Customer Reviews

Dell Axim X5 300 MHz Pocket PC

5 star:		(19)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(5)

 

 

I worried and read every review available before getting the AXIM, so I'll share those things I most wanted to know before the purchase.

I purchased the AXIM X-5 300 on 11-26 with a ship date of 12-18. I received it on 12-9, a very pleasant surprise. The case is sturdy silver plastic with rubberized sides. I've had the AXIM in my hand for as long as 4 hours and, because of the size, shape and rubberized gripping surfaces, I have experienced no cramping or muscle tension. Very good human factors design in this instance. Most importantly, the unit feels secure in my hand with no sensation that it's slipping or that I'm about to drop it. With the screen setting as bright as it will go (and it is very, very bright and clear), I have used the AXIM for 16 total hours on it's original charge and have 40% of the battery remaining. This is not gaming, but does include about 1 hour of Media Player to watch video (excellent!). With the backup battery I have no fear of taking it until it shuts down. The stylus is OK, all metal except for the point, and better than those little round plastic styli. The Navigator button does not have an "enter" feature, but it does scroll appropriately. To see the real potential of the button it should be used in Excel. The speaker is limited, but there is a headphone jack (I have not used this yet). Otherwise, everything is sturdy and functional.

The synch software installed with no difficulty (HP laptop, P-III, w/XP) and I am very pleased with the Pocket PC interface and applications. It appears to be a very full-featured software package. At the entry-level price I have money left over to purchase some software I might really want (but it is such a good package, I have no clue what else I should buy. Look at your MS Office and Explorer and think "I can do all of this on a handheld").

This is my first venture into Pocket PC, and I made the appropriate choice with the AXIM X-5. I have the potential of my laptop and desktop in an extremely portable package. Don't worry about the size and weight of the AXIM; to me it is a non-issue. I cannot fairly compare the AXIM to other Pocket PC's, but it is almost exactly the same size as my Palm III-XE. As for weight, it's light enough. All of the other Pocket PCs I've seen and hefted are too big and too heavy. All of them. Everyone wants a matchbook size computer that throws out an 11X14 holographic screen that we can navigate through telepathically, and that weighs only 4 grams. Even at that size and weight people would carp that it's too big and heavy to be an earring. The AXIM is as light as a feather compared to any laptop. On a budget, it is outstanding. If budget were no limit, I say get a Winnebago to carry your servers, satellite uplinks, wet bar, and Jacuzzi.

...Unless you really loathe inserting a CF card (it just slips in the top), connectivity is a non-issue. Memory: CF, or Secure Digital cards that slip in the side (so you can have boat loads of memory). In the box: The AXIM; CD-ROM software; USB cable; charger; sturdy carry case; ubiquitous manual, quick start guide, warranty, etc.

First, if you don't have a PDA or not familiar with them, learn about them. You will be amazed how easy they are to use and with only a few options, the convenience they provide will save you a tremendous amount of time. They are becoming as natural and common us as the cell phone. If you know nothing about computers, this system is so easy you will feel smart!

Knowing the Dell's Axim X5 400 MHz is available, I didn't think that the 300 MHz was worth buying knowing that a more advanced version was already available. However, conversations with engineers more knowledgeable than I reminded me that I am buying a PDA not a server and that 300MHz is all the processor I would need. Also, the DELL AXIM X5 was one of three models that was always recommended. After doing my own research I had to agree. I purchased the Dell X5 300 MHz and buyers remorse set in. I thought I wasn't going to get as much use out it that I originally thought. I was wrong. Now, before I go anywhere, I pick up my PDA before my cell phone and keys.

Using the Dell provided software, installing activesync was very easy and the set up was effortless with my Microsoft Outlook. Dell and Microsoft made this install so easy I thought I did it wrong! I have the PDA synced to my Sony laptop and my Dell desktops. Remember, to disable your firewall protection before using the activesync. After the system has sync and you have exchanged files, enable you firewall. McAfee will disconnect your sync.

After just one week using my PDA, I bought a second PDA (same DELL 300 MHz) for my wife knowing we can share the accessories I bought. I packaged an extra battery, stylus, and screen protectors as well as additional memory, the wireless phone and camera. My only disappointment is the protective cases that I bought. I have both the leather and the hard case, neither have a belt option. I had to make a belt clip from a few cell phone parts. Hopefully Dell will offer a case that can be worn and has room for a money clip. I strongly recommend you take the time to learn about the PDA world. PDAs will replace your cell phone and provide a tremendous amount of assistance to you.

I've had my Axim for a few months now and I still love it. No troubles at all except when I enable WEP on my wireless card; I have to restart after inserting the card to recognize the network. I suspect this is related ot my no-name wireless card and not Dell's fault.

Only disadvantages are the size (it is much larger than other handhelds). I knew this going into it and I find the size comfortable to hold, though it doesn't fit into all of my pockets. The other disadvantage is the Dell support. I haven't had to deal with them since I know a bit about computers, however I ordered my PDA from Dell and was going away in 2 weeks. Their estemated delivery time was one week so I thought I was good. Turns out their site doesn't update daily and the unit was on back order. I had to argue with supervisors for 4 days before I finally got someone who got the situation resolved. All the others would say they will make sure it will ship today, then they 'forget' about it.

