I'm looking for an on-the-cheap 9.7 - 10.1 tablet. I was looking at a variety of options, like the Le Pan II, but I've seen a couple Touchpad's floating around $100-$150, so this is certainly a viable option.
But do you guys think this is still a good buy?
Yes! I've updated to jellybean and it's running great, as snappy as my girlfriends nexus 7
Sent from my cm_tenderloin using Tapatalk 2
tjw345 said:
I'm looking for an on-the-cheap 9.7 - 10.1 tablet. I was looking at a variety of options, like the Le Pan II, but I've seen a couple Touchpad's floating around $100-$150, so this is certainly a viable option.
But do you guys think this is still a good buy?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I use phonearena.com to compare specs when I'm shopping for stuff like this... it isn't the end all be all, but it gives you a general idea.
I personally think a Touchpad for 100ish is still a great bargain.
It really depends on your use case. The TP is great, and for someone who is used to Android it's wonderful. A week ago I would have recommended it without hesitation. But I helped a friend who is MUCH more tech-savvy than myself install Android on a TP yesterday. I realized that just maintaining the thing is significantly more complicated than I, someone who has gotten used to TP Android's little quirks like it's second nature, realize.
TLDR; if you like tweaking and such, the TP is great; if you want it to just work, get something meant for Android.
Orphaned TP's a good deal?
bananagranola said:
It really depends on your use case. The TP is great, and for someone who is used to Android it's wonderful. A week ago I would have recommended it without hesitation. But I helped a friend who is MUCH more tech-savvy than myself install Android on a TP yesterday. I realized that just maintaining the thing is significantly more complicated than I, someone who has gotten used to TP Android's little quirks like it's second nature, realize.
TLDR; if you like tweaking and such, the TP is great; if you want it to just work, get something meant for Android.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What other year and a half old 10 inch tablet is still selling for its original, (discounted), price? What other ... is still being updated to the latest and greatest Android? There must be something to these orphaned tablets besides a perverse sense of humour in the geek community. PS - my family has three. I would recomend the 32GB models and check for no cracks in the plastic around the speakers. Craigs List is your friend.
At $100 even at $150 its a great buy. Given the ugly 100 tablets that off brand companies are releasing. I think hardware wise the touch pad is better than the Kindle fire. Some one correct me on that if I'm wrong.
Posted from my Verizon Employee Edition DROID DNA #01749.
Bought mine for $150 with 2 cases, charger, fancy wireless charger and sweet Pelican case for $150 and I am happy. Would I be more happy with a rear 5-8 megapixel camera, SIM card slot and GPS? Sure. But my phone works just as well for that.
I spent $75 for mine(because of a bad charger), picked up the charger, case and TouchStone for a extra $50, and have JB running. It runs fantastic! Only issues I don't care for, No ext SD, GPS and the DPI for the TP is a bit low, so the display is not as good as some of the newer devices. But for the money, you cant get better(IMO)
I have one with the latest CM9 release directly from CM. It runs perfectly. Video is blazing fast and looks great (e.g. Youtube app). The low priced tablets out there are garbage. This is fast, runs CM perfectly, and is a bargain. I think the screen looks better than my Nexus 7.
I've got two, a 16GB with Jellybean I've been using for over a year and a new 32GB still with plastic one, good little tablets.
Yes! I'm so tempted to purchase another from Craigslist. Its so cheap!
[Nik's $3, Odexed Blue 2.0, XDA Premium]
I miss my tp. Got it new for 150 enjoyed it till this summer and sold it for 200$ had ics on it at the time.. Ran supper smoothly.. Found it very easy to upgrade..
Sent from my SGH-I747M using Tapatalk 2
I think the touchpad is still a very good option. Big screen, cheap, and the hardware isn't so out of date yet. I'll probably be using mine for many years to come. Did I mention cheap?
sent from a secret underground bunker
I was lucky to buy mine during the original $99 firesale. And I was pretty happy with it when it was webOS only (only gripe was the lack of apps) especially back when they offered free apps in their monthly newsletter emailed out. And I have been even happier with it having gone through the transition through different Android ROMs (initially the CM9 nightlies, then RandonROM Falcon 1.2, then SGA's Fat 'n Creamy CM9 and now OaT's Light 'n Tasty Jelly Bean) that have been stable, fast, and added the extensive Android app market. Dual-booting between webOS and Android added unique capabilities that even iPad users didn't ave, and finally with the latest CM9 and new CM10 ROMs the working cameras completed the Android experience on TouchPads.
That all said... I don't know if I would always recommend going the TouchPad route to others. I'd only recommend it with a caveat... that you are somewhat comfortable working on computers and able to follow directions, at the risk of bricking your investment. I am not the most technically savvy person, but I am somewhat comfortable with computers and I do have the ability to follow directions and stay calm when something out of the ordinary happens. And... I am very comfortable asking questions and asking for help. I have rooted my cellphone as well (invoking a bit more risk... since if I brick the tablet I am out $100, the phone costs more to replace plus I lose cellphone access for a while). In fact, some times I actually enjoy the process (uh oh... am I becoming a "flashaholic?" :laugh: ).
