[Q] Looking to buy a tablet - General Questions and Answers

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.
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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.
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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.

Related

[POLL] galaxy tab or ipad

Which should I get?
If Android is your cup of tea go with an Android tab I am waiting for Cisco's Cius, patiently though
I love Android but I say the iPad. Larger screen (this may be subjective as a pro but 7 inches isn't going to be much more portable than 10), more accessories since its more widely used, and fantastic resell value (Apple resell value for nearly anything is through the roof).
This poll wont really offer any useful information other than the fact that a predominantly Android and WM forum prefers Android. That said, Galaxy Tab for me because I don't want to give Apple my money. I'd never buy a tab in the first place, though.
Definitely the iPad. Much-much better and more third-party software, LOVELY hardware, MUCH better battery life, much more tablet-friendly OS etc.
Menneisyys said:
Definitely the iPad. Much-much better and more third-party software, LOVELY hardware, MUCH better battery life, much more tablet-friendly OS etc.
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I wouldnt buy either of them, But you got to be kidding me. Ipad has better hardware? Much more tablet friendly? Stop lying to yourself and others. Ipad = mediocre hardware and itunes. Nothing redeeming about that.
hungry81 said:
I wouldnt buy either of them, But you got to be kidding me. Ipad has better hardware? Much more tablet friendly? Stop lying to yourself and others. Ipad = mediocre hardware and itunes. Nothing redeeming about that.
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1. Hardware-wise, the iPad has an IPS screen, while the Galaxy only has TN Film. Quite a difference.
Yeah, it doesn't have goodies like 256+M RAM and camera, but, in everyday life, at least the former isn't that big a problem.
2. Don't even bother comparing Android, which is stated NOT to be a tablet OS by Google itself, to a 100% tablet-friendly iOS...
3. What's wrong with iTunes? The iPad has excellent third party apps. And if you really hate iTunes / AppStore, you can always jailbreak it and use Cydia instead...
Menneisyys said:
1. Hardware-wise, the iPad has an IPS screen, while the Galaxy only has TN Film. Quite a difference.
Yeah, it doesn't have goodies like 256+M RAM and camera, but, in everyday life, at least the former isn't that big a problem.
2. Don't even bother comparing Android, which is stated NOT to be a tablet OS by Google itself, to a 100% tablet-friendly iOS...
3. What's wrong with iTunes? The iPad has excellent third party apps. And if you really hate iTunes / AppStore, you can always jailbreak it and use Cydia instead...
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I believe the iPad is just a big ass e-book reader...Hell, you don't even get Flash. I know Steve Jobs hates Adobe, but hey...we need flash..lol
With no camera on the ipad, it really is a killer for me. I know it seems sad, but I have thousands of pictures and take about 100 per day(I have no life).
I also prefer the Android OS to the iOS.
Size..I'd rather have 7 then 10..Yes 10 is nice, but I don't think I'll be reading that many books, and Robot Unicorn Attack is prolly the ONLY reason I'd switch OS's
Price..iPad wins that one..lol
My vote...It's your money, get what you want. But this is a ndroid/WinMo forum and you prolly want see many iOS fan boys here
Hope you get what you want.
I own an iPad and for games and stuff they're great! But after playing with a tab id go for tab
What do you want it for? They are reasonably similar hardware wise so it comes down to the OS mostly -- I'd give both of them a try if you can.
The Tab has the two camera's, weighs a fair bit less, supports flash and I think it can make calls too; the iPad has better battery life, a larger (IPS) screen, and an abundant amount of apps available. Note, iOS 4.2 is being released this November so the iPad will have multi-tasking, folders, etc.
iPad, Not only because I got one, because I kno any Android tablet will be a waste of hardware due to hardly any apps being written speficially for it. Adding a tablet form into the Android market is just increasing the fragmentation if you ask me.
BUT, it really depends on your needs.
If you need the freedom and funcitonality, get the Tab. Though not every app will work.
