02-27-2004, 06:00 PM
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Pontificator
Join Date: Feb 2004
Posts: 1,398
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The Dell Axim X3i Review
A little over a year ago Dell released the Axim X5 Pocket PC. Quickly finding a niche and forming a following, the X5 has become a respected device that rivals similar devices made by Hewlett Packard and Toshiba. Released in mid October 2003, the Axim X3i is a whole different breed of device. Dell dropped the CompactFlash card slot, added integrated wireless, and slimmed the whole thing down to just over half an inch. Did it work? Can this new featherweight deliver the knockout punch Dell needs? Read on!
First of all, Dell offers two non-wireless versions (the X3), and a version with 802.11b integrated wireless - the X3i. This review is based on the latter version. The Axim X3i is designed to go after the emerging "thin and wireless" Pocket PC market, while still keeping the price tag fairly low. The HP iPAQ 4150 is trying to do the same thing, and if Dell releases the rumored next version which would include Bluetooth, the two will be nearly identical from a technical aspect. There is a battle looming for this newfound territory, and the X3i is ready to prove it can hold its own - and it knows a few tricks!
First Impressions
Let me put it this way - when I was unpacking the box from Dell, I thought I was holding the battery when I was actually holding the device itself. It's not the thinnest Pocket PC, but it comes close at 4.6 by 3.0 by 0.6 inches. Although Dell made some bold moves when designing this device, the form factor was not one of them. The X3i features the sterile and straight body style that many Thoughts readers loathe.
Figure 1: What your money is worth.
Figure 2: The leaked image we reported on here.
One of the things that the Axim X5 was praised for was its snazzy cradle. A similar cradle is available for the X3i, and it's even bigger! Inserting the X5 into its cradle is not easy, but it's very easy and fast with the new X3i cradle. Personally, I found it to be too big on my small desk, and it would sometimes tilt backwards when I would remove the device. A little shorter and heavier, and I would call it perfect.
Figure 3: Family photo - Axim X3 cradle on right, X5 cradle on left.
Dell was kind enough to include a battery charger in the rear of the cradle which can accommodate the standard 950 mAh battery or the larger 1,800 mAh cell. An indicator light on the front of the cradle is orange when charging the rear battery, and green when fully charged. I found that charging a battery in the device or in the cradle's secondary slot took the same amount of time (more on that later). There are also two small holes in the top back of the cradle if you'd like to place a stylus in them during the charging process.
Like the HP 2215 and HP 4350, the X3 and X3i require a little adapter to charge outside of the cradle. Unlike HP, Dell doesn't include a little cable to keep the two together. Besides being a hassle to plug in and unplug depending on where I'm charging the device, Dell didn't include a second dongle. What happens if I lose this one? It looks like I'd have to buy a whole new AC adapter. The AC adapters for the X5 and X3i are electronically identical, but have different part numbers.
Dell actually included a decent case with the X3i, taking a cue from the X5's U.F.O. case (Unidentified Folding Object). It's made of a sturdy plastic covered with fake leather, the inside is lined with felt, and the Dell logo is embossed on the front. I would still suggest getting a different case if you're fashion-minded, but it provides the protection and usability that most users will need (except for a charging cut-out). There's a very nice belt clip on the back of the case, too.
Figure 4: The included case is better than most.
Of Buttons, Slots, and Screens
Dell received a lot of feedback during the first few weeks the X5 was released, and I'm willing to bet that two thirds of it related to its dismal directional pad. The X5's D-Pad was unresponsive and "smushy" feeling. Going to the other extreme, the X3's D-Pad is almost too firm feeling. Looking like an elongated Tungsten | T D-Pad, it consists of an outer ring that's flush with an inner button. The inner button can function as an Enter key. Although it's nice and small, playing action games can be troublesome.
Figure 5: Eight places to put your thumbs.
The other six buttons (yes, six) on the front of the X3 are easy to use. The surface of each button is 5mm in diameter (compared to 6mm in the X5), and have excellent tactile feedback. Like the power buttons on the Palm III and Handspring Visor (remember those?), the X3i has a button on each side of the familiar four. On the left is the Voice Recorder button, and on the right is the On/Off switch for the integrated 802.11b wireless. These two don't "click" when depressed, and occasionally turn on when inside the included case (which is always a bad thing). At least twice during my review period I removed the X3i from its case only to see a low battery warning caused by the buttons being depressed and the device turning on. The Toshiba e300 series had a similar problem, and users were forced to buy a better case or disable the "turn on device if button is pressed" feature in the Settings menu.
