Ipad/Tablet thingies? (I think this is the right place for this...)

[That One Guy]

Anyone have any opinions on these tablet thingies? I've seen the Ipad and the Samsung Galaxy Tab are out there. I've picked up an Ipad once and tried to see if I could check football scores, that's the extent of my knowledge of I-anything. The Samsung has the Android OS which my brother speaks highly of but, again, never handled it. I've always wanted my phone to be a phone more than anything else so I've fallen behind the portable technology factor of today. I've been considering something like this for Christmas but just don't know enough.

Any input is greatly appreciated.

[ghwk]

I love my iPad and use it more than my PC for general email and surfing stuff.

[alkemical]

Anyone have any opinions on these tablet thingies? I've seen the Ipad and the Samsung Galaxy Tab are out there. I've picked up an Ipad once and tried to see if I could check football scores, that's the extent of my knowledge of I-anything. The Samsung has the Android OS which my brother speaks highly of but, again, never handled it. I've always wanted my phone to be a phone more than anything else so I've fallen behind the portable technology factor of today. I've been considering something like this for Christmas but just don't know enough.

Any input is greatly appreciated.

Did you already make a purchase?

[El Guapo]

Don't be a sheep and go to apple. You're doing the right thing by asking questions first. I think the iPad2 was released to snatch up those people that haven't bought the first iteration yet as it wasn't THAT big of an upgrade (except for its processor, maybe). If you must go iPad either get the first gen one or wait another 6 months for the next one.

I've heard nothing but good things when it comes to the Xoom, but of course I can't add in any first hand info. My main goal was to make sure you didn't hop on the iBandwagon just because.

[alkemical]

I worked for HP and am waiting to see how the WebOS tablets do.

It will be on printers, phones, desktops, tablets, etc. It is supposed to have a common share between devices. So you could go from tablet, to PC, to phone seamlessly (ala a sort of roaming profile).

[Rigs11]

i just picked up the Ipad 2. All I can say is freaking awesome. Games are gorgeous, I can stream movies music and pictures from my pc, can remote desktop into my pc.wife uses it for recipes when she's cooking.I hear that they will be able to create 3d effects soon without glasses.

[Requiem]

I'm gonna have to look into these gadgets come the summer time. . .

[Boomhauer]

I'm gonna have to look into these gadgets come the summer time. . .
With Acer and Toshiba joining the party, the Tablet competition has finally arrived.

Toshiba Thrive 8GB-16GB-32GB @ $429-479-579 (WiFi, 3G later)
Android 3.1 / 1GHz Tegra2 / 1GB RAM
SDXC / GPS / HDMI / USB / miniUSB / 5.0+2.0MP cameras

Acer Iconia A500 16GB-32GB @ $449-499 (WiFi, 3G later)
Android 3.0 / 1GHz Tegra250 / 1GB RAM
microSDHC / GPS / HDMI / USB / miniUSB / 5.0+2.0MP cameras

Motorola XOOM 32GB @ $599 (WiFi, 3G+$200)
Android 3.0 / 1GHz Tegra2 / 1GB RAM
microSDHC / GPS / HDMI / miniUSB / 5.0+2.0MP cameras

ASUS EPad 16-32GB @ $399-499 (WiFi)
Android 3.0 / 1GHz Tegra2 / 1GB RAM
microSDHC / GPS / HDMI / Dock connector / 5.0+1.2MP cameras

----------------and-----these-----"special"-----contenders--------------------
Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 : 16-32GB @ $499-599 (WiFi, 3G later)
Android 3.1 / 1GHz Tegra2 / 1GB RAM
Dock connector / 3.0+2.0MP cameras

Apple iPad2 : 16GB-32GB-64GB @ $499-599-699 (WiFi, 3G+$130)
iOS 4 / 1GHz A5 / 256MB RAM
USB-HDMI connector / 0.7MP+VGA cameras

HP TouchPad : 16-32GB @ $499-$599 (WiFi, 3G later)
webOS 3.0 / 1.2GHz Snapdragon / 1GB RAM
GPS with 3G / miniUSB / 1.3MP Camera

--------------------------------------------------------------------------
If you're considering a smaller 7" tablet (half the size of the 10" ones/double a smartphone's size) Android 3.2 should arrive this summer. Don't consider the following figures conclusive since no production models have been seen or tested. An A100 pre-production was reviewed and boxes of them have been seen with price, but no confirmed details.