If the overall user experience matters to you, with a more polished OS and every app able to work on your device, get the iPad. Though you're in a locked environment.
brilldoctor said:
Which should I get?
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Netbook with meerkat? Anyone? Just saying.
Neither. Give the money to charity...uhmm...maybe I will create an iCharity. Everybody from the church of Apple will gladly contribute ...such naive people ... so gullible ... I will get rich quickly! Better patent the idea quickly!
I love Android but I would go for the iPad. I got a chance to play around with it and was thoroughly impressed by the quality of the display and the speed and smoothness of the UI.
Posting this on an iPad. I love it and it is with almost at all times. I haven't touched the galaxy tab... Somehow android on a tablet doesn't seem very appealing. I've used android phones since the G1 (I have a MyTouch 4g now), however, and I love it and prefer it over iOS as a phone operating system. Having the iPad in conjunction with it lets me have my cake and eat it too.
ok i think the poll has decided

Good device. HORRIBLE SCREEN

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.
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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.
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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!
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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!
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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.
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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.
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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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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...
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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.
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NOW you tell me.

Throwdown: IPAD vs. Gtablet; I bought My wife an IPAD for Xmas!

Ok... I am a die hard NON apple kind of guy. My wife bought her Iphone a year ago leaving me and verizon to fend for ourselves. Then I suggested she buy a Mac book as she has been slamming windows for as long as we have been married. So, after loving angry birds on my Gtab for the past month, I thought, what a perfect gift for her (and me to compare) an IPAD would be. So I bought her one for Christmas.
I have to say, the screen really is fine. The lighter weight and the form factor is sweet too. But, to have to have an app (which they do have an app for everything many free for sure) to view most web sites in a "standard" mode such as to see video on them etc., I still can not see that. And, no add on memory and no real interface... the battle is on!
I will update you periodically as I try and see it from an Apple user perspective.
That IPS screen is very nice. Did some after Xmas shopping today and took another look at the iPad. It's the one thing that really stands out on the iPad, versus the GTab.
I know that, in time, Android tablets will catch up (Notion Ink? please don't be vaporware).
roebeet said:
That IPS screen is very nice. Did some after Xmas shopping today and took another look at the iPad. It's the one thing that really stands out on the iPad, versus the GTab.
I know that, in time, Android tablets will catch up (Notion Ink? please don't be vaporware).
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Hold off, since rumors of some form of USB, microsd, and additional camera functionality will not die in regard to iPad 2011 models.
I can not look at the iPad display, since I then have to reacclimate to G's dispaly. ..... ....
Man, just think of the Gtablet with at least a Galaxy Tab level display.....
Here's my guess on the iPad v2 - it will almost certainly have a camera. Makes sense for Facetime.
A USB port and / or a microSD slot would be a major shocker, so I highly doubt that would happen. It goes against the walled-garden approach that Apple loves so much.
I have been an iphone user for two years. You may heard this before but lack of flash of support equals COMPLETE FAIL as I an an avid news junkie and enjoy news clips.
Now if only Netflix and google can work out their differences and bring official support for streaming netflix to droid devices then I will be switching to droid in the spring when my phone contract is due for renewal.
PS, I have owned an apple PC and it would not run 1/5th the software that was available while the apple had software support for virtually NOTHING that I needed on the PC and couldn't get.
My brother and I had this same argument about a year ago where he was praising the superiority of the Mac, about a month later he embarrassingly admitted to me I was absolutely right about the Apple causing him to not have acess to most of the software out there.
At the time I bought my last Dell laptop I spec it out with the 2G Duo Core, a wireless N1 card, a Geforce mobile GT8600, a 7200spd hard drive and 2G of Ram. I went to the apple web site and spec' out the SAME configuration, it was over $1,000 MORE!
Same hardware, LESS software, nearly double the price.
Come on...how is that EVEN a contest? I have since upgraded that same laptop to Win 7 32b and it STILL runs like a champ (do you think that would have been the case with a macbook?)
