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my tab buying guide (repost)

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.
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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]
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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.

New Nexus 7 in 2013...Possible specs & would you upgrade?

So Android 4.2 Jelly Bean is out of Google's kitchen, and us sugar fiends will have to wait until summer 2013 for our next big rush, which leads me onto the replacement for the Nexus 7, which given the cut-throat competition is a certainty.
So here are my dream specs, which are based on upcoming technology and some common sense!, give me this Google and you've got my money.
1) Bigger screen, but same size chassis as Nexus 7, thin bezels are sexy
2) Tegra 4 quad-core & 2GB RAM. Tegra 3 might not have been the most powerful beast, but it has served us well, and Nvidia game support is always a plus.
3) Resolution full HD - 1920 x 1080 and Miracast. You just know that the next iPad mini will retina up their screen, so lets not fall behind.
4) Faster I/O. Moving away from crappy eMMC to the newest µSSD SATA, which will result in two to three times the performance of current storage tech, as many N7 owners will tell you slow I/O really bottlenecks system performance.
5) With all this tasty hardware you need equally tasty software enter Android 5.0 - Key Lime Pie.
So would these specs tempt you to buy or are you happy enough with the 'old' Nexus 7?

Turbotab said:
So Android 4.2 Jelly Bean is out of Google's kitchen, and us sugar fiends will have to wait until summer 2013 for our next big rush, which leads me onto the replacement for the Nexus 7, which given the cut-throat competition is a certainty.
So here are my dream specs, which are based on upcoming technology and some common sense!, give me this Google and you've got my money.
1) Bigger screen, but same size chassis as Nexus 7, thin bezels are sexy
2) Tegra 4 quad-core & 2GB RAM. Tegra 3 might not have been the most powerful beast, but it has served us well, and Nvidia game support is always a plus.
3) Resolution full HD - 1920 x 1080, you just know that the next iPad mini will retina up their screen, so lets not fall behind.
4) Faster I/O. Moving away from crappy eMMC to the newest µSSD SATA, which will result in two to three times the performance of current storage tech, as many N7 owners will tell you slow I/O really bottlenecks system performance.
5) With all this tasty hardware you need equally tasty software enter Android 5.0 - Key Lime Pie.
So would these specs tempt you to buy or are you happy enough with the 'old' Nexus 7?
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1. No the bezel is functional. Functionality over visual. I.E the iPad minis non bezeld display is a pain in the ass to hold one handed.
2. FCK Nvidia. Would rather have an S4. Or S5.
3. Seriously 1080p screens I can dig it but not necessary honestly. Our nexus 7 is already a retina quality display. And retina is a fancy zinger for high quality display.
4.SSD would be neat you got me there
5. Unlikely I'm sure we won't see it until the end of 2013. I would expect 4.2.x updates like gingerbread.
If this did come out for a reasonable price id possibly buy it. Can't say I wouldn't want to but hey this is just dreaming.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus

Why cant we just be happy with the device we have now..
Enjoy what you have now and not chase the future... You will never be able to be content with what you have other wise..
Come on Nexus 4 Erica Needs a new Phone...

erica_renee said:
Why cant we just be happy with the device we have now..
Enjoy what you have now and not chase the future... You will never be able to be content with what you have other wise..
Come on Nexus 4 Erica Needs a new Phone...
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I'm enjoying my Nexus 7, this is just idle day dreaming, even typed this on my laptop rather than the Nexus to spare her feelings:laugh:

I will not upgrade. Why should I? Because with all the power that Nexus 7 has it will for sure be updated for a long time. Seriously, quad core Tegra 3 is a lot of power.
You people who update their phone/tablet every 9 months are something I don't understand. What is wrong with Tegra? I've had no problems with it by now. If your tablet needs to be on the top of benchmark result... why? Exynos may get 100 points more, or it opens an application 0.2 seconds faster but I will never spend so much money on it.

