Think it might be time to upgrade your PDA? You can find out how yours compares to other models by running a handheld benchmarking app.In the past I've written about apps that measure the speeds of your computer's CPU, graphic card, and memory.
But why should desktop computer users have all the fun? There are similar apps that can benchmark the performance of your handheld, too. They let you see how your PDA performs on its own, or how it compares to others.
Here are my three favorite programs for finding out how your handheld stacks up against the competition.
Benchmark quickly rates your Palm device and shows you how it measures up against other handhelds. If you're using a low-end device, this app will help you figure out how much slower yours is compared to the latest models, and whether or not you should start thinking about shopping around for a new PDA. (Free/Palm OS)
Speedy measures your Palm handheld against other devices just like Benchmark. This app's advantage is that it takes more measurements--and offers more data--to give you a more accurate comparison. (Free/Palm OS)
PocketPC Mark for (you guessed it) Pocket PC handhelds is a comprehensive benchmarking app. This one runs more tests than the Palm apps above, but you'll have to pay for it, whereas the Palm downloads are free. (Shareware/Pocket PC)
Think your PDA is a little pokey? Find out for sure by running one of these mobile benchmarking apps.
What do you think of these apps? Know of any other good benchmarking apps? How do you decide when it's time to upgrade? Let us know at edit@zdnet.com.au
7%
2%
