"What a tablet gains in mobility it loses in utility."
To me that sums up a Tablet. I do not get where it fits in to the degree that Apple has sold 55M of them in 2 years. Smartphone sales are through the roof, and phones are getting bigger and more capable. The only thing tablets have on smartphones are bigger screens. And phones have gsm voice capabilities whereas most tablets do not. So where exactly do tablets fit in if you own a smartphone and a laptop?
High end smartphone - does everything a Tablet does in a more mobile package but is less comfortable to use for some tasks due to smaller screen
Tablet - a "gsm voiceless" smartphone with a bigger screen but limited in function compared to a laptop
Laptop - a true computing device that is the least mobile of all but does more functions that all
So if I own a new iPhone 5 with a 4" screen and a Macbook Air, why do I need an iPad? Or I am just not with it?
I don't get them either, but I want one so badly I feel ill.
I want one because I don't call or send texts. My last call was 3 years ago and my last text was 2 years ago Mobile phone are not used for calling anymore!
nicksti said:
"What a tablet gains in mobility it loses in utility."
To me that sums up a Tablet. I do not get where it fits in to the degree that Apple has sold 55M of them in 2 years. Smartphone sales are through the roof, and phones are getting bigger and more capable. The only thing tablets have on smartphones are bigger screens. And phones have gsm voice capabilities whereas most tablets do not. So where exactly do tablets fit in if you own a smartphone and a laptop?
High end smartphone - does everything a Tablet does in a more mobile package but is less comfortable to use for some tasks due to smaller screen
Tablet - a "gsm voiceless" smartphone with a bigger screen but limited in function compared to a laptop
Laptop - a true computing device that is the least mobile of all but does more functions that all
So if I own a new iPhone 5 with a 4" screen and a Macbook Air, why do I need an iPad? Or I am just not with it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My Phone does everything I need yes, but reading books and watching films is a pain on my phone.
Laptops are too big/bulky imo, phones are too small (mainly when reading PDFs or watching films that have a massive letterbox), not to mention battery life on a tablet is far better than both
sleepingsword said:
My Phone does everything I need yes, but reading books and watching films is a pain on my phone.
Laptops are too big/bulky imo, phones are too small (mainly when reading PDFs or watching films that have a massive letterbox), not to mention battery life on a tablet is far better than both
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Totally agree with you there and why I appreciate having my Galaxy Tab 10.1. A lot of the print magazines I subscribe to went all digital and consuming these on my phone is not useful nor sitting at my desktop computer. I suppose having a light laptop like the Air would change this behavior.
One thing a tablet exceeds with is the touch screen interface which most laptops cant compete.
Anyway, my 2 cents
Apple excels at creating demand for products that a consumer never knew they desired or needed, lol. I agree with OP, I actually bought a Galaxy Tab 10.1 wifi, and after the first few weeks never picked it up again and ended up selling it. I suppose the uses for the device vary greatly among all, but for me a tablet is just too large to be lugging around to work and back. The phone, although with a smaller screen is always with me and more of a convenience than a tab ever will be.
Tablets are like netbooks, only difference netbooks had no restrictions like an iPad and you could use an decent office suite on it.
I don't get tablets either, but its more meant for using internet if you do not wish carry your notebook because its heavier.
But for me I do not mind carrying my notebook, even though it weights 2,62kg so yes its heavier then a tablet, but it also got much more power then a tablet.
My gf also said to me: You don't need an iPad you already have an notebook. Notebook plus smartphone is best combo for me, the smartphone for on the go and notebook when I can sit somewhere down like at home.
What is it that you'd like a tablet to do with regards to the "limited functionality"?
I am not taking away that there are some pros with tablets. But then there more than enough cons.
Doing simple inputs are easier on a touchscreen, simplified device. Tablet wins here. Doing more complex inputs (more intensive data entry like typing up long emails, or forums ) are better suited for laptops. Sure you can add a bluetooth keyboard but then you are adding bulk which defeats the purpose of the mobile tablet.
Maybe tablets suit people with a more outdoorsy lifestyle. Hanging out in Cafes, Parks, airports, etc. I would not be surprised that there are a few people that bought into a tablet and it is now collecting dust. I also know some people love them.
nicksti said:
"What a tablet gains in mobility it loses in utility."
To me that sums up a Tablet. I do not get where it fits in to the degree that Apple has sold 55M of them in 2 years. Smartphone sales are through the roof, and phones are getting bigger and more capable. The only thing tablets have on smartphones are bigger screens. And phones have gsm voice capabilities whereas most tablets do not. So where exactly do tablets fit in if you own a smartphone and a laptop?
