The Neo has a tiny LCD monochrome screen and can pretty much only do word processing.
That means no web browsing, email, Netflix, etc.
Its clunky and ugly with a dark green plastic case.
Alphasmart
But Ive found the Neo to be an invaluable, distraction-free gadget that makes me more productive.
Its got incredible features that no ordinary laptop can match.
Do you claim your fancy Samsung laptop has 12 hours of battery life?
Sascha Brodsky / Lifewire
The Neo can run for weeks or months on a single set of disposable batteries.
The Neos terrible screen can actually be an advantage because its great for focusing.
Surprisingly for such an inexpensive machine, the Neo has the best keyboard Ive ever used.
My fingers speed along practically by themselves.
The Neos terrible screen can actually be an advantage because its great for focusing.
Lets be clear; the Neo is more of a portable keyboard with just the barest amount of memory.
For that purpose, the memory on the Neo is more than adequate.
Again, Alphasmart came up with a brilliantly simple solution.
The Neo types it into the connected computer all by itself.
Alphasmart released several other word processors, all of which are commonly available on eBay.
The Danas downside is that the screen and battery life arent nearly as good as the Neo.
There arent many competitors to the Alphasmart devices.
The Traveler boasts a rechargeable battery with a claimed four weeks of battery life.
Theres also the Japan-only Pomera DM200, which you canbuy on Amazonfrom an exporter for under $400.
The DM200 is an intriguing-looking gadget that resembles a paperback book when folded up.
Keep in mind that the DM200 lacks a US warranty, and its menus are in Japanese.
The Pomera and Freewrite are tempting options, but Ill be sticking with my Neo.
It does everything it needs to do and nothing else.
