Alright, short and sweet;
I'm in the market for a Tablet - this will be my first, although I'm not new to smartphones/android - and I'd decided to get the G-Tablet.. until I read about the Motorola Xoom.
I like how clean the Xoom looks, how thin it is and how small the frame around the display is. I also like that it's a Motorola product, meaning there will probably be an abundance of spare parts on ebay in the following months should I need a digitizer or what have you. I don't like that I'll probably have to wait to root and modify - judging it based on Motorola's recent history with Android devices and how well they're locked down.
I like the hardware and hackability of the G-Tablet, and the fact that I can pick one up tomorrow at-will. Is there any reason NOT to get the G-Tablet right now?! This tablet will need to last me until around Christmas.
So, in your opinions, throw some pros and cons at me and lets decide which route I should go.. G-Tablet or Xoom (once it's out).
I think the biggest pro would be...it'll be a lot cheaper than the Xoom. Aside from a better screen, camera, and form factor...the gtablet should be up to par with the Xoom.
I'm pretty sure that the Gtablet will get honeycomb so it should keep the device fresh. I think it'll last you til next Xmas but I'm sure temptations to ditch the gtab will be abundant next year.
Yea the price-point for the xoom, I'm guessing, will be on par with the Galaxy Tab, if not slightly more, which would put it out of my price range.
Hows the display on the Gtablet? I've heard mixed reviews.. but I'd expect alot of viewsonic.. pics would be great if anyone has any.
Sent from my Evo 4G running AvaFroyo w/ MakMod using TapaTalk Pro
.mak said:
Yea the price-point for the xoom, I'm guessing, will be on par with the Galaxy Tab, if not slightly more, which would put it out of my price range.
Hows the display on the Gtablet? I've heard mixed reviews.. but I'd expect alot of viewsonic.. pics would be great if anyone has any.
Sent from my Evo 4G running AvaFroyo w/ MakMod using TapaTalk Pro
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The screen isn't so great on the gtablet, but if you are mostly using it from straight on it isn't a problem.
As for the Xoom, I think I'm going to be looking at other tablets. Viewsonic is supposed to release a newer tegra 2 tablet at the end of the first quarter, which looks design-wise more like the Xoom.
I would maybe, maybe get another motorolla phone to replace my droid x because it is something I rely on and don't modify it that much. However, I would never buy a locked down motorolla tablet. And worse yet, I've heard the locking down is only going to get worse with them. It's too bad because they make nice hardware.
I agree. Locked down=deal breaker. If you want to go locked down why not go ipad?
The screen on the gtab is fine for my needs (but who wouldnt prefer "better").
The developer support for gtab seems top notch and it will get better by the month for at least six months to a year. With any thing too locked down what started out as better than a competiting device could easily be getting its a$$ handed to it by said device 4 months later.
I think with CES in the first week of this year you will have a number of announcements of tablets, where I expect shipments by mid-year. I for one don't want a tablet with a data plan and I believe the Motorola will ship with a cellular data modem which will drive higher cost, carrier ties, etc.
The Acer tablets look interesting, but from the pictures on the web it isn't clear if their displays are any better.
.mak said:
Alright, short and sweet;
I'm in the market for a Tablet - this will be my first, although I'm not new to smartphones/android - and I'd decided to get the G-Tablet.. until I read about the Motorola Xoom.
.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
vsc said:
I think with CES in the first week of this year you will have a number of announcements of tablets, where I expect shipments by mid-year. I for one don't want a tablet with a data plan and I believe the Motorola will ship with a cellular data modem which will drive higher cost, carrier ties, etc.
The Acer tablets look interesting, but from the pictures on the web it isn't clear if their displays are any better.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I would have to agree, part of the reason why I went with a G-Tablet was because I don't want any type of cellular support. That's why I have a cell phone with hotspot capabilities.
After seeing what the folks here have been able to do with the tablet, especially after going Vegan, this thing is simply amazing. The fact that even Viewsonic even recognizes (in a roundabout way), on their own site, the work that is being done here is "icing on the cake" for me...
It depends if you want to wait or not. Point is the CES products will be MONTHS away and almost certainly more expensive. THEN you will have to wait for a dev community to acclimate and publish software for the product.
1. Gtablet is here NOW
2. Less than $400
3. Tegra 2 (like the best of those devices will have)
4. Dev community is producing NOW
5. Easy market hack NOW. No guarantee for future products.
6. Speaking of guarantees, do you think the products being shown at CES will be as root friendly?
Agree with what others have said already about Gtab. I used my Gtab 99.9% of the time in landscape mode so viewing angle wasn't a problem for me (though in portrait mode you need to tilt a little sideway but not much to get a good viewing angle).
If you are a hobbyist (which I think you are based on the # of projects you are currently working on) and like to tweak things then Gtab is definitely worth looking at. It is so hackable and unbrickable that it's a dev heaven for Android development. I have learned a lot by playing with different ROMs on the Gtab. Dev guys like Roebeet, Rothnic, Gojimi, Clemsyn, etc., have been keeping us busy around the clock with new builds/tricks/support that I probably will still play with it around Xmas 2011
If you are lucky you might be able to snatch a refurb Gtab from Sears outlet for $279. I got mine on sales at Sears for $349 last month brand new.
Cons:
No built-in kickstand (I modified an iPad kickstand from 5Below for $5; works perfectly though)
No perfectly fit screen protector yet (I modified an iPad screen protector to fit my Gtab screen)
No rear camera (I don't miss it but not sure about you)
No multi-finger touch (two fingers only on Gtab; not sure if it's s/w or h/w limitation but I don't find it to be an issue but would like to point it out)
No built-in GPS (but works with Bluetooth GPS to grab GPS data from your phone or other bluetooth GPS devices)
Does not support smooth playback of H.264 High Profile Encoded HD Video (you will have to convert to Main Profile before watching it on Gtab)
Hard-to-find case holder for Gtab (unlike iPad where tons of them are available)
Video Conferencing app support is still not yet widely available (only Yahoo Messenger seems to work so far but image quality is not great; others like Fring & Tango have failed on Gtab but I believe it's software on the app itself)
rothnic said:
The screen isn't so great on the gtablet, but if you are mostly using it from straight on it isn't a problem.
As for the Xoom, I think I'm going to be looking at other tablets. Viewsonic is supposed to release a newer tegra 2 tablet at the end of the first quarter, which looks design-wise more like the Xoom.
I would maybe, maybe get another motorolla phone to replace my droid x because it is something I rely on and don't modify it that much. However, I would never buy a locked down motorolla tablet. And worse yet, I've heard the locking down is only going to get worse with them. It's too bad because they make nice hardware.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The screen is my only concern at this point.. I guess GPS is an issue for me since I'd want to use this thing as a giant navigation unit on occasion, but I always have my Evo around so whatever I guess..
rushless said:
It depends if you want to wait or not. Point is the CES products will be MONTHS away and almost certainly more expensive. THEN you will have to wait for a dev community to acclimate and publish software for the product.
1. Gtablet is here NOW
2. Less than $400
3. Tegra 2 (like the best of those devices will have)
4. Dev community is producing NOW
5. Easy market hack NOW. No guarantee for future products.
6. Speaking of guarantees, do you think the products being shown at CES will be as root friendly?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
All very good points that I'd taken into account, but was hoping someone would point out to further my belief that the G-Tablet is a wise investment.
samepic said:
Agree with what others have said already about Gtab. I used my Gtab 99.9% of the time in landscape mode so viewing angle wasn't a problem for me (though in portrait mode you need to tilt a little sideway but not much to get a good viewing angle).
If you are a hobbyist (which I think you are based on the # of projects you are currently working on) and like to tweak things then Gtab is definitely worth looking at. It is so hackable and unbrickable that it's a dev heaven for Android development. I have learned a lot by playing with different ROMs on the Gtab. Dev guys like Roebeet, Rothnic, Gojimi, Clemsyn, etc., have been keeping us busy around the clock with new builds/tricks/support that I probably will still play with it around Xmas 2011
If you are lucky you might be able to snatch a refurb Gtab from Sears outlet for $279. I got mine on sales at Sears for $349 last month brand new.
Cons:
No built-in kickstand (I modified an iPad kickstand from 5Below for $5; works perfectly though)
No perfectly fit screen protector yet (I modified an iPad screen protector to fit my Gtab screen)
No rear camera (I don't miss it but not sure about you)
No multi-finger touch (two fingers only on Gtab; not sure if it's s/w or h/w limitation but I don't find it to be an issue but would like to point it out)
No built-in GPS (but works with Bluetooth GPS to grab GPS data from your phone or other bluetooth GPS devices)
Does not support smooth playback of H.264 High Profile Encoded HD Video (you will have to convert to Main Profile before watching it on Gtab)
Hard-to-find case holder for Gtab (unlike iPad where tons of them are available)
Video Conferencing app support is still not yet widely available (only Yahoo Messenger seems to work so far but image quality is not great; others like Fring & Tango have failed on Gtab but I believe it's software on the app itself)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Accessories, rear camera and multi-touch aren't a problem for me.. two-finger zoom is all I use on my devices anyway. Video conferencing is important, but only to an extent.. No GPS is problematic, but I can bluetooth my Evo in.
None of these are deal-breakers but, in the end, without video chat, without gps, with jittery playback of h.264 video and poor display quality, I'm wondering what I'll use the G-Tablet for lol
I suppose I'd be using this for media playback around the house and while traveling, same with web browsing (with Flash, and I'll tether to my Evo when away from home), Netflix when it becomes available (I'm sure there'll be a hack for that) and Google Maps.. does it support v5 Maps with 3d buildings??
As for the iPad comment earlier in the thread; I thought about it, but I like widgets and expansion way too much to go with the iPad.
samepic said:
Agree with what others have said already about Gtab. I used my Gtab 99.9% of the time in landscape mode so viewing angle wasn't a problem for me (though in portrait mode you need to tilt a little sideway but not much to get a good viewing angle).
