PalmOS PDA Devices Hardware Comparison - A review of handheld computers running the Palm OS, including 3Com's PalmPilot, Palm III, Palm V, Palm VII, IBM's Workpad companions, Handspring's Visor and Visor DeLuxe, TRG's TRGPro, Symbol's, and Qualcomm's pdQ smart phones

Welcome to the PalmOS PDA hardware device comparison page! I've tried to make this an exhaustive roundup of all standard digital assistants running 3Com's Palm OS, including USR, 3Com, and Palm's PalmPilot, Palm III, Palm V, Palm VII, mXXX, IBM's Workpad companions, Handspring's Visor line, Handera's Handera 330 and TRGPro, Sony's CLIÉ stable, Symbol's line of ruggedized verticle-market devices, and and Kyocera and Qualcomm's Smartphones. Pilots, PalmPilots, and Palm devices have been around for years, but there have been a lot of exciting new products recently that all run the Palm operating system. Here's how I sort it all out:

Company Device Price RAM/ROM Description

Palm (Formerly 3Com, formerly USRobotics)
Palm m505
Palm M100
Michael Jordan edition
Palm VII in cradle
Palm V in cradle
Palm III in cradle m505 $449 8 MB The m505 features a color display that supports 65K+ colors and a backlit graffiti area.

m500 $399 8 MB Palm's sleek m50x devices are the first Palm units with SD/MultiMediaCard expansion card slots, USB connectors, and a rechargable lithium polymer battery. They introduce the new standard Universal Connector interface.

m500 Michael Jordan edition $425 8 MB

m105 $199 8 MB The Palm m10x devices are less expensive and feature interchangable color faceplates. These units are 25% smaller than the Palm III series (the screen is also smaller).

m100 $129 2 MB

m100 Michael Jordan edition $159 2 MB The Michael Jordan edition of the m100 and m500 devices come with extra software hand-picked by Jordan.

VIIx $199** 8/2 MB These are the models with wireless e-mail and internet access! The service starts at $9.99 per month. The display is only 4 grayscale. **It's possible to get these devices for less than $100 if you sign up for a service plan!

VII * 2/2 MB

Vx $299 8/2 MB The Palm V's feature a rechargeable lithium-ion battery and an ultra-thin anodized aluminum case. Accessories such as modems and portable keyboards are available for the entire Palm line. The Vx Limited Edition models are available in Champagne and Millenium Blue.

Vx LE * 8/2 MB

Vx Claudia Schiffer * 8/2 MB

Vx ePocrates $399 8/2 MB

SUPRA eKey $349 8/2 MB

V * 2/2 MB

IIIc $299 8 MB The first color device running PalmOS.

IIIxe * 8/2 MB This model is upgradeable, but has no expansion slot.

IIIx * 4/2 MB This model has an expansion slot for such uses as more memory or a wireless pager.

IIIe SE * 2 MB This version of the IIIe comes in several translucent colors.

IIIe $149 2 MB This model is not expandable or Flash ROM upgradable.
III * 2/2 MB This model introduced infrared communication capabilities and 16 grayscale display.

PalmPilot Pro * 2 MB The PalmPilot Professional model introduced a TCP/IP stack.

PalmPilot Personal * 1 MB This generation was the first to feature backlighting.

Pilot 5000 * 512 KB These are the devices that started it all--the original USR Pilots. No backlighting, 4 grayscale, no TCP/IP stack. The 160x160 screen resolution remains standard for PalmOS devices except for some Handera and Sony models.

Pilot 1000 * 128 KB

IBM
IBM Workpad c505
IBM Workpad c3 Workpad c505 $449 8 MB These are the Palm m50x devices disguised to make them more acceptable to your IS department.
Workpad c500 $399 8 MB

Workpad c3 PC Companion * 8 MB These are the Palm V-series devices with the IBM brand.

Workpad c3 PC Companion * 2 MB

Workpad * 4 MB These are Palm III-series models branded to make them more acceptable to your IS department.

