Sony CLI PEG-UX50

It doesn't include a Memory Stick either, but there's 16MB of memory available for adding programs and a further 30MB of internal storage dedicated to media files. For example, you can use this for storing music, photos and recording video (albeit at 160 x 112 resolution), for the UX50 includes a digital camera as well. Due to the size of the lens and the CMOS CCD, picture quality is never going to be stunning, and quality is also restricted by the lowly 640 x 480 resolution, but it's useful for snapshots when no other camera is handy.

We should also mention the new processor - Sony's own creation. This runs between 8MHz and 123MHz, depending on the tasks you're running at the time, and we had no complaints about performance. The UX50 may not have the blistering turn of pace of the Tungsten T3, but it never felt slow.

But we're not that fussed by the processor speed - what matters is this PDA's design. It's undeniably different, and we applaud the inclusion of a decent keyboard in such a small device. In terms of style, though, opinions were divided in the office, with some being won over by the rotating lid and others put off by the bumps and oddities that detract from the UX50's otherwise slim dimensions.

What prevents us from recommending the UX50 outright is its immense price. When you can buy the A-Listed Palm Tungsten E (see issue 110, p140) for £120, or the Tungsten T3 for £250, it sticks in the throat to spend nearly £500 for a PDA. If the price drops significantly, however, we could well be tempted.

Author: Tim Danton