I'm trying to figure out what portable device to buy to provide in-
flight weather, as well as terrain info. Electronic approach plates
and enroute charts, as well as flight planning capability, would also
be a plus, but not essential. I fly a Cessna 172 that is already
equipped with a Garmin 430. I have read about both the Garmin 396 and
496, and I borrowed the 496 to use for a couple of flights. I have
also checked out several EFB-type systems online, such as through
Anywhere Map, Voyager, and Chart Case, which can be used on a laptop
or tablet, or in some cases, a smartphone.

I would be interested to know if anyone has had good luck with either
a laptop or smartphone medium, and what software package was used.
Also, I know how the 396 and 496 differ, but would like to know if you
think the 496 is worth the extra $600. I should also mention that I
like the "6-pack" panel page on the Garmins as a potential backup in
the event of vacuum pump or electrical failure, and wonder how much
difference the faster refresh rate on the 496 makes for this page. I
guess I am leaning toward a Garmin at this point, but would first like
to hear some other comments on these issues.

Thanks in advance.
Kelly