Handheld Computer Collecting: Pocket-Sized Nostalgia

Why Collect Handheld Computers?

If you’re looking for a fun and unique collectible, have you considered handheld computers? These pocket-sized devices from the 80s, 90s and 2000s were the predecessors of today’s smartphones. Many have fond memories of using handhelds like the Palm Pilot, Pocket PC, or BlackBerry to stay organized in the pre-iPhone era. For collectors, vintage handhelds represent an exciting piece of computing history in a compact package.

Collecting handheld computers is perfect if you want something a little different than the usual collectibles like coins, stamps or baseball cards. It’s an affordable hobby to get into, the devices don’t take up much space, and each has its own interesting design and story. Plus, when friends see your collection, it always sparks nostalgia and conversation!

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to start collecting handheld computers – the most collectible models, what to look for, where to find them, and how to connect with other enthusiasts. By the end, you’ll be ready to start building your collection of these unique devices that fit in the palm of your hand.

Handheld computers are also an important part of tech history. They show the rapid progression of mobile computing over just a couple decades, from simple monochrome organizers to multi-purpose touchscreen smartphones. Each collectible handheld represents the cutting edge of mobile tech from its time and reflects the design trends of its era.

Some people assume that old handheld computers must be useless today compared to modern smartphones. But many vintage handhelds still have their uses and charms. Die-hard fans continue to use retro Palm and Pocket PC devices for distraction-free note taking, writing, and schedule keeping. Some models are still great for playing classic games or reading ebooks. Collectors enjoy getting these vintage devices up and running again, exploring their quirky interfaces, and appreciating their retro-coolness factor.

The nice thing about collecting handheld computers is that there’s no pressure to acquire every single model ever made. You can curate your collection around your specific interests, whether it’s groundbreaking models, aesthetic designs, or nostalgic tech from your youth. It’s a hobby you can approach casually, picking up an interesting handheld here and there, or go deep specializing in a particular brand or time period.

One of the joys of collecting older tech is learning the stories behind each gadget. As you research the handhelds you acquire, you’ll discover all sorts of fascinating tales – like the Apple Newton’s pioneering but imperfect handwriting recognition, the origins of the BlackBerry’s addictive thumb-typing, or the Palm Pilot’s breakout popularity that revived the struggling PDA market. Each device represents years of innovative work to create pocketable computers that made people’s lives a little easier or more fun.

Are you ready to start your own collection of vintage portable wonders and discover the allure for yourself? Read on for my complete guide to collecting handheld computers, from the most significant models to helpful beginner tips. Soon you’ll be proudly showing off your own assortment of cool historical handhelds!

Most Collectible Handheld Computers

Ready to start collecting handheld computers? One of the first questions you probably have is what are the most iconic, significant and collectible models to look out for. Let’s dive into three of the most important handheld computer brands – Palm, Pocket PC, and BlackBerry – and highlight some of the most sought-after devices in each family.

Palm Pilots

The Palm Pilot personal digital assistant (PDA) is one of the most iconic and collectible handheld computers. Launched in 1997, Palm devices dominated the PDA market in the late 90s and early 2000s. Devices like the Palm III, Palm V, and Palm VII are highly sought after by collectors today.

Palm Pilots ran the Palm OS and had a signature design – a gray or black rectangular body with a touchscreen on the bottom half and a Graffiti writing area for stylus input on the bottom. Popular models to collect include:

• Pilot 1000 and 5000 (1996) – the first Palms
• Palm III (1998) – best-selling model with 2MB memory
• Palm V (1999) – ultra-thin design with rechargeable battery
• Palm VII (1999) – first Palm with wireless web abilities
• Tungsten series (2002-2005) – color models with enhanced multimedia

The original Pilot 1000 and 5000 from 1996 are must-haves for serious Palm collectors. These were the very first Palm devices, back when the company was called Palm Computing and hadn’t yet added the “Pilot” surname. With just 128-512K of memory, a 16MHz processor, and a 160×160 monochrome screen, they seem underpowered by today’s standards. But at the time they were revolutionary for their compact size, easy sync with PCs, and Graffiti writing system. Working examples are hard to find today, so expect to pay over $100 for one.