Acer Iconia A100 : 8GB @ $349 (WiFi, 3G later)
1GHz Tegra2 / 512MB RAM / microSDHC / GPS / HDMI / miniUSB / 5.0+2.0MP cameras

Viewsonic Viewpad 7x :
1GHz Tegra2 / GPS

Asus EPad Memo :
1.2GHz Snapdragon / HDMI / 5.0+1.3MP cameras

Samsung Galaxy Tab 7 : 16GB
1.2GHz Exynos / 1MB RAM / microSDHC / may be Android 3.2

*edit: added the 7"ers

[El Guapo]

A buddy of mine just picked up the Acer Iconia. I've only messed with it a couple times, but I'm sure impressed (as I know he is too).

[Requiem]

God, that's so much stuff to think about. I want it all.

[Boomhauer]

*edit: Added link and pics. Not trying to spam, just think these are cool
God, that's so much stuff to think about. I want it all.
If you can, I'd wait until fall/Christmas when Archos releases their G9 series. They have a few key advantages --
http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/23/archos-intros-80-gb-and-101-g9-android-3-1-tablets-1-5ghz-cpu/
1) Texas Instruments OMAP processor: 1.5GHz DualCore / DualChannel 1MB RAM / GPU / GPS
2) If you need mass data capability, they'll have versions offering a real HDD from Seagate at 250GB.
3) Removable G3 stick: All models are WiFi with G3 stick purchased separately for about $50. Slides seamlessly into tablet body using USB connection. Allows use of WiFi only without using your G3 data plan if you choose.
http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2011/06/archos-g913.jpg
http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2011/06/archos-80-g9.jpg
No prices on HDD versions or stats yet on camera megapixels, but should by its release in September.
Archos 80 G9 8" screen - 8GB @ $300
Android 3.1 / microSDHC / USB / HDMI
Archos 101 G9 10" screen - 8GB @ $370
Android 3.1 / microSDHC / USB / HDMI
*edit: Release date, price and memory of base model July,18 http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/18/archos-g9-tablets-priced-300-and-up-ship-in-september/
http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2011/06/archos-g917.jpg

[That One Guy]

Wow, I forgot this thread. I ended up just going cheap and simple and got a little Ipod touch instead. I'm glad I did as I was looking into the Ipad hard but after getting the Ipod, I'm not a fan of the Apple store at all. Too many games are the open ended kind ($ wise) and you can really get carried away buying apps but really have nothing to show afterwards when they get boring in 3 days.

After my laptop dies I might get into one for my sitting on the couch, browsing machine but it definitely wont be an Apple anything. It's just not for me.

[Boomhauer]

I really like the full-size SDXC/SDHC feature of the Thrive. For 16GB, they're about $5 cheaper than microSDHC, but are about $20 cheaper if you move to 32GB. They also offer 64GB, which microSDHC doesn't.

Another thing I like is the mid-size screen of the Archos 80. Like 13" laptops, the 7" tablets are more portable, but too small to serve their purpose. On the other side, 17" laptops and 10" tablets are awesome, but the sacrifice is they become cumbersome. I'd rather have the tablet version of a 15" -Goldilocks- laptop.
Around 8.5" or 8" is about as small a screen can be (8.5" in 3:4 = 5.1" x 6.8") and still get the Internet experience and play higher-graphics games, but the overall size also needs to fit in pockets/purses. If they could get the overall length under 8" and width under 6", it should fit in coats, cargo pant's pockets and average purses, instead of having to hand-carry or briefcase like the 10" tablets.

One feature I'd love to see is the ability to select and modify internal memory. A tablet only available with 8GB of fixed memory to support all programs and basic use would be perfectly fine if the buyer could choose the expansion memory. The Toshiba Thrive has a removable backing that allows access to add an extra battery. I figure the same type setup to access an internal Compact Flash slot protected from elements and theft, in addition to the external SD slot.
An equivalent CF cost about the same as full-size SDHC. Like full-size SDHC, they come in sizes up to 64GB and a few 128GB have even been made. But the real advantage is the significantly higher performance ceiling; up to six times faster read/write than the best SDHC - if you're willing to pay for it. Not necessary for regular use, but essential if you want to shoot higher quality video with your tablet or run heavy programs. For those that just want more memory and internal protection, a lower speed (x133) 8GB to 32GB ($20-$60) CF would write the same as a SDHC, but read twice as fast.

