The Dell Axim X30 series did very well, and they were continued with the Dell Axim X50 series, which also had remarcable performances. The Dell Axim X51 takes it to the next level, and, although design is similar with it’s previous versions, it incorporates many upgrades.

It’s the first to run Windows Mobile 5 operating system. The 3.7-inch screen has a resolution of 640×480 and a 16-bit-color output. Down on the screen you can see standard shortcuts (Calendar, Contacts, Inbox, and Home). There also two buttons on the left side which activate the voice recorder and wireless connection. There is also a hold button which is very useful, because the device suffers from subpar battery life; the battery is user replaceable though. On the top there is a microphone jack that supports Walkman-style headphones, dual CompactFlash and SD expansion slots. The X51v looks just like the Dell Axim X50; measures 4.7 by 2.9 by 0.7 inches and weighs 6.2 ounces. There are also some optional accesories you can get ( extra slot for charging a second battery, high-capacity cell which costs $99 and promises to double battery life, GPS navigation system, Bluetooth keyboard for $99.95 and a presentation bundle for $49).

The processor ( 624MHz Intel XScale PXA270), the graphics engine (Intel 2700G) and the video memory and 64MB of SDRAM haven’t changed, but the flash ROM is now 256MB (from 128MB), 192 is user accesible. Besides Windows Mobile 5,  Office Mobile Suite that includes Word Mobile, Excel Mobile, and PowerPoint Mobile has replaced Pocket Word and Pocket Excel. With power point you can only view slides, you can’t edit them. It also features Windows Media Player 10 Mobile.

It comes with built-in Bluetooth and Wi-Fi and dual expansion slots. Performance isn’t superb, but it’s good. The only big problem is the subpar battery life. Price is $374.00.