Nice PDA; OS has a few issues

When my Compaq Ipaq (several years old) started to have connectivity problems, I went shopping for a new handheld. I did a lot of research, and settled on the Dell Axim. I purchased the Dell Axim X51v, specs: Intel 624MHz, 256MB
ROM 64MB SDRAM, 3.7 inch VGA, integrated 802.11b wireless, bluetooth, with an included travel kit (3 in 1 charger and 2200mAh secondary battery). Total price $369.

I have been pleased with this purchase. I like the looks and size of the Axim. It is small enough to fit in my hand easily, and I like the black and sliver look (personal preferences vary, of course). I didn't like the stylus at first--I was used to the "push and pop out" of my Ipaq, and the Axim stylus has to be pulled out by a little notch in the top, but it's not hard and I quickly got used to it. I like the slender size, now that I'm accustomed to it.

The screen is very nice and clear and the colors are vivid. The backlight is quite bright. In fact, one of the things I don't like about the handheld is the backlight is too bright for my preference when used in darkness. I like to read in bed and be able to turn the backlight way down so my husband can sleep. It's not really bright enough to keep him awake, but it's brighter than I like even on the lowest setting (other than completely off).

The battery life is not that great, but I got the larger battery and it's reasonable. It's good enough to get me through a cross-country airplane trip. The handheld is not as sleek with the larger battery installed, but it doesn't bother me that much. If you really want an ergonomic hold all the time, you may not like it with the larger battery. To me, it gives me a little better grip.

I like the included SD and CF slots. The handheld also comes with a slip case; it's basic, but works--even fits with the larger battery installed.

The included cradle/charger is a little clunky, but sturdy. I haven't had any problems getting the handheld placed into it and it doesn't tip over if you knock it accidentally. A couple of times I've had to reset the device in the cradle to make sure it connects, but if you place it with a reasonable amount of care it's no problem.

I did not try to migrate my contacts, etc. from my old handheld, so I can't speak to that.

I haven't had much problem running any program I wanted to. However, I agree that Windows Mobile 5 isn't the greatest OS. It took a little research to get MS Reader activated (one of the programs I use most). I was able to do it, but it seems stupid that a MS program wouldn't work properly on a MS OS without some finagling. I've also noticed that when I "reboot" the handheld, the startup is significantly slower than other handhelds I've used. I believe this is a Windows Mobile 5 issue, not an issue with the device.

I don't particularly care for the Dell wireless utility, but my handheld came with Odyssey as well, and I was able to use that to connect with my wireless network (even using WPA-PSK) without too many problems.

I tested the included backup program and it worked perfectly; restored my settings and data without a hitch. Only thing I don't like is there's no option to back up straight to my network server; I had to back up to my SD card and copy the backup file to my server from there.

I've been using the Axim for about 4 months now and overall am happy with this purchase.