[elsid13]

Has anyone traveled oversea with one of the tablets. Did it work? I have to go to Japan for work and I am thinking about getting one to use.

[Boomhauer]

http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2011/06/11x0425p82ice.jpg
A buddy of mine just picked up the Acer Iconia. I've only messed with it a couple times, but I'm sure impressed (as I know he is too).

I put Toshiba and Acer at the top of that list because they always have highest quality products and put forward a little extra, but unlike Apple, also have very reasonable prices. For Acer, that little extra is leading exterior design and appeal. For Toshiba, that extra is tweaking the software to the absolute perfection possible. I didn't include the iPad2 with them because, though it's user friendly and Apple-good, it's not a very capable system, especially for the price.

*Edit: The Acer A500 earlier mentioned will begin Android 3.1 updates overseas July 5th. US to follow.

[Boomhauer]

Acer just announced the delayed Iconia A100 7" tablet will be available in August for $300, instead of $349 previously.
http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/28/acer-iconia-tab-a100-finally-available-in-august-for-300/

Acer Iconia A100 : 8GB @ $300 (WiFi, 3G later)
1GHz Tegra2 / 512MB RAM / microSDHC / GPS / HDMI / miniUSB / 5.0+2.0MP cameras
http://winarco.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/Acer-Iconia-Tab-A100-01-460x354.jpg
http://www.netbooklive.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/a100maremod.jpg

[alkemical]

I'm waiting to see what the HP one is. I'd go HP over Acer.

[Rigs11]

I just installed an snes emulator on my ipad 2, the cool thing is that my iphone 4 is the controller.

[El Guapo]

Check slickdeals. net for a $100 off coupon for all tablets they sell. This ends tonight.

[chadta]

I'm waiting to see what the HP one is. I'd go HP over Acer.

buddy of mine just got the blackberry playbook, sold his ipad 2 the next day, personally ive never used either.

[alkemical]

buddy of mine just got the blackberry playbook, sold his ipad 2 the next day, personally ive never used either.

I do know the Playbook is the only tablet approved to meet Gov't/DoD spec for security.

[Boomhauer]

I'm waiting to see what the HP one is. I'd go HP over Acer.

Probably not a good idea. I put HP dead-last on my list because HP makes tihs. Where as Toshiba finds a way to tweak their computers (Windows or Android) to maximum efficiency and ease of use compared to 'as-is' makers like Dell, Acer, etc - HP somehow manages to make everything worse. Windows has always been a headache OS and HP's running it are clogged disasters.

HP's tablet runs webOS, purchased with Palm last year, but I'd imagine they only messed it up too. Might explain, as well as the top-dollar they were charging for their crap, why the HP tablet has only hit around 10% expected sales and BestBuy is trying to get HP to buy back the excess stock.

So it came as no surprise today that HP is closing it's personal, business and mobile division. They'll do what they can to sell that crap off, but the only thing worth a dime is some patents and maybe webOS to a company that knows what they're doing. HP business systems (servers, software, etc) and HP image systems (printers, scanners, etc) will remain.

[Boomhauer]

I'm waiting to see what the HP one is. I'd go HP over Acer.

I take it back Alkemical; HP's announcement they're terminating their tablet, phone and PC division will likely only hurt sales of the Touchpad even more - Bestbuy only sold 25K of the 270K it ordered and was demanding a refund - so HP has drastically cut pricing. They'd previously slashed prices $100 to no avail, but now are having a Touchpad firesale to empty inventory even at a loss. If you can't grab one now, look for 'new-in-box' Touchpads to flood interweb shopping sites.