By the way, my viewsonic (although a tad buggy at this time) was 25% cheaper than an ipad and the only real advantage I can see of the ipad was superior screen while it has weaker hardware, and I am 100% confident that the Droid 2.2 and coming honeycomb will equal or surpass the ipad in the coming year.
Gauntlet thrown, Apple failed.
I do love my iphone but I have physically thrown it after getting literally thousands of video errors with flash videos news sites not to mention the fact that the vast majority of "apps" are just dumb downed versions of web pages that I do not really care for (there are quite a few with functionaity for actual mobile use but many apps are just "internet for idiots". What I am saying here is that I am not impressed with "who has the most apps" I just need certain specific ones (which you can get from EITHER company pretty much).
I personally have a love/hate relationship with Apple.
My first laptop was a greyscale PowerBook, I've used all the older pre-10 iterations and I think OSX is an outstanding achievement. But iOS just burns me up and I can see that they are expanding this walled-garden mentality into their Mac products, as well. No standard external ports like USB, no external storage, nothing allowed on the device except through iTunes, no Flash just because Jobs is pissed off that Adobe dumped them for MS. I just hate that with a passion. And the iPad v1 is the culmination of everything I loathe about them.
But, it does have a really nice screen.
I am a veteran of the Windows/Mac Wars of the 90s and the one thing I learned is: If it does what you want and I can run what I want, then I don't care what you run. If you like Apple, if you like Win7, if you like Linux, if you like iOS, if you like Android, if you like webOS... then bully for you! I happen to like some of those myself, so whoop de do!
But tell me my platform sucks or try to spend 30min telling me WHY my platform sucks, well, I have better things to do, thanks.
-=Sent from my VS GTablet (VEGAn b4) using Tapatalk=-
I Gave My iPad to my Wife
I gave my iPad to my wife to read her Kindle books on. I bought my gTablet on November 17th, and I have not missed my iPad. I am loving my gTablet, and it is just getting better and better with time. I am running TNT Lite 3.1.2 on mine. With flash, adhoc wi-fi support, and the full market, I am plenty happy. I am looking forward to the bright future of the gTablet.
Doing some research on video out on the IPAD. It has a selection of cables for composite, component and vga, but guess what? Only very few apps output to video such as movies, photos and not much else.
When I hooked up my HDMI to my dock today, EVERYTHING I saw on the screen was showing on the big screen.
roebeet said:
I personally have a love/hate relationship with Apple.
My first laptop was a greyscale PowerBook, I've used all the older pre-10 iterations and I think OSX is an outstanding achievement. But iOS just burns me up and I can see that they are expanding this walled-garden mentality into their Mac products, as well. No standard external ports like USB, no external storage, nothing allowed on the device except through iTunes, no Flash just because Jobs is pissed off that Adobe dumped them for MS. I just hate that with a passion. And the iPad v1 is the culmination of everything I loathe about them.
But, it does have a really nice screen.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You are far more qualified than me to make this assessment but if you are only designing your OS to have functionality with very specific in house written end user software, I would think it would be EASY to achieve a tighter higher performaing OS.
Do the circumstances of how osx exsists in the first place not SIGNIFICANTLY diminish its level of "oustanding" as an achievement?
popezaphod said:
I am a veteran of the Windows/Mac Wars of the 90s and the one thing I learned is: If it does what you want and I can run what I want, then I don't care what you run. If you like Apple, if you like Win7, if you like Linux, if you like iOS, if you like Android, if you like webOS... then bully for you! I happen to like some of those myself, so whoop de do!
But tell me my platform sucks or try to spend 30min telling me WHY my platform sucks, well, I have better things to do, thanks.
