Surplus PDA 4 in 1 Stylus

Gadgeteer Hands On Review by Judie Hughes

May 15, 2003

Product Requirements:
Device:
A PDA with a touch-screen

Surplus PDA has come out with a 4 in1Stylus that has most of the features I look for when I consider a desktop replacement stylus. Comprised of clear plastic with a rubberized grip, the 4 in 1 resembles the old-timey BICs that we all used to covet in high school.

There are, as the name implies, four tips to this multi-pen: black, blue and  red medium ballpoints, along with a grey stylus. The 4 in 1 scores points with me because it is very comfortable in hand, having a nice thickness to the barrel, yet is not too heavy. The ballpoint inserts are regular sized, not the thin little half-cylinders that multi-pens will generally employ. The stylus tip is slightly rounded and has no visible seams or other defects. It writes equally well on PDA screens that do or don't have protective overlays.

I have been using this stylus for the last month. It is extremely handy to have the three different ink colors available, and given its larger size -  its not easy to lose. The only way I could see to  improve the 4 in 1 would be by adding a mechanical pencil to the mix.

If you have been looking for a multi-pen that will fit well in your hand, uses full sized refills, and has a good stylus tip built in - and one that won't break the bank, then you should take a look at this one.

Price: $TBA - This is a new product, prices and a link should be posted soon

Pros:
Fits well in hand
Full sized ballpoint inserts

Cons:
None