As long as you order from Amazon that shouoldn't be an issue. The fact is that only 25% of the service reps at Dell speak english without a THICK accent, and only 25% of those people really care about their job enough to go out of their way to help customers.

What it comes down to is I love the PDA, but hate Dell and can't recomend this product to anyone who can't troubleshoot software issues with the device.

P.S. Dell shipping and handling is a KILLER! If you are planning on buying accesories make sure Amazon or another retailer has what you need or you will end up paying $7 shipping on screen protectors that weigh nearly nothing.

I purchased my 300 MHz Axim X5 from Dell in mid December and it arrived about 2 weeks later. This is my very first pocket PC, although I did have a Palm V about 2 years ago. This thing just amazes me. The screen is nice and bright... the style is very comfortable to hold (rubber sides).

My choices for pocket PCs were the Toshiba e740, the HP IPAQ 1910, and the Dell Axim X5 - mainly because they were all under $... after rebates. The 300 MHz Axim is by far the cheapest and the best value since it has dual expansion slots (SD and CF). I am currently using a Netgear CF Wireless adaper card to surf the internet anywhere in my home.

Bottom line... the Axim is the best PDA for the best price. I love mine!

This is the first PDA that I've bought, but when this gets old I'll definately buy another Dell if they continue to make them. The pre-installed Pocket PC 2002 is perfect for writing Word documents and Excel spreadsheets, or just viewing them. There are 3 different methods to input letters including a handwriting transcriber that you can personalize to fit the way you write. It took me about 2 minutes to set up my computer so that I could share files between the two of them. You can view all types of pictures on your Axim with the awesome colored screen. The operating system's name says it all, this is definately a Pocket PC because of all of the things you can do with it.

I highly recomend these handheld, i had a iPAQ before which I bought, these device is one third of the price and has everithing built in with out the hassle of carring a lot of ad-ons. But among all the reasons i can find to recomend this device is the promt support and extended warranty of 3 years from Dell wich I have experienced for many years now.
I bought it from dell on-line store.

The Dell Axim is amazing!!!
I Ordered on a Wednesday night and recieved it on Mon. +
got a free 64mb CF card and 10% off my total purchase.
I recomend the 400mhz version (the difference is amazing!)
with the 400mhz upgrade you also get 64mb of internal memory
insted of 32mb
The Cradle is also a nice add on if you don't want the clutter
of a bunch of cords on your desk.

I did lot's of research and this by far is the best out there.
It is faster than the Sony ($799) and Palm ($599) Color handhelds
And has the Pocket PC software that is excellant to sync with outlook, word, and excel

This thing is awesome. Its 300MHZ processor blew me away when I turned it on. Dell said I would get it in mid January, but I recieved it on New years eve. The battery lasts forever, the screen is magnificent, and it's just downright fast. The new Ipaq or even the new NEC can't beat this thing. There is one PDA that comes just a little close.....it's the Viewsonic handheld.

It's just that the viewsonic doesen't have a compact flash slot, which really hurts its value. The Dell is the best PDA you can find out there. For now, that is until Dell releases a new one. ;)

I can only rave about the Dell Axim Pocket PC. It's aptly titled "Pocket PC," as it's almost as versatile as a PC; but about 12X smaller. With its sleek and quite attractive design, it's stylish and pleasing to the eye.

It basically runs on Microsoft Windows technology, just like a PC. You have a "start" icon in the corner that, once pressed, brings up all the programs and options such as: a highly detailed calendar with a ton of options for those who have a lot of information to include; ActiveSynch software is built in the the Pocket PC, which will allow you to synch it with your PC and vice-versa; a calculator; a highly detailed contact list for both personal and business contacts; a home page; the latest version of internet explorer for internet browsing; a "notes" icon to store, well, notes; a task list that includes a completion date and time, as well as a priority ranking system if needed; Windows Media Player for MPGs, etc.

Programs include: Games such as Solitaire and Jawbreaker; AvantGo (a website that stores your favorite links); data backup; file explorer; an e-mail inbox; Microsoft Reader; MSN Messenger; MS Pictures; MS Excel; Pocket MSN; MS Word and more.

You can set up the "home page" to show day, date and time; owner name and other info if needed; a list of your "Today" schedule with an alarm to remind you (reminder alarms can be set in 5 minute intervals for as far ahead as you need); if you have any messages in your inbox; your active tasks pending, etc.

Other options include voice recording and playback, a slot for memory card; a slot for headphones; shortcut icons to main features built into the hardware.

I work in a corporate environment, and the Dell Axim Pocket PC is a lifesaver. It's like having a personal assistant who has everything you need at the touch of a button. Several of my other peers have raved about it as well. Whether you need it for business or personal reasons, this one is well worth your purchase. It's much better/more sophisticated/better performing than a regular Palm Pilot.

Having waited for a PDA like this one for over a year now, I am at a loss for words to show how excited I am. Featuring everything from two expansion slots (SD & CF), a stong processor (300 or 400 Mhz), to a trans-reflective screen and the most affordable price around, this HAS to be the best PDA in the market. The competition must be breaking into a cold sweat ;)