-=Sent from my VS GTablet (VEGAn b4) using Tapatalk=-
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Fair points. Although unfortunately for all of us here, if a thing sucks it is going to suck regardless of what any individual really thinks. Suckage is an absolute and will be unaffected by all the good will of the world. Rotten meat will not become premium meat because 1000 people love it. Unfortunately this seems to be the casse with apple. In the 80s A Team and Knight Rider were top shows, just because people were watching did not make them actually good. Just because lots of people are buying Ipads does not over come the facts of an absolute and unavoidable conclusion based on the facts (listed above about ports, camera, storage devices, flash, cost, etc etc.). Its not really about convincing or anyones opinion. Its just a fact that it sucks, kind of like how the world is round (regardless of if anyone likes said fact or not).
insight3fl said:
Ok... I am a die hard NON apple kind of guy. My wife bought her Iphone a year ago leaving me and verizon to fend for ourselves. Then I suggested she buy a Mac book as she has been slamming windows for as long as we have been married. So, after loving angry birds on my Gtab for the past month, I thought, what a perfect gift for her (and me to compare) an IPAD would be. So I bought her one for Christmas.
I have to say, the screen really is fine. The lighter weight and the form factor is sweet too. But, to have to have an app (which they do have an app for everything many free for sure) to view most web sites in a "standard" mode such as to see video on them etc., I still can not see that. And, no add on memory and no real interface... the battle is on!
I will update you periodically as I try and see it from an Apple user perspective.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
LOL, well your credibility for providing a non-bias Apple user perspective is tainted by stating you're a "die hard NON apple kind of guy". jk. My sister in law has an Ipad and I think its just a great big Ipod touch which is actually a compliment. It's so smooth and pretty to look at. Did you download skyfire on the Ipad? I heard it was out as an app. I'm curious to see how it runs on the Ipad.
Let us know.
Thanks
roebeet said:
Here's my guess on the iPad v2 - it will almost certainly have a camera. Makes sense for Facetime.
A USB port and / or a microSD slot would be a major shocker, so I highly doubt that would happen. It goes against the walled-garden approach that Apple loves so much.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I agree, a ff camera will be on the Ipad 2. You know Apple was gonna do that anyways but decided to leave it out so people will be more likely to upgrade. That's why I'm so leary when buying apple products or any product for that matter. I want it to have my minimum requirements at least for me to consider buying it.
I also agree that it will not have expandable memory which is a shame.
xmr405o said:
I agree, a ff camera will be on the Ipad 2. You know Apple was gonna do that anyways but decided to leave it out so people will be more likely to upgrade. That's why I'm so leary when buying apple products or any product for that matter. I want it to have my minimum requirements at least for me to consider buying it.
I also agree that it will not have expandable memory which is a shame.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think folks will be surprised and there will either be USB function, or micro sd options (both?). The only thing holding Apple back from complete market domination are those issues and people that hate Apple. Though Apple can do nothing for the latter, they can compromise with the former.
There should be some decent "leaks" in about a month. We shall see.........
My first computer back in the late 70's was an Apple ][. That was back in the days of Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak. Even back then it was clear that the Woz only really cared about the technology and Jobs only really cared about the money. I was an avid Apple defender back then but a few years later we had Apple taken over, Woz and Jobs were out and Peter Skelly was in. Skelly had been the CEO of Pepsi Cola and his knowledge of technology consisted of being able to flip the on/off switch on lights, computers and various electrical items. Eventually he had the sense to bring Jobs back in.
Here's the problem, Jobs is glorious at design and ergonomic functionality, he is also a true technophile. He designs magnificent looking machines with super friendly GUI's that people love. But, once you get past the look of his machines you find that they offer simple AND limited functionality, and that is the very reason that the great masses love Apple machines.
Because people love the look and feel of the machines they are willing to pay bloated prices for what they see as "superior" technology when really the only thing superior is the physical design and ease of use for the technically unannointed. That is GREAT business, but lousy geekiness.
You can't knock Apple's ability to design machines that sell and make piles of money and you can't knock their success. For me, the problem is that I don't want to give them my money anymore because their machines aren't "fun".
My first priority is that my techno gadgets be functional and a close second is that they must be fun. Apple doesn't fit into that nook. Even so I did buy three Mac's a couple of years ago and found that their build quality was poor and that surprised me a lot. But in business, public perception is a bigger selling point that anything else and Apple got that right, too bad they didn't get the technical end right.
