Related
I got the Gtab earlier today. Here are my thoughts.
- standard OS is barely serviceable.
- TNT 2.2 makes this thing so much better
- tegra 2 chipset is a game changer. i played w/ the samsung galaxy and the ipad at best buy. the gtab running tnt 2.2 is so much faster than both devices. i can't wait to upgrade my phone to a dual core later this year.
- this thing would be worth $400 msrp if......the screen was remotely usable
- i can't use this thing for more than 30 mins w/out getting a huge headache. the screen is god awful. if it had a decent screen i would keep it. but i don't want to spend $400 for a tablet that i can't use for more than 30 mins. i literally get motion sickness looking at the screen.
i'm going to sleep on it and try again tomorrow. maybe it's the lighting in my room. who knows. if it doesn't get better, i'm going to return it.
The screen has a limited viewing angle and the resolution leaves some to be desired. But I'm not going to return my tablet. It doesn't bug me that much and I can't wait until there is software out to utilize both cores of the tegra 2.
They really rushed this through production, that is apparent. I'm not gonna whine about it, I could've waited for them to refine it but I want it now!!!!
h_10 said:
I got the Gtab earlier today. Here are my thoughts.
- standard OS is barely serviceable.
- TNT 2.2 makes this thing so much better
- tegra 2 chipset is a game changer. i played w/ the samsung galaxy and the ipad at best buy. the gtab running tnt 2.2 is so much faster than both devices. i can't wait to upgrade my phone to a dual core later this year.
- this thing would be worth $400 msrp if......the screen was remotely usable
- i can't use this thing for more than 30 mins w/out getting a huge headache. the screen is god awful. if it had a decent screen i would keep it. but i don't want to spend $400 for a tablet that i can't use for more than 30 mins. i literally get motion sickness looking at the screen.
i'm going to sleep on it and try again tomorrow. maybe it's the lighting in my room. who knows. if it doesn't get better, i'm going to return it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Assuming that you're in landscape mode, try rotating the gtab 180 degree -- i.e. turning it up-side-down -- and see if you have a better viewing experience (this trick does NOT work for e.g. full-screen youtube).
Also, ensure auto brightness is set to on. The screen going full tilt in a darker room will burn a hole through the back of your head.
I actually leave it at manual and adjust as needed. For example, playing the dreaded Angry Birds I usually jack the brightness down or else my eyes start to hurt very quickly.
The refresh rate might be causing issues, as well. Why did they pick 50 hz?
h_10 said:
i played w/ the samsung galaxy and the ipad at best buy. the gtab running tnt 2.2 is so much faster than both devices.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
WHAT?! NOT EVEN CLOSE. The iPad destroys this thing, even when running TnT lite 2.+
I've had my gtablet for almost a week now, (put TnT lite 2.2 on it immediately) and I just came from the mac store, and 20 minutes of messing with the iPad-- the whole time I was thinking, "jesus, this browser speed and smoothness crushes the gtablet." scrolling, and pinch to zoom are instant, and insanely smooth. This gtablet? not so much.
And yes, the screen is staggeringly bad considering it comes from, oh I dunno, a leader in screen technology!
The same as iPad, No. HORRIBLE I don't think so. The same as almost any laptop / netbook, Yes. When held or used the same as a laptop, should be the same. Notice even Apple store has all iPad's propped up on an angle for better viewing. $379 (ports,usb,usb,sdcard,HDMI?) vs iPad $499
"The 10.1-inch 1024 x 600 screen on the G Tablet has sharp images but colors seem muted. Viewing angles are solid at 90 degrees to the left or right when holding the device perpendicular to the ground or a table. However, when the slate is resting flat on its back, you must be right on top of it or images wash out completely."
Read more: http://www.laptopmag.com/review/tablets/viewsonic-g-tablet.aspx?page=1#ixzz17PIdFM4R
Life in LA said:
WHAT?! NOT EVEN CLOSE. The iPad destroys this thing, even when running TnT lite 2.+
I've had my gtablet for almost a week now, (put TnT lite 2.2 on it immediately) and I just came from the mac store, and 20 minutes of messing with the iPad-- the whole time I was thinking, "jesus, this browser speed and smoothness crushes the gtablet." scrolling, and pinch to zoom are instant, and insanely smooth. This gtablet? not so much.