1. Decent camera on the back. I know (some) people don't see the use - but in small 7" devices, it could easily serve as a camera and analogue sharing device (showing the pictures you took, on a plane or whatever). If it had a camera, I would use it, and I would carry my N7 with me everywhere.
2. Built in kickstand. Surface has it. Make it happen and I <3 you.
3. Whatever is the fastest processor at the time of release. I don't care which chip. Use a Tegra, Exxnos, whatever. Don't care about the details. Fastest. period.
4. More storage space, but 16/32 is a good place at the moment. 32/64 would be more reasonable of course.
5. Move the power button away from the volume controls. I can't even count the number of times I've hit standby when I meant to hit VolUp. Maybe I need to pay more attention, but this could be easily relocated as well. Maybe bottom left or right, near the microUSB port?
6. The screen is fantastic as it stands. I'm not sure what can be improved while keeping this aspect ratio and screen size. It is plenty vibrant and bright enough (although the auto-brightness is too dark in most situations).
7. The back could be a bit grippy-er even. I like being able to hold it easily with one-hand while lying down. It is the best tablet-backing material I have ever felt, but it could be even better. Maybe a different texture could help /shrug.
8. Multi-color LED indicator light. Vibrator (whatever it is called) for haptic feedback.
9. Variable pressure stylus compatibility, pen sold separately to keep costs down.
10. Induction charging compatibility.
But lets get real - the Nexus 7 as it stands is an AMAZING device. I would not switch it for a slight upgrade (a la iPhone 4S to 5).

I'm good with the 7. Leave the bevels so we can hold the damn thing. The resolution is superb for a 7" tab. Resolution isn't that big of deal at this point in the game. All of that screen resolution requires a lot of umph that I'd rather put toward framerates and graphics. That like buying an iPad3 and feeling like a iPad2. Resolution on the N7 is perfect.
That said, faster/more memory (32/64), better display (brighter, Amoled maybe, something fancy), decent magnetic smartcover like Apples or N10, and of course a nice new fancy quadcore beef house.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using XDA Premium HD app

crackcaffeine said:
1. Decent camera on the back. I know (some) people don't see the use - but in small 7" devices, it could easily serve as a camera and analogue sharing device (showing the pictures you took, on a plane or whatever). If it had a camera, I would use it, and I would carry my N7 with me everywhere.
2. Built in kickstand. Surface has it. Make it happen and I <3 you.
3. Whatever is the fastest processor at the time of release. I don't care which chip. Use a Tegra, Exxnos, whatever. Don't care about the details. Fastest. period.
4. More storage space, but 16/32 is a good place at the moment. 32/64 would be more reasonable of course.
5. Move the power button away from the volume controls. I can't even count the number of times I've hit standby when I meant to hit VolUp. Maybe I need to pay more attention, but this could be easily relocated as well. Maybe bottom left or right, near the microUSB port?
6. The screen is fantastic as it stands. I'm not sure what can be improved while keeping this aspect ratio and screen size. It is plenty vibrant and bright enough (although the auto-brightness is too dark in most situations).
7. The back could be a bit grippy-er even. I like being able to hold it easily with one-hand while lying down. It is the best tablet-backing material I have ever felt, but it could be even better. Maybe a different texture could help /shrug.
8. Multi-color LED indicator light. Vibrator (whatever it is called) for haptic feedback.
9. Variable pressure stylus compatibility, pen sold separately to keep costs down.
10. Induction charging compatibility.
But lets get real - the Nexus 7 as it stands is an AMAZING device. I would not switch it for a slight upgrade (a la iPhone 4S to 5).
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1. The camera was left out to keep the cost down, seriously, you look like a fool using a camera on a tablet, and when everyone already has a camera on their phone, having one on your tablet is just redundant.
2 kickstand would just bulk it up, I prefer a case.
3. The Tegra 3 is the fastest chip available, devs just need to optimize for it. As far as graphical quality goes, just put dead trigger next to nova 3. Dt was written for Tegra 3 and it looks just as good as anything you'd see on a console and is smooth, nova 3 (before the last update) ran terribly. Personally I would want to see a big jump, rather than a slight upgrade.
4. Agreed, I never understood the 8, I just got a 32 and I can't fill it, haha.
5. Disagreed, having it grouped together keeps it nice and tidy, and makes it easier to fiddle with one handed.
6. My 16gb did have trouble adjusting brightness, but they must have changed something, as my 32gb has a much better contrast and is much easier to see, esp in sunlight. Personally I have trouble keeping up with screen tech, but I think changing to super amoled would bump the price up ALOT.
7. I like the back, plus my tab spent half its time in the rubber case, nearly sticks to the wall.
8. Led would be good, I often have wished I could glance to see if there's any notifications rather than having to press the button.
As for haptic feedback, at first I thought it was odd it didn't have it, but the more I think about it, I think Firstly the tablet is too big for it, I don't know, it would be weird for something bigger than my phone to be vibrating away.
9. Styluses are old school, and even if they sell the pen separately, they'd have to have functionality in the tablet, which would unnecessarily raise the cost for people who won't use it. Google didn't make an Ipad killer by putting in stuff that only some people will use.
10. The n4 has it, it's only a matter of time. Personally pluging in a cable doesn't bother me, esp when I'm running out of battery and still want to use my n7, but it would be good for docks etc.
Personally the ONLY thing I feel that is missing from the n7 right now is hdmi or mhl, miracast is looking good but needing to buy a new tv or receiver is a pain.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using xda app-developers app