R
I came across this old thread while researching the GTablet. The only thing that is really holding me back from buying one is the screen. The videos I see on Youtube make the screen look really bad, especially one that has a side by side comparison of the Gtablet vs Ipad. Since the GTablet has been out for awhile now, are those who own it still happy? I need to find a B&M store that has one so I can check it out, I really wish it had an IPS screen like the iPad though. I dont get why somebody doesnt come out with a killer Android tablet that can really compete with the iPad.
androidmonkey said:
I came across this old thread while researching the GTablet. The only thing that is really holding me back from buying one is the screen. The videos I see on Youtube make the screen look really bad, especially one that has a side by side comparison of the Gtablet vs Ipad. Since the GTablet has been out for awhile now, are those who own it still happy? I need to find a B&M store that has one so I can check it out, I really wish it had an IPS screen like the iPad though. I dont get why somebody doesnt come out with a killer Android tablet that can really compete with the iPad.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I picked the gtab because I like to customize the gtab and try different Roms. I am very happy with mine using vegan tab. Flash has been a big bonus. The screen works surprisingly well. Sure, its not perfect, but this gtab has some power and is 400 bucks less than xoom. If you like out of the box OS and don't like to tinker, then get the 16GB iPad from best buy for $399. Battery life on the gtab is awesome. I wake up at 4am and use it throughout the day and heavy use by evening. I will have several hours left on the battery when I go to bed around 9pm. Try Office depot, as many have them in stock to play with. Good luck.
androidmonkey said:
I came across this old thread while researching the GTablet. The only thing that is really holding me back from buying one is the screen. The videos I see on Youtube make the screen look really bad, especially one that has a side by side comparison of the Gtablet vs Ipad. Since the GTablet has been out for awhile now, are those who own it still happy? I need to find a B&M store that has one so I can check it out, I really wish it had an IPS screen like the iPad though. I dont get why somebody doesnt come out with a killer Android tablet that can really compete with the iPad.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So I was having the same issues before I picked up the gtablet, and having used it for a few days, the screen isn't really that bad. I also love the more widescreen aspect of it vs the ipad allows for better media watching. But it does mean you have to dive more into the device and its setup (custom roms, etc) and if that is daunting to you then I would skip the gtablet.
No issues with geek stuff like flashing ROMs. Ive been an Android user since the G1, member here on xda since then. I currently have a SGS Vibrant, rooted with Bionix.
So, what would you compare the screen to? I have a nearby Office Depot, will try to check it out tomorrow. Is the GTablet the best thing going right now? From the specs, it seems so. One last thing, what are you using to protect it? Screen protector? Case?
androidmonkey said:
No issues with geek stuff like flashing ROMs. Ive been an Android user since the G1, member here on xda since then. I currently have a SGS Vibrant, rooted with Bionix.
So, what would you compare the screen to? I have a nearby Office Depot, will try to check it out tomorrow. Is the GTablet the best thing going right now? From the specs, it seems so. One last thing, what are you using to protect it? Screen protector? Case?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
With the newest official and unofficial VS update, you may not need to use an alternative ROM.
I would compare the screen directly to a netbook screen. It is by no means imho as horrid as some would have you think, but it's not for everyone. Some people feel you should be able to see what's on the phone/tablet screens while they sit flat on a desk and you're in a chair - while I think it's nice to be able to, I certainly don't think it's necessary to enjoy it and this is just something again, imo vendors have used to inflate the cost of these devices beyond their 'real' practical value. "why is our tablet $800 when so and so is selling one with the same internals for $300? well, have you SEEEEEN our screen? BIG difference!" yeah, you get my drift.