If you are a hobbyist (which I think you are based on the # of projects you are currently working on) and like to tweak things then Gtab is definitely worth looking at. It is so hackable and unbrickable that it's a dev heaven for Android development. I have learned a lot by playing with different ROMs on the Gtab. Dev guys like Roebeet, Rothnic, Gojimi, Clemsyn, etc., have been keeping us busy around the clock with new builds/tricks/support that I probably will still play with it around Xmas 2011
If you are lucky you might be able to snatch a refurb Gtab from Sears outlet for $279. I got mine on sales at Sears for $349 last month brand new.
Cons:
No built-in kickstand (I modified an iPad kickstand from 5Below for $5; works perfectly though)
No perfectly fit screen protector yet (I modified an iPad screen protector to fit my Gtab screen)
No rear camera (I don't miss it but not sure about you)
No multi-finger touch (two fingers only on Gtab; not sure if it's s/w or h/w limitation but I don't find it to be an issue but would like to point it out)
No built-in GPS (but works with Bluetooth GPS to grab GPS data from your phone or other bluetooth GPS devices)
Does not support smooth playback of H.264 High Profile Encoded HD Video (you will have to convert to Main Profile before watching it on Gtab)
Hard-to-find case holder for Gtab (unlike iPad where tons of them are available)
Video Conferencing app support is still not yet widely available (only Yahoo Messenger seems to work so far but image quality is not great; others like Fring & Tango have failed on Gtab but I believe it's software on the app itself)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
kindle dx cases fit the gtab nicely
Gentlemen:
Lots of good thoughts and ideas -- but I have one that hasn't been mentioned.
Simply put, I'm not rich but if something really better comes out I'll go buy one!!!
I bought two G-Tabs for the fun of playing on the bleeding edge and for personal use. I already have more than justified what I spent with what I have done already!!! I'm even. And I still have a lot more playing to do.
I have accepted the fact that Viewsonic accomplished what they intended in getting a tablet with good hardware and "open" software on the market early. Did they miss the mark on the software -- we may never know except for what we have found in using the tablet.
But they have responded and the devs have catered to us and so far as I can see it we all are having a blast.
I saw a report that an estimated 80 tablet devices will be announced at CES!!!
Got to be something worth playing with in there. But most them are months away. When they are really available we'll see.....
For now, here's to a Happy New Year and lots of fun until it's time to do it again!!!!
Rev
I had mine for almost two weeks and just returned mine to Office Depot. Some of my reasoning is that while it's fast, it feels cheap and the display quality just kills me. Also the Samsung Galaxy Tab just dropped to $500 with no contract from Verizon. CES is just around the corner and I have a feeling that there's going to be a slew of tablets from different vendors. Best buy already has 3 different android tablets in the store since the Fall.
I did enjoy the aspect of it being easy to flash and VEGAn is great, but the lack of being able to run Google Location Services and VOIP kinda also killed it for me. Then the few reports of the power port being knocked loose, made me decide to return it.
After days of researching and some great replies here, I'm positive I'm going to hold off for CES to pass and see what's being offered.
I've decided I need GPS built-in and a better display, and an aluminum body wouldn't hurt either! (but it's unlikely..).
I may grab an iPad used and lowball someone, just to hold me over until CES passes and the new tablets hit stores.. by then Netflix may have the Android app out, and I'll have had a few solid months using it on the iPad.
If I get an iPad for now, I'll also grab the Desktop Connect software so can mess with my laptop through the ipad.
This should hold me over for now, thanks guys!
I just wanted to add my 0.02 for anyone else contemplating the gTab. My wife and I got an iPad this weekend from my Mom for christmas, and since we weren't really looking for a tablet, I hate itunes, I already have a droid x, and I didn't like that she spent so much money, we decided to return the ipad and get an android tablet. Since I only had a day to figure out what we wanted - if anything- I did some frantic searches on the droid x which lead me here. I read about all the issues, the ROMs, and the hardware and decided for the money the Gtab was the way to go. I also thought the screen wouldn't bother me much.
First experience with the Gtab is like everyone else's. Its total crap from the oem. I was reluctant to even let my wife touch it before I modded it. Lucky she doesn't have very high expectations, but she kept asking why everything kept "Force closing" lol.
This is my first time rooting any android device (I've rooted a few linksys routers though) but it was super easy (once I realized the + vol button was the OTHER one). My Gtab is now running VEGAn beta 5 and so far is fantastic. It runs better than my droid x and the only bummer is the missing market stuff. Seems anything GPS related is missing and I'm sure other stuff. I have the droid x paired with the Gtab for GPS and I was hoping the GTab could be my new Giant plotter in my boat but I couldn't find my Navionics software in the market to install. Will have to look into finding a way to install it.
But the real biggest let down surprised me. The screen. I thought it wouldn't matter much to me, but 99% of the time I find myself laying it flat on a desk or my lap in landscape mode and that is the worst possible viewing angle for this device. Quite annoying, but I would still buy (I guess I should say "trade an iPad for") the Gtab again.
The main use will be office productivity for my wife at home/travelling and email/facebook stuff also. I expect it to work well for that.
I was at Best Buy today and almost bit the bullet on an iPad 16GB WiFi, but decided to head to sears and see the G-Tablet on display.. turned out the genius working the counter mistook the cardboard cutout for a real G-Tablet! LOL
Anyway, I decided, regardless of the horrid return policy (30 days, 15% restocking fee unless defective) that I'd take a gTab home with me and give it a shot.
I'm liking it so far, the screen is horrible but I'll adjust. Clockworkmod install was very straightforward, as was installing zPad 3.0 and getting some apps installed (all expected..).
Only time will tell if I regret my purchase.. but if I can get hulu working and some sort of a remote desktop / vnc to control my laptop without loads of lag, I'll be a happy camper.
While I'm on the subject, is there an app similar to AirStream for the iPad? It's VERY fluid and works almost as if you're using Windows (or OSX) from the iPad.. PhoneMyPC is laggy and choppy, LogMeIn is as well.. any others I might try?
The iPad is awful, except the screen
I actually bought an iPad at Worst Buy last week - I just had to test it out. The screen is really very nice and comic viewing is PERFECT on it.
However.....
- No Flash (knew that going in)
- No USB (knew that going in)
- One speaker. That one I didn't expect.
- Mediocre video support. You have to buy an app to get XVID support, and it didn't even work 100% of the time. The GTab might choke on high profile x264's, but it shines on XVID's.
- Mediocre audio support. No WMA, no Vorbis, no FLAC. Nuff said.
- SMB access requires a paid app, and even so it only supported native extensions.
- No drag and drop, and the sharing feature is spotty at best. I would push over a CBR file to Stanza, and 50% of the time the transfer would flat out fail. And I was doing this on a Mac.
The last bullet was the one that "broke the camel's back". I can dump all my CBR's on a NAS device and read them on the GTab (with VEGan b5.1) with no problem. On an iPad, it's a chore to just add a handful of comics. Basically, the device was not designed for me, it was designed for someone who stays within Apple's walled garden and is willing to pay pay pay for all their content (even if they already own it, but it's not supported).
roebeet said:
I actually bought an iPad at Worst Buy last week - I just had to test it out. The screen is really very nice and comic viewing is PERFECT on it.
However.....
- No Flash (knew that going in)
- No USB (knew that going in)
- One speaker. That one I didn't expect.
- Mediocre video support. You have to buy an app to get XVID support, and it didn't even work 100% of the time. The GTab might choke on high profile x264's, but it shines on XVID's.
- Mediocre audio support. No WMA, no Vorbis, no FLAC. Nuff said.
- SMB access requires a paid app, and even so it only supported native extensions.
- No drag and drop, and the sharing feature is spotty at best. I would push over a CBR file to Stanza, and 50% of the time the transfer would flat out fail. And I was doing this on a Mac.
The last bullet was the one that "broke the camel's back". I can dump all my CBR's on a NAS device and read them on the GTab (with VEGan b5.1) with no problem. On an iPad, it's a chore to just add a handful of comics. Basically, the device was not designed for me, it was designed for someone who stays within Apple's walled garden and is willing to pay pay pay for all their content (even if they already own it, but it's not supported).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yep. It's why I never even bothered to look at an iPad when they came out even though I had wanted a tablet ala Newton Messagepad 2100 for YEARS!
h.264 HP: I still think that it's just a driver problem, and all Tegra 2s currently have the same problem. nVidia is still claiming full h.264 and I doubt that they'd continue on with that if the hw wasn't capable... so it's a wait for nVidia to fix thing, or admit that they have a hw bug that they can't workaround w/sw...
My only thing with the gTab was that I wished that the camera was higher res... it's not really extra horrible, but it's not awesome either... just kind of meh...
Still using my gTab mainly for web browsing, occasional video, and I have used it to read in portrait mode before in the past although in that function it's been retired since I picked up a NC last week... but I can see situations where I might revert to it if the NC battery is almost dead and I need something backlit to read on... that said in portrait orientation as a reader it just wasn't comfortable to hold to begin with... NC much better for that...
NC screen: yeah better viewing angles, but turns out not to be very selling to me. OTOH the pixel density is VERY nice, unfortunately B&N QA sucks. (My first NC had a defective USB port, and I had a b!tch of a time getting the yahoos in the store to exchange it, so they have a sh!tty cs experience as well... as in if anything goes defective on #2 in the next week it's going back for cash because of their horrid cs.)
Just for what it's worth, take a look at last year's CES and the one before it and see how many products seen there actually hit the market, and of the ones that did, how many were there that actually made it out in the first 2 quarters?
Any tablet at CES that magically passes those 2 barriers will be so proud of itself, it's going to slap a pricetag of $700+ on itself. History repeats itself, CES is all hype specifically to try and rally you into thinking $700 is a great deal.
I would strongly suggest the $350 gtab for this reason hands down, besides, the $700 one if it even does materialize before Q3, will be sporting an approximation of the hardware of the gtab so we will get all their softwares anyway..