The Palm III from 1998 is another iconic model that became Palm’s best-selling PDA thanks to its improved memory, battery life, and $400 price tag. It’s credited with popularizing the PDA form factor of a pocketable touchscreen device. It also introduced the classic curved Palm shape and came in a range of colors like ice blue and forest green, making the Palm III series a fun one to collect.

In 1999, Palm went upscale with the Palm V, an ultra-thin aluminum PDA that remains one of the sleekest tech designs of its era. With its shiny metal casing, bright white backlight, and rechargeable battery, the Palm V felt like a luxury item and pushed PDAs into the mainstream. It’s one of the most collectible Palm models today, especially if you can find the special IBM-branded version or the rare orange Claudia Schiffer edition.

Another significant Palm is the VII series from 1999, the first Palm PDAs with wireless internet access through the Palm.net network. This made the Palm VII one of the earliest pocketable wireless communication devices, foreshadowing smartphones to come. But with a $599 price, limited wireless coverage, and slow speeds, the Palm VII struggled to catch on. Today it’s an intriguing collectible that marked an important step towards always-connected handhelds.

In the early 2000s, Palm started producing PDAs with color screens, SD card slots, multimedia features, and faster processors. Models like the Tungsten T, T2 and T3 were some of the most advanced and powerful PDAs on the market. With their shiny sliding designs, high-res color displays, and hefty feel, the Tungstens still impress today and make great additions to any Palm collection.

Pocket PCs

In the early 2000s, Microsoft challenged Palm’s dominance with its Pocket PC handheld platform. Running the Windows Mobile operating system, Pocket PCs had color touchscreens and more advanced multimedia capabilities compared to Palm devices at the time.

Many major computer brands made Pocket PC devices, so there are plenty of models to choose from. Some of the most collectible include:

• Compaq iPAQ (2000) – the first Pocket PC device
• HP Jornada 540 series (2000) – with a unique clamshell design
• Toshiba e310 (2002) – the first Pocket PC with WiFi and SD card slot
• Dell Axim X5 (2002) – affordable model that was a big seller
• HP iPAQ h1940 (2003) – smallest Pocket PC when released

The Compaq iPAQ 3600 series from 2000 has an important place in handheld history as the first and prototypical Pocket PC device. With a faster 206MHz processor, 32MB of RAM, a vivid color screen, and a sleeker design than rival Palm PDAs at the time, the iPAQ wowed reviewers and set the template for Pocket PCs to come. Today, the iPAQs (especially the rare Wanda Sykes edition) are coveted by collectors as a groundbreaking pioneer.

Another significant Pocket PC is the HP Jornada 540 series from 2000. It deviated from the standard PDA form factor with a unique clamshell design that featured a QWERTY keyboard and VGA-resolution screen in a small footprint. The Jornadas ran a custom version of the Windows CE operating system tweaked for its unusual layout. Collectors prize the Jornadas for their innovative design and one-of-a-kind aesthetics.

In 2002, Toshiba launched the e310, the first Pocket PC device with both WiFi and an SD card slot for expansion. This made the e310 one of the earliest handhelds that could get online wirelessly and signaled a move towards expandable PDAs. Finding a working e310 with its original box and accessories is a big score for any Pocket PC collector.

That same year, Dell entered the handheld market with the Axim X5, a budget-friendly Pocket PC with a fast 400MHz processor that made a big splash. Dell went on to produce a popular Axim line of PDAs that stood out for their zippy performance and low prices. The midnight blue Dell Axims are some of the coolest-looking Pocket PCs you can collect.

In 2003, the HP iPAQ h1940 pushed the limits of how small a usable Pocket PC could be. Sized like a stack of credit cards and weighing just 4 ounces, the h1940 was the most compact Pocket PC to date when it launched. With its lightweight magnesium case and cute design, the h1940 is still a marvel to handle today. It’s one of the most pocketable vintage handhelds you can collect.