HP TouchPad mania: TouchPads selling out in U.S. at $99.99 http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/technology/
"... On Saturday the TouchPad's new $99.99 price hit the U.S. and, according to reports around the Web, retailers on both sides of the border are seeing sellouts in stores and online. HP itself is selling the TouchPad in its online store at the previously (Friday) Canada-only prices -- its 16 gigabyte model listed at $99.99 and the 32-gigabyte model at $149.99. ..."

[El Guapo]

Best Buy is also offering a deal where if you get one of two Samsung TVs (46" and 55") they'll throw in a Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 for FREEEEE. I'm currently trying to talk the wife into this. It starts tomorrow.

The Tab is IMMENSELY better than the touchpad.

[Requiem]

Just got one of the new Macbook Airs. SICK.

[El Guapo]

Had my fun w Apple. I refuse to become a sheep. No more for me. Enjoy it though. Haha

[mosca]

Still don't see the big advantage of the tablets over a Netbook. Not having a keyboard still sucks bigtime. I've had the same Acer Netbook for over 2 years that I bought for $275, it runs great with Ubuntu. Had to send it in once on warranty to have the HD replaced.

If I want to use any of the geeky cool apps that use the cam, I can use my smartphone. The tablet is just not neccessary for me.

[Miss I.]

bumping this because i am thinking of upgrading from my very basic kindle now for when I travel. I'd do the kindle fire but it apparently doesn't work internationally yet. Any suggestions?

[El Guapo]

A buddy of mine just picked up the ASUS transformer Prime and man that thing is slick. Not only a tab, but you can purchase a keyboard dock that has a usb slot. Wish my Galaxy Tab 10.1 had that but I still love it nonetheless.

[mosca]

Don't care what anyone says, typing w/o a keyboard still sucks. Doesn't matter what cool apps like Swype you use, it still blows.

[Fedaykin]

bumping this because i am thinking of upgrading from my very basic kindle now for when I travel. I'd do the kindle fire but it apparently doesn't work internationally yet. Any suggestions?

I would suggest looking at the B&N Nook line, their simple touch reader is, IMHO, the best e-reader available. This suggestion of course, sucks, if you have a lot of kindle format books which the Nook can't use unless you convert everything manually using 3rd party software (and you won't be able to convert anything that has DRM which is almost everything). You can strip the DRM with various software, but then you are breaking the DCMA (though IMHO you're not doing anything wrong unless you actually violate the copyright of the books).

The Nook Color/Table and the Fire (both are essentially the same thing with a different book store backing them) are cool toys, but aren't good readers. I have a Noon Color and the backlit display is great.. for everything but reading. I like to read at night and out and about -- and in both circumstances the experience sucks with a backlit display (both because they are a lot heavier and because backlit displays are unreadable in sunlight and eye damaging in the dark).

These days my Nook color is kept in the living room as a pure tablet, and I have a Nook Simple Touch for actual reading.

[Fedaykin]

Don't care what anyone says, typing w/o a keyboard still sucks. Doesn't matter what cool apps like Swype you use, it still blows.

As someone who uses a keyboard 8-12 hours a day (software engineer) I can't stand any device other than a keyboard for bulk input.

That said, swype is light years ahead of the hunt and peck crap you are stuck with with a iPhone (unless you have a jailbroken iPhone that is). For casual messaging once you get the hang of it (and if you and the receiver like an occasional laugh when it screws up) swype can be used faster and more accurately than most people can type.

[lonestar]

My wife has had an iPad with 3G for a couple of years and I just got a WIFI only one as a hand me down..

Since I have started to use it I rarely get on my iMac any more..

Of course I'm not a power user like I used to be when I worked for a living.. But retirement has allowed me to stop being in front of a screen all the time..

Lots of my browsing is now on an iPhone and most of the rest is on the iPad..

Frankly I'll never own anything but Apple products again..Have several Notebooks including a Toshiba that is a piece of crap..

Owned nothing but PC's until my Daughter got a Airbook pro in college have bought nothing but Apple since..

Worth the money if for no other reason than not having to worry about viruses..

BTW am waiting for the iPad 2 and iPhone4S to come down in price..

[Fedaykin]

Speaking of Tablets, you just have to laugh at this:

http://www.news.com.au/technology/tablets/rspca-app-designed-by-bond-university-student-saxon-cameron-features-games-for-felines/story-fn6vigfp-1226261448385