Two years ago, my dad surprised me at Christmas with a Handspring Visor Deluxe (blue). I didn't really want one, but I soon understood that this was a life changing present. I never had to mess with a paper address book or calendar again, and I could play games on it wherever I was, whenever I wanted.

Then Handspring came out with the Prism, and of course I had to have it! I mean, it's color! So this year's Christmas present was not a surprise, but it was definitely the favorite. (And Dad inherited my blue Visor, which he is very happy with...)

Out of the Box
I already had the software installed on my computer, but I did a reinstall to make sure it would work properly with the Prism. There is a USB charger/sync cradle for the Prism which is easy to use. You have to let the Prism charge fully before first use, but after that it's pretty much the same as any other Visor.

Superior Handspring Software
My sister has a Palm V, and she often laments that I have a better calendar on my Handspring (Date Book +) with better views. It's the same Palm program, but Handspring made it just a bit better.

Also, Handspring's website has some free color games made especially for its Prism users. I thought this was a nice touch on their part.

The Handspring Springboard Module
I love that there is a place to plug in additional software and other modules, but I've never used one in the two years I've owned a Visor. But I love the option, and they are making lots of new modules all the time!

Color Screen
The screen has nice color, but can't be compared to the quality of a Casiopeia screen. It's especially nice in low or no light, but almost impossible to see in brilliant sunlight. I prefer it to the monochrome screen on other Visors, but it's too bad the screen is not as quality as Casio.

The Battery Question
Okay, I must admit I miss having the option of using regular batteries in my Visor. I could go for almost a month on the same batteries with my Visor Deluxe, but the Prism uses up lots more juice. In fact, I drain the battery completely every single day (too many games), so I have to charge it up at night. What a pain, after not thinking about batteries at all. Luckily, Handspring has made a travel charger that will work internationally, with any current. At least I know that when I go on the road I will be able to charge it wherever I can find electricity.


Recommended: Yes

Amount Paid (US$): gift