Comparing X51 (basic model) to iPaq 2190, especially battery life ...

[Harry Muscle]

I've been doing a handful of research over the last couple of days trying to decide which Pocket PC to get in the next few weeks. Originally I was really liking the iPaq 1950. Great button layout, nice looks, all around nice unit except it doesn't have enough RAM to be usefull for much, so I had to rule that out. The next option was the iPaq 2190, however, I tried it in person, and I hate the D-pad on it, it's really hard to use without almost always pressing the centre button when I try to press up. So I come to Dell, who I originally stayed away from because of all the reviews that say they have poor battery life. However it seems like all the reviews usually talk about the mid X51 or high end X51v. I'm assuming they would have slightly worse battery life than the basic model due to the increase in speed, etc.

So I'm looking for any comments comparing the basic model X51 to the iPaq 2190 or 1950, especially when it comes to battery life. I'm also curious to know how you like the D-pad on the X51. Is it big enough and easy enough to use? How would it compare to the 1950 (which has a nice D-pad) or the 2190 (which has a not so nice D-pad)?

I'd also probably upgrade the battery on which ever unit I get. The nice thing about the iPaq 2190 is that you can upgrade it from the 920mAh battery it comes with to the 1440mAh without needing a new battery door. For the X51 I would probably get the 1800mAh battery (from Mugen) that increases its size only by a few mm. So I'd be really curious to also know which unit would have bettery battery life, the iPaq 2190 with the 1440mAh battery or the X51 basic model with the 1800mAh battery.

Thank you for all the input and suggestions,
Harry

[PetiteFlower]

I have no idea about any Ipaqs, because I hate them and I think they're overpriced and underpowered (for what you're paying). But I like the D pad on the X50/X51. The center button is actually a separate button in the center of the Dpad, so no worries about accidentally hitting it.

[Patrick Y.]

Did you consider Acer n311?

[Harry Muscle]

Did you consider Acer n311?

I tried checking it out, but I can't find any mention of it on any Acer site (US, Canada, etc.). I know there's review sites for it, but is there a Acer site that talks about these?

Thanks,
Harry

[Patrick Y.]

http://global.acer.com/products/pda/index.htm

[jayson]

If your really wanting the X51/v with a higher battery life, go to this website: http://www.aximcases.com/store/aximx50.html
It has a 1800mAh enhanced battery, which is 2.3mm thicker. You can still use leather cases with it, but not aluminum. And here are a few others: 2200mAh enhanced battery- 3/8" thicker. 3300mAh enhanced battery- 3/4" thicker.

Good luck! :D