Of course, there are many other interesting Pocket PC models worth adding to your collection, like the NEC MobilePro 900c with its laptop-like design, or the powerful HP iPAQ hx4700 with its VGA screen and massive 128MB of memory. Whichever Pocket PCs you acquire, you’ll have fun comparing the different form factors and features each manufacturer experimented with.

BlackBerry Devices

BlackBerry devices, made by Canadian company Research in Motion (RIM), were the ultimate business smartphones in the 2000s before the iPhone and Android took over. Early BlackBerry handhelds had full QWERTY keyboards and were known for their strong security and push email capabilities.

For collectors, iconic BlackBerry models to look for include:

• BlackBerry 850 (1999) – the first BlackBerry with email
• BlackBerry 957 (2000) – first iconic BlackBerry design with full keyboard
• BlackBerry 7210 (2003) – first BlackBerry with color screen
• BlackBerry 8800 (2007) – with GPS and media player
• BlackBerry Bold 9000 (2008) – one of the most popular BlackBerrys

The BlackBerry 850 from 1999 was a breakthrough device as the first BlackBerry to offer wireless email through RIM’s push email system and a built-in keyboard for thumb-typing. This kicked off BlackBerry’s rise as the must-have corporate communicator. The 850 used the DataTAC network and is sometimes called the Pager 850 since RIM still labeled its devices as interactive pagers at this point.

In 2000, the BlackBerry 957 launched with the classic BlackBerry form factor we all recognize – a wide pager-like body with a large screen above a full QWERTY thumbboard. RIM would stick with this winning design for the next decade. The 957 also debuted BlackBerry’s scroll wheel for navigation. This rare model is a holy grail for BlackBerry collectors.

Another major milestone was the BlackBerry 7210 from 2003, the first BlackBerry with a color screen. It also added a speakerphone, quad-band GSM support, and a browser, making it feel like a real smartphone. The blue 7210 is a striking model to have in your collection.

The BlackBerry 8800 from 2007 introduced several firsts to the BlackBerry line, including built-in GPS, a media player, externally accessible microSD card, and a full QWERTY keyboard without a trackwheel. This represented BlackBerry’s move towards consumer-friendly features as it battled the iPhone, making the 8800 a key model to note its evolution.

At the height of the BlackBerry craze in 2008, RIM launched the BlackBerry Bold 9000. It featured a sleeker, more modern design with a shiny black body, chrome accents, a sharp 480×320 screen, and fast 3G data speeds. The Bold was a huge hit and one of the most lusted-after smartphones of its era. No BlackBerry collection is complete without this iconic device.

Other collectible BlackBerrys worth tracking down include the unique BlackBerry Passport from 2014 with its square 1:1 screen and physical keyboard, or the rare blue BlackBerry 7290 released in limited quantities. Thanks to BlackBerry’s nearly two-decade history, there’s a huge variety of RIM handhelds to collect.

What to Look for When Buying

When shopping for collectible handheld computers, you’ll want to examine a few key things to get the best possible devices for your collection and budget:

Condition

The condition of a handheld makes a big difference in its collectibility and value. Ideally, look for devices that are fully working, have minimal cosmetic wear, include their original box and accessories, and have no aftermarket modifications or replacement parts.

Handhelds in mint or near-mint condition with their original packaging can sell for significantly more than loose or incomplete examples. Collectors especially prize unused devices that are “new old stock” or “new in box.” So if you spot a sealed or like-new vintage handheld, that’s usually worth snapping up.

That said, used devices in good working condition are also great to collect, especially for more common models. Just thoroughly inspect the screen, buttons, and ports for major scratches, cracks, or damage before buying. Test that everything functions properly.

Avoid buying a non-functioning or damaged handheld unless you specifically want it for spare parts or are willing to attempt a complex repair. Replacement components like batteries, screens, and buttons can be very hard to find for vintage devices.