Turbotab said:
I'm enjoying my Nexus 7, this is just idle day dreaming, even typed this on my laptop rather than the Nexus to spare her feelings:laugh:
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Her feelings.... I know a good therapist i can recommend you.. My girl friend used her to get over her old Heels that were GOD Awful and old....
Does SHE (your tablet)Have a name.. And i hope you have her in a Pink case... sheesh

1) Improve build quality. Use gorilla glass. Fix the damn screen lift for real. Make them more able to handle a drop without cracking/breaking/etc.
2) Keep all the current features - don't take anything out (like the smart cover ability and currently-unused pogo pins).
3) External SD (yeah, I'm dreaming...)
4) Inductive charging would be awesome.

JavaJunkay said:
I will not upgrade. Why should I? Because with all the power that Nexus 7 has it will for sure be updated for a long time. Seriously, quad core Tegra 3 is a lot of power.
You people who update their phone/tablet every 9 months are something I don't understand. What is wrong with Tegra? I've had no problems with it by now. If your tablet needs to be on the top of benchmark result... why? Exynos may get 100 points more, or it opens an application 0.2 seconds faster but I will never spend so much money on it.
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I agree my phone is 3 years old. My Other tablet is nearly two years old and we still use it everyday.. Its acer a500.. i like the 7 in tab to fit my purse better.

I wouldn't upgrade, I love my nexus, but I don't use it enough to justify upgrading. I'll play some simple games, surf the web and play Netflix for the kids, so the current 7 is plenty for me.
Sent from my De-Sensed HTC Vivid using xda app-developers app

I think $200 is cheap enough for a yearly update. You can sell the old one for $100 to minimize cost. That doesn't mean you should upgrade, but whether you'd want to or not will be an indicator of Android's progress, ie if most peeps are still fine with their old N7s by this time next year, Android isn't moving fast enough.
My ideas for an N7B, mostly the little things:
. Keep $200 price point. One can quibble over N7's technical merits, but there's no illusion on why it's popular. That means that many of the MOTS in the OP should stay in the wishful realm. Remember that Kindle Fire will keep up the price pressure.
. Have a dedicated charging port for faster charging, and to allow using micro-USB for other things while plugged in. This would be a major problem for N10 with its slow charging, if the USB were actually useful for normal peeps (it isn't).
. Have micro-HDMI out. This is a major KFHD advantage over N7.
. Have dual-band, dual-stream MIMO wifi. This is a given, since starting with KFHD, tablets are getting this as a matter of course. Hopefully wireless connectivity will get more awareness, and we'll see 802.11ac or WiGig make an appearance.
. I'm fine with the Teg3 and screen, but N7B will probably get a low-cost version of Teg4 or equiv to keep up with the Joneses. I would not want the res to go higher as that will eat up more batt/SoC power. N10 already has this affliction, and hopefully Goog will take the lesson to heart.
. I'd say micro-SD slot, but I know it won't happen. Nexus devices need to be gimped so they can get the incredible bang/buck, and SD slot is the casualty.
. Outside of N7, I hope Goog fix the eco so more vendors sell Android tabs, and that non-Nexus tabs can get updates as quickly as Nexus ones. It's a sad testament when Android tabs are limited to only Nexus tabs. I'd like to have a 4:3 tab, and I know that won't happen with Nexus. This is on Google, not the vendors. It needs to figure out a better way.
In short, for hardware, I'd just like to see better connectivity, else the rest is fine. I'd like to see an improved eco (which doesn't necessarily mean more apps, although that would be a consequence). But most of all, I'd like to see a more capable OS, being able to do more than just consuming content and being a portable kiosk for Google Play Store.