If you aren't (comfortable with computers, able to follow directions, willing to ask questions and get help)... I'd suggest spending a bit more (eg $200) and getting the Nexus7, or a sale on a current name brand Android tablet, or a IPad Mini. That way you get a currently supported product and still have all the positives without risk. My wife has an old Apple tablet and it simply works (and works simply). My daughters can help her if she needs to download an app, or figure out how to reset something. She doesn't have to search through different web sites, bulletin boards, and exchanges postings to get info, answers, or help. She doesn't have to reboot, reflash ROMs or Nandroids, or download app tools to resolve issues. Sure, there are things she can't do... but most of the time, she gives me a look and asks "Why would I want to do that anyway?".
Sorry if this was a babble... but I sometimes take the different view... hopefully it helps.
Just pickup a second one 32G Mint condition for my Mom $125 4 hours ago. It's still a great buy for a cheap tablet. I picked up from a daddy selling for his lil girl to exchange the Ipad Mini, there is no Android on it and like brand new, no cracked around speakers. Just put in CM9 Nightlife and running so smooth.
in my opinion, if you know how to update and maintain your Hp touchpad, it's a great bargain. Otherwise, you will be stuck at some points. I'm a read and follow person, I read and do carefully what the instructions tell me to do so all of my android devices are great , thanks to XDA
For $100-150,touchpad is the best choice for tablet.
But you really need to spend time on it. Search, post, download , flash...you have to send quite some time on it and may also encounter issues. But it is smooth , elegant, and full of support from best developers in the world!
Thanks to all developers , you make life with touchpad different!
Sent from my cm_tenderloin using xda app-developers app
Still a great buy no doubt about it! I just picked up a 32gb one about a week ago for $150 and I'm extremely happy with it, running really smooth on CM10 JB 4.1.2 plus having a blast with the tablet remote app!
As long as you know how to flash go for it.... :good:
Thanks to all the developers hard work we can all enjoy what they do (greatly appreciated).
Sent from my cm_tenderloin using xda-developers app
I was thinking of geting my wife a nexus 7. i know she would love a bigger screen. but with that said do the cm9 cm10 roms have any big issues. she uses it to play alot of games check facebook surf the web. she definately needs something that runs fast and smooth. We have had dual core phones and have used single core 1ghz tablets. The single core is fine for our kids but they just seem slow loading to us. Would i have this problem with touchpad
affiatic said:
I was thinking of geting my wife a nexus 7. i know she would love a bigger screen. but with that said do the cm9 cm10 roms have any big issues. she uses it to play alot of games check facebook surf the web. she definately needs something that runs fast and smooth. We have had dual core phones and have used single core 1ghz tablets. The single core is fine for our kids but they just seem slow loading to us. Would i have this problem with touchpad
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I never tried CM9 but running CM10 and have no complaints streaming movies, music, games and web experience it's all smooth as butter!
Related
I just saw that Bestbuy will be selling the Dell Streak 7" with Honeycomb installed for $160. I saw this right after I finally decided to go ahead and buy a Kindle Fire. Now it seems almost like a no brainer to get a near full featured tablet with the same size screen as a Kindle Fire but for $40 less, but it also seems too good to be true.
So I wanted to know, are you all happy with your Streak? Would you say that $160 is worth it.
I really appreciate any input.
Thanks.
I felt in love with Dell Streak 7 already, too bad that I bought this for my gf, and giving it to her tomorrow. Dell Streak 7 is a good tablet, of coz the resolution is not high so it doesn't let you play all the HD games and you don't have much RAM to play heavy games, but if you use it for entertainment, relax with no "tough" game then it is better Kindle Fire. And of coz this is just my opinion. To be frank, I don't play much with my Iconia A500 since I got this
Very much so! I love this little bad boy underdog.
I am happy with mine. I wish the screen had a little better resolution. Bluetooth tethering to my phone is a snap. I basically wanted something that was like my phone but larger and it works just perfect as that. Its much easier and faster to use than having to drag out my laptop.
I initially liked my DS7 but over time it began to annoy me. The screen began to make my eyes hurt when reading and the battery would run down quickly. I ended up getting several Nook Tablets for the family and for my purposes, I'm more satisfied. The NT screen is much sharper and the battery lasts hours longer than the DS. I only used the camera once and never used the GPS so the trade is worth it since I mainly use my tabs for reading, surfing and light game play. I did initially miss the variety of apps but someone came up witha workaround and now I can sideload with apps free sites and Amazon app store.
