Current state of SA vs XScale based devices?

[jproudfo]

I'm a Palm user who is currently looking to make the switch to a PocketPC device. Over the past few weeks I've done some research on the various devices and I'm a little confused about all of the posts I've seen regarding SA and XScale performance differences.

Most of the posts on these speed problems seem to be a few months old, so I am left wondering whether MS/Intel have fixed this problem or if developers are writing optimized applications for the XScale based devices. Is it still an issue? Does anyone care anymore? :)

The main reason I ask is that I am trying to decide which device I want to buy and I'm having problems justifying the costs difference between the 3970 and the 3870 devices. I need bluetooth but I don't want to pay an arm and a leg for a device I will probably be replacing in 1 - 1.5 years.

Does anyone have any advice for me regarding the SA and XScale iPaqs? What about the 38xx vs the 39xx series?

Any input you could offer would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks.

[Janak Parekh]

I have a 3870 and it works great. I personally would invest in a transflective display now, though.

Have you considered picking up an Axim? It plus a CF Bluetooth card should still be cheaper...

As to the processor: for the average user, both SA and XScale are pretty comparable performancewise.

--janak

[Chris Hendriks]

I recommend the 3970 over the 3870. I am sure that you will like the improved screen in the 3970 for one.

[jproudfo]

I just discovered that the 5450 is cheaper than the 3970, from most major Canadian retailers. 8O Why would I buy a 3970 if the 5450 is $30-$100 CAD cheaper?

[Chris Hendriks]

if the 5450 is less expensive then by all means select that product as it does offer some new features!

enjoy!

:D