I think a higher screen resolution is a very reasonable thing to ask for. Retina displays are GORGEOUS and I'd like to have a screen with that resolution or higher.
Micro HDMI
LTE support is also something that is missing.
Screen size is perfect the way it is.
Obviously the fastest processor at that time, but I'm not picky about which one
An LED notification light would be wonderful. Haptic feedback isn't needed
Sent from my DROID4 using Tapatalk 2

erica_renee said:
Her feelings.... I know a good therapist i can recommend you.. My girl friend used her to get over her old Heels that were GOD Awful and old....
Does SHE (your tablet)Have a name.. And i hope you have her in a Pink case... sheesh
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You may not have registered the hint of sarcasm in my post:silly:

bwassef said:
LTE support is also something that is missing.
Sent from my DROID4 using Tapatalk 2
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Seriously? LTE in a tablet?

Kearkan said:
1. The camera was left out to keep the cost down, seriously, you look like a fool using a camera on a tablet, and when everyone already has a camera on their phone, having one on your tablet is just redundant.
2 kickstand would just bulk it up, I prefer a case.
3. The Tegra 3 is the fastest chip available, devs just need to optimize for it. As far as graphical quality goes, just put dead trigger next to nova 3. Dt was written for Tegra 3 and it looks just as good as anything you'd see on a console and is smooth, nova 3 (before the last update) ran terribly. Personally I would want to see a big jump, rather than a slight upgrade.
4. Agreed, I never understood the 8, I just got a 32 and I can't fill it, haha.
5. Disagreed, having it grouped together keeps it nice and tidy, and makes it easier to fiddle with one handed.
6. My 16gb did have trouble adjusting brightness, but they must have changed something, as my 32gb has a much better contrast and is much easier to see, esp in sunlight. Personally I have trouble keeping up with screen tech, but I think changing to super amoled would bump the price up ALOT.
7. I like the back, plus my tab spent half its time in the rubber case, nearly sticks to the wall.
8. Led would be good, I often have wished I could glance to see if there's any notifications rather than having to press the button.
As for haptic feedback, at first I thought it was odd it didn't have it, but the more I think about it, I think Firstly the tablet is too big for it, I don't know, it would be weird for something bigger than my phone to be vibrating away.
9. Styluses are old school, and even if they sell the pen separately, they'd have to have functionality in the tablet, which would unnecessarily raise the cost for people who won't use it. Google didn't make an Ipad killer by putting in stuff that only some people will use.
10. The n4 has it, it's only a matter of time. Personally pluging in a cable doesn't bother me, esp when I'm running out of battery and still want to use my n7, but it would be good for docks etc.
Personally the ONLY thing I feel that is missing from the n7 right now is hdmi or mhl, miracast is looking good but needing to buy a new tv or receiver is a pain.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using xda app-developers app
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a. They shouldn't design the device based on a baseless assumption that people will use cases. Too many unknowns and too many variations to account for.
b. Tegra 3 is faster than the S4Pro? Anyways, whatever is the fastest next year, is the chip they should use. Of course software optimization is important, just look at the launch PS3 and 360 games vs current - but having the best processor will push the envelope of what is possible.
c. Maybe you're right about the stylus - but if it were available, if people were able to accurately manipulate tiny objects or switches with more certainty, new types of UI's can be developed. Look at Aparatus and Machinarium. Wouldn't it be awesome if you could accurately manipulate the levers and buttons? You're right in that it shouldn't be at the expense of driving hardware costs - tho I see a potential for future innovation.
Sure, stylii were used in crappy devices like the Palm, but they are also being used effectively in the Note 2 and by thousands of graphic designers through Wacom pads. Anyways, certainly don't drive up costs. I don't know if I can afford another $25.
d. If it will improve my quality of life ---- if it gives me a lifestyle benefit, ... that is the feature I want. Inductive charging is just that. It makes life easier. Plugging in a cable takes 2 seconds... as does picking up a pen and paper instead of launching Evernote. Is it possible to feed HDMI through the microUSB port? Maybe they can make an adapter that processes the signal into an HDMI output? /shrug. Big do-want on HDMI out though.