Completeness

Having a handheld’s original packaging, manuals, software CDs, sync cables, docks, cases, styli, and other pack-in accessories makes it significantly more desirable and valuable to collectors. The more complete and original everything is, the better.

Sometimes you’ll come across a handheld that’s missing its original accessories but includes compatible third-party ones. This is better than nothing, but less ideal than all-original pack-ins. Definitely aim for the original custom accessories like docks and cases if possible, since they can be very hard to find separately.

Even just the original box can be worth quite a bit on its own, especially if it has unique artwork or designs. Boxes and manuals help tell the story of the device. Of course, a handheld itself is the most important part, but complete packages are always best.

Special Editions

Some handheld computers were released in limited edition versions that are extra valuable to collectors. For example, there was a special edition Palm Vx with a shiny orange color that was only available in Germany and Australia. There was also a translucent blue version of the Handspring Visor Deluxe and a black Palm V IBM edition.

Other notable special editions include the red U2 iPod edition of the HP iPAQ h5550 (complete with laser-etched signatures of the band on the back), the Pepsi edition of the Toshiba e310 Pocket PC in Pepsi’s colors, and the BlackBerry 8700 in bright red. These eye-catching variants can be the centerpiece of a collection.

Some special editions were created as promotional items in very small numbers or were exclusive to certain retailers, making them exceptionally rare today. The Claudia Schiffer edition of the Palm Vx is a famous example. So always be on the lookout for any unusual colors or branding on handhelds that might indicate a scarce special edition!

Rarity

The rarity of a particular handheld model also greatly affects its collectibility. Mass-market models that sold in the millions like the Palm m515 and BlackBerry 8700 are easy to find today. But more obscure or unpopular PDAs like the Philips Nino, IBM WorkPad, Sharp Zaurus, and Psion Series 3 are much harder to come by.

Prototypes, unreleased devices, and special editions are some of the rarest and most valuable handhelds. Examples include the Palm Foleo (a subnotebook that Palm decided to cancel before launch), the Apple Newton eMate 300 (a too-expensive PDA aimed at education), and the Sony Magic Link (an early PDA with unique accessories like a keyboard and camera). These oddities are very desirable for serious collectors.

Even super old and outdated handhelds can be quite collectible if they’re especially early or pioneering examples. The Psion Organiser II from the mid-80s, the Atari Portfolio palmtop from 1989, and the Tandy Zoomer from 1992 all have devoted followings due to their age and trailblazing nature.

Where to Find Collectible Handheld Computers

So you know what to look for – but

where can you actually find collectible handheld computers? Let’s go over some of the best places to hunt for those vintage mobile devices:

eBay

eBay is one of the top destinations to find collectible handhelds online. You can turn up all kinds of makes and models, from the most common to the most obscure. eBay’s search filters make it easy to narrow down by brand, model, price, condition, and more to find exactly what you’re looking for.

One of the best things about eBay for handheld collectors is the chance to score rare devices and accessories. People often don’t realise how scarce or valuable their old gadgets are, so you can find some real gems with patience.

To get the best experience buying handhelds on eBay, be sure to carefully read the listing description, look closely at all the photos, and ask the seller questions before bidding or buying. Stick to reputable sellers with high feedback ratings and generous return policies to avoid any surprises.

It’s also a good idea to set a maximum price you’re willing to pay for an item and avoid getting caught up in last-minute bidding wars. Be patient and another one will come along!

Etsy

Etsy is a fantastic place to uncover unexpected treasures when hunting for vintage handheld computers. While you might go in searching for a specific model, the unique and rare devices offered on Etsy means you’re likely to stumble upon something you never knew existed. From obscure prototypes to limited edition variants, Etsy is full of surprising finds that will intrigue any handheld enthusiast.

Flea Markets and Garage Sales

If you prefer the thrill of the hunt, try searching for collectible handhelds at local flea markets, swap meets, garage sales, estate sales, and thrift stores. People often sell their old electronics for cheap at these venues without realizing their collectible value.