Dell made a few changes on the top of the device, too. My favorite is a larger power button, which makes turning the device on and off much easier. It glows or blinks orange or green (depending on the event). The microphone is located just to the left of the power button, and makes decent quality recordings (for a Pocket PC). Just like my X5, I can record a class lecture and listen to it later for studying. The stylus silo is significantly more user friendly, and houses the same aluminum stylus used by the X5. The infrared transceiver, SDIO slot, and wireless antenna also call the top of the device their home.
Figure 6: The business end of things.
The transflective screen on the X3i is a HUGE improvement over the X5, but it's still 320x240 and isn't as bright as the Zire 71. The X3 at 5/7ths brightness is the same as the X5 and full brightness. It's a beautiful screen, but Dell will need a brighter one if it's going to take the lead.
Figure 7: Axim X3i on left, Axim X5 on right. Full brightness.
You Want 802.11b With That?
Figure 8:Connecting to Access Points is a snap.
After performing a hard reset and turning on the wireless transceiver (which takes 5.4 seconds), the X3i found my wireless network in 1.2 seconds. The Pocket PC Thoughts Web site loaded 12 seconds later. I don't know about you, but any device that can connect itself to a new network and load a Web site in less than twenty seconds is amazing. Apparently the iPaq 4150 has a similar connection scheme, but the wireless radio needs to be turned on from within the Operating System. Users of the X3i can re-map the wireless button to do something else, or assign a different button to enable it. I found surfing the Net to be very pleasant, and ended up using my wireless network more than I would have if I was using a removable card.
The device's range is exceptional. A true story - I was able to connect to an open 802.11b network with the X3i and visit Google.com while driving past at 40 mph (well, I wasn't driving, someone else was  ). Wireless "dead zones" in my house are no more, because the X3i gets a 60-80 percent signal where my X5 gets a marginal signal or none at all. Another cool thing about the X3i is the fact that the antenna lights up when you're sending or recieving data. It's not too noticeable in regular lighting, and is very hard to take a picture of. 8O
Figure 9:Yes, I know it's out of focus! But you get the idea, right?
Figure 10 etailed connection and configuration menus!
Figure 11:A view of current APs, which is updated every few seconds.
Figure 12:Advanced settings in the included wireless utility.
Battery Power
The X3 performs similarly to the X5 when used for day-to-day activities: (keeping track of homework, a few games, a little music and Web surfing), but loses power like it's going out of style when you turn on the wireless transceiver. I did a combination of my own personal tests and Spb Benchmark tests, the results of both are below:
Personal Tests (only to 25% battery warning)
- Full Brightness, 400 Mhz CPU, Wireless On (just sitting there)
1 hour and 10 minutes;
- Full Brightness, "Auto" CPU, MP3 looping through headphones
2 hours 6 minutes;
- Full Brightness, "Auto" CPU, sitting at Today screen
2 hours 28 minutes.
Spb Benchmark- AUTO CPU (to 0%)
- No backlight, zero utilization
15 hours 56 minutes;
- Maximum Backlight, Standard Use
3 hours 26 minutes;
- Maximum Backlight, WiFi Enabled
3 hours 34 minutes
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As you can see, the X3i performs fairly normally under light to moderate use, but does poorly when using wireless. Not sure why it did better in the Spb Benchmark tests with the wireless on. :| I can't really blame Dell for this - they probably included the battery with the highest mAh in the size they needed. When the device gets smaller, the battery needs to as well. Dell offers a larger capacity battery, but it protrudes from the rear of the device. If you're considering getting an Axim X3i, I would strongly recommend getting a second 950mAh battery for another $50 USD. When charging the X3i, it seemed to take a very long time getting from 99% to 100% charged. The charging light will even turn orange if I unplug the charger for a few seconds and plug it back in when the device is fully charged and off. Another strange thing was the light turning green when Spb Benchmark still indicated 99%.
Figure 13:Battery removed.
Figure 14:The 950 mAh unit is smaller than a box of matches! 8O
Removing the battery is kind of awkward - it almost requires the use of a third hand. Although the battery release is simple, it's quite difficult to remove the battery with the remaining free hand. Unlike the X5, I found it impossible to remove the X3's battery without first setting it on a flat surface. Dell should've included an easier mechanism, because power users will need to replace their battery fairly frequently.
Under The Hood
Dell included a decent software package with the X3i, but I would still like to see a few more full versions of applications. Besides Microsoft Outlook 2002 and ActiveSync 3.7, owners can install the following applications from the Companion CD:
- AvantGo;
- CityTime (Trial);
- eWallet (Trial);
- TripTracker (Trial);
- Microsoft Pocket PC Games (Minesweeper, Reversi, Hearts);
- Total Remote (Trial);
- McAfee VirusScan PDA (Trial);
- Jeode�Java Virtual Machine (link to Web site);
- Adobe Acrobat Reader for Pocket PC;
- Resco Picture Viewer and Screen Capture;
- Resco File Explorer (Trial);
- WordLogic Keyboard (Trial);
- HandyZIP (Trial);
- IA Presenter;
- TinyStocks Stock Manager (Trial);
- Agenda Fusion (Trial);
- ListPro (Trial).
