HP iPAQ H5450 review

HP has left the iPAQ's basic design alone, which has mixed benefits. It still feels bulky compared with the Pocket LOOX, and at 206g it's also noticeably heavier. But as it shares the same connectors as the H3800 and H3900 series, the cradle and keyboard options are identical - handy for a company that has already invested in the iPAQ.

All previous iPAQs share the same jacket connector, and the H5450 is no different. This shouldn't be a surprise, as the huge number of available jackets - whether for cameras, GPS units, in-car navigation systems, PC Card adaptors or any of the more adventurous additions - are one of the iPAQ's main selling points.

HP is keen to promote the software package included with the H5450, with Jeode Java Virtual Machine, iPresenter and Quick View Plus the highlights. It also provides five points to spend at www.ipaqchoice.com, and there's lots of high-quality software to choose from - FIFA 2002 and an expense-tracking package would cost five points, for instance.

So with all its enhancements and extras, is the iPAQ H5450 worth the £552 asking price? Sadly, for most people the answer must be no - the £340 Palm Tungsten T, £349 Pocket LOOX and £249 Sharp Zaurus SL-5500 all offer better value. But if you're looking for a business tool, the H5450 might be just what you've been waiting for. It's easy to secure and it includes wireless comms both on the move and in the office. It's undeniably the most powerful and most versatile PDA we've seen.

Author: Tim Danton