I like my Dell Streak 7, the 7 inch size and weight is much more handy then my 10.1 inch tablet in its portfolio case. Basicly the compact handling of a phone with a readable (as opposed to squintable) screen size. Screen resolution has not been a problem infact it is a nice match to Netflix.
The short 4-5 hour battery life is the only aspect I wish was better.
rockhunter said:
The short 4-5 hour battery life is the only aspect I wish was better.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Is that for a mix of usage or for straight video watching?
With my rooted DS7, using SetCPU and setting up custom profiles, I tend to see about 4-5 for watching vidoes, but get about 6-10 hours for playing games, and a 4 day standby time.
The battery isn't a major issue for me. Not a fan of the stock launcher though. Really want to use LauncherPro, but it keeps fc'ing. Anyone have any suggestions on other LauncherPro like launchers?
Also for some reason, I can't listen to voicemails with Google Voice. Still got to figure that one out.
Device does not support WiFi channels 12-14, makes a noise when speakers are enabled, batery life is not so good, WiFi signal is worse than other tabletst, display is very bad (angle/resolution), also the device is clumby (fat and heavy)
BUT
it is very cheap and very fast. im fine with it so far, but i might switch to another device.
got one form BEST BUY. still on the way.!!!! but I'm Sure the screen not the BEST!
so far so good only one problem it is not reading from SD Card.
JohnnyDanger said:
I just saw that Bestbuy will be selling the Dell Streak 7" with Honeycomb installed for $160. I saw this right after I finally decided to go ahead and buy a Kindle Fire. Now it seems almost like a no brainer to get a near full featured tablet with the same size screen as a Kindle Fire but for $40 less, but it also seems too good to be true.
So I wanted to know, are you all happy with your Streak? Would you say that $160 is worth it.
I really appreciate any input.
Thanks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No I am not. And Don't buy a streak 7 given so many much better choices out there in the market.
My DS7 was a total disaster now I see it. It was my first tablet and I was inexperience to make an informed buy. I bought from TMO store on the release date and then found that no Dev is supporting it.
Eventually I participated a donation led by someone else and we send a device to DJ Steve who became the one and only dedicated dev on DS7, who are also working on many other devices at the same time.
Screen horrible, battery horrible, TMobile 4 G signal always break down for no reason and requite a reboot to get it back. GPS NEVER works well for a trip without a hiccup. This is my third DS7 already because I exchanged the previous 2 with Dell because all sorts of reasons.
Since you are asking advise I assume you won't want to listen to holiday choirs and holy praises. I am the bad guy who is critical.
Bottom line, DONT BUY A DISCONTINUED PRODUCT WITHOUT DEV SUPPORT.
I'm thinking about what 7-inch tablet i'll going to buy: Dell Streak 7 or Lenovo A1.
Sent from my MB520 using XDA App
jiwengang said:
No I am not. And Don't buy a streak 7 given so many much better choices out there in the market.
My DS7 was a total disaster now I see it. It was my first tablet and I was inexperience to make an informed buy. I bought from TMO store on the release date and then found that no Dev is supporting it.
Eventually I participated a donation led by someone else and we send a device to DJ Steve who became the one and only dedicated dev on DS7, who are also working on many other devices at the same time.
Screen horrible, battery horrible, TMobile 4 G signal always break down for no reason and requite a reboot to get it back. GPS NEVER works well for a trip without a hiccup. This is my third DS7 already because I exchanged the previous 2 with Dell because all sorts of reasons.
Since you are asking advise I assume you won't want to listen to holiday choirs and holy praises. I am the bad guy who is critical.
Bottom line, DONT BUY A DISCONTINUED PRODUCT WITHOUT DEV SUPPORT.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What other products are there? Currently it's the cheapest (mid/high end) 7" tablet available, it's main competetors are the gtab7/+ which is either lower specced or more expensive. It was just sold for $160 on black friday new and can be found pretty easily for
~$250 on ebay in good condition.
Sub $200 tabs cant compete with it as they have very low end internals.
The S7 with Froyo and the s7 with Honeycomb are completely different devices (not literally, but the way it works)
I didnt buy mine until black friday as I so no point with froyo on it, but it's pretty great with HC.
As for the 4g, I honestly dont see the point of a 4g tablet, I have the wifi one and simply tether to my S5 (and also avoid paying a 2nd line just for data)
The GPS is rather weak on it, but in my case the wifi one is likely worse at wifi then the 4g one. It works with some hiccups.
So what if it'd discontinued, even if dell did support it for another 6 more months, the most we'd get is like 3.2 -> 3.2.2/3.2.4, there's no chance it'd get updated to ICS.
You have your warrentee, they're not gonna magically/instantly null it, they're still gonna support active warrentee owners until they all expire. (it might become them only offering refurbs but this is still support)
Bottom line: for $190-240 there's really little competition, it's either the S7 or the gtabs.
