If the x51v is going to be discontinued, is it still worth buying?

briekstins · 07-05-07, 04:57 PM

I hear that Dell is discontinuing the line and I guess I worry that, without the ability to upgrade to Microsoft Mobile 6.0, the Axim will become incompatible with the software out there. Are my fears unfounded? Because this unit is SLICK, and if I can just find someone to sell me a used one in good condition, hubby has agreed that it is a worthwhile investment--especially since my birthday is coming up in a couple of weeks.

Your thoughts?

notenufsleep · 07-05-07, 05:01 PM

depends on what ur using it for. as for windows mobile 6 software not being compatible that won't be so for a while

briekstins · 07-05-07, 05:19 PM

I would be using it primarily for household organization--keeping finances, contacts, agendas, etc. in one place. I have been using paper organizers for YEARS and am so freaking tired of carrying around a huge, bulky binder full of information. I want to streamline!

We already have an iPod, so I won't NEED the music-playing capabilities of the Axim. I'm not much of a gamer, and I have a toddler so it's not like I get a lot of time to sit and play anything anyway!

What I really need is something to replace my entire organizer system, with the WiFi capabilities to check my email while I am out and about, and maybe eventually the option to add a GPS system.

~DC:UK~ · 07-05-07, 05:38 PM

Shoot me for saying this but have you considered a smartphone solution? To me the only reason to buy an Axim now is if you need the grunt from the CPU and you have to have VGA (although there are more and more smartphones coming with VGA).

You really should aim for a Windows Mobile 6 device as it does perform much faster than WM5 on similar hardware and if it was a phone solution, you'd be able to get your e-mails when you aren't near a Wi-Fi signal.

briekstins · 07-05-07, 07:28 PM

I'm actually not a huge fan of smartphones--my mother uses one, and I don't really like the layout (smaller screen, thumbpad keyboard). I'm a full-size keyboard, big-screen gal, myself. ;)

Ultimately, it is now a moot point--I was able to purchase a nice used Axim from one of the members here (thanks, ripperbone!). So now I just have to patiently await its arrival, and figure out what cool programs I'm going to load onto it! :D

HandyMedAdmin · 07-05-07, 09:59 PM

WMv6 is really just WMv5.5. Word on the street that I've seen is that programs which run on WMv5 devices will run on WMv6 (5.5) devices. Depending on the price you find for the Axim x51, I'd recommend it. I'm very happy with mine and see no need to pick out a new device yet. I would look for software you're interested in first and then ensure it'll run on the x51.

07-05-07, 10:47 PM

Don't buy it. I returned mine after 2 years of use for a full refund, all because Dell told me it was a bad product that did and never would work right.

flogisto · 07-05-07, 11:11 PM

The question is: do you need this kind of device? Then, how would you find another like the X51V hardware for that price? And, how much time will pass after you change it because of new hardware options in the future? There was a time no X51V where out there, but it's time arrived. Better times will follow... hope so. Meanwhile, enjoy your X51V!

VtJay22 · 07-06-07, 12:11 AM

What I don't get, and (not trying to hijack here)........but I dont understand why the x51v was the new gadget of choice on this previous season of 24. We all know they do "product placement" and last year it was the treo 650. Granted these things are all taped a year or so in advance, but why pay for product placement to discontinue the line........blah......

Anyway, I hope you love you device as much as we all do!

Bright · 07-06-07, 01:38 AM

It is still one of the best PDA you will find.

jackleung · 07-06-07, 01:54 AM

I would say best C/P ratio since HP4700 is very powerfull too

rlarson_mn · 07-06-07, 10:22 AM

Originally Posted by briekstins

I would be using it primarily for household organization--keeping finances, contacts, agendas, etc. in one place. I have been using paper organizers for YEARS and am so freaking tired of carrying around a huge, bulky binder full of information. I want to streamline!

We already have an iPod, so I won't NEED the music-playing capabilities of the Axim. I'm not much of a gamer, and I have a toddler so it's not like I get a lot of time to sit and play anything anyway!

What I really need is something to replace my entire organizer system, with the WiFi capabilities to check my email while I am out and about, and maybe eventually the option to add a GPS system.

The axim will replace your paper organizer just fine. I made the same switch with my first Palm Pilot many years ago and have had 'an organizer PDA' ever since. I however purchased my X51V for not only the purpose mentioned by you but as a 'true' Pocket PC. I use Pocket Excel and Word for the capture and storage of any and all additional information I want to have at my fingertips during the day. At this time I have no need for a Pocket PC and phone combined. In addition to my X51V that I carry and use on a daily basis I just purchase an identical unit for future use.

07-06-07, 12:34 PM

IMHO it's still one of the best wm5 devices. If you don't need a Phone/Smartphone edition device, you can get a bigger screen (with a higher resolution) with a powerful cpu (not comparable to cpu such as TIs avalaible in many HTC products)

pickle5729 · 07-06-07, 01:48 PM

Go for it! I got my X51v a few months ago and love it. I use it for organization - contacts, lists, to-dos etc and also for wifi out and about and many other things. One feature that I love is being able to rip movies onto it and play them (there are instructions on this site - just search for it) - I put a couple of kids movies on mine and when I am out shopping with my wife and daughter (3.5 yrs) it is really nice to pull it out if we need to offer some distraction. :)

Ashton · 07-06-07, 04:44 PM

When the X51v drops down to the $100-$150 range (and I have some extra money) I plan on buying a backup unit uncase mine dies. AFAIK, with a *very* few exceptions, the axim is hte last stand-alone PPC. Everyone is moving towards converged devices *holds up MotoQ* however, I dont want to lose (read: have to transfer) all my programs and documents every time I buy a new cellphone (which is yearly since I've very active and mine tends to get a lot of abuse) Some programs you buy WONT trasfer! so if you switch devices, you end up having to purchase a second copy of the program!

becides that, mine is everything I need for casual travel. I rarely cary a laptop (will carry it even less once I get my BT travel KB/mouse) I can listen to music, watch videos, type up documents and even surf the web (if near Wifi... *grumbles about not being able to use Q as internet conenction for Axim*) and even play a few games. For me it performs the functions of a dozen devices I would otherwise be carrying, as does my phone (if I can ever get it to fully work...) so instead of 7 devices, I only need two..... and some extra batteries... lol

So, yes, if you want a PPC, the X51v is still the best of the breed, and, unless I miss my guess, will be for a long time.