High end smartphone - does everything a Tablet does in a more mobile package but is less comfortable to use for some tasks due to smaller screen
Tablet - a "gsm voiceless" smartphone with a bigger screen but limited in function compared to a laptop
Laptop - a true computing device that is the least mobile of all but does more functions that all
So if I own a new iPhone 5 with a 4" screen and a Macbook Air, why do I need an iPad? Or I am just not with it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You're obviously just not a tablet kind of person. That's fair enough. I use mine a lot, but I don't have a laptop - I have a desktop PC at home. Saying that, I'd be less inclined to take my laptop out with me than I would a tablet. It just about sits comfortably in my pocket (7" Galaxy Tab) and it keeps me entertained for hours on end with no effort at all. The battery lasts longer than a laptop, which is a plus, but of course a laptop is generally better than a tablet at most things. It just all depends on whether or not you can see a use for a tablet in your life, and you obviously can't.
Just don't get one
Won't pick one up until windows 8 arrives. If I'm blowing that much, it better function as a computer.
Archer said:
You're obviously just not a tablet kind of person. That's fair enough. I use mine a lot, but I don't have a laptop - I have a desktop PC at home. Saying that, I'd be less inclined to take my laptop out with me than I would a tablet. It just about sits comfortably in my pocket (7" Galaxy Tab) and it keeps me entertained for hours on end with no effort at all. The battery lasts longer than a laptop, which is a plus, but of course a laptop is generally better than a tablet at most things. It just all depends on whether or not you can see a use for a tablet in your life, and you obviously can't.
Just don't get one
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
But you see, your tablet is your mobile convergent device. I would take a wild guess that you have a desktop with a nice, hi-res, big screen with specs that are nicer than the average laptop. So you have a phone and a desktop without a mobile computing stopgap.
Also, I am not blind to the usefulness of a tablet. I am not suggesting it is not for anyone. 55M in sales from Apple + say 30M from all the rest combined.... I am surprised the marketspace is that big with laptops getting more portable and smartphones having such a high penetration.
Its a happy medium
Sent from my Amazon Kindle Fire using XDA
I don't like them either. It would be nice if someone would give it as a gift, but spending my own money for it won't happen. If I want mobility, I'll use my phone; If I want to do work or watch movie, I'll do it on my laptop.
In less than a month I will be buying my first tablet and I cannot ####### wait....
There are so many times a day that I need to quickly nip online to do something but it's often not worth booting up the laptop for and is a pain in the ass to do on my phone.
I don't want to have to carry a laptop to work just to be able to do a few minor things on my lunchbreak but a tab will do just fine..
It won't be an Ipad though....
Sent From My Fingers To Your Face.....
My macbook pro over heats like no tomorrow, so my transformer fits in perfect when I need to watch netflix or youtube... By the way my macbook pro isn't old it's 2011 model...
I use my iconia daily for uni. Far more portable than my laptop.
I get where you are coming from though. I know a girl with an iPad because other people said its the best lol
Sent from my Rachael using XDA App
Honestly I don't get Smartphones today. Battery is crap, they're not that smart in utmost basic features, and they can't even call. LOL
My battery works great..
I have a notebook that is pretty large (alienware M17x) and it is more than a tablet can think of being.. it takes it a matter of no more than 15-20 seconds to boot and load.. so, not bad on quick needs..
Like the Jack's films video
IPad= big iPod touch
Sent from my Supercharged R3velation v2 Infuse
I have a Razr Maxx and a Toshiba Quosmio 17" gaming laptop. I needed something in the middle. Laying down on my bed right before going to sleep my Acer Iconia A500 is perfect for checking emails or maybe even checking out some youtube. Also, i love the fact that i can just throw it in a bag and gives me 8-9 hours of usage, enough for a flight from Connecticut to California and back. And reading the occasional ebook.
Related
So, right now, I have a desktop PC and a laptop PC that I use on a regular basis. The desktop is my master system and is good for another 2 years definitely. My laptop has been aging and we're on the verge of a revolution in small PCs.
I have a Dell XPS M140 that I upgraded to 2GB RAM. It has 80GB of hard disk space, CD/DVD burner, and Windows 7. It's getting old and I wondered if everyone could chip in some advice for a replacement.
I spent like $600 on it originally, so I'd like to stick with that price or less. I use it to browse the web and watch internet videos on it while I play XBox360 or when I have people over. I use it to feed to my TV when I have a movie to watch (movie file, not a DVD). I also take it with me on any vacations in the hotel room to keep connected to the internet.
For a replacement, I'm looking for the following...
-CD/DVD drive
-video out
-at least 120GB of disk space
-ability to run Windows 7 Ultimate with Aero
-ability to have 2GB of RAM at least
-USB ports
-Wifi (of course)
-A good processor
-HARD keyboard
-multitouch screen
-$600 or less
Preferred but optional
-ethernet port
-webcam
-4 USB ports
There may not be anything out there just yet that meets all the requirements, but if anything's close, let me know.
I have a Dell XPS M140 too. Great system. I loved the battery life -- 7.5 hours when I bought it like 3 or 4 years ago. But now its old and I rarely use it.
I've migrated to a Samsung N120 netbook. The keyboard is great even though its smaller form factor. The portability is excellent. It's so comfortable to use even with the 97% sized keyboard and 10" screen that I am still able to do most of my programming on it. So it can be used every day for hours with no eye strain or me wanting to throw it cause the keyboard is awkward. I love it.
