Palm Zire 21 PDA

I have found the Zire 21 a good...

Strengths: Easy to use, hotsink is reliable and software is very good.

Weakness: Screen is some what hard to see in dark light and washes out in bright light

I have found the Zire 21 a good value if you want just the basics. It is easy to operate, and the software that is bundled with it is very good. Even though the monocrome screen is difficult to see in certain light conditions. I found that if you purchase the lighted stylus it overcomes some of the problem. One of the pluses of the Zire21 is it's size, it fits easily into a shirt pocket.

By blitzcreek - Mar 16, 2004

I got my Zire 21 free with a set...

Strengths: Great for basic needs

Weakness: no ability to upgrade memory, and power comes on in pocket

I got my Zire 21 free with a set of Michelin tires for my truck, but I would not pay $100 for one. It is GREAT for free, but for anyone who needs much beyond an address book and a few small games, this PDA just does not allow for much beyond. I bought the leather case for this and, while it helped, the Zire still will come on in my pocket which caused me to need a password which is really...
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I got my Zire 21 free with a set of Michelin tires for my truck, but I would not pay $100 for one. It is GREAT for free, but for anyone who needs much beyond an address book and a few small games, this PDA just does not allow for much beyond. I bought the leather case for this and, while it helped, the Zire still will come on in my pocket which caused me to need a password which is really annoying, especially considering it shows to the whole world what you put in as your pw. Alhough this is a good, small PDA, it could stand to be improved. I wanted to have a Palm Bible, Dictionary, Thesaurus, but just to get the bible on there, I dang near had to delete everything. So again, good if you only want a digital address book and an occational game of solitare, but beyond that, get something upgradable.

By Jeff II - Oct 23, 2003

The Zire 21 is a great improvement...

Strengths: Fast processor, easy to use, good software package, long battery life, outstanding value.

Weakness: No backlight

The Zire 21 is a great improvement over the Zire. It sports a fast 126mhz processor, upgraded memory, and very nice software package. With street prices now in the $75 range the Zire 21 is without a doubt the best value out there! (Of course this unit is not for power users, but then again if you're a power user you're not even reading this review). For the vast majority of users - you can't beat...
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The Zire 21 is a great improvement over the Zire. It sports a fast 126mhz processor, upgraded memory, and very nice software package.

With street prices now in the $75 range the Zire 21 is without a doubt the best value out there! (Of course this unit is not for power users, but then again if you're a power user you're not even reading this review).

For the vast majority of users - you can't beat the overall value of this model. Don't listen to the nay sayers - The Zire 21 is priced at a fraction of other models, such as the Zire 71, but has 90% of the features. You won't regret purchasing this model it's reliable, functional, easy to learn, and fun.

This opinion is based on my experience with the Palms I own; Zire, Zire21, and Zire71. For additional info - go to palmone.com (follow the links to their comparision chart), also stop by www.palminfocenter.com to read reviews of all makes and current PDA news and trends.

By clockit5 - Mar 6, 2004

Since my basic need was for a...

Strengths: Very basic and easy to understand. Good first PDA

Weakness: Screen could have better back lighting

Since my basic need was for a portable address book and appointment schedular I will probably be satisfied with this model. However, for power users, look at the more advanced units.

By jbr3415 - Jan 8, 2004

Overall, I have been very...

Strengths: Extremely easy setup, though not a self-standing device. Requires that the owner has a desktop or laptop for optimal functions. Self-shut off feature is great and the battery lasts forever...so far.

Weakness: The graffiti feature takes some getting used to and you need to have an outside light source to use this device. A higher contrast between the screen and the writing would be nice.

Overall, I have been very satisfied with the Palm Zire 21. This is a great product for anyone who isn't a computer expert who simply wants to get his/her life together using an electronic advice. I am glad I purchased the Palm Zire 21. It's simple but also much better than any paper organizer I've had before. I'm glad I opted for the extra memory of the Zire 21 over the basic Zire. It's a good...
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Overall, I have been very satisfied with the Palm Zire 21. This is a great product for anyone who isn't a computer expert who simply wants to get his/her life together using an electronic advice. I am glad I purchased the Palm Zire 21. It's simple but also much better than any paper organizer I've had before. I'm glad I opted for the extra memory of the Zire 21 over the basic Zire. It's a good amount of space to hold everything I need it to. Backing up your files involves 2 clicks and about 3 seconds of your time. I would recommend this product as a great starter PDA to keep track of scheduling, errands, addresses, bills, grocery lists, etc. Seems like a sound and sturdy device so far. Just be sure to purchase screen protectors along with it!

By ysaira - Feb 23, 2004