The Gtab 7 is slower but about the same price
The Gtab 7+ is faster but more expensive
The Lenovo A1 is slower but about the same price
How about nook tablet or kindle fire? Since people here enjoy custom rom anyway, os on these two won't be a problem I guess
Sent from my DROID RAZR using XDA App
Hmm that is a good point, I had forgotten about those.
Depending on how you look at it, they only run GB and not HC/ICS.
If you wanna use it as a normal android tablet, they're not currently ready for that purpose as they dont have any stable roms yet.
I do believe the kindle is slower, but it'd definitely got more devs, and when CM9 hits stable it might be a pretty good choice. It's tegra 2 vs CM9 for the same price point.
I cant say much about the nooks, the old nook is much slower but cheaper and will likely get CM9 (it already has CM7), I dont read much at all about the new nook except I expect it to also get CM9 eventually.
I assume the S7 will still be the fastest of all 7" tabs except vs the gtab7+.
The nooks and kindles are advertised as ereaders, with the kindle as kina ereader+multimedia. They're not advertised as full on tablets so they can be underpowered for their age.
jiwengang said:
No I am not. And Don't buy a streak 7 given so many much better choices out there in the market.
same here. i get more and more unhappy every day. multitouch works only to up to two fingers. you are right about gps, i tested it and got only 2 satelites in 2 minutes while standing in the garden.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
alex2308 said:
same here. i get more and more unhappy every day. multitouch works only to up to two fingers. you are right about gps, i tested it and got only 2 satelites in 2 minutes while standing in the garden.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There is a fix for that
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1085354
I lock on in 30 seconds.
I guess I look at it as being the best $160 tablet I've ever owned. The only issue is the battery life, but I can charge it twice a day for the hundreds I'm saving over comparable devices.
The screen sure does take a lot of flack on the Streak 7, but if you look for the silver lining, just about every app works at that resolution. You don't have some of the scaling issues that higher resolution tabs have.
I also hear a lot of comparisons to the Fire and the Nook...and, if they get root and a good custom ROM, then they might be better for "basic" tablet functions, but if you want full tablet functions out of the box, with all the cameras, mics, GPS, etc...then the Streak is still a better option.
Ah well, this forum is pretty much dead, so I'm sure this will fall on deaf ears (or blind eyes?).
I'm happy though!
ExploreMN said:
I guess I look at it as being the best $160 tablet I've ever owned. The only issue is the battery life, but I can charge it twice a day for the hundreds I'm saving over comparable devices.
Ah well, this forum is pretty much dead, so I'm sure this will fall on deaf ears (or blind eyes?).
I'm happy though!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I bought a Dell Streak 7" last week that was a couple of months old for $150. It came with Froyo but I upgraded to Honeycomb and it's like having a different tablet, really nice for what it is.
It's not an iPad2, Asus Transformer, Xoom, Acer etc. I looked at all of those tablets two days ago and the screens on them are very much nicer, but...they cost $300-$400-900+, not $150. The Streak is a real tablet not one of those $100 unknown brand Android tablet gadgets that last a week. The wifi and GPS work great along with having Honeycomb now I really like it.
I owned an iPad2 for 4 months and it is a fantastic device, it also cost me $1000 for wifi/3G and a Smart Cover. I've had the Evo4G since Aug. of '10 and love Android so in the future I'm thinking about the Asus Transformer that's coming out later this month. It will cost 2 to 3 times as much as the Streak, it will have a beautiful screen, and be worth the extra money no doubt.
I use the Streak for Flying and it is outstanding for various Aviation moving map programs. For $150 instead of $1400-2500 for a Garmin GPS aviation unit it is a bargain.
So you're not alone, the Dell Streak 7 does what it's supposed to for a reasonable price, and I like it too.
DC
Hi all. Im considering to buy a touchpad for personal uses. I understand that webOS is rather ok, except for the lack of applications to play around with and thus android is there to save the day. However are there any major bugs in the android alpha builds? The price to me is very reasonable. Another thing that worries me is the internal memory, that is if the 16gb will run out fast? Please, any touchpad users just help me to recommend, that would be great!
Buying HP Touch pad and have ICS on it is worth it. After ICS update on HP Touch pad I have compare Motorola XOOM and HP Touch pad they both look same you will lot and lots of money buying HP Touch pad.
At firesale prices? Yes. Otherwise, why not wait for the next wave of ICS tablets to come out?
Its not really that firesale pirced where i'm from... abour 170USD.. but thats considered affordable still to me. But is it worth getting one? As in would i regret once i bought it?
thunderskain said:
Hi all. Im considering to buy a touchpad for personal uses. I understand that webOS is rather ok, except for the lack of applications to play around with and thus android is there to save the day. However are there any major bugs in the android alpha builds? The price to me is very reasonable. Another thing that worries me is the internal memory, that is if the 16gb will run out fast? Please, any touchpad users just help me to recommend, that would be great!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
WebOS is under sung. It has some really cool features, and I'm personally hoping to see it grow and expand in the coming years.