Workpad Original * 4 MB

Handspring
Visor Edge
Visor Prism
Visor Visor Edge $299 8 MB Handspring's sleeker metallic unit features a detachable Springboard expansion slot and rechargable internal lithium ion battery.

Visor Prism $399 8 MB Handspring's color unit (more than 65,000 colors) also has a rechargeable l-ion battery.

Visor Platinum $199 8 MB This model features a processor that is up to 50% faster than the Visor. With the exception of the Prism, all Visor's have 16 grayscale displays.

Visor Deluxe $169 8 MB Handspring was started by the guy who originally invented the Pilot. These units are inexpensive, and all Handspring devices have expansion slots featuring Springboard technology for devices such as modems, memory, or backup modules.

Visor $129 2 MB

Visor Solo (No cradle) * 2 MB

Handera (formerly TRG)
Handera 330
Handera 330 - landscape, graffiti area minimized
TRG Pro Handera 330 $349.99 8 MB The Handera 330 boasts a high-resolution 320x240 monochrome screen with a "soft" graffiti area, providing the most screen real estate of any PalmOS unit. The Handera is extremely expandable, with not only a compact flash slot but also an SD/MultiMediaCard expansion card slot. This unit also features a built-in voice recorder, jog dial, enhanced audio, and a power system that uses either AAA batteries or a rechargable lithium-ion battery.

TRGPro $249.99 8/2 MB TRG was a company that long provided enhanced memory for Palm devices. These puppies have a compact flash slot that accepts industry standard cards such as modems or the 340 MB IBM MicroDrive! They also feature enhanced audio (they can dial phones!) and 16 grayscale display. Customized hardware versions are available for enterprise solutions.

Sony
Clie PEG-N710C
Sony PalmOS unit CLIÉ PEG-N710C $499.99 8 MB+ This amazing device shines with a high-resolution 320x320 color screen displaying 256 colors and a built-in MP3 audio player!

CLIÉ PEG-N700C/S * 8 MB The Japanese version of the 710.

CLIÉ PEG-N610C/S $399.99 8 MB The PEG-N610C series features a 320x320 hi-resolution screen capable of displaying more than 65,000 colors. This model is satin silver.

CLIÉ PEG-N610C/V $399.99 8 MB The metallic purple version of the PEG-N610C

CLIÉ PEG-N600C/S * 8 MB Japanese version of the 610.

CLIÉ PEG-500C * 8 MB 16-bit grayscale display. Japanese only. Japanese versions have more flash ROM to accomodate the Japanese ROM.

CLIÉ PEG-S320 $199.99 8 MB Sony's PalmOS-based devices incorporate Sony's Memory Stick technology, currently available in up to 128 MB, and Jog Dial control, which enables one-hand scroll-and-select operation of various applications. Units come with a USB docking cradle and Lithium Ion rechargeable battery.
CLIÉ PEG-S310 $199.99 8 MB

CLIÉ PEG-S300 * 8 MB

Symbol
SPT 1700
Symbol SPT-1500 SPT 1740-2D $2165 2/2 MB The SPT 1740-2D combines versatile data capture abilities (1D and 2D) with sophisticated connectivity and ruggedness. Based on the popular Palm® platform, the SPT 1740-2D offers a built-in data communications link to the open architecture of Spectrum24®. This wireless LAN from Symbol Technologies enables up-to-the-minute information flow between the point of activity and your remote host systems.

SPT 1740 $1725 2/2 MB A wireless LAN version of Symbol's ruggedized device with integrated barcode scanning, this has a built-in link to the open architecture of the Spectrum 24. Also accepts a magstrip reader. Upgradable to 8MB RAM/4MB flash ROM.

SPT 1700-2D $1495 MB Offers flexible 1D and entry-level PDF417 bar code data capture. Available in both batch and wireless configurations.

SPT 1700 $1095 2/2 MB No wireless LAN, this model is for batch applications. Price includes scanner.