And yes, the screen is staggeringly bad considering it comes from, oh I dunno, a leader in screen technology!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
To each his own I guess.
My tablet runs the internet just fine and pinch and zoom is basically instantaneous. I get flash, so when I access web pages they dont look like swiss cheese and I dont have to deal with ITunes. I also saved $120(even more if you can find a "refurb") by buying the G tab over the IPad. The screen does leave something to be desired, thats for sure.
When you return your G tab and go buy an IPad, please let us know what store your returning to because I'm having a heck of a time finding one of the "refurbs".
The iPad browser seems smooth because it does no intermittent rendering or reflow. It scrolls content, waits, then renders again once scrolling is done. I find scrolling on iPhones and iPads really annoying after using a Nexus One on a modern ROM or my G Tablet in xScope, where you can scroll instantaneously and actually see the content instantly.
Pinch to zoom isn't a performance issue right now, it's a driver issue. Run multitouch tester to see what I mean - the multitouch reading on this chipset/board is very jumpy. That's what causes the problems with pinch to zoom. I remember the Nexus One was like that at first too, and it was fixed over time with software updates, as I expect this multitouch issue will be.
And Flash is actually quite good most of the time on the G Tablet - my wife was utterly impressed when we browsed the web a bit together the other evening and we could look at the Flash-laden furniture websites she wanted to check out (the only issue is the interfaces that use hover and click as separate UI controls - doesn't work so well on any touch device). I can watch Amazon VOD content flawlessly.
Yeah, the screen itself definitely leaves something to be desired. I do expect more from a nearly $400 device, especially coming from Viewsonic of all companies. That is disappointing. I can browse the web, watch video content, and even read books for perhaps a couple hours before my eyes feel too much fatigue from my G Tablet though.
If you gave me a G Tablet with an IPS display, I'd say I had the perfect device for me (a guy who loves hacking and doesn't mind replacing the craptastic stock software and hates Apple's walled garden and anti-jailbreaking policies). But we're the people who chose to be early adopters. We are probably people who habitually piss several hundred dollars away every 6 months on the latest gadget which is often half-baked when it's released. We like this stuff, that's why we're on XDA Developers forums. If you aren't into it, by all means, get the iPad. For lots of people that's a better device right now.
Life in LA said:
WHAT?! NOT EVEN CLOSE. The iPad destroys this thing, even when running TnT lite 2.+
I've had my gtablet for almost a week now, (put TnT lite 2.2 on it immediately) and I just came from the mac store, and 20 minutes of messing with the iPad-- the whole time I was thinking, "jesus, this browser speed and smoothness crushes the gtablet." scrolling, and pinch to zoom are instant, and insanely smooth. This gtablet? not so much.
And yes, the screen is staggeringly bad considering it comes from, oh I dunno, a leader in screen technology!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you do not mind the iTunes UI being needed for file movement, could care less about Flash and do not need USB host function: iPad is a better choice- especially for non-modders.
I have messed with the iPad a lot and do not see the "crushes" speed difference. Especially not with 2.20 and Flash set to "on demand". Dolphin and X browser handle far more pages a lot better.
You do know that iPad client mode is chopped down versions of web pages? If you change the client in settings to "iPad" the Gtablet is actually faster. Everything is relative and not everyone likes the constrained option of an iPad. Seems the ultimate socialist device
All card carrying party members should have one! The display IS sweet, none the less, and a TON of cool and great apps. Kool aid tastes so gooood.
I joke, but next iPad may have USB and a lot of good games are heading to it. PSP2 will be DEAD (IMO of course). I could see me with the G and an iPad.... but my wife may kick my a** having such a vision....
rcgabriel said:
If you gave me a G Tablet with an IPS display, I'd say I had the perfect device for me (a guy who loves hacking and doesn't mind replacing the craptastic stock software and hates Apple's walled garden and anti-jailbreaking policies). But we're the people who chose to be early adopters. We are probably people who habitually piss several hundred dollars away every 6 months on the latest gadget which is often half-baked when it's released. We like this stuff, that's why we're on XDA Developers forums. If you aren't into it, by all means, get the iPad. For lots of people that's a better device right now.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This sums it up.