That said, there's also Android. But as skypagers fails to point out...there are still quite a few significant bugs to be worked out in both Gingerbread and ICS builds. Including camera functionality, including chat (in both GB and ICS), video playback, including youtube (in the ICS builds), skype etc etc etc. The sh*t crashes and you might get force-closes and reboots...they're not uncommon at all.
But really it's personal preference. If you've got the scratch, just get a 64GB Transformer Prime with the docking station. If money means nothing, then avoid the HPTP. It's high maintenance, and still everything doesn't work. If you're looking for a badass deal on a great tablet that let's you modify, hack and tweak the f*ck out of it...then the HPTP is for you.
I got 2 32GB's in the 2nd firesale and my wife and I both love them. But my roommate just got his Transformer Prime...let's just say that now, I'm strongly considering selling mine to upgrade to the 700 when it drops in a few months.
I agree with danknee, if you can wait and have the loot. Get something that will be less maintenance. But if you can get a kickass deal, which would put a HPTP in your hands tomorrow...why wait?
I personally like web os better than Android. If you install preware and adjust a few things, the touchpad is rather enjoyable. While there is a lack of apps, if you're plans for the touchpad are mostly web browsing, music, video playback, and an occasional game, you'll have no regrets. And if you get bored or find yourself needing more, there's always android.
BTW, I own 2 32gb touchpads, one dualboots with cm7 and the other cm9. Space has never been an issue either. I have all seasons of archer, ugly Americans, bobs burgers, a half dozen hour long comedy specials, and a few gigs of music. With all that, still have 11gb free. So space hasn't been an issue yet.
sean is here. said:
WebOS is under sung. It has some really cool features, and I'm personally hoping to see it grow and expand in the coming years.
That said, there's also Android. But as skypagers fails to point out...there are still quite a few significant bugs to be worked out in both Gingerbread and ICS builds. Including camera functionality, including chat (in both GB and ICS), video playback, including youtube (in the ICS builds), skype etc etc etc. The sh*t crashes and you might get force-closes and reboots...they're not uncommon at all.
But really it's personal preference. If you've got the scratch, just get a 64GB Transformer Prime with the docking station. If money means nothing, then avoid the HPTP. It's high maintenance, and still everything doesn't work. If you're looking for a badass deal on a great tablet that let's you modify, hack and tweak the f*ck out of it...then the HPTP is for you.
I got 2 32GB's in the 2nd firesale and my wife and I both love them. But my roommate just got his Transformer Prime...let's just say that now, I'm strongly considering selling mine to upgrade to the 700 when it drops in a few months.
I agree with danknee, if you can wait and have the loot. Get something that will be less maintenance. But if you can get a kickass deal, which would put a HPTP in your hands tomorrow...why wait?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the in deph analysis. I have to agree with what you said there. Understand the new ics tablets are a better choice for now but yeah, money wise is an issue so I have to lower my limits. Basically I don't really hve any uses for a tablet but just wanna get one so as to experience the tablet feel and when time to come I'm bored, I could just sell it off. So high priced tablets are a no go for me. Besides, the transformer prime does not seem to be available in my country yet.
Based on everyone replies, I think I could make a better choice now! Thanks guys!
Sent from my HTC Pyramid using xda premium
Consider this: ASUSEee Pad MeMO 370T. For about $250 you get a quad core 7" that comes with ICS. Of course you are going to have to wait to get one like the rest of us until the second quarter of the year. I'm planning on picking one of these bad boy when it comes out.
For what you want to do, no. For learning how to mess around with this stuff, sure. But its not a reliable device for everyday use not yet at least. Wait for the new wave of tablets and get something from a decent company like Asus or Samsung .
Fehnix22 said:
For what you want to do, no. For learning how to mess around with this stuff, sure. But its not a reliable device for everyday use not yet at least. Wait for the new wave of tablets and get something from a decent company like Asus or Samsung .
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is good advice. I'd also say that even if you do get your Touchpad running Android as well as the rest of us, there might be some issues that will never go away. I'm not sure there are enough developer resources to fix the spotty WiFi, the sound distortion on sleep, the camera, or the dozens of other little imperfections. It's a device for the hobbyist.
I have most of my music collection on my 16 GB Touchpad and still have a few gigabytes left. It's good enough, although you'd only be able to store half a dozen movies on there at once.
While I think the touchpad is an awesome device and disagree with many of the complaints about CM9 being showstoppers, thought I'd share the Acer Iconia a500 is $299 on woot.com. Today only, while supplies last. 32 GB, 10.1" screen, tegra 2 1GHz dual core, 1GB RAM, microSD slot, running honeycomb. Similar specs to the TouchPad, but was designed for Android.
Sent from my Galaxy S II (i777)
Acer Iconia a500 is $299 on woot.com
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
don't think it worth 130$ more.