See I don't know about that. I think that carriers and manufacturers learned from the massively overpriced galaxy tab. Over $500 is asking a lot of the average consumer, and my guess would be that a majority off these will be around or below that price. For example the notion ink with the lcd is sub 500, and there are plenty more coming out half as nice looking.
Sent from my T-Mobile G2 using XDA App
Related
I got my g-tablet from Sears on November 2 and returned it to the store yesterday. I told them it does not have flash as stated on the box and the display is of very poor quality. I got full refund.
Why did I return it?
- Nvidia quality sucks: I had dead laptop, because of defective nvidia chip. If you don't believe it check this: Apple, Dell and HP got a class action suit against Nvidia: www nvidiasettlement com. OpenGL drivers are full of bugs they may have fixed Angry Birds, but there are plenty other bugs I'm sure.
- Nvidia does not conform to standards. No NEON instructions in Tegra. They try to play their desktop video card game, by providing custom APIs and making their applications incompatible with other ARM CPUs. So far it is the opposite - applications that run good on every other Cortex A8, does not play on Tegra.
- Nvidia keep their specs closed. I tried to get information on how to hook a hardware JTAG debugger, but all specs are opened only for partners.
- The device has the worst display I've seen. In portrait mode it gives me distorted colors even when looked at 90 degrees angle.
- The device is made by Malata and not Viewsonic. There is no track history for this company and I don't want to risk my money with unknown hardware quality (software we all know sucks)
For all folks expecting Notion Ink Adam: I'm sorry but this is going to be the same crap. Notion Ink has no proven record (neither Pixel Qi),combined with a low quality Nvidia chip, this is going to hurt.
I'm going to wait for the upcoming Acer tablet with a 10-inch screen that will run a Qualcomm dual-core 1 Ghz processor (produced on the new 28nm technology, supports out of order execution).
One good word about the G-tablet: the apx mode allows you to flash any OS, but the tablet has only 512MB internal Flash, which is not enough for dual boot.
My perfect tablet needs to be a laptop replacement: that means dual boot Android/Gentoo Linux, ability to boot every other ARM OS(windows phone,etc) from a sdcard. Also it has to have a case with keyboard and mouse pad (to be used as laptop when needed).
The TnT interface shows how clueless are Viewsonic about what the people actually need.
I bought mine about 3 days ago.. and I'm returning it today because of the poor viewing angles on the screen.. and also because of the laggy ui.. even with custom roms
edit: changed my mind and I'm going to keep mine for a while. there's a lot of great work being done with custom roms that might fix the lagginess. looking forward to notion inks announcement on december 9th!
i have had mine for about a week, the only way i'm returning it is if something better comes out within my 30 day window. it certainly does have flaws but i'm gonna give it more of a chance.
I am keeping mine because I am running Android 2.2 which doesn't take advantage of the dual-core processor, and because it is more of an accessory than a laptop replacement for me. This is definitely a hacker's unit more than an out-of-the-box laptop replacement.
-=Sent from my ViewSonic G Tablet using Tapatalk=-
To get a better one
Sent from my HTC Vision using XDA App
Keeping mine. Roebeet has been working hard to make this tablet worth something. I have no compaints with this device while running tnt lite other than the screen viewing angles. Even still, 9 times out of 10, im holding my device right in front of me so viewing angles are not as big of factor. This device is really just ahead of its time. The hardware is there, just the operating system is yet to be optimized for a 10 inch tablet with a tegra 2 processor. Roebeets tnt lite is just a sneak peak at what this thing is capable of. Once there is a 100% stock android it will run even faster, or even android 3.0. With this thing being completely open, its only a matter of time. This is a hackers paradise. Its so new that not everyone was able to get their hands on it yet. Give this thing time, i think you will be suprised what this thing can do and regret returning it.
I'm keeping mine. With a good bit of modding its actually nice to use. The screen angles are pretty bad in good lighting but is fine in low light situations. So I just use it in landscape in good light areas. Aside from the screen and sadly the TnT software this Malta pad is great. It even has a potential to be a beast as new products are released and Tegra 2 support becomes stronger.
Anything we get until Feb of next year is going to be a bit of a mess. All the top tier companies who only want to release a 100% consumer friendly product are holding off for Honeycomb. The current releases are either mid tier companies hungry for market share, bottom of the barrel companies releasing crap, and start ups like Adam using time as an opportunity.
We're on the bleeding edge and it shows. Likely the only company thats going to put in the effort needed to make this a good experience is Adam. They're a new company with something to prove. That said, I wouldn't be surprised if the their tab ends up going for $600 and still selling well.
Bottom line: If you can put up with the viewing angles and 1 reboot a day this is a decent deal. Especially if you got it for $280 like I did .
Keeping mine and bought up Sears stock for today's sale, sorry about that anyone who shops near me. These rock after being loaded up correctly
No way I'm taking my back. After flashing to TnT Lite 2.02 it's a keeper. Now if I could only get wireless tethering to work it would be golden.
does this question really belong in development?
switt said:
Bottom line: If you can put up with the viewing angles and 1 reboot a day this is a decent deal. Especially if you got it for $280 like I did .
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For $280 this tablet is a steal. There is no doubt in my mind that I would keep this tablet at that price.
However, at $417 after tax I'm on the fence about keeping this tablet. Performance wise, I can't complain. It's easily the fastest tablet on the market right now. After loading up TnT Lite with flash, this tablet is amazing. It's so much fun surfing the web. Battery life is great, this thing sips power.
but the screen, OMG the screen. It's just bad. I don't know any other way to say it. In portrait mode, it's usable but you can tell the image looks different at the top than it does at the bottom. I've found that there is really only one way to hold the tablet to get a good view and that is directly infront of you slightly below eye level.
linckraker said:
does this question really belong in development?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That was my question also, but I decided not to comment as I had assumed that a mod would've moved it to general by now.
Anyways ATM I'm keeping it. My primary reason for returning it would be driven by the form factor, as I REALLY MUCH prefer 7" for tablets. Just more portable and better for reading fiction, which means IF I keep that I'll also want a complementary 7" tablet. I just find 10" to be unwieldly.
As secondary reasons I would point out the absence of various features advertised on the box itself.
Just wish that a 7" Tegra2 would come out... I'd be all over it.
Where do i get one for $280
switt said:
I'm keeping mine. With a good bit of modding its actually nice to use. The screen angles are pretty bad in good lighting but is fine in low light situations. So I just use it in landscape in good light areas. Aside from the screen and sadly the TnT software this Malta pad is great. It even has a potential to be a beast as new products are released and Tegra 2 support becomes stronger.
Anything we get until Feb of next year is going to be a bit of a mess. All the top tier companies who only want to release a 100% consumer friendly product are holding off for Honeycomb. The current releases are either mid tier companies hungry for market share, bottom of the barrel companies releasing crap, and start ups like Adam using time as an opportunity.
We're on the bleeding edge and it shows. Likely the only company thats going to put in the effort needed to make this a good experience is Adam. They're a new company with something to prove. That said, I wouldn't be surprised if the their tab ends up going for $600 and still selling well.
Bottom line: If you can put up with the viewing angles and 1 reboot a day this is a decent deal. Especially if you got it for $280 like I did .
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Where do i get one for 280$, see them at staples for 399$?
acuralegendz said:
Where do i get one for 280$, see them at staples for 399$?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
some sears outlet stores have refurbs for 279
I think the problem with the question of "why did you return it" is that the people who did return it are probably not scanning this forum anymore.
I've been scanning the negative comments (which are mostly valid crticisms, I might add), and I've compiled a list in my head:
- The crappy UI
- The crappy UI (important enough to be mentioned twice)
- The viewing angles, especially when watching while laying on a desk. (btw, flip the device around, so that the camera is on the bottom, and you can get around that).
- No official Flash yet, even though the darn icon is on the box.
- App compatibility issues, in particular the g-sensor issue in games.
- Lack of h264 high profile playback support (this is a Tegra 2 hardware limitation, btw).
- Performance, even with the UI mods. That seems to be more of an Android limitation, given that dual core is not being exploited.
- Lack of HDMI given that there's no dock, and a lack of accessories like a case.
- The bang-for-the-buck.
The last one is important because I have seen more than few posts from people returning the item who mentioned that they might have kept it of were $300, or if they could snag a $279 outlet device. It's not that the device is "bad", but more that you didn't want to break the bank for a device that is really not fully optimized yet. And I can understand that 100%.
roebeet said:
I think the problem with the question of "why did you return it" is that the people who did return it are probably not scanning this forum anymore.
I've been scanning the negative comments (which are mostly valid crticisms, I might add), and I've compiled a list in my head:
- The crappy UI
- The crappy UI (important enough to be mentioned twice)
- The viewing angles, especially when watching while laying on a desk. (btw, flip the device around, so that the camera is on the bottom, and you can get around that).
- No official Flash yet, even though the darn icon is on the box.
- App compatibility issues, in particular the g-sensor issue in games.
- Lack of h264 high profile playback support (this is a Tegra 2 hardware limitation, btw).
- Performance, even with the UI mods. That seems to be more of an Android limitation, given that dual core is not being exploited.
- Lack of HDMI given that there's no dock, and a lack of accessories like a case.
- The bang-for-the-buck.
The last one is important because I have seen more than few posts from people returning the item who mentioned that they might have kept it of were $300, or if they could snag a $279 outlet device. It's not that the device is "bad", but more that you didn't want to break the bank for a device that is really not fully optimized yet. And I can understand that 100%.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm FIRMLY in the $300 camp as BOTH Staples & Sears had the gTab right next to a $299 and $249 Atom based netbooks(ASUS, Acer, Toshiba and something else...). Kind of a smack in the face to be asked to pay $400 for a less functional device, although I can kind of understand part of the reason being that the Tegra2 SoC isn't quite as cheap as ALL of the other SoCs. $400 still just seems like a hype price to me, and I do feel kind of ripped... would feel better IF it had a better camera(maybe 2) and GPS builtin... ...and if I had any REAL expectations of longterm VS support and OS upgrades, e.g. next Android version...
