Best of 2004
PC World editors and a team of tech gurus put their heads together to crown the year's top hardware, software, sites, and services.
Editors of PC World
Mobile Tools
PDA
We haven't always seen eye to eye with Microsoft on handheld OSs, but HP's take on Windows Mobile 2003 for Pocket PCs is particularly elegant in the H4350. You'll pay top dollar for this corporate companion, but it doesn't stint on features--built-in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and a small keyboard. $500
PDA Software
VeriChat manages IM with panache on both Palm and Windows Mobile (Pocket PC) handhelds. The service works on the major IM networks, and it lets you toil away in another app while swapping messages with buddies. $25
Camera Phone
The V600 takes 640-by-480-resolution snapshots, plays downloaded video clips, simplifies photo sharing, and "comes in a design that everybody knows and loves," says IDC's Kevin Burden. $300 (carrier-dependent)
Web-Based E-Mail
Mailblocks' system of challenging messages from unknown senders just plain works. 5MB free, 15MB $10, 100MB $25
Video Instant Messaging Software
Some video IM services have such poor voice sync that you may as well look at a photo while talking on the phone. But SightSpeed keeps up with the back-and-forth banter of a fast-paced conversation. $5 per month, $50 per year
Remote Access Software
With a GoToMyPC account, you can turn any Web-connected PC into a clone of your distant machine, affording access to remote programs, files, and networks. Though pricey, the service's speedy, secure, and hassle-free approach remains unbeatable. $20 per month per PC
Collaboration Tool
No other collaboration tool matches Groove's safety, simplicity, and low cost--all within Windows Explorer. $69
Web-Based Application
This dot-com-era survivor has only improved over time, with new party invitation tools, including ones for public events. Free
GPS Navigation Device
The expensive StreetPilot calculates routes within seconds and supplies accurate, detailed maps and directions. Better still: It puts safety first by requiring that you stop the car before entering a new location. $1300
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