Mio DigiWalker P550

The good: The Mio DigiWalker P550 is a PDA-GPS combo that offers preloaded maps of North America, Windows Mobile 5, and a free three-year subscription to the WorldMate travel app. The handheld has an integrated GPS receiver, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi.

The bad: The P550 didn't always generate efficient routes, and initial satellite acquisition took some time. The battery loses its charge quickly, and the screen isn't the sharpest we've seen.

The bottom line: On paper, the Mio DigiWalker P550 looks to be an attractive gadget for the mobile professional, combining the capabilities of a PDA and GPS into one device. However, its poor battery life and subpar navigation skills tell a different story.

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Description: The MiTAC Mio Digiwalker P550 is a Pocket PC-based, consumer-oriented handheld device. Compared to other consumer-oriented handhelds on the market, it is relatively inexpensive at around $160. You can expand the memory of this unit using Secure Digital (SD), or MMC media. Runs on Microsoft Windows mobile 5.0.

Pros: Offers Bluetooth 2.0, IEEE 802.11g, and IEEE 802.11b wireless capability, which is considerably better than some similarly priced handhelds. By way of comparison, the typical cost of a product with a comparable set of wireless capability is $400. Also, this handheld runs on the Microsoft Windows mobile 5.0 operating system, which is considerably more advanced than some similarly priced handhelds.

Cons: Has a somewhat hefty, 0.7-inch thickness. If pocketability is important to you, you may want to forego a unit that weighs a rather heavy 6 ounces. Since this device runs on Pocket PC, it will work only with Windows, not with Linux or Macintosh operating systems.

Suitability: Built for someone who wants basic PIM functions. Also, its display, supporting 64,000 colors at 240x320 resolution, makes it adequate for viewing color images. However, you can use the Bluetooth capability of this device to connect to cell phones and other devices that are similarly enabled. This handheld will also store and play back MP3 audio files that are stored in the system's memory. The Wi-Fi (802.11b) capability of this PDA allows you to connect to wireless networks in offices, airports, and in hundreds of public areas (charges may apply).

Value: Given its relatively inexpensive price, this handheld has great features for the money.

Suggestions: (1) If you think you'll enter large amounts of data, consider purchasing an external portable keyboard for your PDA. (2) For news and reviews of the latest handhelds, visit the Handhelds Feature on CNET Reviews .