Yes, and I'd have to add viewing angles to my list of possible return reasons from using it a bit last night(in bed) with some sideloaded apps that forced portrait mode...
gturnersr said:
I got my g-tablet from Sears on November 2 and returned it to the store yesterday. I told them it does not have flash as stated on the box and the display is of very poor quality. I got full refund.
Why did I return it?
- Nvidia quality sucks: I had dead laptop, because of defective nvidia chip. If you don't believe it check this: Apple, Dell and HP got a class action suit against Nvidia: www nvidiasettlement com. OpenGL drivers are full of bugs they may have fixed Angry Birds, but there are plenty other bugs I'm sure.
- Nvidia does not conform to standards. No NEON instructions in Tegra. They try to play their desktop video card game, by providing custom APIs and making their applications incompatible with other ARM CPUs. So far it is the opposite - applications that run good on every other Cortex A8, does not play on Tegra.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Wow, glad you were given an opportunity to complain about NVidia.... The class action suit you're referring to was in reality a problem of the OEM which NVidia and most OEMs covered completely. My Dell laptop at work died and was replaced with a newer model in ONE WEEK. Two year old information = FUD.
I returned mine after about 2 weeks. Didn't work well out of the box and wanted something with smaller screen. I went ahead and got the Galaxy Tab instead.
But I will be checking out the Sears Outlet for the blackfriday returns to play around with it.
Because of touch screen
I got my g tablet from Sears the day before Thanksgiving and had a lot of time to play with it. I had gotten to market to work and installed several apps and had even gotten used to the stock UI. But I am extremely disappointed in the responsiveness of the touch screen. There are time you have to press very hard on the icon to open a program. And typing is a chore. Unless there is something you have to do to calibrate the screen I will be returning it Monday. Also, I thought I read that it came with a temporary plastic film over the screen, but mine did not. There was a foam protector attached to the inside of the box.
Is there anything I can do to increase the sensitivity of the touch screen? I would love to keep it - but not with the way the touch screen is working (or NOT WORKING)
cutterjohn said:
I'm FIRMLY in the $300 camp as BOTH Staples & Sears had the gTab right next to a $299 and $249 Atom based netbooks(ASUS, Acer, Toshiba and something else...). Kind of a smack in the face to be asked to pay $400 for a less functional device, although I can kind of understand part of the reason being that the Tegra2 SoC isn't quite as cheap as ALL of the other SoCs. $400 still just seems like a hype price to me, and I do feel kind of ripped... would feel better IF it had a better camera(maybe 2) and GPS builtin... ...and if I had any REAL expectations of longterm VS support and OS upgrades, e.g. next Android version...
Yes, and I'd have to add viewing angles to my list of possible return reasons from using it a bit last night(in bed) with some sideloaded apps that forced portrait mode...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Tegra 2 is in the starting point of it's cost curve, so about $75 of the price is cost and correlating profit margin, since companies are not going to scale to their cost
You will find that the newer Tegra 2 devices in Q1 & Q2 2011 will all be around $500, since you will then also be paying for better displays and brand names too
The display on this device is how they were able to put a Tegra 2 in it -cost balancing. Ironically, if the OEM would have rotated the display 180 degrees when building them, it would not be an issue. Display looks as good as the Archos 101- when upside down
I've played with my gtablet since they first came out. I have to say, as a preface, that it's not that I dislike the device. I think, at this point, an Android tablet has more "wow factor" than sustenance. With a nice, dual-screen desktop, a convertible notebook, and a good Android-based phone, I can't figure where this device fits it. I'd hoped for a replacement for my aging laptop, but the tablet just doesn't cut the mustard.
I have known about the downfalls of the software (the main reason my local Sears will get for my return), and I really do think that with better developed software, this will be a good device for $400. It's got excellent hardware (the screen excepted) and immense potential for those willing to put in the time to get it working. However, for what I had planned to do with the device, it's just not up to par for the amount of time I have to invest in it.
I look at the issue in this light: for another $150, I can get a device that is much more in line with what I use a computer for in the first place. I take handwritten notes in class, and capacitive touch isn't good for that -- strikes to the Lenovo S10 and Dell Inspirion Duo. Also, with Android, I don't have a way to sync back to my network and my catalog of handwritten notes from previous semesters. It's not Google's fault. OneNote is really the best application I've used for taking and organizing notes, and if the online version allowed you to draw, I might even rescind this reason.
I suppose if I had a lot more free time, or if I were a developer / CS person, I'd attempt to port Ubuntu (something that I had contemplated anyhow) over and run it on my tablet. Beyond getting correct drivers for everything, I don't think it would have been that much of a stretch to have done. If I weren't returning the device, I would have even taken the time to make the side buttons on mine backlit.
I'm not jumping ship for an iPad either. The only piece of (cr)Apple hardware in my apartment is my girlfriend's iPod, and it rarely gets used (and when it does, it gets synced with Winamp). Right now, the tablet I would want isn't even on the market yet, and when it does surface, it's going to be somewhere in the neighborhood of $1200.
So, if you're still reading, good luck. I hope my contributions to the community were of positive value. I would love to look back a few months from now and say that I should have kept it. I think it's going to take a lot of work from the community at large for that to happen, and you all are going to be the ones who lead the way. The work you guys have done (especially roebeet, et. al with the firmware mods) has been tremendous.
--
By the way, my tablet will be going back to the store at the University Mall in Tuscaloosa, AL if anybody is looking for one to pick up in the outlet. It will most likely still have clockwork recovery on it with the updated firmware in tow.
It was a pleasure reading your posts and I wish you well.
ehunyadi said:
It was a pleasure reading your posts and I wish you well.
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Click to collapse
You'll be back. You're gonna return yours then by your own refurb haha.. jk. Is that even possible? Hmmmm
I also will be taking my tablet back at this point in time unless you can develop it cant really be a everyday dependable device. Iwent and bought the samsung galaxy tab while yes more pricey but i have since almost compltey replaced my smart phone and haven touched my computer for longer than 10 mins to sync some comic books
Sent from my GT-P1000 using XDA App
After all these mods, I'm keeping my g tablet, at least for the time being.
The galaxy tab is just awful.
Sent from my PC36100 using XDA App
I don't think the galaxy tab is awful but I don't think any tablet out today can practically replace a smartphone/phone or replace a laptop for that matter. IMO, tablets are for leisure. I'm also keeping my gtablet because I have a great smarthphone and an okay laptop already. I just need something more accessible than a laptop and a bigger screen than my smartphone.
kitzuki said:
I also will be taking my tablet back at this point in time unless you can develop it cant really be a everyday dependable device. Iwent and bought the samsung galaxy tab while yes more pricey but i have since almost compltey replaced my smart phone and haven touched my computer for longer than 10 mins to sync some comic books
Sent from my GT-P1000 using XDA App
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Click to collapse
I just have to say ew, and I'm a sprint supervisor for technical support.
Out of box and no modding, I would not keep this device either. Modded is another thing, since the device is amazing with the Nvidia driver patch from last night.
TnT Lite 2.0 + 2.03 Nvidia patch + Flash + Market fix = Kick a55 device.
Catch is 90% or more that get this device during the holidays will be non modders, so I understand the perspective, since fits the majority.
Viewsonic now have a community made FW package that would save their butts for massive returns with this device and actually make money. No way current state results in net positive $, come January.
Seems to me which is cheaper?
60,000 units sold x 70% returns (fair guess) = 42,000 x $100 (repack/refurb costs).......... $4.2 million cost impact for mass return scenario, or put a rom package on devices that works great and people will love and result in sales and increased demand......WHICH would you pick?
Added:
Viewsonic's decision will probably be an absolute marginal swing of about $7.2 million (for 60,000 units $4.2 million hit and $3M profit: for entire system)
Almost Going Back but Now .....
I had issues last night connecting to the internet. I was running stock ROM with a few sideloaded apps including Dolphin browser. Thought I had screwed it up. Unistalled everything to bring it back (close) to stock before the return later today. Then found out my wife was also having issues on her MacBook last night (PCs were all o.k.). Chalking it up to router (which I could see from the tablet).
So decided to play with the TnTLite V2 and 2.02. Now I am back on the keeping side of the ledger. I would feel better about this decision if I had paid much less for the unit, and I think we will be able to find lots of these returned and available in the next few weeks, but I am not going to wait that long. I have some travel coming and want to have this operational.
Last things I am hoping for: Music and Video off SDCard 2, tether unit to my Blackberry, Video chat operational. I am sure over the next few weeks, 2 out of 3 items will be checked off my list.
I only have a few more days to decide (14 day return at Staples!) but the scale is tipped toward keeping the device this afternoon.
xmr405o said:
I don't think any tablet out today can practically replace a smartphone/phone or replace a laptop for that matter. IMO, tablets are for leisure.
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Click to collapse
Exactly... Tablet for surfing, video conf., emails, videos and games. Latop for work stuff. My wife does nothing more than surf the net, facebook, shop for stuff for the kids, etc etc. It's a perfect replacement for her aging laptop. If she needs to write a letter or do some "work" she can use my work laptop or the quad-core server in the office. For me, I just want something smaller than my laptop to surf and play games with.
So a replacement for a computer... No.
In addition to a laptop/computer... Yes.
anjenaire said:
I had issues last night connecting to the internet. I was running stock ROM with a few sideloaded apps including Dolphin browser. Thought I had screwed it up. Unistalled everything to bring it back (close) to stock before the return later today. Then found out my wife was also having issues on her MacBook last night (PCs were all o.k.). Chalking it up to router (which I could see from the tablet).
So decided to play with the TnTLite V2 and 2.02. Now I am back on the keeping side of the ledger. I would feel better about this decision if I had paid much less for the unit, and I think we will be able to find lots of these returned and available in the next few weeks, but I am not going to wait that long. I have some travel coming and want to have this operational.
Last things I am hoping for: Music and Video off SDCard 2, tether unit to my Blackberry, Video chat operational. I am sure over the next few weeks, 2 out of 3 items will be checked off my list.