I've run Windows 7 on it and it runs great once I upgraded it to 2GB. I did go thru the Windows Services and set to manual/disable some of those that I don't need (heavy networking ones) that made it a little faster. It can run OSX too as a side benefit. You can pop in a 640GB in here for cheap if you feel comfortable taking it apart.
I know there is going to be complaints about the processor speed...its a slow Atom. For daily browsing use its not that much difference than the M140's 1.73ghz P-Mobile. I do agree that its slow on Youtube videos and having multiple flash animations on the same page. The newer generation of netbooks are faster and will probably do a better job. Also Adobe is releasing a new version of Flash very soon that they have tweaked and stating would allow the Netbook to view Youtube without the jitters.
If you already have a desktop that is powerful enough for the heavy lifting tasks (photoshopping/video editing/filesharing/etc) then if I were you I would look into a netbook for its portability and convenience. It can still photoshopping btw, just going to take a little longer with the filters and handling large image sizes. And of course it is harder on the small screen.
You can get a great netbook in the $300-350 and get an external slim DVD burner for $50. If you do a lot of traveling or working away from home like at a cafe or just like having it on your lap surfing while you are in front of the TV, a 10" netbook is the way to go.
for the touchscreen thing,
i think you should buy additional hardware such as DUO.
Hmm. Very interesting! Thanks for the feedback.
I really appreciate that another M140 user out there has spoken. I haven't found anyone with this "XPS mini"!
When I upgraded to Windows 7, I can't believe how smooth everything ran. It really sold Windows 7 for me. Yeah, my desktop was faster but, wow, it turned by old M140 into a new PC. I haven't done much programming since college and even then, I did more making Counterstrike maps on their CAD-like interface software than anything.
I was really considering netbooks and your advice fits in well. I like the idea of add-on hardware like DUO to make anything touchscreen, but I would like to be ahead of the game with my new purchase. I felt like even my M140 purchase was behind the game. My desktop was nicely fit with a quad-core masterpiece at the time. Now it's commonplace.
I think a netbook fits my needs perfectly, but maybe I'm waiting for the next wave to include multitouch netbooks. The technology is definitely there, and fortunately it shouldn't be that expensive. I was waiting for someone to post the latest Eee multitouch PC, but I know that the processor is child's play.
I guess I see myself owning 3 systems...
Desktop PC - currently fulfilled need
Multitouch PC - for portability and ahead of the game portacomputing
Slate Phone - I know there's phones and then there's slates, but I won't be buying a replacement for my Rhodium until a nice slate phone arrives (with slide out hard keyboard, of course)
These 3 systems will practically make me have a mess in my pants. We're on the verge of #2, but I know I might have to wait 2 years for a good #3.
I'm staying away from virtual keyboards forever. I know how they are and I know what they can do, but I cannot accept 30 wpm slower. Unacceptable.
Great advice guys, and I really do appreciate your input. Tablet PCs are going to erupt soon, to prove that the iPad is garbage. And I just can't wait for the results. I dream of a day when I can just pop out my multitouch netbook in the comfy Hyatt hotel bed and respond to the next great XDA post.
I actually was looking tonight and there really isn't anything out there right now. I really hope this market picks up. The closest thing is the newest Eee PC, with a processor at 1.66 MHz. My M140 is at 1.73, so I can't go lower. Let's hope for a nice push in products...
Dell should hit this up. The only Multitouch tablet they offer is over $2k!!!!
I bought a LOADED HP tx2000z two years ago because I thought that I'd actually use the touchscreen/wacom digitizer. Boy was I wrong. 2000 bucks later, I honestly wish I would have bought a macbook pro over this POS.
Using a mouse or keyboard still is faster. Windows is not designed well for using a touch screen. Plus, that tiny swivel point where the screen connects to the rest of the computer isn't quite as strong as I had once thought, and all the wiring inside of it, over time, starts to get shorts in it. My sound crackles as I swivel the screen. Also, HP doesn't have the best of build quality in general. However, the digitizer does do an excellent job of speeding things up in photoshop.
My advise: Stay away from laptops with touch screens. Unless you spend the majority of your time in photoshop, it won't be worth it.
got the earlier tx1270 little brother of tx2000z
it get too hot to use in tablet mode and it's too fat and it makes too much noise
speedfan say the gpu is 89c in idle
the heat caused the wifi to stop working
but it was good for reading eComics on if I could stand the heat
I'm not put off tablets yet though
what laptop to get is really down to what one use it for
if it's surfing in the sofa netbooks are great and got long batt
but some people like to game on their laptops in which case they end up having to pay
a lot
got 2 dell work laptops both ugly and plastic'ish but better quality then crappy hp
and got a acer very underpowered one but manage with xubuntu
gf got a new macbook pro cost an arm and leg and kidney but the build quality is pretty good
osx remind me of linux really in a closed platform version though
if I were looking to get a laptop now I would look at tablets without combi keyboard option like the hp got
otherwise I would look at asus eebooks or whatever they are called
Hmm, good points. I guess my consideration for getting something with multitouch is basically to make sure that I'm consistent with the market. If that's what people are buying, I want to have my copy, just in case software erupts for it.
