The marketplace for mobile devices is always evolving. PDA can now do a myriad of functions from email, web browsing, Wi-Fi, cameras, music, mobile telephony, word processing, spreadsheets, GPS and many more.
A PDA scores in these areas:
- The trend is towards smaller and smaller handheld gadgets.
- Its small size allowing you to carry it anywhere with convenience. You can just slip it in your pocket and when there is a need just pop it out and do your work or play. A typical PDA weighs less than 200 grams compared to an ultra -light notebook which weighs at least a kilogram.
- When you are out in the field for critical operations , the last thing you need is a laptop out of power. A normal laptop lasts the most 5 or 6 hours whereas some PDA accommodate AAA batteries which easily last for a month. You won't fall flat during critical operation.
- A PDA is understandably cheaper than a laptop. A PDA can cost 500 dollars whereas Laptops can cost as much as $ 2,000. PDA software is also more affordable than Laptop software.
Of course, the laptop wins in several aspects:
- Typing or data entry is more difficult and slower with a pda compared with a larger keyboard for a laptop.
- The specs are more powerful.
- The processors, memory and storage are much better in a laptop enabling you to work with greater efficiency and speed.
- It is easier to view your work on a much larger screen on a laptop.
- You can watch DVD movies, do video editing.
- Even laptops are fighting off this new competition by becoming smaller and lighter.
- Lastly, you can do slideshow presentation with a laptop.
So, you need to weigh the cost and benefits of both laptops and PDA. For day to day activities a PDA should work just fine!