I only have a few more days to decide (14 day return at Staples!) but the scale is tipped toward keeping the device this afternoon.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
When I initially heard about the GTab I was pretty excited for the hardware, but the software made me throw up a little in my mouth, so I completely dismissed it as a serious contender, and thus had my eye on the Archos 101.
After getting completely frustrated trying to track one down for purchase (Archos did a HORRIBLE job with initial supply) I was doing more research and saw that not only was the GTab completely unlocked (read: Hacker's Playground) and that the XDA community was already behind the device with several ROMs and hacks I actually scoffed at myself for ever considering buying the Archos.
2x as much RAM, easily 2x better CPU and graphics, 1080p out, android 2.2, and i could run down to my local Sears and pick one up immediately!!!
Ran down to Sears, grabbed a GTab, and w/in 5 minutes of opening it up I already had CM6.1, flash 10.1, full market, and all GApps. It was too good to be true. Decided to try out TnTLite and definitely a better "everyday" ROM than CM6.1 at this point, but that may not be the case in another week.
With the Tegra update from last night this thing screams. Flash plays just as well as my PC and the battery life is insanely impressive. I can't even imagine Gingerbread which *should* hopefully add support for the second CPU core.
Only complaints thus far: horrible viewing angle on the screen (turns out it's not so bad when you're actually watching a movie) and no backlit buttons.
COULD NOT BE HAPPIER WITH MY PURCHASE! This thing is going to make traveling this X-Mas with my kids a breeze. w00t!
xmr405o said:
You'll be back. You're gonna return yours then by your own refurb haha.. jk. Is that even possible? Hmmmm
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The thought's crossed my mind. All the convertible notebooks I want are like $2k and $3k, and I don't have that kind of money to throw around. I'm kinda swinging towards picking up either a Dell mini 10 and modding it, or grabbing one of the ASUS 101MTs. I've gotten the "eww, Atom" remark already, and what I use a laptop for, an Atom is fine. I've been working on a 14" tablet for 3 years now that's running a Core Solo (even started with a half-gig of RAM). It's starting to show its age, which is the whole reason I considered the gtablet to begin with.
rushless said:
Out of box and no modding, I would not keep this device either. Modded is another thing, since the device is amazing with the Nvidia driver patch from last night.
TnT Lite 2.0 + 2.03 Nvidia patch + Flash + Market fix = Kick a55 device.
Catch is 90% or more that get this device during the holidays will be non modders, so I understand the perspective, since fits the majority.
Viewsonic now have a community made FW package that would save their butts for massive returns with this device and actually make money. No way current state results in net positive $, come January.
Seems to me which is cheaper?
60,000 units sold x 70% returns (fair guess) = 42,000 x $100 (repack/refurb costs).......... $4.2 million cost impact for mass return scenario, or put a rom package on devices that works great and people will love and result in sales and increased demand......WHICH would you pick?
Added:
Viewsonic's decision will probably be an absolute marginal swing of about $7.2 million (for 60,000 units $4.2 million hit and $3M profit: for entire system)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I agree completely. I was running TnT Lite on mine with the Flash APK, market fix, and a few apps. Viewsonic's update helped with the UI responsiveness, but Android (or the speed...) wasn't my problem. It just felt like the tablet was more like a toy than what I wanted it for.
Like I mentioned in the OP, if I would have kept the device, I would have put Ubuntu on it (or give up trying...) and modded it hardware-wise. Really, time was my biggest enemy with the tablet. If Sears return policy was at 90 days, I would have probably ended up keeping the thing. With the end of the semester approaching and a ever-growing list of things I need to do, I didn't have the spare time to invest.
--
If I learned anything from the experience, it's this:
If you're on the bleeding edge, sometimes you get cut
Capacitive touch screen devices are not good for note-taking. As such, if you ever intend to market something to students (I know, Viewsonic didn't...), either go resistive or Wacom. Or create an awesome stylus.
Release good products and the community will thrive on them. release mediocre products and you will have to thrive on the community.
teleknEsis said:
When I initially heard about the GTab I was pretty excited for the hardware, but the software made me throw up a little in my mouth, so I completely dismissed it as a serious contender, and thus had my eye on the Archos 101.
After getting completely frustrated trying to track one down for purchase (Archos did a HORRIBLE job with initial supply) I was doing more research and saw that not only was the GTab completely unlocked (read: Hacker's Playground) and that the XDA community was already behind the device with several ROMs and hacks I actually scoffed at myself for ever considering buying the Archos.
2x as much RAM, easily 2x better CPU and graphics, 1080p out, android 2.2, and i could run down to my local Sears and pick one up immediately!!!
Ran down to Sears, grabbed a GTab, and w/in 5 minutes of opening it up I already had CM6.1, flash 10.1, full market, and all GApps. It was too good to be true. Decided to try out TnTLite and definitely a better "everyday" ROM than CM6.1 at this point, but that may not be the case in another week.
With the Tegra update from last night this thing screams. Flash plays just as well as my PC and the battery life is insanely impressive. I can't even imagine Gingerbread which *should* hopefully add support for the second CPU core.
Only complaints thus far: horrible viewing angle on the screen (turns out it's not so bad when you're actually watching a movie) and no backlit buttons.
COULD NOT BE HAPPIER WITH MY PURCHASE! This thing is going to make traveling this X-Mas with my kids a breeze. w00t!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My exact experience to a T. Now with the updated drivers pack Tnt lite screams. Smooth as butta
G tablet
Wow after reading all post and being past my prime and wanting a pad badly I have decided I should wait for a more stable and suitable pad for my age group thanks to all of you who contributed in helping me with the decision of waiting maybe for Gingerbread.
guarionexpr said:
Wow after reading all post and being past my prime and wanting a pad badly I have decided I should wait for a more stable and suitable pad for my age group thanks to all of you who contributed in helping me with the decision of waiting maybe for Gingerbread.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If not a modder, the Gtablet is a dubious purchase, but 12/19 is when the official update comes for the Gtablet. Curious if they fix anything already fixed here.
Can anything involving the screen be improved with updates? I have been a fan of Android for a while and have a rooted EVO that I couldn't be more happy with. When I picked up my G tab I was thinking that all would be well with a little modding but I am not sure I can get past the screen.
I am looking for a good leisure device for the home and family, along with something and I can "hobby-mod". I am a little worried that with the viewing angles you won't be able to just relax and piddle on it. I think I grossly underestimated this shortfall of the hardware.
I swung by a Verizon store and spent about 20 minutes with the iPad and Galaxy Tab. Man, those are some pretty displays.
Is there any hope? I have TNT 2.04 and, performance-wise, I am content and can be patient for updates. Just those darn viewing angles....
J_Bone said:
Can anything involving the screen be improved with updates? I have been a fan of Android for a while and have a rooted EVO that I couldn't be more happy with. When I picked up my G tab I was thinking that all would be well with a little modding but I am not sure I can get past the screen.
I am looking for a good leisure device for the home and family, along with something and I can "hobby-mod". I am a little worried that with the viewing angles you won't be able to just relax and piddle on it. I think I grossly underestimated this shortfall of the hardware.
I swung by a Verizon store and spent about 20 minutes with the iPad and Galaxy Tab. Man, those are some pretty displays.
Is there any hope? I have TNT 2.04 and, performance-wise, I am content and can be patient for updates. Just those darn viewing angles....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I was wondering this too. I am very happy with the performance but the angles are killing me. I've only had it for 2 days and other than that I'm thrilled. Sadly, that may be a deal breaker. Landscape is ok but portrait is awful.
DraglineDrummer said:
I was wondering this too. I am very happy with the performance but the angles are killing me. I've only had it for 2 days and other than that I'm thrilled. Sadly, that may be a deal breaker. Landscape is ok but portrait is awful.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Apparently, Engadget's review of the Dell Inspiron Duo was equally harsh on the screen angles. Netbook screens FTL.
DraglineDrummer said:
I was wondering this too. I am very happy with the performance but the angles are killing me. I've only had it for 2 days and other than that I'm thrilled. Sadly, that may be a deal breaker. Landscape is ok but portrait is awful.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've had my Gtab for almost a month, I've gotten used to the angles. It did bug me for the first week but as I tweaked this device and performance increase I've gotten over the sub par viewing angles. I think the tab's display is tolerable.
xmr405o said:
I've had my Gtab for almost a month, I've gotten used to the angles. It did bug me for the first week but as I tweaked this device and performance increase I've gotten over the sub par viewing angles. I think the tab's display is tolerable.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's what I'm hoping for is I'll just get used to it. It's only been two days at this point.
I think it's the best option right now with the hardware and performance but I just have not been completely ok with the $400 price tag for the display yet. I had debated taking it back and just getting a refurb Ipad for $450 but it has it's shortcomings as well and I would much rather have Android.
I am in the market to buy a new tablet but I have been looking between archos and a viewsonic. I want to stick with a 10 inch screen but I would like to get the most bang for my buck right now my spending limit about 400 dollars.
I am aware that the g tablet has a nvidia dual core processor which is fairly appealing. However I wanted to get some input from people that have had hands on experience with those tablets. Are there any new tablets I should hold out for or what would you people suggest thank you for your help.
Sent from my Nexus One using XDA App
I own both and will probably sell one of them. I'm still deciding, but leaning in favor of the Gtablet. I plan to post a full comparison on my blog (http://www.blendblog.net) where I reviewed the Archos 101 already.
A quick summary though is as follows:
GTablet performs much better. I've not had to worry about memory whereas on the Archos I've often had to manually kill apps to get the device to stay responsive.
The Gtablet is built better. The screen is slightly better, viewing angles are bad on both but the Archos screen feels like you are tapping on cheap plastic wheras the Gtablet feels like solid glass. The tradeoff is that the Gtablet is MUCH heavier, and bigger.
Both of them have very good speakers.
