The mobile PC industry has seen some exciting times recently. Technology has been constantly evolving, and enthusiasts can look forward to enjoying machines that are smaller, slimmer, lighter, and faster. More powerful machines also mean more powerful features. Applications that were previously too resource intensive to be run on mobile PCs can now run seamlessly. You can expect to bring your work and entertainment with you wherever you go.



In general, you have two choices when considering your mobile PC options. You can either choose to carry a traditional laptop, or you can choose to bring along a UMPC (Ultra Mobile PC).

The traditional laptop option.

The traditional laptop can run almost any application that you install in your personal desktop. Only highly sophisticated applications like 3D rendering, video processing, or games that require high-end hardware may not run smoothly on laptops. Other commonly used applications, such as Word processors, Internet browsers, video players, etc. will work without any problems whatsoever.

The key advantage to bringing a laptop along is that you can be assured that most applications will run without trouble. Since modern laptops are powerful machines, the latest OS (Windows Vista) can be installed. And this means as long as the applications or games are compatible with the OS, they will run smoothly.

Using the laptop, you can also safely assume that you can connect external devices, such as digital cameras, VOIP phones, etc. and they will work smoothly. All you need is an available USB slot.

The UMPC route.

A popular alternative these days is to bring along a UMPC instead of a traditional laptop. The UMPC is like a smaller version of a laptop. But there are remarkable differences. Despite its size, new UMPCs like the UMID UMPC offer impressive hardware. It has 1GB of RAM, a 1.3 mega pixel webcam, wi-fi, and a card reader. To add to its appeal, it even has a touchscreen display, which is able to run at 1024 ? 600 resolution.

Features wise, it is able to run all regular games and applications, and performance is comparable to that of a mid-range laptop. However, when compared with a traditional laptop, the UMPC is much smaller and lighter. It can perform all basic functions such as Internet surfing, downloading music, watching videos, etc.

The exterior of the UMPC can be improved upon. The size looks about the size of a brick, larger than a mobile phone, but smaller than a laptop. Since it is a mobile gadget, enthusiasts will be expecting the UMPC to be something that is cool enough for them to carry about.

When choosing between the two options, bear in mind that the laptop is a time proven mobile gadget. For stability, always choose the laptop. But having said that, the UMPC offers exciting possibilities. Those who are looking for lighter and smaller gadgets will most certainly welcome the release of powerful UMPCs. Of course, once you have tested a UMPC and confirmed that it works well for your needs, it can also develop into a trusted option for stability.