To be a successful flea market or garage sale shopper, it helps to go regularly and arrive early for the best selection. Bring cash, a charged phone to look up info on any finds, and spare batteries to test devices on the spot. Don’t be afraid to haggle on price, especially if bundling multiple items.

Look for vendors with boxes of electronics, old cell phones and computers. Carefully dig through every bin and be on the lookout for any PDAs, organizers or early smartphones. You never know what vintage gems might be gathering dust in someone’s garage!

Sometimes you’ll score a handheld for an incredible deal this way, but remember the condition and completeness is often lacking. Missing accessories, scratches, engravings and other issues are more common with flea market finds than online purchases. But that’s part of the fun!

Local Classifieds

Another option for finding vintage handhelds near you is browsing local classified ads on sites like Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, OfferUp, VarageSale, and Nextdoor. Sometimes people just want to get rid of their old electronics quickly without the hassle of shipping.

Search for terms like “Palm Pilot,” “Pocket PC,” “PDA,” and “BlackBerry” and see what turns up. You can message the seller to ask for more details and photos. Then if it seems promising, try to meet up in person so you can test the device before handing over any cash. Always take precautions and meet in a public place for safety.

Prices on local classifieds tend to be lower than eBay since the seller has a smaller potential buyer pool. And people often list their old tech for way less than it’s worth to collectors. So while it can take some legwork, buying locally can pay off.

The one downside is that your options will be more limited to what’s available in your area. But if you live in or near a big city, there’s bound to be some good deals on old tech. Set up some saved searches and alerts and check the listings regularly!

Building Your Collection

Now that you know what to look for and where to find collectible handheld computers, it’s time to start building your collection! But acquiring devices is just part of the process. Here are some tips to help you create a collection with a clear direction that’s easy to display and enjoy:

Define a Focus

When starting your handheld computer collection, it helps to define a theme or focus. You might want to collect:

• All the models from a particular brand like Palm, HP, or BlackBerry
• Handhelds from a specific decade like the 1990s or 2000s
• Only new-in-box items with all their original packaging and accessories
• Rare and unusual models like prototypes, special editions, and foreign variants
• Handheld milestones that introduced key innovations or features
• All the different colors and designs of a certain model or brand
• Aesthetic devices that showcase a particular style or material
• Handhelds with unique form factors like clamshells, sliders, and mini-clamshells

Of course, your focus can be a combination of these themes or something else entirely. Maybe you just want to collect nostalgic devices from your youth, or rebuild your old gadget collection. The point is to have an overarching vision for your collection.

Having a clear focus will make your collection feel more cohesive and intentional. It gives you a goal to work towards and parameters for what to buy. That way you avoid just acquiring random devices without rhyme or reason.

Your theme might evolve over time as you learn more and discover new facets of the handheld world. Feel free to refine your focus and weed out devices that no longer fit. Curating is part of the fun of collecting!

Storing and Displaying

As you acquire more handhelds, you’ll need to figure out how to safely store and attractively display them. Proper storage will keep your devices in great condition and displaying them lets you appreciate and show off your favorite items.

For storage, keep your handhelds in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, and humidity to prevent damage. Ideally, store each device in its original box or a sealed plastic container with some silica gel packs to regulate moisture.

If you don’t have the original packaging, look for archival-quality acid-free boxes or get creative and reuse clean boxes from other objects. Putting devices in individual Ziploc bags can also help protect them. Whatever container you use, make sure the handheld isn’t getting crushed or jostled around.

When it comes to displaying your collection, you can get as creative as you want. Some ideas include:

• Hanging shelves to show off your most prized handhelds
• Acrylic display cases that let you see the devices from all angles
• Arranging devices on a desk or table by brand, size, or color
• Framing vintage ads or manuals alongside the handhelds
• Creating a themed shadowbox with the handheld and accessories
• Posing devices with action figures for a humorous diorama

If you’re handy, you can even build your own custom display stand or case. Check out how other collectors display their vintage tech for inspiration. Just remember that the more exposed a device is, the more gently you should handle it and the more often you should dust it.