The fiddle factor with the Gtablet is much higher, but if you are here you probably know that. You must root and rom the device, although that is not a tough thing to do. However, I have spent countless hours with mine trying to get it to wake from sleep correctly, an issue many have. I finally figured out a workaround that fixes the issue at the expense of battery life. It seems that some units just have issues waking from sleep, I may still exchange mine because of this.
Build consistency seems to be a bit sketchy on both fronts. The aforementioned sleep issue has bitten me on the GTablet and my Archos has been RMA'd (their support was excellent though) due to a huge stuck blue pixel in the display that was horrible looking.
Archos has one big leg up on the Gtablet and that's video support. It will play anything I throw at it (I did have to buy a $15 AC3/MPEG2 codec package though). The stock video player is much sleeker as well integrating movie descriptions etc. With the Gtablet you are left with the usual hodgepodge of Android video players that don't work with everything etc.
Google was somewhat right in saying Android wasn't ready for "primetime" but I have to say, I find these devices very fun to play with and use on a day to day basis.
I am definitely leaning towards keeping the Gtablet and selling the Archos when I get it back from RMA. The speed advantage of Gtablet is noticeable and with this excellent hacking community in place I feel like there is a much better chance of it being relevant (Honeycomb?) going forward than with the Archos.
I hope this helps!
Sean
Grabbing VitalPlayer pretty much cleared up the problem of the G-Tab not supporting MPEG-2 or AC3, and it's free. YMMV.
VitalPlayer on Appbrain
Where are the codecs for g tablet to match Archos ???
This lack is confusing given the fact that we know tetra 2 is superior. It would seem that xoom will support many popular video codecs when it comes out in Feb!
Archos vs
I own both tablets, and can say without reservation that the G tablet is superior in many ways. It is a much more solid build ( although about 8 oz heavier)
The G tablet is much faster with the Custom Roms. I have had a number of Archos devices, and have been pleased with them, but after owning the G tablet, with its open nature and ability to modify, I will never opt for such a closed off device like the Archos again. Don't get me wrong- it is a good device, but it lacks the potential of the G tablet.
I have the gtablet running Vegan 5
I have no problems playing videos at all using vplayer, rock player and even es explorer has a pretty good player. I played with 101 archos not bad but looks cheap next to the g tab, also as a long time fan of NVIDIA I knew it was going to fast!
Sent from my PC36100 using XDA App
I haven't used the Archos, but I was in your exact position a little over a month ago, ultimately I choose to check out the G-Tab because I could pick one up locally and return it in 30 days if I didn't like it. I have to say that at first I wasn't pleased with it overall, but that changed as soon as I started flashing some of the amazing ROMs available here on XDA. I'm not new to flashing my devices, but even if this had been a first time experience for me I doubt I'd have had any problems. Follow steps carefully and you can't go wrong, if you have a question it's most likely already been asked by someone before you, so just search the forums and you'll find the answer quick enough. Long story short the G-Tab would be a real dog of a product if it weren't for this amazing community of developers, but because of them I think it's got a future, a fairly bright one at that. I love my G-Tab more and more everyday, and as of now I do not regret purchasing it.
snipestech said:
I have the gtablet running Vegan 5
I have no problems playing videos at all using vplayer, rock player and even es explorer has a pretty good player. I played with 101 archos not bad but looks cheap next to the g tab, also as a long time fan of NVIDIA I knew it was going to fast!
Sent from my PC36100 using XDA App
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Click to collapse
Mine's running the same configuration. Do you have anything with audio encoded in AC-3 Dolby Digital? I ripped all my DVD's to my media server using h.264 for video but leaving the original surround sound audio in place. On the Archos I could play those files with the $15 MPEG2/AC-3 plug-in. I have not been able to find a video player yet that does this for my Gtablet (tried ES and Rock amongst others) but I haven't tried the VitalPlayer that theindependent recommended. I'll post back when I get a chance to try that player, it may solve this issue somewhat.
Sean
Same here... Once I did a little more research I found that the Archos 101 had the exact same viewing angle issues with a crappier plastic feeling screen. When you couple that with 256 meg ram and Single Core design it was a simple decision for me.. I figured if I couldnt have an iPAD equivilant screen then I would go with what is future proof. The only real option is the 7inch which every states viewing angles are good - but was still concerned with the future use of the hardware and resale value (at that time). Dual core Tegra's in about 6 - 12 months will hold their value significantly higher than a 256 meg / single core device. By then I see better screens coming out and will upgrade then.
Till then... Im loving the decision - I also agree I was very upset the first few hours until I got the custom rom, kernel, launcher and other apps all up and running..
geoffreywolter said:
I haven't used the Archos, but I was in your exact position a little over a month ago, ultimately I choose to check out the G-Tab because I could pick one up locally and return it in 30 days if I didn't like it. I have to say that at first I wasn't pleased with it overall, but that changed as soon as I started flashing some of the amazing ROMs available here on XDA. I'm not new to flashing my devices, but even if this had been a first time experience for me I doubt I'd have had any problems. Follow steps carefully and you can't go wrong, if you have a question it's most likely already been asked by someone before you, so just search the forums and you'll find the answer quick enough. Long story short the G-Tab would be a real dog of a product if it weren't for this amazing community of developers, but because of them I think it's got a future, a fairly bright one at that. I love my G-Tab more and more everyday, and as of now I do not regret purchasing it.
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stiphy said:
I own both and will probably sell one of them. I'm still deciding, but leaning in favor of the Gtablet. I plan to post a full comparison on my blog (http://www.blendblog.net) where I reviewed the Archos 101 already.
A quick summary though is as follows:
GTablet performs much better. I've not had to worry about memory whereas on the Archos I've often had to manually kill apps to get the device to stay responsive.
The Gtablet is built better. The screen is slightly better, viewing angles are bad on both but the Archos screen feels like you are tapping on cheap plastic wheras the Gtablet feels like solid glass. The tradeoff is that the Gtablet is MUCH heavier, and bigger.
Both of them have very good speakers.
The fiddle factor with the Gtablet is much higher, but if you are here you probably know that. You must root and rom the device, although that is not a tough thing to do. However, I have spent countless hours with mine trying to get it to wake from sleep correctly, an issue many have. I finally figured out a workaround that fixes the issue at the expense of battery life. It seems that some units just have issues waking from sleep, I may still exchange mine because of this.
Build consistency seems to be a bit sketchy on both fronts. The aforementioned sleep issue has bitten me on the GTablet and my Archos has been RMA'd (their support was excellent though) due to a huge stuck blue pixel in the display that was horrible looking.
Archos has one big leg up on the Gtablet and that's video support. It will play anything I throw at it (I did have to buy a $15 AC3/MPEG2 codec package though). The stock video player is much sleeker as well integrating movie descriptions etc. With the Gtablet you are left with the usual hodgepodge of Android video players that don't work with everything etc.
Google was somewhat right in saying Android wasn't ready for "primetime" but I have to say, I find these devices very fun to play with and use on a day to day basis.
I am definitely leaning towards keeping the Gtablet and selling the Archos when I get it back from RMA. The speed advantage of Gtablet is noticeable and with this excellent hacking community in place I feel like there is a much better chance of it being relevant (Honeycomb?) going forward than with the Archos.
I hope this helps!
Sean
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Great summary! I expect video support to get a lot better once Nvidia finally releases final drivers. Kind of have too, with all the T2's coming out soon.
In a nutshell, if higher def video is not 90% of the reason you are getting a tablet, the Gtablet is a FAR better choice than the Archos 101. Also, the Archos 101 has a few glaring problems besides a much slower chipset:
1. 230mb of device app space. Gtablet has eight times more space
2. 256mb ram (contant performance battle unless just using for video)
Have both Archos is light and thin, a little bit flimsy, but is a great pmp/ereader especially when on the road. Gtablet is a beast though runs circles around the Archos in regard to performance and flexibility. As a long time Archos supporter I think this my last device from them.
I just installed VitalPlayer from the market, thanks theindependent for the pointer.
It does play AC-3 so my ripped DVD's are fine. I have a 720p video though and it can't keep up, it stutters. The Archos 101 played it just fine.
Hopefully as rushless said, there will be updates to the driver so that hardware acceleration for hidef video can be added.
There are 2 other features the GTablet are missing that I forgot about:
1) No mini-hdmi output port, instead it has a docking station port. I would get more use out of mini-hdmi although the UI on the Archos is very bad when plugged into a monitor as I menitioned in the review on my blog.
2) The kickstand, while somewhat cheesy, is a nice feature on the Archos device.
One plus for the Gtablet (for me at least) is it uses the more standard mini-usb type plug instead of the micro usb plug of the archos. Most of my other devices are miniusb so I prefer this.
I think to sum things up I'd say that if you want a video player and e-reader that can do a nice amount of computer like things I'd go Archos. If you want a computer that is an ok e-reader (just a bit heavier) and can do some video go Gtablet!
Sean
I was seriously considering the 101 until I found this device. I think so far (only 1 day) it is a win.
As far as kick stand I am using a Garmin GPS suction mount for a windscreen on the back it works well.
Stuggy said:
I was seriously considering the 101 until I found this device. I think so far (only 1 day) it is a win.
As far as kick stand I am using a Garmin GPS suction mount for a windscreen on the back it works well.
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Can you show some pictures of that? I have a Garmin Widescreen GPS, I ould like to see how you have it setup with the g-tablet.
Sm0k3d 0uT said:
Can you show some pictures of that? I have a Garmin Widescreen GPS, I ould like to see how you have it setup with the g-tablet.
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When I get home I'll do it. It is basically the mount on the back of the g-tab (choose a location to determine tilt) and then the ball rests on the surface of desk or you can hold it using that.
How were you able to get Vplayer to run?
I've been able to install fine but when I run it I am unable to open any videos, same from a file explorer with the open with menu. Thanks!
snipestech said:
I have the gtablet running Vegan 5
I have no problems playing videos at all using vplayer, rock player and even es explorer has a pretty good player. I played with 101 archos not bad but looks cheap next to the g tab, also as a long time fan of NVIDIA I knew it was going to fast!
