Its all about being cost effective, portable and functional. The Archos 5IT I had for a few days when it first came out. The screen was very nice and on screen keyboard was very functional. If you do not like the keyboard that came with it, there are plenty of replacement keyboards you can install thanks to Androids community support. I think one of the biggest things you forgot to mention is the media playback capabilities of the device. Archos puts its own media center on the device and is able to play back pretty much anything you can throw at it. I mentioned I only had it for a few days, it was because the original software that came with the device was rushed. They have updated it a number of times since and it is now stable and a fan favorite. checkout http://forum.archosfans.com/ for more info or to ask questions , they have a nice support site there. I just purchased the Itouch 4g and am in love with it ATM. I still plan on getting an Android device and the Archos 43 may be my baby. For me, the portables without a phone contract is what I want. ($200 once, vs $200 then $60 for 2 years) I use VOIP for phonecalls anywhere wi-fi is available (almost everywhere I go) I also have Google voice, which gives me unlimited incoming/outgoing calls along with text messages. As long as I have wi-fi (most everywhere besides when I drive, I keep a prepaid cell for emergencies), I have a 100% contract free and dollar free cell phone Questions on how to accomplish this or comments shoot me a PM. PS I also still use my 810 nearly every day for IM and quick emails. All the above is my unbiased, nerdy, and frugal opinions.