We've all played some form of that game where two photographs are put side by side, and you try to find five differences within a short time. That's the feeling we got when looking at the image of the i-mate Ultimate 6150 beside the 8150 model. In this case, it isn't particularly hard to spot the differences.

Pros

As with all the devices in the Ultimate series, i-mate has packed in the features with the 6150. For starters, it has HSDPA connectivity for broadband-like data connectivity over the cellular network. What's more, the 3G radio in this device is a triband one, making sure it will work with more than just your home network--a plus for frequent travelers.

The display on the 6150 is a 2.8-inch LCD with a screen resolution of 640 x 480. While not obvious from the pictures, this is where it varies from the 8150 model which comes with a 2.6-inch LCD. So, even though the two have exactly the same dimensions of 118.5 x 60.5 x 15.7mm and the 8150 seems to be a better deal because of the numeric keypad, the 6150 has the advantage of a slightly larger display.

One of its more unique features is the video-out connector. With an adapter, the user will be able to hook up the device to a projector for presentations. This is useful for impromptu situations where you may not have brought your notebook. It supports up to 1,024 x 768 pixels (XGA), which is a common resolution for boardroom projectors.

Cons

Obviously, for those who cannot stand having to write on a touchscreen all the time, the greatest drawback of the 6150 is its lack of text/numeric input buttons.

As we have alluded to in the introduction, the 6150 doesn't look very different from the 8150. While it is important to keep certain design elements consistent within a range of products, we still feel that more could have been done to differentiate it from the other models.

Conclusion

The question that potential buyers may ask is: Why get the 6150 over the 8150? Screen size notwithstanding, the two models' features and dimensions are identical. Unless it is significantly less expensive, we foresee the 8150 being a better proposition. For those looking for similar features as well as GPS, the upcoming E-Ten glofiish X800 is worth a look, too.

Expect to see the 6150 in this region some time later this year after i-mate is done setting up its operations in Singapore. Pricing has yet to be announced.