Sent from my PC36100 using XDA App
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You should also consider what you will want in the future their are many new tegra 2 powered devices coming out soon for a reason, the g tablet already has the same hardware but the developement is ahead of all other tablets on the market. I have the g tablet and wouldn't consider any other device thanks to the devs on the forum making it the best tablet available right now.
Sm0k3d 0uT said:
Can you show some pictures of that? I have a Garmin Widescreen GPS, I ould like to see how you have it setup with the g-tablet.
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I have some pictures here:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=10099907&postcount=10
RojasTKD said:
I have some pictures here:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=10099907&postcount=10
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Mine looks just like that - same suction mount. Sorry I didn't upload. And I think I got the idea from that post although I probably would have tried it in looking for a stand method.
I just got my Archos 101 back from RMA.
One thing I noticed that is a big plus for the Archos, at least in my setup is that when it is powered down it "sleeps properly." After 20 hours of sitting on my desk powered down it still has 95% battery life. My GTablet on the other hand won't wake up from sleep properly. You can follow the travails I and others are having on this thread: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=855821. If I leave my GTablet on for 20 hours it will be down to around 15% battery life. That's without my workaround to keep the CPU on when the screen is off that fixes the broken wake from sleep (but does slightly increase this battery drain).
Now maybe I have a defective unit, and I am contemplating returning it still. Can anyone else comment on what they see battery life wise with their GTablet when its sleeping. Preferably someone without the wake up problem my unit has. To test just charge it up, leave it "sleeping" overnight with the screen off and when you wake up the next morning report what the battery life is. The Archos only loses about 1% every 4 hours, the GTablet is losing 4% every hour!
FWIW, Archos support was awesome, I live in the US Virgin Islands and they at first tried to send it UPS which is "international" for us and a cluster to deal with. Because of this the UPS tag that was generated had it going to Pennsylvania (yes this is a common occurrence with UPS and the USVI). I called them immediately and they halted the shipment, then sent it to me USPS Express mail so I had it in 2 days! The replacement unit was in perfect shape.
Sean
So my GTab is on the truck out for delivery. I'm seriously considering returning upon arrival without even opening it. I know we are not suppose to talk about Honeycomb but I really doubt that this tab will ever get it. I am a ROM addict with my incredible and feel real comfortable with all that. But is the screen glare and lack of honeycomb enough to spend an extra 100-200 on another tablet. Think Asus or even Xoom.
What are your thoughts... Any insight will be greatly appreciated. I commute 75 minutes on a commuter rail every day to work. I use my device for movies, shows, reading and games.
Thanks all...
rmd0311 said:
So my GTab is on the truck out for delivery. I'm seriously considering returning upon arrival without even opening it. I know we are not suppose to talk about Honeycomb but I really doubt that this tab will ever get it. I am a ROM addict with my incredible and feel real comfortable with all that. But is the screen glare and lack of honeycomb enough to spend an extra 100-200 on another tablet. Think Asus or even Xoom.
What are your thoughts... Any insight will be greatly appreciated. I commute 75 minutes on a commuter rail every day to work. I use my device for movies, shows, reading and games.
Thanks all...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This tablet will do all of those admirably without Honeycomb. Battery life is amazing, Video support under Froyo based roms is good. Gingbread still needs drivers, but Software Decoding works in many cases, depending on the quality of your source etc.
Reading might be the only disappointing area. If you hold the Tab in portrait mode, that's where the viewing angles get to be a problem. Might bother you, might not.
Having said all of that, If I didn't have a G-Tab, I'd probably be buying an Asus Transformer (not a Xoom). But, since I have my G-tab, it's quite capable and I'll be keeping it.
I would keep it...
Most of the other tabs will not be out until June or later. I would wait and keep the gtab until the market and prices stabilize. The gtab is more than capable of doing what u want.
As far as I know, there has not been an Android tablet released yet that has not had its share of problems and disappointments. How long will it take until the Asus has all the fixes in place....or until there are custom ROMs for it (if ever)?
I wouldn't spend a premium on a device that has not been on the market long enough to know if it meets my needs.
The Gtab at under $300 is a steal as far as I am concerned. I've had mine for a month, running Vegan-Tab 5.1.1, happy as can be with it. Many people have posted about the poor viewing angle. I disagree....I actually like the viewing angle as I don't want everyone in the neighborhood to be able to see my screen anyway. I just haven't seen the issue....of course, each of us is different in that regard.
I'd buy the GTab all over again. I think it will meet/exceed my NEEDS for a loooong time to come. And when I am done with it, my grandkids will have a new toy!
Joe
If you think the screen will be an issue then send it back and wait for an IPS from ASUS. $400 and Honeycomb
Joeb2751 said:
As far as I know, there has not been an Android tablet released yet that has not had its share of problems and disappointments. How long will it take until the Asus has all the fixes in place....or until there are custom ROMs for it (if ever)?
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Yeah the Engadget review wasn't very good of the Asus tab. Not that I have a lot of faith for them to review it without some sort of bias but the videos did not show it off well. The OS seems really sluggish and the screen, while IPS has some serious glare on it. Seems to defeat a lot of value of IPS when you still have to hold the tablet at an angle to see the screen properly.
I probably won't buy a high-end tablet until late in the year to see the direction the manufacturers go.
rmd0311 said:
So my GTab is on the truck out for delivery. I'm seriously considering returning upon arrival without even opening it. I know we are not suppose to talk about Honeycomb but I really doubt that this tab will ever get it. I am a ROM addict with my incredible and feel real comfortable with all that. But is the screen glare and lack of honeycomb enough to spend an extra 100-200 on another tablet. Think Asus or even Xoom.
What are your thoughts... Any insight will be greatly appreciated. I commute 75 minutes on a commuter rail every day to work. I use my device for movies, shows, reading and games.
Thanks all...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I bought my g-tab from TigerDirect yesterday and was totally disappointed during my first 45mins with the machine when it was stock. The custom UI was probably put together by a gang of retarded midgets.
Then I installed Vegan 5.1.1 and my g-tab became the greatest steal of a buy in 2011.
For $280, you can't go wrong. With Calkulins Rom, Pershoots overclock kernal and Go Launcher this thing just fly's. It does everything you need it to do. Will I upgrade in a year or so, probably. By then the bugs should be worked out. This tab with Froyo runs great. Don't get caught up on Honeycomb, they all have their limitations.
If I was you I would hold out and keep my gtab because there are alot of tabs coming to the market you might favor one of those just keep your gtab in good condition because viewsonic has some strick return policy rules
Sent from my Dell Streak 7 using XDA Premium App
I have the urge to get the transformer or xoom as well, but I'm not giving up the gtab just yet. With the gtab, I can install different roms and play with stuff.
With transformer or xoom, I'm entirely at their mercy. There is no evidence that honeycomb on those devices are any more stable or smooth.
I do know gtab does everything I need....just not everything I want...(want gps!!)
Gtab doesn't do GPS?
californicatorz said:
I bought my g-tab from TigerDirect yesterday and was totally disappointed during my first 45mins with the machine when it was stock. The custom UI was probably put together by a gang of retarded midgets.
Then I installed Vegan 5.1.1 and my g-tab became the greatest steal of a buy in 2011.
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Click to collapse
Eh? Did I miss the memo on short people being less intelligent?
Chiming in...
Here at work, Verizon dropped off a Xoom for me last week to demo. It's interesting, has a better screen, built in cell radio comes in handy, and a bit sexier - but definitely had it's shortcomings and definitely not worth the $300 premium in price.
Truth be told, it made me proud of my GTab (Vegan 5.1.1, pershoot's 1.4 kernal, and VTL launcher). I see nothing on the market that is worth upgrading to currently.
Love my tablet. Thinking of getting a second one for the Girlfriend. Running Vegan-tab ge rc1 and have it set up better than my computer in most instances. You can't expect this thing to replace all of your computer needs but it can come close. Sure it don't have gps built in but that is what we have phones for and if you need how just buy a Bluetooth one for about 40 or less bucks. It's a wonderful machine for the price you can't beat it.
Sent from my Desire HD using XDA Premium App
IMHO You'd be a fool not to wait for the EEE Asus Transformer. 400 bucks for a legit honeycomb tablet. another 150 for a legit laptop/notebook. Thats the way to go...
They took Honeycomb out of the oven too soon, they need to cook it for another few months before it becomes tasty. You'll see the shortcomings now that the affordable (or reasonably priced) tablets are arriving. It will take developers a few months of usage to make it better... I was going to get the Asus also but decided to wait until summer instead. Until then the G Tab with Froyo is all that is needed.
I have VegaN 5.1.1 and ADW Launcher on mine.
For reading, I like Aldiko because I like the two page, side-by-side presentation. I have also set up Aldiko as an Adobe DRM device, which means I can purchase books from Google/books then download and read them directly on the G-Tablet with no other steps in between.
Movies / Shows I prefer Rock Player. I haven't found any in my collections that don't play well with this setup.
Games; I have X-Plane 9, Leos RC Simulator, Angry Birds, Curling, Sudoku, ... No problems with any of them or many others.
I am so accustomed to the screen by now that I hardly notice the viewing angle difficulties any more. Sitting upright, like on a train, and holding the tablet is one of the best angles, so there is no problem there. The worst is probably laying the tablet flat on a desk in landscape mode. But if I turn mine upside-down, even that works very well.
I do have to keep my phone handy while not at home or in the office. Through the phone ( Samsung Galaxy S ), I can tether to 3G via Wifi and tether to GPS via BlueTooth.
I have no reason to need a more costly tablet right now. The G-Tablet does everything I want it to do.
Not sure what the return policy is but if it's 30 days, I would keep the gtab to at least try it. It's super easy to put it back to stock so that shouldn't be an issue.
I bought my gtablet back in November for $379. I recommended it at that price (at that time) so with the price dropping under $300, I think it's a great buy. IMO, it's the best 10 inch tablet for $300 and below. It's also a good "starter" tablet. It's a good tablet to see if you really want or need a tablet. The gtablet is not frustratingly slow so it's a good representation of an Android tablet's capabilities.
