music on, what formats are compatible, how many songs the smart phone will hold, and if play lists are supported.
FM Radio
Some PDAs have integrated FM radios. One smart phone even has a built in FM transmitter that will play music on any FM radio.
Which is the PDA or Smart phone for Me?
With so many choices in options and great features, it can be confusing. But with this list in hand, you can evaluate the options available in smart phonse, make the right choice, and pick the best PDA for your needs and budget.
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