Customer Reviews

Handspring Visor Deluxe (Ice)

5 star:		(29)
4 star:		(12)
3 star:		(2)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(4)

 

 

I got my Visor Deluxe last month and I love it.

If you are considering buying a Visor Deluxe, I'm sure you are deciding between this Visor and PalmIIIxe, because they have similar feature, spac, and they both have the same price.

AT the same time I bought my Visor, my roommate bought a PalmIIIxe (and he also loves his Palm very much). So i'll give you the differences between these 2 PDAs, and let you decide which one you like better.

I'll start with How Visor is better.

-Visor has expansion module, which means alot, you can add many many feature afterward, you can make your Visor am MP3 player too! And you can also easily add more memory to your Visor, while for PalmIIIxe, you can only add 2MB flashcard.

-Visor is a bit lighter than PalmIIIxe (5.4oz Vs 6.0 Oz, not a lot of difference though)

-When you buy a leather case for your Visor, you dont have to stick a valcro to the back of your PDA like you have to for Palm. (Palm need a Valcro to hold it to the case, while for Visor, there's a plastic holder attach to the back of the leather case, so you can jsut put your Visor securely in there)

-Visor comes with a fast USB cradle while Palm comes with slow serial cradle, so if you buy palm and want a fast synconizing, you'll need to buy a USB cradle separatly for about thirty dollars.

-Visor comes with a good quiality stylus, it has solid feel of metal, and if you open it up, there's a little screw driver and a reset pin inside. Palm comes with a piece of plactic stylus, my roomate had to buy a new stylus for about fifteen dolars

-And another important nice thing about Visor is, you have 4 cool colors to choose from (5 colors if you include boring graphite color) If you are getting Visor as a gift to a college students or someone young, they'll love the colors.

Ok, now to what's better about PalmIIIxe

-PalmOS on Palm is upgradable, while Visor user will stuck with PalmOS version 3.1 for the rest of the VIsor's life. However, this is not a problem as it may sounds. most version of PalmOS's are essentially the same thing.

-PalmIIIxe has better display than Visor. Palm has 4bits display, while Visor deluxe has only 2bits. This means that, for Palm, u'll be able to display 16 level of grey-scale, while for Visor, you can only display 4 levels of grey-scale.

So, that's about it for the little comparison chart I made. Other tings about these 2 PDAss are the same, they use same processor, and dimension is the same. (Visor is slightly thicker, and Palm is slightly wider)

As a recommendation if you r going to buy Visor Deluxe, get one of the cool color, don't get graphite one, unless you are a businessman, and want a more sophiticate looking device. Otherwise, other 4 colors are way cooler, (mine's orange)

If you have more cash to burn, then I recommend you getting either PalmVx or Visor Platinum, they are a little bit more expensive. However, I've never used them so I will not write any comments about them.

P.S. DO NOT get a PDA with less then 8MB memory, must have AT LEAST 8MB

I have quite some experience with the use of mobile phones andPDAs. For example, until recently, I had an Ericsson MC16 (based onWindows CE). In practice, I actually did not use much more of it than the agenda, although I could use it for word processing, spreadsheets, web browsing and so forth. I just noticed I didn't need those functionalities that much and if I wanted them, the user friendliness and performance were below my needs. As such, it was too big, cumbersome and slow for me.

Last summer I bought a Palm V for my wife. She really enjoys it and I got to see all the benefits of the Palm-concept. For example, it's so small you just always have it with you. That means killing time waiting somewhere for something can become much more fun and productive: you can continue playing a game or do something more business oriented like reading some notes before a meeting.

When I thought it was time for me to get me a new device, I found out about the Handspring Visor. I also considered the new PocketPC devices like the HP Jornada and the Casio Cassiopeia. First of all, these devices are a lot bigger. Second, they are more expensive. Third, they have a lot of features (color, video, audio) but before you buy such a device, you don't know whether or not you'll actually use it as an MP3 player, for example. So you end up with a device that has too much functionality that you didn't want after all (but did pay for). Plus, if you wanted the device to have new features later on, you would probably only have the option to buy the newer version of it and thus shorten the economic lifetime of the device to perhaps just a year.

The great benefit of the Visor is that you have this all under control. A lot of springboard modules are or will be available. If you are an early adapter, you'll buy yourself the MP3 player, the GPS system, or a camera. If you are not so sure, you will just wait and see how people around you actually use it before you purchase a springboard module.

I myself am interested in really mobile Internet, so not just off-line web browsing when I am on the move (like with avantgo). Therefore, I already downloaded and tested three WAP browsers on my visor. I get online using the IR port to my mobile phone. Today, this is still a bit cumbersome: I cannot walk around doing this (the devices have to keep in line all the time). But soon there will be Bluetooth enabled mobile phones, so if I buy the Bluetooth springboard module I can browse the web leaving my mobile in my pocket, suitcase or on the table.