Spec-wise, I think it's a toss-up between the GTablet and it's siblings (interpad, hanspree tablet, malata zpad, avent vega, etc.) or the Notion Ink Adam. As you probably know, the iPad is pretty nice but it's def. lacking in terms of (imo, again) certain little details where the GTablet and other Android devices with similar specs excel and you would have to either learn to live in Apple's walled garden or do some 'techie' stuff in order to jailbreak anyway. Is it the BEST right now? I don't know - probably not. It was released in Nov. 2010, there's bound to be something with similar specs and a 'better' screen by now, if not then yeah it's probably the best VALUE for what you get as of right now.
I would have got her an ipad too.
Don't get me wrong I love my gtab, but I exhaust so much time modifying and fixing my own one. I don't mind that for myself but stuffed if I'm gonna spend my entire free time fixing someone elses tablet. Ipad can't do as much but in return I don't have to ever look at it or maintain it hence freeing up my spare time.
Sent from my VEGAn-TAB-v1.0.0b5.1.1 using Tapatalk

[Q] G-Tablet vs iPad2

I just saw a post on Anandtech comparing ipad2 and xoom starting a fire-storm of comments. http://www.anandtech.com/show/4216/apple-ipad-2-gpu-performance-explored-powervr-sgx543mp2-benchmarked/1
I looked up the benchmark details for the g-tablet, ipad1 and xoom on GLBanchmark, on cursory examination looks like g-tab compares very well with ipad2 and in some cases out performs ipad2. http://www.glbenchmark.com/compare.jsp?benchmark=glpro20&showhide=true&certified_only=1&D1=ViewSonic%20G%20Tablet&D2=Apple%20iPad&D3=Motorola%20Xoom.
Can somebody cross verify this.
a) I'm not an expert in this field
b) I'm a proud owner of a G-tab so might well be biased .
Note: I have posted a similar comment in anandtech's comment section, but asking it here as this might be a more appropriate forum.
Thanks
What I personally have been seeing, as well as another member on Reddit, the gTab is benching better than the xoom, which would place it still worse than the iPad 2.
Edit: Source link: http://www.reddit.com/r/Android/comments/g3yqw/after_seeing_the_xoom_benchmarks_i_decided_to/
Further edit: Are you looking for a comparison to iPad 2 or the original iPad? You mention both in your post, and the link goes to a comparison against iPad 1.
Sorry for the confusion.
My intended comparison is to ipad2. GLBenchmark still does not have iPad2 in their pull-down selection choices. Anandtech had a table comparing iPad1 & iPad2, so I had to eyeball between the 2 pages and used ipad1 just as a frame of reference.
thanks
No probs. The gTab is fairing well against the Xoom in those benchmarks, but there are some things the iPad can be better at. The gTab doesn't touch the iPad 2 in terms of benchmarks.
To be honest, I wouldn't get bogged down on specifics of benchmarks. While benchmarks can show how well a device can perform, they miss the most important thing. "Does the device work for you?"
Sorry saw the wrong column. yup g-tab no where near ipad2
There are a few things to consider:
The ipad2 is an ipad with a dual core cpu/gpu and 2 cameras, that's really it.
So far, from what I've been reading the ipad 2 graphics whips the tegra 2, however I have no clue how our dual core 1GHz CPU compares to the dual core A5 900Mhz running on the ipad2.
Furthermore, the ipad runs optimized code on optimized hardware...so ios has that bonus over honeycomb in every way. The ipad and ipad2 will always technically SEEM quicker in some respects vs. Android and Honeycomb/Froyo etc. because of that reason alone. Of course, the Gtab is actually faster than the iPad and that's quite visible when running multiple apps or viewing video.
That being said, it really boils down to how their a5 cpu compares to our t2. We know their graphics are faster at the very least. But our CPU may be a bit faster. I'm not speaking in terms of 900Mhz vs. 1Ghz. I'm speaking in terms of the optimized code I'm talking about. The iPad doesn't really need all that much raw power because all the software is optimized to run on it. It's also meant to sip power at that speed. Our t2 sips power by clocking all the way down. Thats the biggest difference.
