about the keyboard:
i wouldn't buy a PDA based on that. The keyboards are pretty little, and graffiti isn't that hard to get the hang of. I don't think it should be your deciding factor. The Sony 615C is closer to 300, and it has more than enough functionality for the new/basic user...and its pretty slick looking too. I'm not too familar with the Dells though...I'll leave that up to you experts
Do you think she would want to use it as a phone too? In that case, the Treo series from Handspring is pretty awesome.
for other research, you can always check out cnet.com....