Dell X30

I was a devout HP IPAQ user. My latest IPAQ was a 2215. So, most of my comparisons in this review are based on my knowledge of the 2215.

I did some research on the AXIM and zeroed in on the X30 High. The High version includes the cradle, Bluetooth and WiFi. I felt that this model would best suit my needs.

After my online order was placed, it was received about 3-4 day later (kudos to Dell for fast shipping). Upon first viewing of the X30 in person, I must say I was somewhat shocked. The unit is much thinner than my 2215 and this was a major plus. However, I didn’t care for the squared off edges. I was very comfortable with the rounded feeling of the 2215. But I quickly got past that when I powered up the unit and starting playing.

The 64mb and 624MHz is probably more than I need, but who cares! This makes life so much better. The clarity of the screen is great. In fact I think it may be a bit cleaner/sharper than my 2215. The stylus, at first glance, didn’t seem practical. This flat stylus appeared as though it would be difficult to use. Nope, I was wrong. Although flat, it is quite easy to hold and stores neatly in the side slot.

The quick access buttons are a bit on the small side for my fat fingers. But, none the less, are useful and serve a purpose. You are able to program the buttons to do what you’d like. I was able to program one of the buttons to change the screen between landscape and portrait mode. In addition to the standard buttons there are two additional buttons. One is for the voice recorder. The IPAQ 2215 did away with this. You had to program one of the other buttons for that purpose. Having a dedicated record button is so useful. The other button is to turn on/off the WiFi and Bluetooth. On the left side of the unit, there is a scroll button (similar to the Sony units). I don’t have too much use for this.

The WiFi was easy to setup. I have WiFi in my house. When I turned on the WiFi it recognized the connection and I entered my WEP and off I was, surfing away. I thought this may have just been easy because it was my own WiFi. So, while at a hotel in Manhattan, I connected to their system and it was just as easy.

The X30 has a slot for a SD card. Although my IPAQ 2215 had both the CF and SD, I don’t miss the CF slot. I purchased a 1GB SD card and I’m all set. I can download songs onto this card and use the built in phones jack. Just don't use the built in speaker. It’s terrible.

The case is a nice leather (leatherette) slip case. The IPAQ slip case was too tight and cause scuff marks on the side grips. This case is tight but does not damage the unit at all. As far as the battery life, I haven’t really noticed the time on it. Perhaps it’s because I place it in the cradle every day.

As with any Pocket PC, there are a ton of accessories for the Dell. From cases and screen protectors to additional stylus, it’s limitless. I love this unit. I would recommend it to anyone.