Is it worth it?

So after reading this review, you're probably asking yourself, is it worth the hassle to upgrade to this device? Well, here are my tips in that regard:

• If you live in a 3G area (and they are rolling out all over the place this year), and are a moderate to heavy data user, then you'll want to upgrade for the speed factor.
• If you are a heavy traveler and would like a small device with GPS to easily find things when in unfamiliar places, then you'll want to upgrade.
• If you want a multimedia powerhouse, you'll likely not want to ugprade. While the device is quite a bit faster than its predecessor, and can play music and shoot video, these are not the primary functions.
• If you still love your old Dash, live in a 2G area, rarely travel, and like small buttons and a D-Pad, stick with that baby until it dies. Then perhaps go for the 3G!
• If you're an Android user or iPhone-er, you'll complain that it doesn't make you part of the "in" crowd, doesn't have a touchpad, and can't be fun because it's Windows Mobile. While you're doing that, I'll have answered a few e-mails and gotten some work done on my Dash 3G :)

Conclusion

The Dash 3G is a capable, and even luxurious replacement for the older Dash or anyone who likes this form factor (even former Blackberry users moving to Windows Mobile (yes, this does happen!)). If you find yourself wishing you had 3G data or GPS, upgrading is a great opportunity. However if you're happy with your old Dash (Or Q, or Blackjack, etc...) and live in a 3G wasteland, either pass or wait!

Dr. Jon Westfall is a Microsoft MVP for Windows Mobile Devices, and a contributing editor at Pocket PC Thoughts since 2005. He is also a decision making researcher currently conducting research and developing online data collection techniques at the Center for the Decision Sciences in Columbia Business School.

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