Mobile Tools for Road Warriors: 10 Excellent Options

by Don Reisinger

Apples iPhone 4 is an obvious choice for road warriors. Its widely considered the best smartphone on the market. The smartphone boasts iOS 4, the Retina Display and the ability to video chat with others. At the starting price of $199, its easily one of the most attractive mobile options on the market.

If its something a little more functional customers are looking for, they can opt for Apples iPad. The companys tablet features a 9.7-inch display and in some models, comes with a 3G option for those who want to connect to the Web while away from WiFi. Although the iPad with 3G connects natively to AT&Ts network, the WiFi-only model can connect to Verizons 3G service with the help of the MiFi Hotspot 2200.

HPs long-awaited Slate 500 is finally available. The device runs Windows 7 and includes an 8.9-inch display. In addition, it includes two cameras, allowing users to have video conferences from the device. Its a little expensive at $799, but the device might just be one of the better options for enterprise customers that are tied to Windows at the office.

Although XPS laptops from Dell have been around for quite awhile, the companys latest refresh offers some of the best functionality yet. Customers can choose between a 14-, 15- or 17-inch model that features 3D TV-ready technology. It also comes with JBL and Waves sound design for those who want more entertainment while on-the-go. Even better, its part of Dells ultra-portable line, so it should make for an easy tag-along on road trips. It starts at $849, depending on the model.

HP recently unveiled its dm1z series of ultraportable PCs. Computers featured in the series boast an 11.6-inch display, Windows 7 and have a starting price of just $449.99. The computer is meant to compete with Apples recently announced MacBook Air, which features a much higher price. Perhaps most importantly, the computer has the option to add mobile-broadband access to the device.

Apples new MacBook Air line is impressive. It includes an 11.6-inch model and a 13.3-inch model. The computer boasts a ridiculously thin 0.11-inch thickness at its narrowest point. Plus, it runs a full version of Mac OS X, making it viable for those that are worried about Windows security. Perhaps even more importantly, the MacBook Air comes with a full-size keyboard, which means being productive on the device wont be all that difficult. Pricing on the MacBook Air starts at $999.

The Motorola Droid 2 is the latest smartphone release from the venerable mobile company. Unlike the Droid X, which has a virtual keyboard, the Droid 2 includes a physical keyboard. It runs Android 2.2, the latest in Googles operating system line, and it features a fantastic mobile-hotspot feature, which allows up to five devices to connect to the Web via the phones 3G service at one time. Plus, it runs on Verizons network, which could make it a viable alternative to the iPhone for some customers.

The Samsung Galaxy Tab might not be available just yet in the United States, but already the excitement surrounding the device is palpable. It will run Android 2.2 when it launches and feature a 7-inch display. Samsung has made it clear that it believes its tablet will best the iPad once consumers get their hands on it. Whether thats true is anyones guess, but saying such a thing means Samsung better follow through.

The Archos 28 Internet Tablet isnt necessarily the most viable product in this roundup, but its easily one of the most unique. The device runs Android 2.2, but its real attraction is that it features a 2.8-inch display. According to Archos, the tablet is designed to deliver the mobility of a smartphone, but the functionality of a tablet. It should be noted, however, that it does not allow users to place calls. But for $99, its priced right.

Its extremely difficult to feature a roundup of mobile products without including RIM. One of the companys latest smartphones, the BlackBerry Torch, is easily one of its best. The device features a slide-out keyboard and runs on AT&Ts network. Perhaps most importantly, it runs BlackBerry OS 6, the latest version of RIMs software. More BlackBerry OS 6-based devices should be coming out soon, but for now, the Torch seems like a fine option.