It could be a situation where apps and cpu intensive processes may start/close and execute etc. quicker/faster for us - but games may look a bit better for the ipad2, as well as swishing around icons and 2D intensive stuff.
If you can put up with itunes, for $100 more you get a tablet that "just works" with a set it and forget it attitude and has 2 cameras. For $399 the G Tablet is a great value and a must have for tinkerers and those who prefer 'freedom' and choice.
Any comparison between both I think will really have to be on a person to person basis at this point; whereas if it were ipad vs. gtab I'd def. recommend Gtab based on power and the ipad based only on a "required" prerequisite of having a "better" screen.
I am not ipad fan as I have ipad for kids and have evo and viewaonic tablet as my android devices.
Love my evo which is the best phone in my opinion, but gtablet does everything well, but the quality of the screen, hardware and thiness of the device and battery life goes to ipad hands down.
Gtablet is really good, but it is heavy and ugly. Apple hardware have always been better looking then their counter part.
I have nice dell xps 1645, but it is still failed in compare to perfectly rectangular MacBook pro which I lust.
It will be always like comparing apple and windows.
Hope honeycomb can close the gap in usability compare to froyo and gingerbread for the tablet.
Sent from my PC36100 using XDA App
rob_z11 said:
I am not ipad fan as I have ipad for kids and have evo and viewaonic tablet as my android devices.
Love my evo which is the best phone in my opinion, but gtablet does everything well, but the quality of the screen, hardware and thiness of the device and battery life goes to ipad hands down.
Gtablet is really good, but it is heavy and ugly. Apple hardware have always been better looking then their counter part.
I have nice dell xps 1645, but it is still failed in compare to perfectly rectangular MacBook pro which I lust.
It will be always like comparing apple and windows.
Hope honeycomb can close the gap in usability compare to froyo and gingerbread for the tablet.
Sent from my PC36100 using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't understand how Apple products gets all the raves. Before I buy anything I always look at Apple and end up buying something else because I find them too low tech. The grayed out OS on the laptops plus the lower than most laptops on the market specs and closed architecture a real turn off on their laptops. I will take a PC any day with any operating system I choose to put on it and I do get that option. For me electronic equipment is all about having options.
The ipad is a real let down. All icandy, after you get past the screen and giant played out icons--what is this the third or fourth year we are seeing them on everything Apple, how much longer will they rock those tired icons? The swipe to the left and right and up and down could hardly compare to a processor running 3D operations. Spinning 3D carousals, live wallpapers and four to five homescreens. No comparison; if that was all the G Tab did, the benchmark scores would be off the charts or any other OS for that matter.
To each his own, just adding to the conversation. I tried to like Apple products but I just don't find them good enough. Who heard of a hard drive you couldn't yank out after purchase and replace with whatever you wanted along with the other components. I guess the Apple prison system is not for me. Don't want to stop anyone else from enjoying though. For me the cons out-weigh the pros.
Stop comparing Apples and Androids!
Version_3 said it correctly. Find out what works for you and use that.
I have both an iPad1 and G-Tab. Both have pluses and minuses.
For "getting things done" I use the iPad. For entertainment and satisfying my inner geek I use the G-Tab.
There is no use in comparing hardware specs since the operating systems on both are so dissimilar. What needs to be looked at is doing what you like in the manner in which you like it. Comparing the "software" against each other is also fruitless since each person interprets how the software works for them.
My personal observations are as follows:
iPad + iTunes = ease of use
G-Tab + ?? = not as easy
G-Tab + Google Apps = Totally awesome
iPad + Google Apps = unimpressive
iPad + App Store = easy to use and solid software
G-Tab + Market = not intuitive and flaky software
Battery Life = iPad
Camera = G-Tab (not too impressive though)
To each his own.
Note - my wife will not even touch the G-Tab since the days of force closing apps... It made a negative impression on her that wont go away soon... She loves the iPad because it "just works". Android needs to figure out a way to overcome those perceptions.
pgstormblade said:
Version_3 said it correctly. Find out what works for you and use that.