Thinking about this some more...
. Standardize a port & dock configuration for 3rd-party vendors to make interoperable docks, for keyboard/storage/battery/etc. This is key for accessory support. It also allows more productivity options. I don't want to have to buy a different proprietary dock for each device.
. Allow hardware vendors a cut of the 30% Play Store fee, as long as the device is updated to the latest OS. This would better incentivize vendors to update their old wares, more than the usual "it's a good thing for your users" lip service.
. Lend support to Cyanogenmod and similar roll-your-own-distro groups, so they can support more devices faster. Add incentives to hardware vendors where needed. Leveraging community work is a cheap way to spread adoption of the OS.

ÜBER™ said:
1. No the bezel is functional. Functionality over visual. I.E the iPad minis non bezeld display is a pain in the ass to hold one handed.
2. FCK Nvidia. Would rather have an S4. Or S5.
3. Seriously 1080p screens I can dig it but not necessary honestly. Our nexus 7 is already a retina quality display. And retina is a fancy zinger for high quality display.
4.SSD would be neat you got me there
5. Unlikely I'm sure we won't see it until the end of 2013. I would expect 4.2.x updates like gingerbread.
If this did come out for a reasonable price id possibly buy it. Can't say I wouldn't want to but hey this is just dreaming.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus
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I believe in order to be retina a ppi requirement has to be met.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk 2

I think "retina" is an Apple trademark. Didn't know you could trademark body parts... but whatever.
According to Apple, Retina goes from the high end of 326ppi (iPhone 4/4s) down to 227ppi in the Macbook Pro 13".
Nexus 7 is 216ppi so technically not retina.
Nexus 10 is 300ppi, just for comparison.

[Q] Worth getting without keyboard

I'm looking into getting the tf701 as my first Android Tablet. I think I've pretty much settled on it, but I just have a few questions.
Is it fully functional without the keyboard dock, or has the UI been changed in such a way that using without the dock is problematic (I don't plan on getting one for at least the first year)?
What am I missing out on without the dock? As far as I can tell, they dock offers a keyboard (duh), extra battery and USB 3 connectivity. As far as I can tell, All other slots (SD Card, headphones) are on the tablet, please correct if I'm mistaken.
Is there a dongle to enable USB without having a dock? It seems there was one for older models, but I can't find one for this model specifically.
If i connect a bluetooth keyboard, is the experience the same as with the dock? (minus battery and USB obviously)
What kind of case is necessary? Do I need a heavy duty otter box style case, or do the basic pleather ones do well enough.
The only other tablets which seem to be comparable are the Sony Xperia Tablet Z, which is something else I'm considering, and the Galaxy Note 2014 (quite a bit out of my price range). Are there any other tablets I should be looking at?
Sorry for all the questions, but these tablets aren't cheap, and I want to make sure I'm making the right decision.

CastrTroy said:
I'm looking into getting the tf701 as my first Android Tablet. I think I've pretty much settled on it, but I just have a few questions.
Is it fully functional without the keyboard dock, or has the UI been changed in such a way that using without the dock is problematic (I don't plan on getting one for at least the first year)?
What am I missing out on without the dock? As far as I can tell, they dock offers a keyboard (duh), extra battery and USB 3 connectivity. As far as I can tell, All other slots (SD Card, headphones) are on the tablet, please correct if I'm mistaken.
Is there a dongle to enable USB without having a dock? It seems there was one for older models, but I can't find one for this model specifically.
If i connect a bluetooth keyboard, is the experience the same as with the dock? (minus battery and USB obviously)
What kind of case is necessary? Do I need a heavy duty otter box style case, or do the basic pleather ones do well enough.
The only other tablets which seem to be comparable are the Sony Xperia Tablet Z, which is something else I'm considering, and the Galaxy Note 2014 (quite a bit out of my price range). Are there any other tablets I should be looking at?
Sorry for all the questions, but these tablets aren't cheap, and I want to make sure I'm making the right decision.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
hello tab works fine with out keyboard. it is just like any other tab
the keyboard adds a sd card slot. usb and battery, track pad. the tab has a micro sd slot.
it is worth getting the dock if you like to sit on the train and watch a video or do some emails/ work much more comfy than holding the tab or sitting it on a bag or lap to do this.
any case is fine i like the caseen ones.