The best part is that handhelds don’t take up much room, so you can easily tuck your display on a bookshelf or side table. Swap out different devices from your collection when you want a change of scenery.

With some planning and creativity, you can devise a storage and display strategy that keeps your collection organized, preserved, and looking great. Don’t be afraid to experiment and change things up as your collection grows!

Connecting With Other Collectors

Collecting handheld computers is even more rewarding when you can share your knowledge and enthusiasm with fellow enthusiasts. Swapping stories, showing off rare finds, and geek out about vintage tech with other collectors is a big part of the fun. Here’s how to connect with like-minded people:

Online Forums

There are a number of online forums and communities dedicated to pocket computers and mobile gadgets where you can talk to other collectors. Some great ones to check out include:

• HPC Factor – A place to chat about all things handheld PC.
• Vintage Computer Federation Forum – Very active forum dedicated to vintage computers in general. There’s plenty of chat about handheld computers here too.
• r/Vintagecomputers Subreddit – Good subreddit for bite-sized posts and general discussion about vintage computers- including handheld computers. The sidebar has links to other collector subreddits too.

On these forums, you’ll find friendly people happy to answer your handheld questions, share photos of their collections, provide repair and restoration tips, and even buy, sell, and trade devices and parts. Make an account, introduce yourself, and dive into the discussions!

Facebook Groups

Facebook is another great place to find communities of handheld computer collectors. Some good groups to join include:

• Buy & Sell PC Handhelds Australia – Active group of members aimed at handhelds. Lots of knowledgeable folks and good finds.
• Australian Vintage Computer Collectors Buy/Sell/Swap – Group focused on vintage computers but trust me, there’s a lot of knowledge and info about handheld computers here!
• Retro Emulation Handhelds, Android Handhelds, and PC Gaming handhelds – This is a Gaming Handheld group. Discussions pertaining to any gaming handheld is allow with particular emphasis being placed on handhelds such as the Retroid Pocket 2, RG 350/351/552, Ayn Odin, Pow Kiddy, and Bittboy.

In these Facebook groups, you can post photos of your devices, ask for buying advice, get help with repairs, learn about the history of different brands, find out about meetups and events, and just generally connect with other collectors. The groups are also good places to find handhelds for sale or trade directly from other collectors.

Meetups and Shows

If you want to meet other collectors in person, look for vintage tech meetups, conventions, swap meets, and shows in your area. These events are a great way to see a wide variety of devices, pick up new finds, and talk face-to-face with other enthusiasts.

For example, the Vintage Computer Festival is a series of events across the US, UK and Europe that showcase historic computers, including handhelds. The Pocket Calculator Show in Dayton, Ohio is an annual event that celebrates calculators and other portable electronics. There are also regular Retro Computing Roundtables and Vintage Tech Meetups in many major cities.

To find events near you, check out the listings on the Vintage Computer Federation event calendar (if you’re in the USA that is!) or look for similar events in your own country. Also, join local vintage tech Meetup or Facebook groups, and ask around on the collector forums and subreddits. Even if there’s not an official event happening, you might find some like-minded folks who want to meet up informally to talk tech.

At these gatherings, don’t be shy about chatting with other attendees about your handheld interests. Ask to see people’s devices up close, share your own experiences, and swap contact info to stay in touch. The collecting community is generally very welcoming to newcomers.

Building a network of collector friends can lead to all kinds of opportunities, from exclusive sales to insider repair tips. You never know what you might learn or who you might meet. So get out there and start connecting with your fellow handheld fanatics!

