Palm-sized PC models offer a form factor similar to Palm devices. Most of the time, Palm-sized PCs are larger and heavier than Palm devices. Their biggest problem is that the Windows metaphor just doesn't translate well to a keyboardless device in a Palm-style form factor. Face it, the Start button and layers upon layers of menus are too much to slog through when you need to do something in a hurry.

What I like
My personal preference runs to Palm OS-based devices, including Palm Computing, Handspring, and TRG products. One of the biggest advantages of Palm OS-based devices is the wide acceptance of the platform by the market. There are many different pieces of third-party hardware and software that can be used to enhance your Palm OS-based device, ranging from keyboards to GPS systems.

Another advantage to Palm OS-based devices is the wide range of price points and features offered. You can spend less than $200 for a Handspring Visor Solo or Palm IIIe, or as much as $799 for a Qualcomm pdQ, which is a combination Palm OS-based device and cell phone. There are also specialized Palm OS-based devices for barcode scanning and wireless LAN applications.

The biggest problem I find in recommending a particular Palm OS-based device to someone is determining what he or she would like to do with it.

For those who need just "Big Four" functionality (Address List, Date Book, Memo Pad, ToDo List) and won't ever load a third party application, the Visor Solo or Palm IIIe might be a good choice. If you want something a little more stylish, but will still stick with just the "Big Four", maybe you're a Palm V kind of person.

If you want to be connected wherever you go, and are thinking about getting rid of your pager or cell phone, perhaps the Palm VII or Qualcomm pdQ are good options for you. If you anticipate loading a lot of programs, writing the great American novel, reading a lot of books on your device, or carrying a lot of reference material, the Visor Deluxe or the Palm Vx might suit your needs.

Although I do like the Visor very much, there are a couple of drawbacks. First, the Visor cradle is USB only. If you use Windows 95 or Windows NT, you'll have to pay extra for a serial cradle. Also, some of the really neat third-party Springboard modules aren't available yet.

If you need certain peripherals, such as a keyboard, a modem, or a GPS right now, then a Palm Computing product may be the right choice. If you want to start slowly and add to your Palm device gradually, the Visor might be the Palm device for you.

I suggest you check PalmGear at http://www.palmgear.com to see a lot of the add-on hardware and software products available.

If you have any further questions, please let me know!

Editor-in-Chief David Gewitrz replies
If you're not budget constrained, I'd go with the Palm Vx since it has the most out-of-the-box memory of any of the Palm Computing devices. Handspring is untested, and while you can get a much cheaper 8MB device from them, you're still betting on a new player. If you don't think you're going to load lots of stuff onto your device, the Palm IIIe is a nice, safe, cheap bet.

Windows CE is a fine environment as well, but it's not quite as commonly used. If you're more interested in a Windows-like environment, color, or other cool bells and whistles (or want a keyboard), go with a Windows CE device like the HP Jornada.

Jake Jacobs is a retired electrical engineer and part-time flight instructor who has used a Palm handheld since 1997 and enjoys writing in his spare time.