Some hybrids are better than others for certain tasks and each has its own quirks. Hardware prices are coupled with service agreements of up to two years.

T-Mobile Sidekick
T-Mobile's Sidekick (also known as Danger hiptop) is a solid device that does the basics well. Using a proprietary OS and matching back-end service, the Sidekick provides IM, email, and Web capability in addition to calendar, contacts, and games. A QWERTY keyboard and a navigation wheel make entering text a breeze. As a phone the Sidekick isn't the most comfortable to hold or convenient to dial. However, the Sidekick stays seamlessly connected all the time. After several weeks of use the Sidekick changed the way we communicate and it kept us organized. The estimated sub-$200 price tag and the unlimited data service plan (good for one year) also make the Sidekick the most affordable hybrid in the roundup. The Sidekick wins our overall pick.

Company: T-Mobile
Phone: 1.800.937.8997
Price: $200
Available: Now

T-Mobile Pocket PC Phone Edition
The T-Mobile Pocket PC Phone Edition offers the most comprehensive feature set, thanks to its included Pocket PC applications. This device also provides an excellent Web experience, second only to that of the Audiovox Thera, which boasts a faster data connection. Unfortunately the software keypad isn't at all tactile and messaging applications are barely tolerable when you use the stylus. As a phone the Pocket PC Phone Edition is bulky and uncomfortable to hold but an optional speakerphone or a hands-free kit provides relief.


Company: T-Mobile
Phone: 1.800.937.8997
Price: $550
Available: Now

Audiovox Thera
On paper, the Audiovox Thera has many features found on T-Mobile's Pocket PC Phone Edition, but it fails to deliver a seamless integration of wireless features. For example, the Thera can't be used like a traditional phone, relying instead on the speakerphone or the included hands-free kit. Access to the data network, although faster than on the T-Mobile, can be cumbersome and inconvenient, too. The Thera uses a dialup-style connection for data calls which, like a computer modem, ties up the line and blocks incoming calls.


Company: Verizon Wireless
Phone: 1.800.256.4646.
Price: $800
Available: Now

Kyocera Smartphone 7135
The clamshell Kyocera Smartphone 7135 is a redesign of its predecessor, the QCP-6035. The 7135 still uses the Palm OS, but it receives enhancements such as a color display, MP3 support, and MultiMediaCard/Secure Digital expansion. The 7135 is also the only hybrid to offer interchangeable batteries -- a must for the road warrior -- and is an excellent choice if you're looking primarily for a cellphone. If you plan on using messaging applications, be warned: Graffiti text entry just doesn't cut it.


Company: Kyocera
Phone: 1.800.937.8997
Price: $500 (estimated)
Available: Late 2002

Handspring Treo 300
The Treo packs a solid blend of both voice and data functions even though data services aren't as seamlessly integrated as we would have liked. For example, short message service (SMS) has a dedicated application, and you can't send or respond to messages except by making a call. The same goes for email, which can be synched with your computer. Compared to devices relying on handwriting recognition, the Treo's QWERTY keyboard simplifies messaging and text entry, though we still find it a little cramped. As a phone the Treo is more comfortable to use than its Pocket PC counterparts.

Company: Sprint PCS
Phone: 1.888.253.1315
Price: $500
Available: Now