Handheld Highlights Over the Years

Part of the fun of collecting handheld computers is learning about all the different makes and models that came out over the decades. Each one contributed to the evolution of mobile computing in its own way. Let’s take a look at some of the most important and innovative handhelds from the 1980s to today:

Year	Device	Significance
1984	Psion Organiser	First handheld computer with apps and QWERTY keyboard
1989	Atari Portfolio	First MS-DOS compatible palmtop PC
1991	HP 95LX	Popular MS-DOS palmtop with Lotus 1-2-3 in ROM
1992	Apple Newton MessagePad	Pioneering device with handwriting recognition
1996	Palm Pilot 1000 & 5000	Breakthrough PDAs with easy sync, Graffiti writing, and apps
1997	Nokia 9000 Communicator	Early high-end PDA/phone hybrid with web browser
1999	BlackBerry 850 & 957	First BlackBerry with email and iconic keyboard design
2000	Compaq iPAQ H3100	Set the bar for Pocket PCs with color screen and sleek look
2002	Handspring Treo 180	Innovative PDA/phone with both touchscreen and keyboard
2003	Sony CLIÉ PEG-UX50	Unique swivel-and-slide design with integrated camera
2007	Apple iPhone	Ushered in the modern multitouch smartphone era

These are just a few of the dozens of notable handheld models that have come out over the years. As a collector, you’ll enjoy discovering all the weird and wonderful varieties that existed, from early organizers like the Sharp Wizard and Psion Series 3 to oddball designs like the Nokia N-Gage gaming phone and Sony CLIÉ UX-50.

Each handheld has its own design quirks, features, and place in gadget history. As you use and learn about the ones you acquire, you’ll gain a new appreciation for the ingenuity and rapid progress of mobile devices from the early days to today.

FAQs About Handheld Computer Collecting

Hopefully this guide has given you a solid foundation to start your handheld computer collection! Let’s wrap up with answers to some other common questions that collectors have:

Do old handheld computers still work?

In many cases, yes! A surprising number of decades-old handhelds still function just fine today. Of course, this depends on the particular model, how it was stored, and a bit of luck. Devices from the mid-90s and later that were kept in good condition and not heavily used often power on with no issues.

Older handhelds from the 80s and early 90s can be more hit or miss. The rechargeable batteries have often died and leaked, causing corrosion. Non-replaceable backup batteries used to store data may be drained. Plastics and rubbers deteriorate over time.

Many common issues can be fixed though. Replacement batteries are available for a lot of models. Leaked battery damage can sometimes be repaired. Buttons can be cleaned or replaced. There are tutorials and YouTube videos showing how to resurrect many vintage handhelds.

So don’t automatically assume an old handheld is dead – try powering it up and see! But even non-functional units can be fun for display or spare parts. Just adjust your expectations and price accordingly when buying untested devices.

How much should I pay for collectible handhelds?

The prices for collectible handheld computers vary greatly depending on factors like the model, condition, completeness, and rarity. In general, most loose common models from the 90s and 2000s sell for between $20 and $100. New-in-box examples usually go for more, around $50 to $300.

Rare variants, prototypes, and old models in mint condition can sell for significantly higher, in the hundreds of dollars. For example, a boxed Apple Newton MessagePad 2100 or Psion Series 5mx can fetch over $500. An ultra-rare Psion MC400 prototype might go for several thousand dollars to the right collector.

On the flip side, poor condition units missing accessories often sell for just a few bucks. It’s possible to find some fun collectible handhelds for under $25 if you’re a savvy shopper and not picky.

Price is relative though. What seems like an outrageous sum to one collector is a steal for a prized grail to another. Ultimately, a handheld is worth whatever a buyer is willing to pay. Watching eBay “sold” listings can help gauge the market rate for a particular model.

My advice is to set a budget you’re personally comfortable with and stick to it. Don’t overpay for mediocre condition, incomplete units just to have something. Be patient and wait for a fair deal on a nice example. And remember, the thrill of the hunt is part of the fun!

Are any old handhelds actually useful today?

This is a tricky question and depends on your needs. Compared to a modern smartphone, even the most advanced vintage handhelds are incredibly limited in terms of power, storage, screen size,

and connectivity. You certainly wouldn’t want to rely on a 20-year-old Pocket PC for all your mobile computing needs today!

That said, there are still some practical uses for old handhelds. Many collectors enjoy using vintage devices for distraction-free writing, thanks to their great battery life, portability, and lack of internet temptations. An AlphaSmart Neo or Tandy TRS-80 Model 100 makes for a cool retro word processor.

