Sony's Palm-based Clie TG50 uses the same clamshell design as its other handheld computers, with one difference - flipping the protective case open reveals the screen and a tiny keyboard. Compressing all of this into one area means that the screen is fairly small at 3in and the keyboard is even smaller. It is possible to prod at the keys but you need to have small delicate fingers to be able to use it properly.

For the rest of us there's still the option of using Palm's Graffiti handwriting recognition with the stylus but even this isn't easy. The TG50 doesn't have the dedicated entry area that most Palms have, so you have to start the application. Unfortunately, this obscures most of the screen leaving just four lines of text visible, which is not very satisfying.

On a plus note though, Sony has continued its trend of cramming lots of software into its handhelds. The NG50 comes with applications for editing and viewing images, playing music, making handwritten notes and drawings, plus universal remote control software. But all of this software means that you can only use 11Mb of the 16Mb of memory. This isn't much to accommodate all of the data that you might need. However, memory can be upgraded by using the memory stick slot.

Bluetooth is built in, so you can synchronise information with your PC wirelessly or use the provided text messaging application to manage messages sent to your mobile phone.

We found the TG50 to be an odd handheld computer. The keyboard isn't large enough for most users and the text entry area isn't practical either. Those interested in entering a lot of text are advised to stay away.

The flip lid provides protection but isn't removable and doesn't go round the back of the screen, which makes it look a little awkward when opened.

These factors detract and we think that there are far better options available in the same price bracket.

Contact: Sony 0870 5424 424
www.sony-europe.com/clieplaza