I don't own the dock. If I wanted a dock I'd buy a laptop. For me, it defeats the whole purpose of owning a tablet.
Sent from my Transformer Infinity TF701T using Tapatalk HD

I've had my tf701 for almost a month and I'm not a fan of not having a kb. I like being able to type faster and having different degree of tilt when I'm using the tablet, plus the extra battery life of the dock. And it's a PITA trying to hold the tablet when I'm watching a video in bed. My tf700 has a dock and I can just lay it on my lap or if I'm laying down I lay it on my tummy and angle the screen down so I have the best viewing angle and my hands are free. And to me, my tablet is my laptop replacement.
Sent from my SM-N900T using Tapatalk

The auto-background-dimming problem kills it for me, even if there were no issues with the dock.

improvius said:
The auto-background-dimming problem kills it for me, even if there were no issues with the dock.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
has anyone spoken to asus about it?
mine in jp doesnt dim like in the vid else where but does change too often for my liking and doesn`t fade the dim like my old acer a510 wish it did.

improvius said:
The auto-background-dimming problem kills it for me, even if there were no issues with the dock.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The dimming issue is for me really not a biggie, I hardly notice it.
But main concern is for me the dock connection problem.
My expectance is that all users who don't have the problem now wil have it sooner or later because the mechanical stress put on to the connector (both female and male side) is immense and (as electronic engineer with my own engineering company) it will fail for sure later on.
We would NEVER put an electronic device on the market with such a dorming problem!!

I had a TF700 for a year without a kb dock, it's really not necessary. Android and tablets in general are designed to be used from a touch screen. SwiftKey is a really nice keyboard btw, I like the split keyboard for thumb typing.
That being side when I got the TF701, because of the TF700's annoying lagginess, I picked up the keyboard with it on a whim. It's actually really nice to be able to plug in a real keyboard when you want to type out an email or a forum post. The track pad on the keyboard sucks by the way, but you still have the touchscreen so it's not a game killer.

on the subject of keyboards. the Japanese supplied keyboard app that runs with the dock sucks when in tablet only mode you must press enter every word you type. There is no option to remove this even with predictive off.
I downloaded a third party jp keyboard but it fills up half the screen when typing on keyboard dock and it doesn`t register the keys for changing input language.
does anyone know if there is a multi language keyboard that will work correctly with the tf701 keyboard and all it`s keys.

The physical keyboard is a real blessing especially if you have to be on the road a lot. Typing emails, longer texts just isn't and will never be as smooth and fast without a real one. I'm currently using the tf300 combined with the KB and its like a mini notebook.
Will be buying the tf701 next year - the screen is like night and day compared to the tf300 - my girlfriend just bought it and i cannot get her to trade wonder why +gg+
If yyou are looking for a great keyboard app, I'd recommend thumb keyboard, no other KB has that much customization options.

The formfactor of the TF701 (tablet+keyboarddock) is just the USP that makes people choose for this tablet.
When bought without the dock and no need for a keyboard there are more competitors with similar products which you can compare to each other.
Then things like support (updates frequently available), build quality, stability and over all speed are most important.

The dimming issue will be fixed in a future firmware update. The dock issues are being addresses as well. The tablet is less than 2 months old. We'll always suffer as early adapters with Asus. It is what it is..
Sent from my Transformer Infinity TF701T using Tapatalk HD

Thumbs up for Thumb Keyboard
frankgreimes said:
If you are looking for a great keyboard app, I'd recommend thumb keyboard, no other KB has that much customization options.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I also use Thumb Keyboard and think it's hands down the best android keyboard out there. The only downside I've found is that it doesn't do swiping. I've recently discovered Swype and for quick texts on a phone it's much easier to use. For the tablet, however, it will always be Thumb Keyboard for me!

yeah it`s not supporting jp at this time so i`ll keep looking for a good app.