I get the walled garden and what makes it attractive. It is kind of like the Matrix (or AOL). Plenty of people are content in their rigidly defined, "happy" world being machine food. However, others want to see the real world beyond someone else's vision of what it should be. People who want to make their own realities even if it is in a wasteland filled with choas and danger.
The iPAD v.2 will still be lcoked to iTunes and it still won't have Flash or USB support. Those are the deal breakers for me.
Lnin0 said:
I get the walled garden and what makes it attractive. It is kind of like the Matrix (or AOL). Plenty of people are content in their rigidly defined, "happy" world being machine food. However, others want to see the real world beyond someone else's vision of what it should be. People who want to make their own realities even if it is in a wasteland filled with choas and danger.
The iPAD v.2 will still be lcoked to iTunes and it still won't have Flash or USB support. Those are the deal breakers for me.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Same deal breakers for me, and it costs more money too. The IPad works for most people and its very easy to use for the average users. I personally cant stand ITunes and I love the fact that I have flash on my device.
i like the gtab. or rather i like the idea of the gtab. an open unlocked device that's ripe for modding and developing. i just wished they put a better screen on it. if the screen were usable, i'd keep this thing. i just physically can't use this thing for more than 30 mins at a time. i tried using it again a few times this morning and got a headache again.
i'll keep it for the kids to have something to play with and use during the xmas vacation. i'll take it back after xmas and wait for another more polished dual core android tablet w/ a better, ie usable, screen.
i really wanted to like the gtab.
to be clear...
I have faith that once the builds start taking advantage of the real power of this tablet's hardware it will be faster than the iPad in every respect.
(the screen will still suck, but hey...)
Acturbo said:
When you return your G tab and go buy an IPad, please let us know what store your returning to because I'm having a heck of a time finding one of the "refurbs".
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Click to collapse
HEY NOW! I never said anything about getting rid of it!
My wife plays a ton of those flash based browser games and I'd be murdered if I took this thing away...
Life in LA said:
HEY NOW! I never said anything about getting rid of it!
My wife plays a ton of those flash based browser games and I'd be murdered if I took this thing away...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yours and mine both haha. If this thing could utilize shockwave I dont think I'd ever get a chance to play with it.(She loves POGO)
Rule #1 of G Tab: Never show your wife angry birds, lest you lose your G Tab.
mine went back
I loved the g tab with tnt 2.2......everything worked great on it (esp flash and angry birds), but I just couldn't take the screen anymore. So I returned it couple days ago.....
I'm catching my self missing it today but than i remember how crappy the screen is and look forward to another product.
The hardware on the g tab is great, but like what most of you are suggesting, it needs a better screen (which will probably increase price too)
Thank you roebeet and rest of the community for making such awesome ROMs.
The G tabs original OS is garbage.
Great.
rcgabriel said:
Rule #1 of G Tab: Never show your wife angry birds, lest you lose your G Tab.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
NOW you tell me.
Factory wipe and back to the store you go, you incredibly powered but finicky thing, you!
Just not the device for me. I had fun rooting and customizing, but the tablet just doesn't want to behave. foremost, I want a device that works. Should have just sprung for the extra $150 (including tax) and got the iPad...
BUT wanted to say thanks to robeet and everyone else here who helped me with questions along the way. You guys are all pretty great!
Sorry to see you go! Hope you can find the tablet that best suits your needs.
now we can talk about him.
I am afraid my gtablet will suffer the same fate.
Funny I have both g tab and I pad and I'm thinking of giving the I pad as a gift basically there is nothing exciting about it.
I think you should try the I pad first. I'm not saying that the g tab is #1 but the I pad is definitely not.
Tried the ipad. Yeah, built in 3g w/ data was sweet.
But man, this is a BEAST. So much more than the iPad. Once an optimized tegra android rom rolls out...it's gonna rock. I'm having a bunch of fun trying stuff out, seeing what games I like, apps, etc...
Open source based devices for the win.
