Bento has always been an impressive piece of software for Mac users. Its status as the king of personal database management is only surpassed by its more robust forbearer, FileMaker Pro.
With apps for Mac, iPhone and iPad it offers one of the best cross-platform data management solutions for those who work within Apple’s ecosystem.
Bento recently refurbished its lineup by launching Bento 4 for the Mac and updating its apps for iPhone and iPad. For casual users who only manage small amounts of data Bento will probably be software overkill. Yet for those who want a substantive solution for managing tasks, contacts, recipes and databases there is no better option.
Bento for iPad
This is the newest mobile version of Bento, which now completes the Apple trifecta. Much of the functionality available in the Mac and iPhone versions can be found here, which may allow some users to ditch a laptop when desired and simply go with an iPad for tracking Bento information.
Scrolling through the address book takes a little bit getting used to. Swipe each page to move to a different letter in the alphabet – scroll down to see all the entries under that letter.
Bento for iPhone
First released in mid-2009, Bento for iPhone was the first mobile version of the database management software. It is the perfect compliment to heavy Bento users, as it allows you to access and interact with your data when away from your Mac.
Its most compelling feature is synchronization, which is very easy to set up. Make sure your Mac and iPhone are connected via a WiFi network, enter a four-digit password generated from the iPhone app and your data magically appears.
Bento for iPhone is strong enough to stand on its own, but for maximum value pair it with a Mac and iPad if you have those devices.
- $9.99
- Category: Productivity
- Updated: Apr 01, 2013
- Version: 4.0.2
- Size: 49.0 MB
- Languages: English, Dutch, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Simplified Chinese, Spanish
- Seller: FileMaker, Inc.
Requirements: Compatible with iPad. Requires iOS 5.0 or later.