But I'm surprised at the story about the shoddy HP hardware.
I could, however, see how I can use a touchscreen with Windows 7. I won't touch Apple products because they don't suit my needs, but I guess that's why I won't spend $2k on a tablet PC. It sounds like it's just not worth that much.
Rudegar said:
got the earlier tx1270 little brother of tx2000z
it get too hot to use in tablet mode and it's too fat and it makes too much noise
speedfan say the gpu is 89c in idle
the heat caused the wifi to stop working
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've had the SAME exact problems with my tx1219. Too loud, too hot, wifi stops working, and also the touchscreen is horrible.
I've only worked with the tx2000 for 10 minutes, so I can't comment on the problems, but the the touchscreen was really good on it.
yeah tx2000 and up have vacom active digtizer and some got capative with dual touch
but I don't trust their quality so even if they look good on papir I don't want to pay that much with such a high risk of being ripped off
With so many tablets coming out over the next few months, it seems to be a task just to find out which is the best value. We have some dual-cores, which are about 2X as much as the Archos 101 tablet; Google employees stating that Android's current state is not meant for the tablet form-factor; Android 3.0 (Gingerbread) on the horizon, which should be optimized for tablet-use.
The ones that I know about (and I'm sure I'm missing some)
Samsung Galaxy Tab
Archos 101
Archos 71
eLocity
Folio
So with all that said, for those of you planning on buying an Android tablet, which are you going to get? Are you going to be looking for one thing in particular (i.e. dual-core, or the first Gingerbread tablet), or are you just going to get the first one out?
I'm a little torn right now. With Google TV coming out soon (expected within one month), I honestly don't know if I can find the money for all of these gadgets, including getting the first dual-core 3.0 phone. I'm in need of other peoples' opinions.
Yesterday I was 100% certain I was going to get a Galaxy Tab. I woke up this morning and my RSS feeds are telling me it won't have voice capabilities, so now there is a 0% chance I will be picking one up. Even with the 4 carrier blitz, I suspect the Galaxy Tab will be a flop, but who knows..
I'll probably just get a Windows Phone 7 phone and wait for HTC's Q1 2011 tablet. Hopefully there will be native VOIP in Android by that time and I can get a Wi-Fi only tab off-contract for less than $300. I think the 7" form factor is the way to go too.
A part of me hopes WP7 flops just so I'm not tempted to get one. We'll find out soon.
I'm also with you that 7" seems to be the way to go. I'd still like to do a side-by-side comparison with a 10" though.
Tired of waiting.
When I heard Google saying that Froyo wasn't for tablets I realized I'd be waiting a while for an Android based tablet. Or I'd be looking at a Chrome OS tablet and I said screw it and bought an iPad.
Ipad is a little too large, and Tab is a little too small. I want something 9x6, just like a steno pad. I also wouldn't mind Chrome instead of Android as the operating system.
PS: Video chat and VOIP over wifi only? WTF is Samsung thinking? Why would Android owners buy a 3G model when our phones are freakin' hotspots?
Notionink Adam
Since the launch of iPad, sometimes I stop and think - why the hell would anyone need a tablet, and what exactly is this oversized phone good for?
Its functionality is lacking severely when compared to any normal laptop, but these things still require a bag to carry them around, because of their size. And if I want some productivity and have to carry a bag anyway - I'll most definitely be taking my laptop with me. For anything else, I have my phone that doesn't require a bag. So what's good in them? What can you do with one? Surf the web and watch videos? That's all?
Jack_R1 said:
Since the launch of iPad, sometimes I stop and think - why the hell would anyone need a tablet, and what exactly is this oversized phone good for?
Its functionality is lacking severely when compared to any normal laptop, but these things still require a bag to carry them around, because of their size. And if I want some productivity and have to carry a bag anyway - I'll most definitely be taking my laptop with me. For anything else, I have my phone that doesn't require a bag. So what's good in them? What can you do with one? Surf the web and watch videos? That's all?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
With my Nexus, I would say I use it 5% of the time as a phone (SMS, calls), the other 95% of the time is spent surfing the web, playing games, and watching videos. I feel like I am an ideal candidate for a person who would find a tablet extremely useful. It's not about productivity for me, and when it is I go straight to my laptop. For me it's about the leisure time, killing time, comfortably -- and not having to squint when reading webpages.
I think a tablet would be simply my home go-to device. If I'm the type of person who would rather surf the web on my phone vs. my 17", 5 lb laptop (due to size, weight, convenience), then I'm definitely the type of person who would prefer a 7-10" tablet over my 3.7" phone.
bigmout said:
Ipad is a little too large, and Tab is a little too small. I want something 9x6, just like a steno pad. I also wouldn't mind Chrome instead of Android as the operating system.
