Best PDA Software

The best PDA software helps you get the most from your PDA. The following programs can increase productivity and augment the capabilities of your current device setup.

1.

$29.95

 PDABuzz gave Sprite Backup, a PDA data backup program, an A grade, easily placing it among the best PDA software. In testing, the reviewer was impressed with the program's easy and fast operation and the ability to schedule regular backups. The review also made note of the program's advanced settings; users can stick with standard "Backup" and "Restore" buttons, or they can customize the type of data saved, the saving location, and more.

2.

$29.99

 Documents To Go allows users to easily work with Microsoft Office documents, PDF files, emails, and photos on both their PDAs and their PCs. An earlier version of the program received an 8 out of 10 on CNET.com, with the reviewer urging "don't leave home without Documents To Go." PC World gave the latest edition of Documents To Go a "good" rating. While the reviewer touted the usefulness of the program, his main complaint was that it wasn't necessarily worth upgrading from an earlier version for the few changes Premium Edition 9 offers.

3.

$19.95

 VITO AudioNotes turns your PDA into a voice recorder to capture important lectures, interviews, and meetings. Gadgetnutz gave the PDA software an A, praising its clean interface and good sound quality. The reviewer also liked its streamlined nature; it's a basic recording program without any unnecessary features.

4.

$149 for software only, $249 for software and GPS receiver

 CoPilot Live offers turn-by-turn driving directions through GPS capabilities. CNET.com gave CoPilot Live an 8.3 out of 10, saying, "For turn-by-turn directions, GPS mapping doesn't get much easier than this." The reviewer found this PDA software simple to use with accurate, easy-to-follow directions.

5.

Free

 MobiPocket Reader is a universal e-book reader with increased support for custom fonts, colors, links, and images. In addition to accessing all e-book formats, the program also allows users to read RSS feeds and blogs. The software downloads site Tucows.com gave the program 5 out of 5 cows (their version of a star rating system).

6.

$49.95

 StyleTap is a Palm OS emulator, allowing Pocket PC users to run Palm OS programming. A PDAStreet review gave the program mixed marks. It was able to run four out of six tested programs, although there were limitations to the display, and the program won't work with Bluetooth and syncing devices. However, for those dedicated Windows-based PDA users who are interested in running titles only available for the Palm OS, it's an essential program.

7.

$9.95

 PocketWeather brings the latest weather reports straight to your PDA. PDABuzz gave the program an A- grade, noting the clean display and small update downloads that don't interfere with other work.

8.

$29.95

 PDA Sommelier offers information on more than 90,000 wines, including food pairings, vintage ratings, guides based on finding the best producers and the best values, and the opportunity to add your own notes. While not an essential business application, the program is an interesting reference that is well-suited for the PDA interface.