CNET editors' PDA buying guide: 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

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 organized, as well as synchronize 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.

Key features	Palm OS	Windows Mobile
Minimum OS	5.2.1	2003 SE
RAM	8MB	32MB
Processor	126MHz	300MHz
Battery	Rechargeable	Rechargeable
Picks	Palm Z22	HP iPaq rx1950

In order to get the job done, you need a tool that can keep you organized 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 color screen. Staying connected is also a key factor, so be sure it works with your company's e-mail.

Key features	Palm OS	Windows Mobile
Minimum OS	5.2.1	5
RAM	32MB/expansion slot	32MB/expansion slot
Processor	200MHz	300MHz
Display	65,000 colors	65,000 colors
Connectivity	Wi-Fi/Bluetooth	Wi-Fi/Bluetooth
Battery	Rechargeable	Rechargeable
Picks	Palm Tungsten E2	HP iPaq hx2790

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.

Key features	Palm OS	Windows Mobile
Minimum OS	5.2.1	5
RAM	32MB/expansion slot	32MB/expansion slot
Processor	200MHz	400MHz
Display	65,000 colors	65,000 colors
Connectivity	Wi-Fi/Bluetooth	Wi-Fi/Bluetooth
Battery	Rechargeable/replaceable; extra cell	Rechargeable/replaceable; extra cell
Picks	Palm TX	Dell Axim X51v

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 color screens, graphics accelerators, expansion slots, and other bells and whistles.

Key features	Palm OS	Windows Mobile
Minimum OS	5.2.1	5
RAM	32MB/expansion slot	32MB/expansion slot
Processor	400MHz	400MHz
Display	65,000 colors	65,000 colors
Connectivity	Wi-Fi/Bluetooth	Wi-Fi/Bluetooth
Battery	Rechargeable/replaceable; extra cell	Rechargeable/replaceable; extra cell
Picks	Palm LifeDrive	HP iPaq rx5900 Travel Companion

If you prefer to only carry a single gadget, a smart phone that combines the features of a traditional handheld with those of a cell 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. For more information on the various types of smart phones and various operating systems, see our Quick guide to handheld operating systems.

Key features	Palm OS	Windows Mobile	Symbian
Minimum OS	5.0	5	9
RAM	32MB/expansion slot	32MB/expansion slot	32MB
Display	65,000 colors	65,536 colors	65,536 colors
Input	QWERTY keyboard; touch screen	QWERTY keyboard; touch screen	QWERTY keyboard
Connectivity	Cell phone	Cell phone	Cell phone
Network/data network	GSM 850/900/1800/1900; GPRS	CDMA 800/1900	GSM 850/900/1800/1900
Battery	Rechargeable/ replaceable; extra cell	Rechargeable/ replaceable; extra cell	Rechargeable/ replaceable; extra cell
Picks	Palm Treo 700p	Cingular 8525	Nokia E62