PS: Video chat and VOIP over wifi only? WTF is Samsung thinking? Why would Android owners buy a 3G model when our phones are freakin' hotspots?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I bought a wifi iPad because of my N1! I agree 9x6 would be nice. But, games on a bigger screen and books is what did it for me.
I think Google should pick ONE manufacture and create devices like they did with the n1. Android is getting to be a little to all over the place, especially now that tablets are becoming something the general public wants. If Google wants Android or Chrome on tabs, they need to figure it out now.
I love Google products but I also would rather spend my money on something I know will work great and look great. I would like to see my Android apps on a bigger screen, but not if they look like crap.
I'm looking at the Archos 101, as long as I can fenagle the Android market onto it.
Jack_R1 said:
Since the launch of iPad, sometimes I stop and think - why the hell would anyone need a tablet, and what exactly is this oversized phone good for?
Its functionality is lacking severely when compared to any normal laptop, but these things still require a bag to carry them around, because of their size. And if I want some productivity and have to carry a bag anyway - I'll most definitely be taking my laptop with me. For anything else, I have my phone that doesn't require a bag. So what's good in them? What can you do with one? Surf the web and watch videos? That's all?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'll have it on a dock in my living room....it will serve as a toy for my 3-year-old daughter (she loves my n1...even more than my mom's iphone! xD), laptop "replacement", as well as my universal remote once I get my Google TV set-top box.
So, a few people on another forum i'm on were asking about what tablet they should buy, since i'm that place's go-to geek i posted this there, tell me what you think. Before you judge, these are mostly tech noobs, who recognize that androidis better than iPad. so this is really dumbed down
[size=20pt]Top 5 Tablets[/size]
by mtmerrick
If you're considering an android tablet, you very well may be pretty confused by all the options out there. just as with a windows PC (though less so at the moment) there are so many options an uninformed customer will very often overpay for an inferior product. Here are what I consider the top 5 tablets, and the pros and cons of each. These are not numbered by rank – every one of these is best in its own class.
1) [size=15pt]Archos 101 G9[/size] – best general purpose tablet, best for storage
The new version of the Archos 101 is a very nice tablet, despite some people's thoughts. It has a the best processor of all the tablets on this list, and a very unique feature – the option for a 8GB+250GB hybrid drive, for people who's needs exceed (or can't afford) a 64GB SSD, this is a great option. The Archos is also one of the cheaper tablets available that run Honeycomb, the version of android that gives the best tablet experience. It also has customized (and improved) music and video apps, and a hidden cover on the back that can be slid off to reveal a full sized USB port. Archos sells a USB dongle that can provide cellular internet to the tablet, that fits perfectly in the slot.
Cons? Archos' USB 3g stick only works in Europe, there's no rear camera, and the screen doesn’t have the best viewing angles. Also, the version with the 250GB hard drive is a little fat.
2) [size=15pt]Toshiba Thrive[/size] – best media tablet, best for existing PC infrastructure
The Toshiba thrive is a beast of a tablet. Its most notable features are its full sized USB, HDMI, and SD ports. The USB port can accept nearly anything you plug into it, even some printers, thanks to drivers loaded by Toshiba. You plug anything into this and it'll work, at least partially. Toshiba also included several extremely useful apps, including one of the best file managers I’ve ever seen. The screen is crisp, and the cameras are surprisingly good quality for a tablet. There are even some usb-to-ethernet adapters that i've heard have worked with the Thrive, making this a good tablet for businesses or people without wifi.
Cons? This thing's a brick. Its one of, if not the thickest and heaviest android tablet ever made, and it only has 5 hours of battery life. It also has a 1 inch+ bezel, making it taller and wider than any other tablet. If you skip the OS updates, you may encounter some software bugs.
3) [size=15pt]Samsung Galaxy 10.1[/size] – lightest tablet, best for 3g/4g
The Galaxy 10.1's best selling point, and the first thing you'll notice about it, is how thin it is – its less than 1/3 the thickness of the Toshiba Thrive, while still feeling sturdy. Its also the best -for some carriers only- tablet if you need cellular data access. The screen is beautiful, and samgsung has added a wonderful feature I wish the android OS would adopt – mini apps. You can launch a small pop up window of any of a selection of very helpful apps, such as a calculator, that only take up a small portion of the screen. You can also move them around.
Cons? There's really only one – there are no ports. There is only the headphone/microphone jack and Samsung’s dock connector. This means if you want a USB port, you have to buy an adapter from Samsung. HDMI? Adapter. SD? Adapter. Expandable storage? Forget it. This is a deal breaker for a lot of people.
4) [size=15pt]Sony Tablet S[/size] – most portable, best for gaming
The first thing many people think when they see the Tablet S is “what the heck is this thing?”, and for good reason. It has a bizarre folded-back-magizine shape. However, this is surprisingly ergonomic. Still, its a love it or hate it thing. Don't judge till you can get a hands on. The tablet is very light, and if it seems smaller than the other tablets, it is. The tablet has a 9.4 inch screen, but retains the same resolution of its 10.1 inch competitors, making for a great HD display. It also has full access to the PlayStation store, meaning you can play a huge amount of PS1/PS2/PSP games on it. If you're familiar with the Xperia Play, this is the same thing, just on a bigger screen. You can also wirelessly connect a PS3 controller if you desire. While shaving .6 inches of the screen may not seem like much, it makes it just smaller enough that it feels infinitely more portable than a 10.1 inch tablet.
