The Samsung Q1 UMPC US pricing was announced today. I called CDW and they are currently taking preorders for early June at a pricepoint of $1086.99 for the 900Mhz Celeron / 512MB RAM / 40GB, 4200 RPM Hard Drive. PC Mag has a review. Samsung’s site has more info on specs.

The TabletKiosk eo is $1000 for the 1Ghz Via / 512MB Ram / 40GB HD configuration (AllTP and TabletKiosk).

Based on what I know, the eo is the better choice for me, ignoring price.

• I’ve heard that the eo screen is sharper than the Samsung Q1 screen.
• The eo is a little faster (its CPU is faster AND its 5400 rpm hard drive should be zippier than the 4200 rpm version on the Q1).
• The eo has a touchpoint mouse (like the one you see on a ThinkPad) built in, where as the Samsung has an 8 way (not analog) joystick. The touchpoint is a much better fit with my lifestyle, although I don’t expect to use it much.
• The eo has a docking port. When a cradle is available, I expect to attach a few USB devices and a monitor. Then, I’ll just drop the UMPC into the cradle when I get home. Samsung chose to put the ethernet jack and the VGA port directly on the Q1, which means more cables to connect if you are always ‘docking’ at the same place.

So, I’m happy with my eo decision. Others, though, might opt for the built in CF slot, VGA port and ethernet jack on the Q1. It’s great to have choices!

More at GottaBeMobile (“[lack of a keyboard].. is in fact its strength”), OrigamiPortal , JupiterResearch (Michael Gartenberg has an eo and a Q1), Life on the Wicked Stage (“it sounds like the [PC Mag] reviewer doesn’t really get the concept”), Incremental Blogger.