IMHO:
If you have low budget and you are not perfectionist - buy touchpad. Yes, it's not perfect, it still have some bugs in 2.3 but they are minor and overall it's working pretty good. And stable enough 4.0 we will probably see in next few months.
Also check 7" formfactor, if you like it then probably better to wait for asus 7" tablet for 250$.
If you have 500-600$ in your pocket that you don't need, wait for updated transformer prime or something like this
getbuzzin said:
Consider this: ASUSEee Pad MeMO 370T. For about $250 you get a quad core 7" that comes with ICS. Of course you are going to have to wait to get one like the rest of us until the second quarter of the year. I'm planning on picking one of these bad boy when it comes out.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, heard about that and it sounds too good a bargain too. But does ASUS have good android development around? At least i can see that the touchpad has a ready team of developers right now...
and the $250 is the dual core model..
go for it, not only can u run android but web os and Linux this thing is pretty much the hd2 of tablets, I just picked up mine for 150$ and I'm loving it.
my honest review...
I've never owned an 'official' android tablet. I have 2 touchpads and one nook color. The HP touch pad is a great device. But there are some serious downsides:
1: fit & finish... there's a reason for so many refurbished models. My wife's is hardly used and has a cracked case near the speaker. It has maybe 2 hours of use total. And its been in a case 100% of the time. No explanation HP. None at all. I won't send it back because everything else works.
2: Android is a shoehorn and always will be. The current WIFI and kernel glitch are the only two real downsides to android on the Touch pad. If you use Gtalk w/video chat or Skype also stay away. The front camera isn't working, but it sucks anyways so IMO its not an issue. ICS is the only way to use the touch pad. GB was more stable but ICS is built for tablets and it shows. The kernel being very buggy for OTG is also a annoyance.
3: its a little heavier and a little thicker than the competition. Its noticeable but not really bad. The formfactor is also much different. The Touchpad is square like the iPad and the Xoom, 10.1, Transformer are more rectangular. If you like holding an original iPad then this isn't much different. Don't discount WebOS either. Its a very pretty OS. It has a lot of nice features. I don't use it much but its not awful and useless like some people make it. It is going to find much less use now that ICS brings that killer web browser.
My conclusion.....
The touchpad is still a sweet deal. 170ish for a 10in 1.5ghz 1GB ram 16GB is great. The nook tablet comes close but its more expensive and 7in. When you start getting close to 250 for a 32GB its a little rougher, especially with the deals on woot and stuff. Also compusa has refurb Transformer 16gb for 299 which isn't bad.
Sent From Nexi - The Galaxy Nexus
hi there
i am planning to take a tablet
i have little confusion wether to take touch pad or cheap chinese gemei g9 which comes with pre install ICS 4.0.3
here are my questions regarding touchpad
1. is the cm9 stable on tp ??
2. how much is the battery backup time using wifii watching videos
3. is the keyboard and stand recommended for buying with touchpad or not required [coz i am getting bundle offer of wireless charging stand+32gb tab+keybord]???
waiting for your suggestions
Thanks
I bought one of the Chinese models and ended up selling it within a couple of weeks. To be honest, the first thing I noticed was how flimsy it was. I even tried the 7" and the 10" models. They are feature packed in comparison to the TP but the quality of build is far inferior to the HP TP. This even spreads to the charger which (in the UK) are decidedly dodgy.
Plus, you are never going to get the backup and user base that you get with the likes of the TP. Look at all the work that is going on with the worldwide user base in terms of adapting towards the Android switch (from Webos) and you won't see anything like that in terms of support for the Chinese models.
CM9 although only at A2 status is remarkably stable. I've seen beta software on other OS less stable.
I'd say if you get the chance to get the case and charging stand then go for it. A case is a definite must in my view. Mine is never out of it and after six months of daily use is like new.
Hope that helps
thanks for ur reply
what about the battery backup on ics ???
what about keyboard i am getting 32gb+keybord+touchstone stand+original hp case for 275 usd
Definitely get the touchpad. I have an HP touchpad with both the hp keyboard and touchstone but I bought them separately. I also have an Ipad 2 so I think I'm in a position to have at least a non biased opinion. I used my HP touchpad for my thesis using webOS since it's interface is so polished and easy to use. Now i'm using ICS more only because of games. I mainly use the Ipad for games. Interfacewise I think webOS is the best especially if you want a sub for your pc or laptop. Ipad for the apps. Ipad still feels smoother even though my Touchpad is overclocked at 1.5.
I bought the touchstone together with the touchpad but I rarely used it. I felt stupid for buying it but since last month, while working on my thesis) I really enjoyed the ease of just placing your tablet on for easy reading etc.
I ordered one Gemei G9 16gb version from merimobiles yesterday. my research regarding this particular chinese tablet says its build quality is pretty good among plethora of chinese tablets. Specs are damn good too. I wont comment on touchpad because i havent even seen this device.