Cons? The Sony brand name may scare some buyers off, as will the very atypical form factor. Since this is not a 10.1 inch screen, some rare apps may not show up in “tablet mode”. Its also a little bit pricey, being a Sony product. Also, the name sucks =P
5) [size=15pt]Asus Eee Pad Transformer[/size] – best battery
I contemplated making this a “top 4” list and leaving this one off. This tablet is very middle of the road. Standard in most every way, lacking in a couple others. It does have one of the best developing communities for a tablet, but its one major selling point is an accessory it has, that nothing else can match. It has a laptop dock, which, when clicked into place, makes the transformer into a netbook with a nineteen hour battery. 19 hours. Wow. Also, the Transformer Prime (its successor, feel free to laugh at the name)) is coming soon, so it is (or will be) on sale a lot of places very soon.
Cons? Nothing special about this tablet at all unless you hack it, doesn’t even have a USB port. If you don't need a 19 hour!!! battery, get one of the other four.
-----
Now, there are more tablets, including the Xoom 2 and the recently mentioned Transformer Prime, that will undoubtedly hold a great position on this list once they come out. There are also other tablets, such as the Acer a100, which if you find for a good price can give you a wonderful deal for your money. Don't take this list at the only tablets to get, think of these as the pack leaders. Compare any tablet you buy against these, see if it holds up. There's a pretty decent chance it won't.
[size=8pt](Note- This list only includes 10ish inch tablets. I will rank “half size” 7 inch tablets sepratly, as I consider them a completely different product.)[/size]
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
yeah, i know the coding isn't compatible. i'l fix it tomorrow. I'm tired
7" tab recommendations. also comment on this please. good noob advice?
[size=20pt]Top 7” Tablets[/size]
by mtmerrick
7 inch tablets are an interesting breed of device. Smaller than what many call a “real” tablet, but bigger than a phone, 7 Inch tablets are not for everyone. They are almost always cheaper than 10 inch tablets, but &' is also the screen size of choice of worthless pieces of Chinese junk that happen to be running android. You have to know what you're buying, or you'll get taken advantage of. Here's my list (in no particular order) of the top 7” tablets, In my opinion.
1) [size=15pt]Acer a100[/size] – best general purpose tablet
The Acer a100 is one of my favorite 7” tab, and one of the most powerful on this list.. It has a great screen, GPS (fairly rare for a 7”) and runs 3.2 Honeycomb, which means your experience is going to be very good. Decent cameras, guaranteed updates. All around, one of the best out there.
2) [size=15pt]HTC Flyer[/size] – best stylus input
The HTC Flyer looks unlike any other android tablet because of HTC's sense UI. This means you'll have a much better tablet experience even though it only has Android 2.3 as the OS. For a separate purchase, you can have a stylus that enables many really nice features. Handwriting support si good, if you need a note taking tablet, go for this.
3) [size=15pt]Lenovo A1[/size] – best import
The lenovo A1 has yet to be released in the US, but that doesn’t mean you can't get it online. This tablet runs an almost raw version of 2.3, which means it feels more like a big cell phone, but it has all the good stuff, including GPS and front cameras. Not very powerful, but its cheap.
4) [size=15pt]Nook Color[/size] – best hack, cheapest US tablet
I know what you're thinking, Nook? That's an ereader!. And you're right. But with a simple hack, it becomes a wonderful little tablet. Hacking? No, not as hard as you think. Its as simple as loading a ZIP onto the SD card and rebooting, and boom, you have a great 2.3 tablet. The hack will be upgraded to 4.0 eventually, so this is a device that will last a long time. It not the most powerful, and it lacks cameras, but you have more customization options and control over this tab than any other tablet on my list.
5) [size=15pt]Archos 80 G9] – biggest, strongest
I know this is about 7” tablets, but I thought I’d throw this in anyways. The Archos 80 G9 is, as it sounds, an 8” tablet, a very rare thing by itself. This tablet runs 3.2 Honeycomb, and has all the amenities of the Acer a100, also including the option for a 250 gig hard drive, if you need a ton of storage space (eg, lots of movies). It also has really good music and movie apps.
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Of all of these, I’d recommend the acer and the archos first, if for nothing else than because of the fact they run 3.2; this makes all the difference in the world. But you can still get a great experience form any of these (and more) 7 inch tablets. Just make sure you know what you're buying. and check against 10" tablets, to make sure the screen size is right for you.
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Transformer's dock DOES have USB port.
yes, but not the transformer itself.
I'm starting college next year, and I need a laptop! I better one than my current laptop anyways... I currently have an Acer Aspire S7 391 - purchased it used, and it just has too many cons that just don't make it worth the $600 I paid for it.