The iPad just works. But the g tablet works, in a much bigger atmosphere, so yeah, there are some bugs to iron out. But it's capable of a bunch more.
Oh and
http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/17/dungeon-defenders-first-wave-brings-unreal-engine-to-android-th/
One thing that bothers me is that when I am using this at night I have no idea where the home, search, setting keys are :/
shanghei said:
One thing that bothers me is that when I am using this at night I have no idea where the home, search, setting keys are :/
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
There are a few DIY options, You could put a small sticker on them, for example. Others have suggested glow in dark stickers so it can be seen at night.
I actually have a ZT-180 Frankencase where I punched out holes in the leather where the buttons are and then layered them with tape - gives it a tactile feel. But it's real ugly looking.
shanghei said:
One thing that bothers me is that when I am using this at night I have no idea where the home, search, setting keys are :/
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
or.... you use a ROM with the soft buttons so you don't have to use them... VegaN perhaps?
it2steve said:
or.... you use a ROM with the soft buttons so you don't have to use them... VegaN perhaps?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Exactly what I was going to suggest. I'm using the vegan rom and use the soft buttons that show on the status bar. I love this Rom and tablet so far! I haven't even tried tnt light but I don't think I need to, this rom works perfect for me so far. The ipad does seem a little boring compared to the g tab in my opinion, once you play with android its hard to use something like ios and be satisfied, for me anyway.
Alpha06 said:
Tried the ipad. Yeah, built in 3g w/ data was sweet.
But man, this is a BEAST. So much more than the iPad. Once an optimized tegra android rom rolls out...it's gonna rock. I'm having a bunch of fun trying stuff out, seeing what games I like, apps, etc...
Open source based devices for the win.
The iPad just works. But the g tablet works, in a much bigger atmosphere, so yeah, there are some bugs to iron out. But it's capable of a bunch more.
Oh and
http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/17/dungeon-defenders-first-wave-brings-unreal-engine-to-android-th/
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No Flash, no USB host, no USB connectors and iTunes interface forced upon the user are the main reasons- no iPad for me.
That said, there ARE some great games and others coming to it.... STAY AWAY FROM THE PRETTY LIGHT!
All our OP had to do was make a CW backup and update apps with Titanium. Any problems and BOOM! back in business in less than 30 minutes
That all said, were it not for Clockwork, I will be bold to say that almost EVERY one of us would be returning ours too (already would have). The roms are GREAT, but we would be pretty much be screwed without CW. Only mega techs would be bothering with the other options.
The only thing the ipads got on this is the screen.
http://www.droidgamers.com/index.ph...iglitz-about-unreal-engine-3-ddfw-and-android
JS: For Dungeon Defenders: First Wave, Tegra 2 is primarily a question of "best experience". The game runs by far best on Tegra 2 out of any mobile device we've put the title onto. It's nearly a portable PC level of graphics capability. So while the game doesn't require Tegra 2, we do prefer to play it that way here, which provides an HD resolution, the highest quality textures, and a set of levels that simply could not be rendered on the lower-spec devices. But for the wide array of other SOC's out there, they'll still be getting an experience that is pretty darn awesome.
bittrix said:
now we can talk about him.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I LOLed
Yeah, you can't deny that this thing is a powerhouse. But, in it's current state it is definitely a high maintenance device. And when it comes to a tablet, I just want to turn the thing on and have it do what it's told. Sure, thanks to clockwork flashing ROMS is not as terrible as it could be, but still...
Ultimately I don't have a lot of problems with the iPad's constraints. As a lifelong apple user I'm fine with the itunes based file system. (although killing the ability to use the device as removable drive has got to be one of the stupidest things I've ever seen!) And as far as the no flash thing goes, I was playing with an iPad in the store the other day, and all the sites I went to played video! CNN, BBC, ESPN, IGN... I guess they're running HTML5 in parallel with their traditional formats.
All that said, I might not even get one. Ver2.0 will be out in 4 months. I can probably wait.
In related news, I just noticed my receipt is EXCHANGE ONLY, and seeing as how I don't need $425 in credit at office depot, I've posted it on craigslist for $400. If anyone here is in the LA area and is interested in buying, I'll sell for $350.
