Dell X50v

Let me first say that I've owned many PocketPCs before this one. Most recently, a Dell Axim x30 (high-end 624mhz) -- the x50v's immediate predecessor -- and before that various Casio and Compaq models. That said, I believed for a long time that the x30 was the perfect PocketPC. However, I revised my opinion upon coming to own an x50v.

If you mean to ~really~ use a PocketPC -- I mean load it full of third-party/custom tools, apps, games, media players, emulators, etc -- the Axim x50v is unlikely to disappoint you. The 642mhz processor and VGA 480x640 resolution really shine through in "power user" applications compared to previous PocketPCs, or others without these characteristics.

Unfortunately, I must admit that the "basic" or "stock" device applications -- PocketWord, PocketIE, the "Today" screen, etc -- are less responsive, less snappy if you will, on the x50v compared to the x30, or any previous "power" PocketPC. I believe this is due to the DPI-scaling done to inflate text and graphics to a degree that match non-VGA PocketPC looks, if not the sheer overhead in memory and processing required to manage the higher-res VGA screen itself. But again, if you are the type to replace PocketWord with TextMaker, MediaPlayer with GSPlayer, Today with -- whatever -- you'll find that many third-party applications are natively designed to maximize the experience through the x50v's screen.

Is the average "business" or "casual" user bound to fully realize the difference between the x50v and an x30, or any other lesser PocketPC? Honestly, I don't believe so. But "power users" will readily appreciate what the x50v offers over it's "competition", albeit with some awareness of the "quirks" present in the "stock" apps brought on by the high-res screen. Overall, I call this PocketPC a "geek deluxe".

One final note: I am aware of the Dell Axim X51v, a device that is essentially an x50v with the new Windows Mobile 5.0 operating system. AVOID IT AT ALL COSTS. The x50v has Windows Mobile 2003 SE (second edition), which is FAR more stable and performant than the newer WM5.0! It should therefore go without saying -- DO NOT UPGRADE THE X50V TO WM5.0! You'd be needlessly hindering a perfectly good device.