It gets too hot for Lap use, battery life is about 2-3 hours, the fan gets crazy loud... too loud for my high school classes, and the trackpad is jumpy, slow, and just.. terrible.
So I need a new laptop! Here are some things I would like to mention that may help tell you what I'm looking for.
1. Good Battery Life. A minimum of 6 hours.
2. Atleast a 1080p display. (Prefer touchscreen)
3. 13 inches minimum display size.
4. Slim, and powerful for it's size. I don't need to be editing videos or playing games, but being able to do some tasks that require a little more power would be nice!
5. The fan, if there is one, simply can't be loud. I don't know why this bothers me so much, it's fine if it's my desktop, but for a laptop, ugh..
I'll also be bringing my desktop to school, this Laptop will mostly be for taking notes, and being able to do all of my school "stuff" on a portable device, so I can work... anywhere!
Your suggestion doesn't need to match any of the specifications I mentioned, I'll certainly take a look at anything recommended!
Thank you so much!
(In-case it makes any kind of difference, I'm going into Business at an above average university, 30,000 students total)
I forgot to include a budget! haha! I'm willing to look into used versions of the laptops recommended as well, to possibly save a hundred bucks or so, I would say mu budget is just around $1,000. (Possibly being able to find it used for maybe $800 if any are available used).
Dell Inspiron 13 may be a fit for you.. If not the Surface Pro 3 was OK
I reckon surface pro, but if your looking for a bargain, look at some of the sub $200 Windows 8.1 tablets. Ad some accessories such as a keyboard, mouse and battery pack, and you could have a decent laptop replacement for under $300.
I would even suggest something such as the cube iwork7 dual boot tablet (android and windows 8.1) for ~$125USD from geekbuying
http://www.geekbuying.com/item/Cube...GB-32GB-HDMI-IPS-BT---White-Black-341909.html
This is all you really need for school imo, and after adding accessories such as a Bluetooth keyboard and mouse, battery pack and usb hub, you could have a moderately powered computer for about $200.
I seriously considered doing this myself, but the school gave us Lenovo ThinkPad yogas (current model), which is also a good option.
Ive been wondering about this also. Im about to start my computer science degree this year.
Look into Asus. By far the best in terms of hardware and build.
I'm particularly fond of the N range, though those might be a bit too powerful for regular use. (still, €1299 for a laptop(N76VB) that can run Dragon Age Inquisition on Ultra at 58FPS is well worth the money to me.)
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Before you continue reading, I would like to mention I work well with both Windows and Mac OS, one is not better or worse to me, I'm familiar with both operating systems.
I'm starting College next year, and I'll need a Laptop! I'm shortened my list of possible options to now two main competitors in my opinion, the Surface Pro 3, and the Macbook Pro.
The prices of the Model I am deciding between:
Surface Pro 3: $999 - i5 128GB (Additional $130 for Keyboard, $1129 total)
MacBook Pro: $1299 - i5, 128GB (2015 Model JUST announced)
In YOUR opinion, which would you choose if you could pick between either, and why? I understand this is a personal option, and there are many factors to consider, but I'm looking for other's opinions and their reasoning why
Surface. Tablet/pc, touch screen is really handy, all Windows programs, Linux if wanted, Windows 10 and more.
Source: Have some Lenovo ThinkPad yoga laptop for school, with Windows 8.1.
You know, there are many other options you can choose from, which are better for even a better price
Personally, if I HAD to take one of the two, I would take the Surface
The major question is: 'what do you need it for?'
Closely followed by 'Why a Macbook?'
Is it going to be used for mainly browsing and documents or coding? Then the Surface if a good idea. It's versatile.
Graphic design? Whatever anyone says, a uniform Mac is very much NOT a good choice for a designer who's supposed to be unique and creative. Every Mac is identical as customisation is nearly impossible. (As a Windows using designer I hate those hipsters.. Half of Uni was filled with them.) Get a proper laptop. I did Multimedia Design and my Asus ran laps around even the most expensive Macbook. For half the price. And I could game on it, too.
3D/Video/Gamedesign? You need something heavy duty. A Macbook isn't powerful enough.
Do you also intend to use it for home/on the go use for normal everyday things? The Surface will do.
If you're looking for an Android alternative to the Surface, there's also the NotePro.
Quite frankly a Macbook is a severely overpriced product with mediocre specs. I truly do not see the point of a Macbook. (I've worked with them, it's not ignorance.)
You're on XDA, so obviously you know your way around technology, rendering the major selling point (easy to use for the technologically handicapped) redundant.
You're much better off getting a Windows laptop/Ultrabook or the Surface.
Hell, you could get both for the price of a Macbook with good specs.
Sent From My Samsung Galaxy Note 3 N9005 Using Tapatalk
ShadowLea said:
The major question is: 'what do you need it for?'
Closely followed by 'Why a Macbook?'
Is it going to be used for mainly browsing and documents or coding? Then the Surface if a good idea. It's versatile.