Old Palm and Pocket PCs can still handle simple tasks like storing contacts, taking notes, and keeping a calendar. A device like the Sharp Zaurus SL-5500 Linux PDA is fun to tinker with as a pocket programming and emulation platform.

Certain vintage handhelds are also great for playing old games. Devices like the Nintendo Game Boy, Sega Game Gear, and Bandai WonderSwan were created for retro gaming on the go and have sizable game libraries. PDAs like the Sony CLIÉ and Dell Axim X50v can emulate many 8-bit and 16-bit consoles.

Realistically though, any serious attempts to use vintage handhelds will likely be more of a fun challenge or silly novelty than a truly practical endeavor. But that’s part of the charm – seeing just how much you can accomplish on an old device within its limitations! Go ahead and put that Palm VII wireless internet to the test.

The best attitude is to appreciate vintage handhelds for what they were in their heyday, enjoy any modern utility you can still wring out of them, but not expect them to replace your smartphone. Luckily, they’re compact enough to keep in your pocket right alongside your iPhone or Galaxy.

I found an unmarked prototype handheld – how do I identify it?

Wow, lucky you! Mysterious prototypes are the stuff of collector dreams. Half the fun is playing detective and trying to sleuth out exactly what you have. Start by looking for any identifying numbers, serial codes, or labels on the device, batteries, or accessories. These can provide clues to the manufacturer and model.

Do some searches on the collector forums and websites to see if you can find photos or descriptions of similar-looking devices. Post clear pictures of your find and ask if anyone can ID it. The collective knowledge of the collector community is vast – chances are someone will recognize it or have a lead.

If the handheld powers on, poke around the built-in apps and settings. The “About” screens may reveal the operating system, code names, version numbers, or other hints. If there’s a serial port, try connecting it to a PC and see if any drivers or software can auto-detect the model.

Examining the physical hardware can also provide insights. Look at the processor, memory chips, expansion ports, and other components. If you’re comfortable opening it up, the circuit boards may have ID numbers you can google.

At the end of the day, there’s always the chance that you have a totally unknown prototype that never made it to market. While that would be incredibly cool, it also makes it very hard to say anything definitive about its history or value. In that case, enjoy the air of mystery and the thrill of owning a unique piece of tech history!

Identifying mystery handhelds takes a combination of research, crowdsourcing, and hands-on investigation. But that’s a big part of the appeal for serious collectors. Enjoy the challenge and don’t get too caught up in chasing a white whale. The joy of collecting is as much in the journey as the destination.

Conclusion

Handheld computers are technological time capsules that fit in your pocket. Each one embodies the design trends, capabilities, and limitations of its era, letting you hold a piece of computing history in your hand. No wonder so many people enjoy collecting them!

As we’ve seen, there’s a whole world of vintage handhelds to explore, from early organizers to proto-smartphones. Whether you focus on a particular brand, time period, or style, you’ll find no shortage of fascinating and unusual devices to acquire. With some patience and savvy shopping, you can build an awesome collection on any budget.

The best part is that you don’t need a ton of space or specialized knowledge to get started. Handhelds are small enough to display anywhere, and the friendly collector community is happy to help you learn. It’s easy to catch the handheld bug!

So what are you waiting for? Start scouring eBay for that minty fresh HP 200LX, snap up a Palm III at a local flea market, or rescue a Psion from your parents’ junk drawer. Get those gadgets in your hands and marvel at the ingenuity and diversity of our handheld heritage.

Trust me – once you experience the thrill of unboxing a factory sealed Sony CLIÉ, powering on a Pocket PC that sat untouched for a decade, or playing Tetris on a Tandy PC-1, you’ll be hooked. It’s a hobby that combines the best of retro tech nostalgia, treasure hunting, and good old-fashioned geekery.

Down the rabbit hole you go! Before you know it, you’ll have a shelf full of PDAs and be asking other collectors if they have any leads on a Poqet PC. Just remember to share your passion with others, support the community, and have fun. Happy collecting!