I have my touchpad on AOKP milestone 4. Its pretty snappy and very stable. The only issue so far has been sound problems here and there.
You should get the Touchpad, its biggest selling point is:
Developers, Developers, Developers
It lacks some hardware like microSD, HDMI, but its still a great device that can dual boot.
At this point why not get a tegra 2 tablet they should be getting major price cuts soon
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I just found an open box (returned) 32G touchpad at BestBuy on sale for $129.
I bought it. Don't know if I'll keep it. It's a bit heavy, and not quite the resolution I want, but wow, a lot more affordable than a new Transformer Prime/Infinity or a new iPad.
If it works out, I may buy a few more (or wait until the new Nexus Tablet is out.)
I bought a cheap chinese model too. I return ed it to the store 2 days later. simply cannot compare in build quality and speed.
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Hi,
I have been thinking about buying a Android tablet for some time. I don't really need a tablet, but would like to give it a try anyhow. I would probably use it mostly for surfing the web, reading new sites and watching movies when on the train. I might play some games from time to time. I would also like to use it for Skype voice and video chat. I'm also prepared to root the device and flash custom roms for better performance.
At the moment the Galaxy Tab 8.9 (Wifi) is on sale for about $ 220 here in Switzerland. It seems like a good deal for this tablet and within the amound of money I am prepared to spend for something "unnessecary", but would you still buy it given that the hardware is somewhat dated? How well does Skype work?
Any advice is greately appreciated!
Cheers
TiredHornet
To my opinion, the Galaxy Tab 8.9 has a unique form factor and weight (approx 420g), that make it still very desirable to my eyes. The screen is very good. ICS with an alternative launcher like 'Nova' or 'Apex' makes it lovely to use on a daily basis (I don't appreciate the Touchwiz one much).
I learned to live without any sd card expansion slot. I bought a 32gb model to compensate for the lack of memory extension, but finally I don't use the internal storage at all, except of course for apps. If I had to buy it again, I would simply stick with the 16Gb version...
The only complain I have is the outdated Tegra 2 processor, that's why I use to overclock a little bit (1.2Ghz). Works like a charm.
PS: I tested Skype a little bit and seemed good enough to me and to the people at the other end.
Yes, definitely. sgauge points out some great benefits of the 8.9, the form factor is just right. I'm still using 3.2 Overcome Rom also OC'd to 1.2 and really it runs super smooth. I also have the 16gb and that's plenty of space. I bought the usb dongle which can read off a usb stick so no need to carry movies on the tablet itself. It's really replaced my laptop for internet browsing, following live sports streams online and casual emailing. Just an extra aside, but I also invested in the official external keyboard and dock (amazon uk had them at rock bottom prices a few weeks back) and they are classy add-ons making the tablet a real smart package. And with ICS seemingly here, perhaps I'll think of upgrading my rom too!
Update: Skype works great, impressed with video/sound quality and stability!
Hmm, $220 for a 8.9 is practically a steal
It helps to know what you want it for, but I use it on train commute, and a lot of casual browsing on the couch. Basically, I could use my phone for that, but the tablet has more comfort and battery.
I find the 16gb not enough, if you take it on holiday and want some movies. I got the usb reader for $3 dollars shipped from China (ebay), much better value than €30 local shop.
I dislike the weight and size of a 10.1, to the point that I think 8.0 to 8.5 should be ideal size.
Good luck
Thx for all the advice! I think I'm going to go the shop right now and have a look at the tablet. I had it in my hands some month ago and found the size really good. And with the official ICS release starting to roll out, it is probably a even better deal at $220.
I bought it in Ch (living in Constance) and absolutely love it.
Had an Acer Iconia A500 before, the difference in weight and quality is huuuge.
After Installing JB it works like a charm!
If your local M.Electronics is out of stock, you can just place a reservation. I waited for 1 day
In fact, I did just buy a Tab 8.9 -- Cowboom had a bunch of preowned ones for sale. I snagged a Condition 7 (looks brand new, came with all accessories other than headphones) for $170 shipped. I love the size. Every 10" tablet I looked at was too big for comfortable reading, but the 7" tablets just felt...cramped.
Go for it
$220 is a real steal! And with ICS now it will be just awesome!
Idlekilla said:
$220 is a real steal! And with ICS now it will be just awesome!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Agreed. Having seen the difference in how my 8.9 ran on Honeycomb and now on ICS, it's like a different tablet! If you can pick up one of these tablets for less than $200 then jump on it.
Next phone or tablet is a nexus for sure
im done with samsung
- Form factor is just perfect.
- the ics runs great so no tensions for some time to come.
- 10.1 is too big, 7 is too small.
- 7.7 is close but too pricey.