The Visor gives me this opportunity, which none of the other PDAs in the market can. So even though most springboard modules are not yet available, I do not have to worry getting rid of my PDA for a long time. So, besides the fact that the device is a lot cheaper than most other PDAs, I predict it will also last longer.

Summarizing my review...

Plus: * Looks cool * Good performance * A lot of memory * Better standard calculator than Palm * Buttons can be redefined to any program * The versatility using springboard modules * The nice minimalistic plastic cover can be put on the back side when using the Visor. It gives good protection and does not get lost.

Minus: * Batteries do not recharge and drain quite fast * Thicker and heavier than the Palm V * Does not have all necessary software on board to start making use of IR with other devices...

I was tired of having to print out my schedule or fumble with my old paper organizer-- so, I weighed the options carefully: Did I want a Visor Deluxe or a Palm iiixe?

1. The Palm iiixe's OS is upgradable (whereas the Visor Deluxe is not)- Edge: Palm iiixe.

2. The memory upgrade possibilities of the Visor Deluxe were far superior to Palm iiixe's - Edge: Visor Deluxe.

3. The Visor Deluxe comes with a fast USB cradle, where the Palm iiixe only comes with a slower serial cradle - Edge: Visor Deluxe .

4. The Visor Deluxe supports wireless connectivity! The Palm iiixe does not - Edge: Visor Deluxe.

5. The Visor Deluxe supports many third party/springboard module solutions that allow a uses other than 'organization.' (hence, the MP3 player module) Once again-- Visor Deluxe has the edge.

6. The Visor also comes in cool colors-- not that yucky gray color that the Palms all have. So this was yet another point in the Visor's favor.

Now that I own the Visor- some notes: The Visor Deluxe DOES have a backlight feature- but you have to press the power button down for a few seconds. It's a nice-to-have, but it ends up looking like a glow-in-the-dark watch. The unit sits lightly in the cradle! At first I thought it wasn't attached- but it is. Just don't rock your desk or bump the unit while in the cradle-- it'll fall out. The unit comes with a snug leather case, but it you do a lot of meetings, get yourself a bi-fold case. One last note- buy good AAA batteries. (amazon has them)

------------------ The freeware utilities and optional programs to download really eat up memory on a handheld. So, if you're looking to get a handheld, DON'T get less than 8MB memory!

What an amazing little piece of technology this Visor Deluxe is. Of course, it works the same way a Palm does, but Handspring gives you more stuff for the same money as a Palm IIIxe. Both machines have 8mb of memory (way too much if all you're using it for is a day planner; the 2mb version will be fine for non email users), and work exactly the same way. But the Visor has the expansion module, and while Palm makes do with a serial hotsync connection, Visor has a quicker USB port.

I also had occasion to try out Handspring's customer service the other day (apparently I loaded a bad app onto my Visor, which kept it from booting up), and I'm pleased to say it was fast, very courteous and effective.

The only thing I'd improve on is the thickness of the product, but then again, that's what makes room for the expansion module. And if you look at one of those ultra-thin Palm V's, you'll find they run off rechargable batteries...which means if you're taking it on a long trip, you'll have to bring the charger with you. With the Visor, the AAA batteries last about a month, and they're easy to pack along when you travel (if you think it'll go dead during the trip).

All in all, I'd heartily recommend the Visor to anyone who needs a little organization in his or her life. Now if only Handspring would make good on their promise to make more expansion-module apps...

I know that all Palm OS devices are just as easy to use, but the Handspring goes beyond that with ease of upgrading via the Springboard module.

The USB sync is also faster that the serial port used by other Palm devices. Graffiti is easy and fun to learn, but you can alsways use the on screen keyboard.

Another advantage of a Visor is the 5 colors. This may not sound important, but you'll have all your friends coming over to you and asking "what is that?". There is also a built-in Microphone for use with software that handles voice input, I have never used it, but it has a lot of potential.

But again, I think the best feature is the Springboard module. You can add a MP3 player, digital camera, modem, extra memory, even games and books. Can your Palm do that :)

If you're thinking of getting a Palm based PIM, get the Visor, you won't regret it. (and Amazon has a 30 money back guarantee if you do)

I upgraded from a Palm Professional and spent a great deal of time researching my options. For the same money as a Palm IIIxe, you get a Visor Deluxe, fast USB synching to your PC, and extra integration software for Outlook that would cost up to $50. The 8MB of memory is incredible. I store databases, documents, email, and about a dozen games in addition to my tasks, appointment and contacts and I've only used up half the memory. This machine is truely a great buy!

I had a Palm Vx for a time and loved the huge amount of space it affored me. It broke and I was quickly out $400. I really wanted to replace it with another, but found the cost prohibitive.