Would you recommend this tablet?

Hello I'm trying to find a tablet to use for school (so pretty much watching videos, Google, and games). I handwrite all my notes but the keyboard is a nice bonus. I got the Nexus 7 but i personally think it's too small. I'd like a 10" tablet, I was planning to wait for the galaxy tab pro 10, but i'm impatient. I found this tablet online at a local computer store for $380 for an open box or $410 new. It has great specs and a wqhd screen (I haven't seen it in person) but it seems like an awesome tablet. I have bought computer parts from asus before and there quality control and rma services are pretty good, not sure about tablets though. my only gripe is with all the "problem" threads and lack of development. No offense to the people that do work hard on this tablet.

michael74195 said:
Hello I'm trying to find a tablet to use for school (so pretty much watching videos, Google, and games). I handwrite all my notes but the keyboard is a nice bonus. I got the Nexus 7 but i personally think it's too small. I'd like a 10" tablet, I was planning to wait for the galaxy tab pro 10, but i'm impatient. I found this tablet online at a local computer store for $380 for an open box or $410 new. It has great specs and a wqhd screen (I haven't seen it in person) but it seems like an awesome tablet. I have bought computer parts from asus before and there quality control and rma services are pretty good, not sure about tablets though. my only gripe is with all the "problem" threads and lack of development. No offense to the people that do work hard on this tablet.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes - it is one of the best tablets out there right now.

Thread with similar info is already here:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2602905

Yes, this is the best iteration of the Transformer line, since it's inception. I have the iPad 4 and this blows it away. Amazing screen and speed. If your not getting a keyboard , you won't be disappointed.
Sent from my New Transformer Infinity TF701T using Tapatalk HD

michael74195 said:
Hello I'm trying to find a tablet to use for school (so pretty much watching videos, Google, and games). I handwrite all my notes but the keyboard is a nice bonus. I got the Nexus 7 but i personally think it's too small. I'd like a 10" tablet, I was planning to wait for the galaxy tab pro 10, but i'm impatient. I found this tablet online at a local computer store for $380 for an open box or $410 new. It has great specs and a wqhd screen (I haven't seen it in person) but it seems like an awesome tablet. I have bought computer parts from asus before and there quality control and rma services are pretty good, not sure about tablets though. my only gripe is with all the "problem" threads and lack of development. No offense to the people that do work hard on this tablet.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, I would recommend it if you found one that was defect-free. Asus' quality control is horrendous, so you really need to buy from somewhere with a good return policy (like Amazon). Only downsides to the tablet itself that I can think of:
1. The screen isn't very bright compared to competitors if you would use it a lot in direct sunlight.
2. It is a bit larger than it needs to be due to the large bezel. However, it really needs this bezel to match up with the size of the keyboard dock.
It also works great with the keyboard dock if you manage to get one of those defect-free. However, the likelihood of that is quite low right now as they produced 100% defective units until the end of October, and those units are still polluting online retailer's stock (even Amazon). So I'd wait at least a month or more to buy the dock if you are interested in that. It's really great for remote desktop apps like Splashtop. I use it to remotely control my desktop on my local network (with almost no lag - it feels just like I'm in front of my much-faster-than-any-laptop-or-tablet desktop).