Again, you guys kick ass. And overall I would consider it a positive experience.
rushless said:
No Flash, no USB host, no USB connectors and iTunes interface forced upon the user are the main reasons- no iPad for me.
That said, there ARE some great games and others coming to it.... STAY AWAY FROM THE PRETTY LIGHT!
All our OP had to do was make a CW backup and update apps with Titanium. Any problems and BOOM! back in business in less than 30 minutes
That all said, were it not for Clockwork, I will be bold to say that almost EVERY one of us would be returning ours too (already would have). The roms are GREAT, but we would be pretty much be screwed without CW. Only mega techs would be bothering with the other options.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi,
I don't know about others, but if it weren't for the helpful folks here, like roebeet et al, I probably wouldn't even have BOUGHT the Gtab !
Jim
To the op, don't leave for an ipad now. Gingerbread is here, honeycomb is almost here along with other tegra 2 devices, ipad 2 is coming...etc. why pay for an ipad that's going to be yesterdays news in a couple of months. At least wait for a price drop on the ipad.
To everyone else, everyone knows that being a custom rom flasher/addict isn't for everyone. Especially when its in its beginning stages just like our gtablet. I can say that force closes and bootloops don't bother me because I know its part of the game. I'm. Just glad I know where to look for solutions (xda) and I know how to use nvflash if necessary.
Life in LA said:
I LOLed
Yeah, you can't deny that this thing is a powerhouse. But, in it's current state it is definitely a high maintenance device. And when it comes to a tablet, I just want to turn the thing on and have it do what it's told. Sure, thanks to clockwork flashing ROMS is not as terrible as it could be, but still...
Ultimately I don't have a lot of problems with the iPad's constraints. As a lifelong apple user I'm fine with the itunes based file system. (although killing the ability to use the device as removable drive has got to be one of the stupidest things I've ever seen!) And as far as the no flash thing goes, I was playing with an iPad in the store the other day, and all the sites I went to played video! CNN, BBC, ESPN, IGN... I guess they're running HTML5 in parallel with their traditional formats.
All that said, I might not even get one. Ver2.0 will be out in 4 months. I can probably wait.
In related news, I just noticed my receipt is EXCHANGE ONLY, and seeing as how I don't need $425 in credit at office depot, I've posted it on craigslist for $400. If anyone here is in the LA area and is interested in buying, I'll sell for $350.
Again, you guys kick ass. And overall I would consider it a positive experience.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
APPLE FAN BOY ALERT. Jk. And I was soooo nice to u at the other forums too....never again!!!
you have them along the top as well on most screens as sofware keys. I'm using the Vegan-Tab rom and it is stable and fast!
Life in LA said:
I LOLed
Yeah, you can't deny that this thing is a powerhouse. But, in it's current state it is definitely a high maintenance device. And when it comes to a tablet, I just want to turn the thing on and have it do what it's told. Sure, thanks to clockwork flashing ROMS is not as terrible as it could be, but still...
Ultimately I don't have a lot of problems with the iPad's constraints. As a lifelong apple user I'm fine with the itunes based file system. (although killing the ability to use the device as removable drive has got to be one of the stupidest things I've ever seen!) And as far as the no flash thing goes, I was playing with an iPad in the store the other day, and all the sites I went to played video! CNN, BBC, ESPN, IGN... I guess they're running HTML5 in parallel with their traditional formats.
All that said, I might not even get one. Ver2.0 will be out in 4 months. I can probably wait.
In related news, I just noticed my receipt is EXCHANGE ONLY, and seeing as how I don't need $425 in credit at office depot, I've posted it on craigslist for $400. If anyone here is in the LA area and is interested in buying, I'll sell for $350.
Again, you guys kick ass. And overall I would consider it a positive experience.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Double post.
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
Seriously, I have become quite a fan of Apple's Macbooks and own and use both a Macbook and iMac pretty much daily. The Macbook is used a lot for running tracks and click tracks in live band situations which it excels at. We also use it to share internet in our house. Seems like anything with wi-fi will connect to it! But when it comes to portable devices I just found Apple's iPad and iPod touch a bit too limiting.
