HP iPaq hx2750

The good: Fast processor; biometric fingerprint reader; built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth; dual expansion slots; nice display and included screen cover; user-replaceable battery.

The bad: Hefty; so-so battery life.

The bottom line: Offering an impressive resume of good performance and security and wireless features, the HP iPaq hx2750 gets the job done.

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Description: This HP iPAQ HX2750 is a Pocket PC-based, business-oriented handheld device. Compared to other business-oriented handhelds on the market, it is expensive at around $535. You can expand the memory of this unit using Secure Digital (SD), or MMC media. The Microsoft Windows mobile for Pocket PC 2003 second edition operating system comes installed on this PDA.

Pros: Has 128 MB memory, which is somewhat more than some similarly priced handhelds. An available CF slot allows even more expansion, such as wireless connectivity, or additional storage.

Cons: Since this device runs on Pocket PC, it will work only with Windows, not with Linux or Macintosh operating systems.

Suitability: Suited for those who want a device that can meet the needs of various back-office or industrial applications. Also, its display, supporting 64,000 colors at 240x320 resolution, makes it adequate for viewing color images. This handheld supports the Bluetooth private area network protocol, meaning it can wirelessly connect with other Bluetooth-enabled devices within about 30 feet to synchronize data, access e-mail and the Internet, exchange files, and print documents. This handheld will also store and play back MP3 audio files that are stored in the system's memory. This PDA includes Wi-Fi (802.11b) compatibility and can be used to access the internet at various wireless enabled "hotspots".

Value: Notwithstanding its expensive price, this handheld has good features for the money. Note that with Microsoft Windows mobile for Pocket PC 2003 second edition installed, the HP iPAQ HX2750 has the latest generation of OS available in a Pocket PC-based PDA.

Suggestions: (1) If you think you'll enter large amounts of data, consider purchasing an external portable keyboard for your PDA. (2) To see how this PDA stacks up against our Editor's top picks, check out the Handhelds Feature on CNET Reviews .