SPT 1500 $590 2/2 MB A non-rugged batch version with the same form factor as the Palm III. Integrated barcode scanner. Upgradable to 4MB RAM/ 4MB flash ROM. Price shown is for 2MB version with scanner.

Kyocera
Kyocera QCP-6035 QCP 6035 $500 8 MB This Kyocera Smartphone combines a full-featured trimode CDMA digital wireless phone, web access and a Palm handheld computer (comparable to the VIIx, but with a more compact display). It is is half an inch longer than a Palm IIIc and about half an inch narrower. Kyocera's smartphone is an all-in-one device so that you don't have to carry a pager, phone and PDA.

Qualcomm
Qualcomm pdQ pdQ 800MHz * 2 MB A cellphone with integrated 4 grayscale PalmOS device! This model features CDMA technology and supports both analogue and digital modes.

pdQ 1900MHz * 2 MB A CDMA phone that operates on 1800-1900MHz frequencies.

Unreleased Devices

Palm
Palm m125 m125 $250 8 Brings the m1xx series in-line with m5xx standards: SD/MMC expansion, Universal Connector, USB, etc. Monochrome.

m300 * * Probably just a created model number in response to initual rumors of the m125.

Symbol
SPT 1700 SPT 1734 * * Features 900/1800 MHz Dual Band GSM capability and offers both SMS and real-time communication connectivity. Ruggedized.

SPT 1733 * * This ruggedized device houses a CDPD modem and uses wireless IP technology for a secure open standard network offering reliable real-time communication at up to 19.2 Kbps. Existing phone networks are used, but charged for the amount of data transferred rather than time connected.

Acer
Acer * * This looks like a fast, color PalmOS unit in Chinese. Acer has licensed the Palm operating system.

Nokia * * * Nokia has licensed the Palm Computing Operating System so it can implement the user interface and applications to run on the Symbian platform. Resulting devices will run both Palm and Symbian applications.

Samsung * * * Another Smartphone with integrated PalmOS is on the way!

Garmin * * * Garmin Corporation will incorporate Palm OS(R) software in a new line of handheld products with Garmin's GPS hardware and software. Garmin Corporation will develop, manufacture and market location-enabled handhelds that will be able to run the thousands of applications available for the Palm OS platform.

Most of the prices quoted above are list--but why pay list? You can find many of these devices for substantially less by checking out web pages such as the following that compare prices from a variety of vendors:

You can also try checking out http://www.usedpalmpilots.com/default.htm or http://www.gethightech.com/ for used PalmOS devices and parts.