I recently sold my latest generation 32gig iPod Touch (had 4 buyers lined up to buy it...crazy) to get some extra money to put toward buying the G-Tablet. I bought one, and after a little updating and extending the ROM, I have to say I am blown away by this G-Tablet. After putting the Skinomi on it I think the screen is fine. Viewing angles aren't that great but no big deal to me.
This G-Tablet is fast and so much more fun than Apple's portable stuff for me personally, because I love the fact that I can change ROMS and that I can have the full Market and especially have FLASH! I was very bored with the iPod after having two generations of Touch's, even though my new one had the two cameras and faster processor. The HD camera was nice to have, but I already had a small Kodak Playsport that shoots 1080p and better pictures. Not being able to see videos on some of my favorite websites like mma-core.com (mixed martial arts fighting and info) was quite annoying and eventually what killed the experience for me.
Really enjoying the G-Tablet experience and for me personally I'm not missing anything and have gained a lot of freedom in getting the G-tablet. The only trouble is my wife and both kids keep asking to use it every night when we are all sitting in the family room hanging out! Even made a nice DIY leather case for it (See post in Accessories section)
Welcome to the other side of "The Walled Garden."
I have an iPad my company issued me but I still use my gTab most of the time between the two. They both have their pros and cons. Once I can get the Netflix app to stream on the gTab I'll probably use my iPad even less.
willyc32 said:
Seriously, I have become quite a fan of Apple's Macbooks and own and use both a Macbook and iMac pretty much daily. The Macbook is used a lot for running tracks and click tracks in live band situations which it excels at. We also use it to share internet in our house. Seems like anything with wi-fi will connect to it! But when it comes to portable devices I just found Apple's iPad and iPod touch a bit too limiting.
I recently sold my latest generation 32gig iPod Touch (had 4 buyers lined up to buy it...crazy) to get some extra money to put toward buying the G-Tablet. I bought one, and after a little updating and extending the ROM, I have to say I am blown away by this G-Tablet. After putting the Skinomi on it I think the screen is fine. Viewing angles aren't that great but no big deal to me.
This G-Tablet is fast and so much more fun than Apple's portable stuff for me personally, because I love the fact that I can change ROMS and that I can have the full Market and especially have FLASH! I was very bored with the iPod after having two generations of Touch's, even though my new one had the two cameras and faster processor. The HD camera was nice to have, but I already had a small Kodak Playsport that shoots 1080p and better pictures. Not being able to see videos on some of my favorite websites like mma-core.com (mixed martial arts fighting and info) was quite annoying and eventually what killed the experience for me.
Really enjoying the G-Tablet experience and for me personally I'm not missing anything and have gained a lot of freedom in getting the G-tablet. The only trouble is my wife and both kids keep asking to use it every night when we are all sitting in the family room hanging out! Even made a nice DIY leather case for it (See post in Accessories section)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
good to hear that! If Viewsonic/malata made a better screen for it, it would be a perfect tablet! I guess that nothing is perfect.. and don't tell Steve!!
willyc32 said:
Seriously, I have become quite a fan of Apple's Macbooks and own and use both a Macbook and iMac pretty much daily. The Macbook is used a lot for running tracks and click tracks in live band situations which it excels at. We also use it to share internet in our house. Seems like anything with wi-fi will connect to it! But when it comes to portable devices I just found Apple's iPad and iPod touch a bit too limiting.
I recently sold my latest generation 32gig iPod Touch (had 4 buyers lined up to buy it...crazy) to get some extra money to put toward buying the G-Tablet. I bought one, and after a little updating and extending the ROM, I have to say I am blown away by this G-Tablet. After putting the Skinomi on it I think the screen is fine. Viewing angles aren't that great but no big deal to me.
This G-Tablet is fast and so much more fun than Apple's portable stuff for me personally, because I love the fact that I can change ROMS and that I can have the full Market and especially have FLASH! I was very bored with the iPod after having two generations of Touch's, even though my new one had the two cameras and faster processor. The HD camera was nice to have, but I already had a small Kodak Playsport that shoots 1080p and better pictures. Not being able to see videos on some of my favorite websites like mma-core.com (mixed martial arts fighting and info) was quite annoying and eventually what killed the experience for me.