As you can see, the only Pocket PC applications Dell included that aren't free are IA Presenter and Resco Picture Viewer. Although many people feel that a nice software package isn't important because they'll buy the applications they need, I would have liked to see a few more full versions of application included on the disc.
When it comes to the ROM, however, Dell left nothing out. Building off the applications they included with the Axim X5, the X3's ROM is a very nice example of what all Pocket PC manufacturers should be doing. Dell includes a simple but robust backup utility, application switcher program, a "Home" program that allows users to make their own custom menus, and has made little adjustments to many of the Settings menus that make Pocket PC life a little more easy. You'll also find the usual bunch of applications that Microsoft included in Windows Mobile 2003 for Pocket PC.
Figure 15:The included Backup utility is really solid.
Figure 16:Battery life can be your best friend or worst enemy. At least the menu looks cool.
Figure 17:I like my backlights bright and my CPUs fast.
Figure 18:Users can map any of the front six buttons, including the wireless power button.
Figure 19:With an XScale PXA263, the X3 can really 'pute when it needs to.
Figure 20:The Dell "Home" app lets you make your own custom menus (like the Palm OS).
Figure 21: The Switcher Bar closes apps and controls settings very nicely. I like the 2002 version better, though, because it includes a little battery meter on the task bar.
Like the Today theme? Download it here!
When it comes to memory, the X3i is second only to the HP h5555 and Toshiba e805, which include 128 MB of RAM. Because Dell upped the ROM to a full 64 MB, owners will enjoy having a total of 92.92 MB of storage right out of the box. During my review I would often have two backup files stored in this "Built-in Storage", so I could easily switch back and forth between benchmarking the X3i and using applications on it.
Off to The Races
Although the X3i is snappy enough for me, I knew that some speed demons out there would want to know just how much horsepower this unit can deliver. After running Spb Benchmark a few times, I found that the Axim X3i performs just below the level of the HP 4150 and 4350 (4350 data taken from this review). This first data set was collected at "Maximum Performance", while the second was with the CPU speed set to "Auto". The X3i uses the Intel XScale PXA263.
Figure 22:Plenty of power! The HP h4350 (not shown), received a 1596.7
Figure 23: CPU at AUTO - less power, but more battery life.
Out and About - Field Tests
The biggest thing I noticed when carrying the X3i around with me is its small size. Unlike my X5, the X3 can stay inside my pocket without being very noticeable (isn't that the idea behind calling it a "Pocket" PC?). I personally prefer a flip-case for my devices, but the included case for the X3i still worked great when I needed to jot down my homework or make a reminder note. I asked many people for their opinions on its form factor and overall feel, and the majority of them made comments similar to these:
- "It's really small". (That's the point!);
- "The edges are sharp". (That is, they're not rounded);
- "I like the rubber things on the other one." (Referring to the rubber side grips on the X5).
I'd have to agree with them - some real rubber side grips and rounded edges on the X3i would really improve its feel. Although some black plastic material is on the device's left and right sides, it doesn't offer any real grip. The body is made of plastic, but from a short distance it looks very similar to the Palm Tungsten T|2.
Figure 24:Left to Right - Axim X5, Axim X3i, deck of cards.
The microphone is very decent - I was able to record classroom lectures and listen to them later with headphones. The record button, located on the far left of the front side, is a little awkward because it's so low of the face of the device. Because of this I had to use two hands to make a recording, for fear that I would drop the device. After a few weeks I was used to making voice recordings, but it still wasn't as easy as an X5. The headphone jack is located on the left with the jog dial, which I found to be an awkward position. Unlike the X5, the X3's jog dial is very usable and comfortable. When headphones are plugged in it's particularly difficult to hold the device comfortably. I have no idea what the design restrictions were, but I would've preferred a device with the headphone jack on top and the record button next to the jog dial on the left side.
Figure 25:The left side of the X3i.
Like the HP 2215, the X3i has a rear speaker. I don't really mind the location of the speaker, but I do find its volume to be insufficient. While loud enough in a quiet room (and volume set to full), it might as well be muted when you're outside or in a public place. Although the goal of such a speaker is to deliver system sounds and notifications, many Pocket PC users are finding that they like a more powerful speaker. Furthermore, sound effects from games or MP3s can sound distorted when you move your fingers past the speaker - not good. Although there really isn't room on the front of the device for a speaker, Dell could've increased the volume quite a bit. Sound from the headphone jack sounds very good and is more than loud enough.