Yes, performance it very good. we will roms soon with better tweaks and performance.

not defective
ssiemonsma said:
they produced 100% defective units until the end of October
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
A product cannot be 100% defective, even if the rate is high by any standards.
Mine seems to be doing fine. What is the defect you are talking about?
---------- Post added at 08:21 PM ---------- Previous post was at 08:05 PM ----------
michael74195 said:
Hello I'm trying to find a tablet to use for school (so pretty much watching videos, Google, and games). I handwrite all my notes but the keyboard is a nice bonus. I got the Nexus 7 but i personally think it's too small. I'd like a 10" tablet, I was planning to wait for the galaxy tab pro 10, but i'm impatient. I found this tablet online at a local computer store for $380 for an open box or $410 new. It has great specs and a wqhd screen (I haven't seen it in person) but it seems like an awesome tablet. I have bought computer parts from asus before and there quality control and rma services are pretty good, not sure about tablets though. my only gripe is with all the "problem" threads and lack of development. No offense to the people that do work hard on this tablet.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not only is this tablet best deal for the money and sports one of the fastest tablet CPUs, with a keyboard dock it "transforms" into an ultrabook, compete with USB port, SD port, and extra 7 hours of battery life.
The device is absolutely insane, and I plan to tap its full potential by installing Ubuntu Linux on it as a second OS, turning it into a tablet/"desktop on the go"
My only gripe is that there is a small gap at the edge seam that joins back and front panels, but it does not matter for any practical puproses.
The only worthy alternative that I know is a Acer C720 Chromebook: for just $200 it is very lightweight, and runs both Chrome OS and Ubuntu, but it does not transform to a tablet

ssiemonsma said:
Yes, I would recommend it if you found one that was defect-free. Asus' quality control is horrendous, so you really need to buy from somewhere with a good return policy (like Amazon). Only downsides to the tablet itself that I can think of:
1. The screen isn't very bright compared to competitors if you would use it a lot in direct sunlight.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You know the ASUS outdoor mode, do you? With it activated it is as bright as my TF201 and this is brighter than most if not every other tablet out there.
To activate outdoor mode either tap on the star symbol left of the brightness slider in quick settings or go to the settings / display menu.

muposat said:
A product cannot be 100% defective, even if the rate is high by any standards.
Mine seems to be doing fine. What is the defect you are talking about?
---------- Post added at 08:21 PM ---------- Previous post was at 08:05 PM ----------
Not only is this tablet best deal for the money and sports one of the fastest tablet CPUs, with a keyboard dock it "transforms" into an ultrabook, compete with USB port, SD port, and extra 7 hours of battery life.
The device is absolutely insane, and I plan to tap its full potential by installing Ubuntu Linux on it as a second OS, turning it into a tablet/"desktop on the go"
My only gripe is that there is a small gap at the edge seam that joins back and front panels, but it does not matter for any practical puproses.
The only worthy alternative that I know is a Acer C720 Chromebook: for just $200 it is very lightweight, and runs both Chrome OS and Ubuntu, but it does not transform to a tablet
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The V11 4130 is also a great option, since has same battery life as the 701, great display, bigger display but same size as 701 due to smaller bezel and comes with Microsoft Student full version. Also a full x86 app platform for games and emulators. Hulu works fine too (well, if you watch Hulu it is nice).
If wanting an Android specific device, the 701 seems tops.

upgrade from tf700?

Hello hello!
I own the tf700 and i really like it. Well, execpt the performance isn that good for me. Its a bit sluggish and laggy sometimes wich bothers me.
Will the tegra 4/the tf701 be a noticable upgrade in terms of performance?

Oh yes!!!!!!! [emoji122] [emoji106]
Sent from my K00C using Tapatalk

hello,
yes it is much faster.
having said that the overall finish and build quality is terrible and their after purchase warranty support is terrible.
please buy this from a physical store and test it well in store to make sure you get a good one is all the advice i can give you.
to list a few
pro
fast
great screen
more batt lif with dock
sd card and micro sd card for large space amounts.
usb 3 port for wireless mouse other devices.
cons
build quality
most countries dock have d/c issues and other issues like charge failures etc etc.
seems to be abandoned via asus considering they announced 4.4 for the padfones but left this device out of the list.
keyboard dock is made of plastic ???
when docked and upright it falls back as the plastic body of the dock can`t hold the device flat.
uncertain
stock software (is possibly stable, the screen still changes brightness too much for my liking) mine reboots a lot for no reason. however it`s away for it`s 4th trip to asus and they still refuse to replace it. so the rebooting could be related to my tab being one of the many fail devices out there.
i`m just being 100% honest here.
Please try it at a store as the idea is great and should be a top competitor against ipad and Samsung tabs but asus`s execution and build quality let it down.