Windows Phone Thoughts: The Dell Axim X3i Review

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.