Mikey likes it

I recently dropped my Crackberry service and so now I need a PDA to keep my calendar in. I'd like a GPS with maps/driving directions and wi fi as well.

What's the current model that represents a good value with the features described? I tried to search but "gps" and "pda" are not long enough to search on.

bdjohns1

If you don't mind an external GPS reciever, then any PDA with Bluetooth should do the trick - you can get a BT GPS off eBay for ~$50 with shipping (Holux M1000). There are some devices that include the GPS, but I can't remember model numbers off the top of my head.

Then, you need to buy mapping software like TomTom for the PDA.

If you go with a Windows Mobile based device and have a live data connection, you can either use Live Search (wls.live.com) or Google Maps to provide rudimentary navigation for free, but again, you have to have a data connection to download maps on the fly. I've got a Blackjack (personal) and Treo 750 (work) and that's my method. GPRS/EDGE data is fast enough to do the maps unless you're fully-zoomed in on an interstate - then the tiles don't always refresh fast enough.

The advantage of the external GPS is that it can be used with other devices if the circumstances warrant - I could use my BT GPS with MS Streets and Trips on my laptop if I wanted, too.

Basset

I've just started using one from hp RX5000 range (5935 I think) that has built in GPS and TomTom. In the UK you get maps for all of Western Europe and can
download any other.

They call it a "travel companion" rather than a PDA as it's geared more towards the traveller.

Usual Windows Mobile sync with Outlook as well as pocket work/excel.

Also comes with Travelmate - clocks around the world as well as weather and currency details that it downloads and converts clothing sizes around the world.

mikem132

I don't think it's the best, but I have a Verizon XV6700 (coming out with a much improved 6800 soon). This is a phone, PDA thing. I use bluetooth GPS and Tom Tom Nav 6. Naturally, you get email and Outlook sync with a computer. The real downside is VZ charges 45.00/month for unlimited data plan, and you HAVE to get some kind of data plan. Kind of a rip-off. Good side is VZ has EVDO which is very fast (much, much faster than AT&T). EVDO is available in many places but not all. In remote areas you get "1X" service, which is like fast dialup. You do get data all over, though, pretty much. I used a straight PDA for 10 years before going to a Treo (Palm), then dropping that for Windows Mobile 5 on the XV6700. Good phone with a full keyboard, wifi, EVDO, bluetooth, etc.. Full phone and full PDA function, plus a dumb camera and some other little gimmicks.