Product Reviews

Five months ago, the quiet world of budget Palm devices was rudely awakened by the Tungsten E. Costing around £120, it offered all the features of a £200 Palm, so Sony knows it needs to offer something a little special to compete.

Fortunately, there are two features that lift the TJ27 from the budget crowd. The first is a 640 x 480 camera tucked away on the back of the chassis. It's a neat design, with the lens protected from the elements by a cover - switch it to open, and the CLI springs to life, with the camera app appearing automatically. Taking a photo is as simple as pressing the small button on the right-hand side of the chassis.

The second feature is far more subtle: its screen cover. Rather than a slip-on case, or a flap that gets in the way when you want to write on screen, it folds back and around

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the TJ27 in a figure-hugging kind of way. When closed, it even gives the CLI a stylish, understated look.

Where the TJ27 doesn't impress so much is size. Measuring 13mm thick, and weighing 143g, it feels notably bulkier than the Tungsten E, even though the specs aren't so different. It's amazing how much difference 1mm can make. In return for the extra bulk, the Sony's battery life was six-and-a-half hours with the backlight on, compared to four-and-a-half hours from the Tungsten.

All the usual Sony features are here: a Memory Stick slot is at the top, kept company by an infrared port, while the Jog Dial is relegated from the left of the chassis to between the hardware buttons on the front. This makes it more awkward to use, but the ability to scroll down and select apps this way is still useful.

We also appreciate the Hold button, which prevents the CLI being accidentally switched on when on the move. While this function is often associated with music playback, the TJ27 is unfortunately restricted to reproducing beeps.

The main problem for Sony is that the Tungsten E offers music and video playback for less, provides a brighter screen, and matches the TJ27 for memory and speed in general use. However, the CLI's longer battery life and neat cover make it a good alternative if you'll use the camera, especially as it undercuts the camera-toting Palm Zire 71 by over £40.