Really enjoying the G-Tablet experience and for me personally I'm not missing anything and have gained a lot of freedom in getting the G-tablet. The only trouble is my wife and both kids keep asking to use it every night when we are all sitting in the family room hanging out! Even made a nice DIY leather case for it (See post in Accessories section)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What is skinomi...
Sent from my UPC300-2.2 using Tapatalk
iondokk said:
What is skinomi...
Sent from my UPC300-2.2 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
http://www.skinomi.com/vigta.html
Jon
Does the Skinomi make the screen look better or is it just for protection? Maybe less glare?
I'm using it. Less fingerprint on the screen for sure.
Apple Sucks
I got rid of my iPad1, I had iPad 2 in hand ready to buy...called Apple to see if I would have any issues with reloading the content....bingo...issue!!
Apple does not allow you to re-download books or music.
You can re-download apps once.
Apple expects you to pay again for content you already paid for....so long apple
Steve Jobs...the apps nazi....no more money for YOU!!!!!!
The choices I'm looking at area really just two:
iPad 2
Motorola XOOM
I am guessing that you'll all tell me to get the XOOM because, well, it's XDA developers. Although I'm kind of leaning towards that direction, I would like to have concrete reasons other than "Apple is evil".
The biggest problem I have with the XOOM is that it's not IPS, if it were I'd already have bought it. So for those of you who have the XOOM, is it's screen ok in terms of viewing angle? Cuz I'm just sooo sick and tired of weird colors or reversed colors from TFT panels. And I'm also really sensitive to minor inaccuracy in color, just makes me so mad. Thank god it has a 1280X800 resolution or it would've been out of question instantly.
The second biggest problem is design. I mean excuse me, most tablets except the iPad and iPad 2 look like ****. I think the XOOM is the only acceptable looking one, yet it has a crappy looking back side. The Samsung Galaxy tab, is one of the ****tiest looking product I've ever seen. Why? Not only because its stupid thick, the proportion of its size versus its screen size is ugly, and its display theme totally does not match its physical appearance. So all other Android tablets are out of the question, they just look like ****. Those of you who's studied art must know, that it's all about proportion, the golden mean and all that. Not the absolute size or design of anything in particular.
You may all hate the lack of personalization and the icon tile of iPad, but it is just soooo much more harmonious in terms of design and looks. Not that I'm gonna be unpractical but the difference is just so significant I can't ignore it.
The iOS also has a significantly larger number of apps at 65,000. Now I don't own any iOS devices so I don't really know how many of them are actually worthy of using. The last time I checked Honeycomb has like, what? 400? Even though I don't play games so I can exclude all the iPad games that still sounds like a huge difference. I'm not sure what that translates to.
Having said so many good things for the iPad 2, I have problems with it as well. I'm so frustrated, no product is perfect.
The iPad 2 doesn't have retina display, I hate the term retina, it's as if Jobs invented a new type of screen just be increasing resolution. But really, why haven't any phone yet to beat the iPhone 4? All I see is bigger and bigger screen, without any of them beating iPhone 4 in resolution. Shame on the Android phones. And yes, I love pixels period. Anyway, the iPad 2 resolution is a bit unsatisfactory, it's smaller than the 720p's 1280 in width, that's the most problematic. It should've been 1280X960.
I my self also have a problem with customization in iOS, and it's icon tile. I think although Android 2.x look stupid on tablets. Android 3.0 looks awesome, and it seem to function a lot better. I think my self as really good at electronics so I won't be frustrated by its complications as long as it's not stupidly designed like the BB PlayBook which I spent 20 minutes trying to figure out how to quit an application and failed, such a stupid product, bad looking as well.
So yea... only if the XOOM had IPS screen, a bit longer battery life, and a little less stupid back cover. It would've been perfect.
Why limit to just 2? Why aren't you looking at new android tablets from Samsung, Asus, LG etc.?
Asus transformer, dont wast your money on apple garbage
because they look like ****. unacceptable in appearance.
I use an Android phone. I got an iPad, in the end it is just a big iPod Touch to me and not much more. I gave it to my wife who use it as an e-reader. I got a netbook instead and installed Ubuntu in it, now I have a real portable computer instead of a computer wannabe. Battery life is good enough and easily beat any smartphone out there in continuous use.