Looking at the PalmIIIxe was quick and painful. Am I the only one who really does not like the slight brown/bronze tint to the LCD? Anyway, it didn't thrill me, and most of my friends with PIII's complained a lot about things like the contrast wheel and assorted minor problems.

I looked at the Visor early on, but kept hearing about shipping problems. These kept me from ordering it right away. By the time they hit the retail shops, I relented and bought one.

Wow.

The LCD is a nice, crisp unit. It rivals the Vx for clarity. It feels more solid in my hand than a IIIxe, and I think I am one of the few people who actually prefer the snap on/off cover that comes with the unit. With the cover on, I have little worry about slipping it in my pants pocket. Using a IIIx with a flip cover, I discovered that the lid would open just enough for something to work it's way under the cover and depress a button. This is *not* a problem with the Visor.

The Ice "colour" was also a neat little choice. The other colours are vibrant, but being a total geek about it, the Ice matches my Mac at home and my iBook on the road. That's another good point in the Visor's favour, it is the cheapest and easiest Mac-user Palm currently available. Right out of the box and into your USB port. No buying an extra adaptor or "Mac Pack" (still haven't forgiven Palm for that one)

I have yet to buy a springboard mod, but will be purchasing the backup mod ASAP (just too handy not to own) and perhaps the 8meg mod (tho a larger one would be nice) and (why not) an MP3 player for it. I have also recently read rumors of a springboard that will allow the Visor to accept other Smart Media cards. I am remaining hopeful.

Cons? Well, not having any flash RAM bothered me at first, but after seeing OS 3.5, and hearing the rumors that Palm will be charging for future upgrades, I don't feel so "helpless" being "locked in" to 3.1. I downloaded and installed the DRAM-issue patch with no problems at all, so in a sense, there are upgrade paths available. As a physical note of concern with the unit, I noticed that the screen had a more "spongy" feel to it than my Vx did. Something you get used to, but longtime Palm users will notice it right off the bat.

On top of all of this, their customer support is excellent. My two-year-old took my toy-like Visor Deluxe (perhaps another "con"), and tried to float it in some apple juice. Needless to say the unit was fried. Calling handspring and explaining the situation was painless and they agreed to ship me a free replacement unit. They have won my loyality.

I have recently read about new Visors on the horizon, a colour and a "Super Deluxe" model, and I cannot wait to see them. I forsee being a Handspring customer for a long time.

Absolutely love the features, ease of use and compact size. Hate, hate, hate what happens when the batteries get low. On one occasion I noticed the battery indicator was showing "midpower" (not even "low"), attempted to back everything up onto the module and ended up losing everything in a freeze (now I know why they call this model "ice"). To keep this from becoming a love/hate relationship I suggest backing up often and really watching the battery.

Having seen several PDAs on the market, especially Palm OS ones, I don't think the Handspring Visor gets enough credit for being a great all-around handheld. I've owned my Visor Deluxe since December, 2000, and I find it completely indispensible -- every time I go somewhere without it, I find myself wishing I had brought it.

It is versatile, stingy with batteries, rugged (especially with the Targus belt-clip case!), and a good daily user. I also think it is more attractive than the average boring Palm OS clones, as it manages to turn heads whenever I take it out.

I'm also not sure why some say that its construction seems cheap -- on the contrary, I feel the Handspring has a stronger, heftier feel in my hand than many of the Palm, Inc. handhelds, and I've never once faced a problem with any part of the equipment.

Also, for Mac users (which I am), the fact that it comes with a USB cradle is a great deal, as it means not having to waste money buying an adapter and software extra to use your handheld with the computer.

I do concede, however, that the colorful Handspring Visors are for cooler people as opposed to corporate types, which would probably prefer the graphite version. But as a young person (23 years old), I appreciate the modern look of the Visor.

As a software developer, I've been watching the evolution of the pocket devices for some time, and, after watching Microsoft's awful CE devices flounder and stumble, I broke down and bought a Visor Deluxe. I am SO sorry that I didn't do this sooner. The Visor Deluxe does what a device this size is supposed to do, make your life easier.

The applications that are included are minimal, but very useful, and there is a very large number of applications available commercially and as shareware or freeware. Plus, for all you programmers, the programming model is simple, and quite a lot of fun to write code with, as you can get a major IDE for the Palm (Metrowerk's CodeWarrior for Palm), or use GNU C++ based tools. You'll find a MILLION things you want to do with this thing, trust me.

The only gripe I have is the proprietary Springboard module setup, rather than the more common Compact Flash arrangement. However, I can foresee some sort of means around this to arrive in the near future. Personally, I bought another 8MB for programming room (giving me 16Mb total), and feel that this is just an enormous amount of space for any applications that I might want to write.

Go ahead and pick one of these things up. Low price, great functionality, and lots of expandability...plus it comes in COLORS. :)