Summary: The unit does everything it's advertised to do. Video playback is very good, music files sound good. Internet connections are a snap using WiFi, and it's reads PDF files. The web browser is basic, so don't think it can handle the net like explorer or firefox. You can type in URL's, save favorites, search goggle, yahoo, etc. Can handle youtube and others fine, and can do e-mail via web mail. (yahoo basic mail, gmail and such) You must purchase the browser and download it from Archos. The download will include some widgets for weather, RSS news feeds, calculator, currency converter, etc. To record TV, you need to purchase the docking base which allows connections to your media. As I understand it, to record unprotected DVD's, you would also have to purchase other software from Archos. A bit of nickle and dime, but I guess they are allowing you to pay for only what you will use. Sync with Windows Media Player is a no brainner. Transferred all my media files to the unit in the correct placeholders, labels and all!
Reviewed by: awfabri on 27-Dec-07Rating:
Strengths: High in available features, good sound quality, video graphics and screen size excellent.
Summary: While the media player is not perfect it is in my opinion the best on the market. Compared to Apple ipod touch it has so much more at a lower price. Larger hard drive, better video graphics.
Reviewed by: nsup on 06-Dec-07Rating:
Strengths: Sharp and bright display. Can play Windows WMV. Big hard drive space.
Summary: I know anyone wanted to see if it's worth upgrading your Nokia N800 so I'm giving some short comparison: - Nokia has faster web loading than Archos. - Archos can play Windows WMV but not Nokia. - Nokia's YouTube playback is choppy as compared to Archos but Archos seems to freeze after playback. I've read Nokia is providing free OS update this Dec07 which may correct this issue(update: OS update worked). - Both can play web flash. - Nokia's display is vibrant as compared to Archos. - You have to pay for optionals which makes Archos so expensive. - Archos battery life is less than Nokia because of hard drive spinning. - Archos has no stylus holder as compared to Nokia. This is a big inconvenience for me. - Archos has no built-in web cam. - Both has great sound. - Archos is bulky and less appealing than Nokia. I hope these will help. Update: any optional plug-in application is not refundable. I returned my defective Archos and they won't refund what I paid for Web browser -unfair business practice.