I mean yea the iPad is a big iPod touch. But the idea is that, that is just what it is, and the fact that it is big alone is enough reason to get it.
I can also see how the Honeycomb OS is more powerful, computer wise, if you want it to be a computer which it really isn't, it's a tablet.
But then, Honeycomb doesn't have the high quality apps the iPad is already filled with. which means less functionality in that sense.
Functionality is what made me gave up iPad. What it can do my Android phone could do it too.
The only pro is battery life which is legendary for a portable.
Of course it all depends on your need, so I suggest you look into what sort of specific function are you looking for.
For me it was web browsing, what I hate about my phone is it can't handle some web pages properly, the iPad is no better, if not worse (no Flash). So YMMV.
But if you just want a tablet and care about look, iPad is the way to go.
Hi
Ok, At first I bought myself the Blackberry Playbook, its multitasking of the new QNX OS is amazing great, battery life is not as promised by blackberry. Than when they made an announcement that Android Apps will be delayed in the merger passed the summer, I exchanged it for a Motorola Xoom, I was never a big fan of Motorola but I will tell you, I love this freaking Tablet, its fast reliable. Only thing I am slightly disappointed is even on a fast wifi. It freezes videos on cnn.com and msn.com( those are the only two I have tried so far.) Youtube plays flawlessly on wifi, I also use the 4G hotspot on my HTC EVO to get the internet anywhere I go.
Battery Life: I have played games on it. to test battery and I will tall you I am happy. I took it to work Played Doodle jump and Fruit Ninja THD on it and I came home with battery still at half full. I do not have my Xoom now since my sister in law decided to steal it, it's been 2 days now and I called her earlier and she told me battery is still halfway full. This girl plays Poker Stars on the thing all day long so I am happy I have a reliable device. I just wish they made better cases for it and the speakers in the front not back.
PS: APPLE SUCKS!! lol.
Primarily I bought the tablet to take it to school and do work on it. If I am doing a PowerPoint presentation and I need to throw it to a PC I do not want to have an IPad in that situation. Because you cant do mass storage transfer. Only way of transferring the file is emailing myself. now if I have a WiFi only IPad that sucks if I have no internet connection to email it. Also if the file is bigger than 10MB you cannot email it to no one unless you separate the file into two or more. Thank you for open source
Also im not hating on apple products, I am hating on the people who make the OS which is so strictly locked down by apple.
Sure you can jailbreak, but not everyone knows how to do it, OR some people are to by the book and don't do it. OR they are plain Dumb
The XOOM is a great tablet, actually. The only downside is that since it's so new, it's native apps are a little glitchy and there aren't many apps for tablets on the Android Market. But both of those will be resolved soon.
Try out a XOOM, they're great.
I would honestly wait for maybe another 3-4 months- within that time frame there should at least another 3-4 highly competitive Android tablets running Honeycomb and it'll give time for more usage of the tablet version and some updates will be on the way. In fact Honeycomb 3.1 has already been confirmed to be released very soon.
Crazy991 said:
The XOOM is a great tablet, actually. The only downside is that since it's so new, it's native apps are a little glitchy and there aren't many apps for tablets on the Android Market. But both of those will be resolved soon.
Try out a XOOM, they're great.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Good point- Xoom native apps are still little glitchy.
You could even check out the LG G-Slate (branded as the T-Mobile G-Slate). Has 3D (which i don't care for) and it's running very similar hardware to that of the Xoom. Only downside to this one is the cost and the lack of a wifi only version.
Crazy991 said:
Try out a XOOM, they're great.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you can handle the somewhat buggy Honeycomb on it, I agree. Not that it's bad by any stretch of the imagination, just has a few odd quirks.
Of course, this is xda, so I mean...modding it probably isn't entirely out of the question.
The iPad on the other hand "just works". My only gripe with it is the lack of expandable memory.
The decision really comes down to open vs. closed. If you want a more open device that you can tinker with, the Xoom is it. If you want something that just works, but is locked down pretty tight, the iPad is it.