Other Web Resources Comparing PalmOS Devices

Michigan State Palmtop Users Group

Company	Device	Price	RAM/ROM	Description
Palm (Formerly 3Com, formerly USRobotics)	m505	$449	8 MB	The m505 features a color display that supports 65K+ colors and a backlit graffiti area.
	m500	$399	8 MB	Palm's sleek m50x devices are the first Palm units with SD/MultiMediaCard expansion card slots, USB connectors, and a rechargable lithium polymer battery. They introduce the new standard Universal Connector interface.
	m500 Michael Jordan edition	$425	8 MB
	m105	$199	8 MB	The Palm m10x devices are less expensive and feature interchangable color faceplates. These units are 25% smaller than the Palm III series (the screen is also smaller).
	m100	$129	2 MB
	m100 Michael Jordan edition	$159	2 MB	The Michael Jordan edition of the m100 and m500 devices come with extra software hand-picked by Jordan.
	VIIx	$199**	8/2 MB	These are the models with wireless e-mail and internet access! The service starts at $9.99 per month. The display is only 4 grayscale. **It's possible to get these devices for less than $100 if you sign up for a service plan!
	VII	*	2/2 MB
	Vx	$299	8/2 MB	The Palm V's feature a rechargeable lithium-ion battery and an ultra-thin anodized aluminum case. Accessories such as modems and portable keyboards are available for the entire Palm line. The Vx Limited Edition models are available in Champagne and Millenium Blue.
	Vx LE	*	8/2 MB
	Vx Claudia Schiffer	*	8/2 MB
	Vx ePocrates	$399	8/2 MB
	SUPRA eKey	$349	8/2 MB
	V	*	2/2 MB
	IIIc	$299	8 MB	The first color device running PalmOS.
	IIIxe	*	8/2 MB	This model is upgradeable, but has no expansion slot.
	IIIx	*	4/2 MB	This model has an expansion slot for such uses as more memory or a wireless pager.
	IIIe SE	*	2 MB	This version of the IIIe comes in several translucent colors.
	IIIe	$149	2 MB	This model is not expandable or Flash ROM upgradable.
	III	*	2/2 MB	This model introduced infrared communication capabilities and 16 grayscale display.
	PalmPilot Pro	*	2 MB	The PalmPilot Professional model introduced a TCP/IP stack.
	PalmPilot Personal	*	1 MB	This generation was the first to feature backlighting.
	Pilot 5000	*	512 KB	These are the devices that started it all--the original USR Pilots. No backlighting, 4 grayscale, no TCP/IP stack. The 160x160 screen resolution remains standard for PalmOS devices except for some Handera and Sony models.
	Pilot 1000	*	128 KB
IBM	Workpad c505	$449	8 MB	These are the Palm m50x devices disguised to make them more acceptable to your IS department.
	Workpad c500	$399	8 MB
	Workpad c3 PC Companion	*	8 MB	These are the Palm V-series devices with the IBM brand.
	Workpad c3 PC Companion	*	2 MB	These are the Palm V-series devices with the IBM brand.
	Workpad	*	4 MB	These are Palm III-series models branded to make them more acceptable to your IS department.
	Workpad Original	*	4 MB
Handspring	Visor Edge	$299	8 MB	Handspring's sleeker metallic unit features a detachable Springboard expansion slot and rechargable internal lithium ion battery.
	Visor Prism	$399	8 MB	Handspring's color unit (more than 65,000 colors) also has a rechargeable l-ion battery.
	Visor Platinum	$199	8 MB	This model features a processor that is up to 50% faster than the Visor. With the exception of the Prism, all Visor's have 16 grayscale displays.
	Visor Deluxe	$169	8 MB	Handspring was started by the guy who originally invented the Pilot. These units are inexpensive, and all Handspring devices have expansion slots featuring Springboard technology for devices such as modems, memory, or backup modules.
	Visor	$129	2 MB
	Visor Solo (No cradle)	*	2 MB
Handera (formerly TRG)	Handera 330	$349.99	8 MB	The Handera 330 boasts a high-resolution 320x240 monochrome screen with a "soft" graffiti area, providing the most screen real estate of any PalmOS unit. The Handera is extremely expandable, with not only a compact flash slot but also an SD/MultiMediaCard expansion card slot. This unit also features a built-in voice recorder, jog dial, enhanced audio, and a power system that uses either AAA batteries or a rechargable lithium-ion battery.
Handera (formerly TRG)	TRGPro	$249.99	8/2 MB	TRG was a company that long provided enhanced memory for Palm devices. These puppies have a compact flash slot that accepts industry standard cards such as modems or the 340 MB IBM MicroDrive! They also feature enhanced audio (they can dial phones!) and 16 grayscale display. Customized hardware versions are available for enterprise solutions.