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My tf101 just broke now using as a Google TV and my tab is galaxy 8.9 and I bought it for $150
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TiredHornet said:
Thx for all the advice! I think I'm going to go the shop right now and have a look at the tablet. I had it in my hands some month ago and found the size really good. And with the official ICS release starting to roll out, it is probably a even better deal at $220.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Have fun with it. I doubt you will regret.
I bought the 8.9 so that when my partner and I went camping we could watch movies that we had, ahem, aquired.
It was perfect for just that reason with the desktop dock and the SD / USB adapters.
Now that we are back from holidays, it's perfect for general surfing and stuff like solving arguments where powering up the PC would take too long to Google something and the phone screen would bee too small / fiddly.
8.9 was the best form facto for my needs and I do not see any need to change to a bigger screen, if I wanted a bigger screen - Netbook / Laptop yet I would have to wait for it to boot up, so, long story short, I love the 8.9 and would definately buy it.
Hope this helps!
I like the form factor, the screen and the build quality seems solid. I hate the proprietary plug in on the bottom. Afraid I'm going to lose the cord and be unable to charge the thing till I get another one from Samsung. It should be the mini USB everyone,minus Apple and Sammy, uses. Charge times are completely ridiculous, taking hours upon hours to get to full but the drain times are pretty good. Hopefull the ICS update fixes charge times, or at least makes it bearable. And no SD card slot sucks, plain and simple. Other than that it's pretty good....
Personally, I love it. I bought mine for about 400 dollars and didn't regret it ever since. For 220$, this is an absolute must. The size is optimal and the overall feel of the tablet is just...perfect. Go for it, champ!
Well I have to say out of all the tablets I have (most samsung ones, asus, nexus7, ipads etc) the galaxy tab 8.9 is probably the best feel for a semi-mobile tablet... However after looking at the samsung support and release cycle across the devices I have, I doubt I will ever buy samsung again tbh. Just an opinion...
I love the hardware, don't like the Samsung software. Waiting for the rom hackers to put the official ICS to use and build a full featured JB rom and then it'll probably beat the Nexus 7 as my favorite device.
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Looking to buy an 8.9. Anybody know where I can find one in the US?? Thanks
I just bought an 8.9 3G 32Gb for £250, which I think is a real bargain. Vodafone 3G SIM is very fast in my area, and I soon as I can work out how to get an official version of ICS or JB onto it, I will be laughing! 8.9" form factor is ideal for me, and Skype works great... and I find i'm using Skype alot more than I do on my laptop.... it's pretty sweet all around. Go for it! Touchwiz and all the Bloatware suck, so if you work out how to remove them, let me know!
Looking at replacing my TF201. I don't see any marshmallow roms even though my TF201, and the 300 both have them. I know this device is a couple years old, but I don't require a lot from the hardware for what I'm using it for. Has development stopped here, or is there still some life to be had?
Any helpful comments welcomed.
Thanks,
Matt
Compared to the TF201 this is so much better..consider to the TF300 with Tim's tweaks..it's so so..
But with that in mind..if you pick one up for $100-$150 then I would say go for it..
Pershoot is keeping a server going so that we get CM 12.1 lollipop 5.1.1 and we may even go to 13 as it matures..
As a general driver, it's ok.. games are fine and Kodi while travelling for HDMI input is good..makes it a light weight entertainment system..I usually carry a Bluetooth speaker so between music and movies/tv shows, I have a good travel system..
I still use mine daily, but as a media consumption device -- reading articles saved via Pocket, or watching videos. You can get better tablets for gaming (e.g. the Nvidia Shield), but I remember a year ago considering a replacement while getting my TF701 repaired, and there was nothing on the market that suited my needs.
All the 10" tablets were either: loaded with bloatware (Samsung), lacked an SD card slot (Nexus), or didn't have a Retina-level display. It was hard to find one that met my three criteria other than the TF701.
At the present time, I suppose the latest Sony or Dell might fit the bill, but it also depends on what price you can get and what sort of warranty. I find I almost never use the keyboard dock because I end up doing all my work on one of my laptops, but that could change if/when we get Marshmallow via Cyanogenmod.
Thanks for the replies. Got mine on Monday, and you were correct none of the problems with the 201 are there.
Yes, I am happy with it..
I bounce between a Nexus 7 and the TF701..
One thing I did do as its a known issue with these because of the low grade ram they used..
I use a program that I picked up from the Nexus 7 thread..it's called .. trimmer (fstrim) and set it to run once a day.. it might be placebo but I feel.it just helps to keep these and the Nexus 7 run a little smoother ..
I think this is what the cromi and zombi where achieving with running the Rom off a good sdcard. But I never felt I needed to go that route..
matthall9815 said:
Looking at replacing my TF201. I don't see any marshmallow roms even though my TF201, and the 300 both have them. I know this device is a couple years old, but I don't require a lot from the hardware for what I'm using it for. Has development stopped here, or is there still some life to be had?
Any helpful comments welcomed.
Thanks,
Matt
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There's more support on the tf300 for some unknown reason
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