The reset button is on the back of the X3i, and is very easy to operate with the included stylus. Soft resets take about 10.5 seconds from button press to Today screen. The first time you boot up the device (or after a hard reset), it displays the regular rigmarole and includes another screen that gives the user the 411 on the 802.11b. After an "XP-ish" start sound it then brings you to the Today screen.
Gotchas
For me, the biggest issue was battery life when using the integrated wireless. Only having 70 minutes of Web connectivity per charge may not be enough for some people, hence the need to buy a second battery. The rectangular shape seems poorly designed, and does not make the device comfortable to hold. The speaker could be louder, and the AC adapter dongle can get annoying. I should also note that during my testing the device "forgot" that it had built-in storage. It was resolved with a hard-reset, but was not encouraging. Besides these issues (of which battery life is the only major one), the X3i is a fantastic device. I really wish I didn't have to return it! :cry:
Where to Buy
Like all of Dell's products, the Axim X3 and Axim X3i can be purchased on Dell's Web site. The X3i is available for $297 right now with a 15% discounts. Its closest competition, the HP h4150, lists for $449.
Conclusions
Dell's first try at the "thin and wireless" crowd seems like it will be a success. A bright screen, fast processor, thin form factor, and integrated wireless are what many Pocket PC Thoughts readers have been yearning for for a long time. It does sound like the X3i has a few problems, but just consider this - when the (rumored) next version comes out, it will include Bluetooth wireless as well. As long as the price stays in the same ballpark, shoppers should be able to buy the X3i, a second battery, and a foldable keyboard for about as much as the HP h4150. Considering that, I'm sure that you'll agree with me when I say that the X3i is destined to be a big success.
Special thanks to Josh Kerwin at Waggener Edstrom for lending me the X3i for this review. I'd also like to thank Honda_Civic_Si and shawnc for offering their help.
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02-27-2004, 06:39 PM
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Pontificator
Join Date: Oct 2002
Posts: 1,051
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David,
One of the many areas where this site really shines is the quality of the reviews. This one does not dissappoint. Nice job.
After being very satisfied with my X5, I came sooooo close too going with the X3i. After reading your reveiw I certainly would not have been disappointed. There are a couple of things I miss, like the ability to close programs and the great price.
At the end of the day, I paid a premium price for the form factor on my 4150. And you know what, I haven't looked back.
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02-27-2004, 06:44 PM
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Pontificator
Join Date: Aug 2006
Posts: 1,162
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Quote:
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Originally Posted by shawnc
At the end of the day, I paid a premium price for the form factor on my 4150. And you know what, I haven't looked back.
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I agree. I was afraid that a review of the x3i would make me regret getting the 4155, since Dell did improve the form factor and added wireless. This review, although very good, didn't do that.
It is great to see Dell getting smaller, but they really should improve the stylus and the old volvo-esque form factor.
I wish the 4155 came with a WLAN utility like dell did though 
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02-27-2004, 06:49 PM
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Intellectual
Join Date: Jan 2003
Posts: 125
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Dont know why but it looks like a rugged device to me
maybe its because i own a 1945 :wink:
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02-27-2004, 07:17 PM
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Thinker
Join Date: Mar 2004
Posts: 469
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Could you post your theme, I wan't a copy! :lol:
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02-27-2004, 07:29 PM
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Swami
Join Date: Feb 2004
Posts: 4,303
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Quote:
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Originally Posted by powder2000
Could you post your theme, I wan't a copy! :lol:
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Darn right! Now That's Funny! :lol:
David -very topical for you to put this review up after my post about the Bluetooth enabled X3 in the UK! :wink:
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02-27-2004, 07:32 PM
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Magi
Join Date: Feb 2004
Posts: 2,186
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Quote:
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Originally Posted by powder2000
Could you post your theme, I wan't a copy! :lol:
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Quote:
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Originally Posted by David Prahl
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:wink:
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02-27-2004, 07:32 PM
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Sage
Join Date: Jul 2003
Posts: 713
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Quote:
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Originally Posted by David Prahl
Released in mid October 2002
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2002? :?
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02-27-2004, 07:37 PM
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Pontificator
Join Date: Feb 2004
Posts: 1,398
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Quote:
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Originally Posted by Jimmy Dodd
Quote:
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Originally Posted by David Prahl
Released in mid October 2002
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2002? :? |
8O
The second counting mistake I've made in 24 hours on this site!
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02-27-2004, 08:34 PM
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Sage
Join Date: Feb 2002
Posts: 784
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Quote:
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Originally Posted by powder2000
Could you post your theme, I wan't a copy! :lol:
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LOL, I was just gonna ask the same thing!
__________________
T-Mobile Dash | HP iPAQ 4100 | HP iPAQ 2210 | HP iPAQ 1910 | Intermec 6651 | Toshiba E570 | Compaq iPAQ 3600 | Casio Pocket Viewer
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Linear Mode