Graphic design? Whatever anyone says, a uniform Mac is very much NOT a good choice for a designer who's supposed to be unique and creative. Every Mac is identical as customisation is nearly impossible. (As a Windows using designer I hate those hipsters.. Half of Uni was filled with them.) Get a proper laptop. I did Multimedia Design and my Asus ran laps around even the most expensive Macbook. For half the price. And I could game on it, too.
3D/Video/Gamedesign? You need something heavy duty. A Macbook isn't powerful enough.
Do you also intend to use it for home/on the go use for normal everyday things? The Surface will do.
If you're looking for an Android alternative to the Surface, there's also the NotePro.
Quite frankly a Macbook is a severely overpriced product with mediocre specs. I truly do not see the point of a Macbook. (I've worked with them, it's not ignorance.)
You're on XDA, so obviously you know your way around technology, rendering the major selling point (easy to use for the technologically handicapped) redundant.
You're much better off getting a Windows laptop/Ultrabook or the Surface.
Hell, you could get both for the price of a Macbook with good specs.
Sent From My Samsung Galaxy Note 3 N9005 Using Tapatalk
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Really appreciate you taking the time to respond!
At this point, I'm no longer considering a Macbook. The reason I even considered a Macbook was simply because of their reliability, design, and influence by the specific University I'm going to, the school is flooded with Apple devices because Steve Wozniak was once a student there (he's donated an insane amount of apple products to the school).
Sure other devices are sleep and reliable, in my opinion, Macs are just the overpriced versions.
At this point, I've eliminated any Apple product.
Now.. I do realize there has to be a million other Laptops better than the Surface, in the same price range, but there are a lot of factors I'm trying to consider
1. The design matters to me. As silly as it may sound to others, I'm willing to sacrifice power for something "sexy". (Not TOO much though!)
2. It needs to be reliable.
3. It needs to be portable.
4. Decent-Good Battery Life
5. 1080p screen resolution minimum.
6. Prefer a touchscreen for the price I'm willing to pay.
Being able to do some form a gaming or video editing, etc, would be nice, but it's not a MUST-HAVE. I wouldn't want a fat, 3-4 lb laptop with fat round edges, just so I can play games d:
The surface is appealing to me because it can do what I need it to do, it's thin, sleek, sexy, and reliable (with reliable support as-well if I need it).
If you can think of something better that may be appealing to me, PLEASE let me know a device name or include a link, because I certainly will look into it!
Lenovo ThinkPad yoga (whatever the latest number is). have one for school, touchscreen, powerful enough to play games like need for speed carbon (haven't tried PhotoShop), and my favourite part, the keyboard folds behind the screen rather than detaching, so you don't have to ditch it anywhere when using tablet style. Thin, and Imo beautiful, as well as powerful.
If for some reason you want to use android on it (no idea why, but shadowlea posted it) try amiduos(.com)
2PMintheAM said:
Really appreciate you taking the time to respond!
At this point, I'm no longer considering a Macbook. The reason I even considered a Macbook was simply because of their reliability, design, and influence by the specific University I'm going to, the school is flooded with Apple devices because Steve Wozniak was once a student there (he's donated an insane amount of apple products to the school).
Sure other devices are sleep and reliable, in my opinion, Macs are just the overpriced versions.
At this point, I've eliminated any Apple product.
Now.. I do realize there has to be a million other Laptops better than the Surface, in the same price range, but there are a lot of factors I'm trying to consider
1. The design matters to me. As silly as it may sound to others, I'm willing to sacrifice power for something "sexy". (Not TOO much though!)
2. It needs to be reliable.
3. It needs to be portable.
4. Decent-Good Battery Life
5. 1080p screen resolution minimum.
6. Prefer a touchscreen for the price I'm willing to pay.
Being able to do some form a gaming or video editing, etc, would be nice, but it's not a MUST-HAVE. I wouldn't want a fat, 3-4 lb laptop with fat round edges, just so I can play games d:
The surface is appealing to me because it can do what I need it to do, it's thin, sleek, sexy, and reliable (with reliable support as-well if I need it).
If you can think of something better that may be appealing to me, PLEASE let me know a device name or include a link, because I certainly will look into it!
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I'm an avid Asus user so this'll be quite a bit biased, but..
The Asus Zenbook NX500 is a powerhouse with a very beautiful exterior. (It looks a bit like a macbook). 15.6" 1080p Touchscreen, i7 4712HQ, GTX850M 2GB GDDR5, 16 GB RAM. This could handle both regular use and heavyuse.
An equally pretty one to look at is the ASUS ZENBOOK UX301LA. i7 4558U 2.8 GHz ~ 3.3 GHz. 13.3" Touchscreen Corning Gorilla Glass 3 16:9 WQHD (2560x1440)/Full HD. IntelHD 400/5500 (not exactly optimal for graphic use, but then the Macbook uses an IntelHD 4000 too).
Both are Ultrabooks, so they can't be detached.
The only real option in the tablet range is indeed the Surface. Everything else runs on Android or iOS, which whilst great, is a bit limiting.
Please ask in our dedicated **Desktops and Laptops Thread**.