When holding the GTab in lanscape mode, the horizontal viewing angle is not too bad, the vertical viewing angle is terrible especially when watching dark video. For reading e-books, most likely you will be holding it in portrait mode, the viewing angle should not be an issue.
For $300, I don't regret buying the GTab and keeping it because I know there is a large and active community to support it.
I'm actually returning mine for the Acer. Taking a bit of a gamble that there will be good development on it, but for $150 difference, I thought that the better screen, newer software and hardware was a good move. I figured the support (both manufacturer and dev) of a new tablet would outlive the year-old gtab.
-J
hello, I've been recently looking at tablets. I want something pretty decently nice, with honeycomb (which you can put on this), and just generally nice specs. But my real question is, is this thing a piece of complete crap? it's off brand for things i buy usually, but I've seen generally good reviews. I've also been looking at the Transformer and the Xoom. Thank you all for the help.
considering that you can get one on Ebay for under $250, I would say yes, it's most definitely worth it.
Even with Froyo roms, it's a very useful tablet that will probably do the things that you want it to do. Yes, the screen angles are not ideal, but they are acceptable (in my opinion)
Put it this way, is buying a transformer, or Xoom for almost twice as much going to be just as useless when the newest tablets come out for Christmas?
I believe that it's a question of perception. What do you want to use it for?
and who knows, when Ice Cream Sandwich gets released, it may be easier to port to the G-Tablet than Honeycomb.
Well the transformer is only $150 more.. ill look up a comparison between the two. That was the other one I am still honestly considering
Sent from my SGH-T959 using XDA App
gobluewolverines4 said:
Well the transformer is only $150 more.. ill look up a comparison between the two. That was the other one I am still honestly considering
Sent from my SGH-T959 using XDA App
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Click to collapse
I guess my point was, is the transformer going to be just as obsolete when the new tablets arrive? Nvidea is releasing a new tegra platform, that will basically make anything running on a tegra2 old hat. This would include the Xoom, Transformer, Iconia, as well as the G-Tablet, Adam, Vega, etc. These things depreciate faster than a car driven off the dealer's lot. Originally what, $450 when they were released? I bought mine for $300 (with a few extras) on Ebay. now they are retailing for $250 in Woot deals and Tiger Direct, while used ones on Ebay are plummeting down to nearly $200. When the new Tegra devices are released, I suspect that a G-tablet can be bought for $100 used.
What I mean, is why not save the $150 now, to put toward a better tablet down the line...The g-tablet will at least give you a less expensive introduction to the android tablet world, while still being a quite useful tool.
I would just hate to see somebody spend more money on a similar tablet that will cause them buyers remorse in 3 months or so. Of course, if you have the cash to burn, then go ahead and buy what you really want...for most people, that's an iPad...jk
TJEvans said:
I guess my point was, is the transformer going to be just as obsolete when the new tablets arrive? Nvidea is releasing a new tegra platform, that will basically make anything running on a tegra2 old hat. This would include the Xoom, Transformer, Iconia, as well as the G-Tablet, Adam, Vega, etc. These things depreciate faster than a car driven off the dealer's lot. Originally what, $450 when they were released? I bought mine for $300 (with a few extras) on Ebay. now they are retailing for $250 in Woot deals and Tiger Direct, while used ones on Ebay are plummeting down to nearly $200. When the new Tegra devices are released, I suspect that a G-tablet can be bought for $100 used.
What I mean, is why not save the $150 now, to put toward a better tablet down the line...The g-tablet will at least give you a less expensive introduction to the android tablet world, while still being a quite useful tool.
I would just hate to see somebody spend more money on a similar tablet that will cause them buyers remorse in 3 months or so. Of course, if you have the cash to burn, then go ahead and buy what you really want...for most people, that's an iPad...jk
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Click to collapse
Wow. Very excellent explanation. I see now. Yes I will probably soon be purchasing the g tab!
PS: screw the ipad
Sent from my SGH-T959 using XDA App
gobluewolverines4 said:
hello, I've been recently looking at tablets. I want something pretty decently nice, with honeycomb (which you can put on this).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Honeycomb is not completely functional on the gtab (as of now). It is missing the Honeycomb specific drivers from Nvidia (aka full hardware acceleration, high def video).
If you really care about Honeycomb you should get the transformer IMO.
Although, I am quite happy with froyo based ROMs
Others are right in saying that quad core Tegra 3s are around the corner, Tegra 2 prices might drop by the end of the year. Given how Nvidia and Viewsonic acted regarding the gtab, I foresee support for Tegra 2s dropping drastically as newer hardware gets released.
Yeah the almost fully functioning honeycomb on here is fine for me. Should be ordering my g tab this week!
Sent from my SGH-T959 using XDA App
Hello, I wrote a quick review for some guys that I work with. I am sure there are many reviews of the gtablet, but...
Here are my conclusions so far;
This thing is about the same size as the Xoom, and thicker than the IPAD. It is definitely not as sexy.
The screen is OK. It is not a high quality screen like you find on the other devices.
The processor is great, and the memory is sufficient. Things move pretty quick.
The ROM out of the box REALLY sucked. I was hoping to just deal with it, but Google had not approved the tablet so there were NO Google apps at all. Not acceptable. It took me a couple of hours to learn (last night till around 1:00am), but I replaced the stock ROM with a hacked ROM with everything I wanted.
This thing is really just a big Android phone with no phone or GPS.
I loaded up my Sony Reader software, downloaded all of my books, and then imported them into a DRM capable reader that is better.
Although there are some ROMs that support Gingerbread screens, I think I will stick with this 2.2 (or is it 2.3) Android feel.
What will I use it for?
Reading ebooks, PDFs (Scientific American, Maximum PC)
Google apps – maps, search
Kayak, hotels.com apps
Games (mostly for the kids) – I got Android Market to work
Web Browsing / some forum reading (via Tapatalk)
Personal email reading and contacts (no work email will be set up)
Maybe occasional Skype and Gotomeeting (camera sucks, so mostly audio)
News and weather
Of course, with the exception of reading the ebooks, I would always use the Macbook Pro if it were available.
So the speed and memory makes this all possible, but the experience (screen, size, build) is not equivalent to the expensive tablets.
Biggest complaints?
No GPS
Screen is not easy to see at an angle
I needed to root the thing to make it useful, which means I now need to stay on top of that and update it manually
The 10.1 device is a bit bigger / bulkier than I expected – the weight is the same as the ipad I believe.
I “can” watch videos on it (even 1080p), but moving the files would be a drag… it uses a microSD card that I would need to pop ion an adapter, or I could use the USB connection. Maybe I can find a way to do it with wifi or Bluetooth.
No USB charging… WTF??? It comes with a separate adapter that has to plug into the wall…
The screen is a 1024x600 which is similar to most pads, but it is really inferior to the Macbook Pro, and there is just something that is “fuzzy” about it.
Biggest positives?
Cheap - $269 delivered (no tax or shipping)
Fast
Should do what I want…
Next Steps…
See how much I actually use it for anything other than ebooks. If I do end up needing it more than I think, I would consider the Asus Transformer or something else new in the next year or so.
Hope this helps,
R
gobluewolverines4 said:
hello, I've been recently looking at tablets. I want something pretty decently nice, with honeycomb (which you can put on this), and just generally nice specs. But my real question is, is this thing a piece of complete crap?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The screen is complete crap.
You should look hard for something with a better screen around $300-$350. If you can find it, get it.
And I *like* my Gtab - but its really just for kicking around and messing with roms and android. The screen really is killer bad unless you use it only at night, head on
Honeycomb works, and works well, as well as you could hope for unsupported xda rom hacking - ie, no netflix, no Hardware acceleration, occasional stand on your head workarounds, and the possibility of sudden death... well, ok, not that last one.
Bottom line: if you can find it for $100-$200, and want to play with roms, and tweak, and screw with it a lot to get it to be as good as a $400 one except for the horrible screen that cannot be fixed, YES, this is your tablet.
If you want a tablet to take out of the box and use, with rom updates from the manufacturer, and a screen you can read ebooks off of, this is NOT your tablet. Even for free.
So should I just get the transformer? Ah so many decisions!
Well I'm literally about to go to fry electronics and ill test out some there. Thanks !
Sent from my SGH-T959 using XDA App
gobluewolverines4 said:
So should I just get the transformer?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For $400, I'd say yeah.
Better screen, 1Kx800 resolution, 2x the ram. Yeah, looks like that's all worth $120.
Oh... and a GPS too.
Oh, and Honeycomb 3.1 from Asus. Plus lots of XDA love it seems.
gobluewolverines4 said:
So should I just get the transformer? Ah so many decisions!
Well I'm literally about to go to fry electronics and ill test out some there. Thanks !
Sent from my SGH-T959 using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think the main question is what you want the tablet for or what to do with it.
A cheap $250-300 laptop has so much more computing power and practical use than any tablet...just a bit bulkier.
The tablet market will have much more offerings and better with faster cpus and such..just have to wait a bit.
I bought my gtab from woot 4/2011 for $275. I have installed several ROMs on it. They all are pretty good with their own pluses and minuses.
I'm currently on Flashback 5.4 HC: it looks nice and works well. Gmail, Talk - w/o video; G-Voice, Maps, Lattitude, Earth etc all work. You Tube works; a bunch of games works. The big screen is better than the phone size screen. Nice quick weather apps. Nice calendar.
What it cannot do is replace the screen and functionality of my desktop for real work.
If you can find a cheap Gtab and play with ROM's, flashing, androids quirks etc - jsut for the fun of it, then get a gtab. Fully flashable with great recovery process. Almost 99.99% Non-brickable. Get a used one for play and test.
If you want a decent a functional tablet w/o hassle, get an I-pad2.
I have read many complaints about the viewing angle of the screen, but I have had my tablet for months and I have no complaints. It has replaced my planner for work and is great for watching movies, not sharing with my neighbor.