Sony	CLIÉ PEG-N710C	$499.99	8 MB+	This amazing device shines with a high-resolution 320x320 color screen displaying 256 colors and a built-in MP3 audio player!
	CLIÉ PEG-N700C/S	*	8 MB	The Japanese version of the 710.
	CLIÉ PEG-N610C/S	$399.99	8 MB	The PEG-N610C series features a 320x320 hi-resolution screen capable of displaying more than 65,000 colors. This model is satin silver.
	CLIÉ PEG-N610C/V	$399.99	8 MB	The metallic purple version of the PEG-N610C
	CLIÉ PEG-N600C/S	*	8 MB	Japanese version of the 610.
	CLIÉ PEG-500C	*	8 MB	16-bit grayscale display. Japanese only. Japanese versions have more flash ROM to accomodate the Japanese ROM.
	CLIÉ PEG-S320	$199.99	8 MB	Sony's PalmOS-based devices incorporate Sony's Memory Stick technology, currently available in up to 128 MB, and Jog Dial control, which enables one-hand scroll-and-select operation of various applications. Units come with a USB docking cradle and Lithium Ion rechargeable battery.
	CLIÉ PEG-S310	$199.99	8 MB
	CLIÉ PEG-S300	*	8 MB
Symbol	SPT 1740-2D	$2165	2/2 MB	The SPT 1740-2D combines versatile data capture abilities (1D and 2D) with sophisticated connectivity and ruggedness. Based on the popular Palm® platform, the SPT 1740-2D offers a built-in data communications link to the open architecture of Spectrum24®. This wireless LAN from Symbol Technologies enables up-to-the-minute information flow between the point of activity and your remote host systems.
	SPT 1740	$1725	2/2 MB	A wireless LAN version of Symbol's ruggedized device with integrated barcode scanning, this has a built-in link to the open architecture of the Spectrum 24. Also accepts a magstrip reader. Upgradable to 8MB RAM/4MB flash ROM.
	SPT 1700-2D	$1495	MB	Offers flexible 1D and entry-level PDF417 bar code data capture. Available in both batch and wireless configurations.
	SPT 1700	$1095	2/2 MB	No wireless LAN, this model is for batch applications. Price includes scanner.
	SPT 1500	$590	2/2 MB	A non-rugged batch version with the same form factor as the Palm III. Integrated barcode scanner. Upgradable to 4MB RAM/ 4MB flash ROM. Price shown is for 2MB version with scanner.
Kyocera	QCP 6035	$500	8 MB	This Kyocera Smartphone combines a full-featured trimode CDMA digital wireless phone, web access and a Palm handheld computer (comparable to the VIIx, but with a more compact display). It is is half an inch longer than a Palm IIIc and about half an inch narrower. Kyocera's smartphone is an all-in-one device so that you don't have to carry a pager, phone and PDA.
Qualcomm	pdQ 800MHz	*	2 MB	A cellphone with integrated 4 grayscale PalmOS device! This model features CDMA technology and supports both analogue and digital modes.
Qualcomm	pdQ 1900MHz	*	2 MB	A CDMA phone that operates on 1800-1900MHz frequencies.
Unreleased Devices
Palm	m125	$250	8	Brings the m1xx series in-line with m5xx standards: SD/MMC expansion, Universal Connector, USB, etc. Monochrome.
Palm	m300	*	*	Probably just a created model number in response to initual rumors of the m125.
Symbol	SPT 1734	*	*	Features 900/1800 MHz Dual Band GSM capability and offers both SMS and real-time communication connectivity. Ruggedized.
Symbol	SPT 1733	*	*	This ruggedized device houses a CDPD modem and uses wireless IP technology for a secure open standard network offering reliable real-time communication at up to 19.2 Kbps. Existing phone networks are used, but charged for the amount of data transferred rather than time connected.
Acer	*	*		This looks like a fast, color PalmOS unit in Chinese. Acer has licensed the Palm operating system.
Nokia	*	*	*	Nokia has licensed the Palm Computing Operating System so it can implement the user interface and applications to run on the Symbian platform. Resulting devices will run both Palm and Symbian applications.
Samsung	*	*	*	Another Smartphone with integrated PalmOS is on the way!
Garmin	*	*	*	Garmin Corporation will incorporate Palm OS(R) software in a new line of handheld products with Garmin's GPS hardware and software. Garmin Corporation will develop, manufacture and market location-enabled handhelds that will be able to run the thousands of applications available for the Palm OS platform.