I have both an iPad1 and G-Tab. Both have pluses and minuses.
For "getting things done" I use the iPad. For entertainment and satisfying my inner geek I use the G-Tab.
There is no use in comparing hardware specs since the operating systems on both are so dissimilar. What needs to be looked at is doing what you like in the manner in which you like it. Comparing the "software" against each other is also fruitless since each person interprets how the software works for them.
My personal observations are as follows:
iPad + iTunes = ease of use
G-Tab + ?? = not as easy
G-Tab + Google Apps = Totally awesome
iPad + Google Apps = unimpressive
iPad + App Store = easy to use and solid software
G-Tab + Market = not intuitive and flaky software
Battery Life = iPad
Camera = G-Tab (not too impressive though)
To each his own.
Note - my wife will not even touch the G-Tab since the days of force closing apps... It made a negative impression on her that wont go away soon... She loves the iPad because it "just works". Android needs to figure out a way to overcome those perceptions.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I also have a gTab running VEGAn beta 5.1.1 as well as an iPad 1. I have to say that you and I have opposite uses for our tablets it seems. While you use the gTab for play and your iPad for "getting things done" I find it difficult to use the iPad for work but rather find the gPad (with the ROM and apps I've purchased) much easier to accomplish work on.
As for iTunes... I find with DoubleTwist I can get by just fine on my gTab. The only time I honestly find myself using my iPad (got it for free from work and they pay for the data plan too) is when I want to keep my 20 month old and 4 year old busy with a Netflix video at the table while my wife and I enjoy a nice dinner out. They LOVE Shaun the Sheep and it keeps them mesmerized. Although I can rip those discs and play them on the gTab it's just simpler to stream Netflix on the iPad for them.
Now for the wife... I bought her a Nook Color since most of what she does is read on it. I've also ripped some "chick flick" dvds for her and put it on her Nook Color and it plays them fine too. And of course, with root she got her damn Angry Birds...
Like most electronic devices, both the gTab and the iPad fill different needs for different people. For me, the iPad is a consumer device where the users consume media (as long as it's not Flash) and the gTab (even with it's faults like the screen) allows me to truly leave my 30 pound work laptop (with charger) behind and still get work done.
In the end, like you said, to each his own...
I guess my 2 cents:
*Software optimization*
*Resolutions*
Neither of which the Xoom or G-Tablet have thats helping them in any way. Honeycomb is no where near what I would call optimized. Plus in my mind when I see a benchmark comparing 1440 x 900 to 640 x 480 I'm sure the fps in the lower will be a bit faster. Yes I am android fan but, I can't say that the A5 is bad or the results are totally farce. Time will tell, maybe a few months from now maybe Nvidia / Google will get their crap together before we see the Tegra 3's with the left out hardware.
Plus doesn't the Xoom have 27 native open gl extensions and the gl benchmark only found 21?
Ahhh benchmarks drive me crazy, they start wars.
Speaking of issues such as tap n tap slowing the tablet down to a crawl and FC, viewsonic is not a small company. Why in the world didn't their testers pick these things up?
goodintentions said:
Speaking of issues such as tap n tap slowing the tablet down to a crawl and FC, viewsonic is not a small company. Why in the world didn't their testers pick these things up?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Excellent question and I went to the tap n tap website which was an eye opener. Why in the world would they choose this for a device with so much hardware promise?
Good thing for them buyers were able to see past the bad decision and look at the big picture.
Software is changeable and hardware, particularly, on a device such as this--meaning tablet--is what it is. What you get, is what you get. Pretty much fixed unless you get into add ons and soldering.

Android tablets vs ipad questions

Hi, i am currently looking for a tablet, i am hoping in the long run it may replace my laptop but i am not going to sell that yet incase, but for day to day use i would like to use a tablet more.
i understand that on here we maybe a little more biased to apple, i usually am myself lol
i have always used android on my phones, i currently have a Samsung galaxy s2 using a custom rom, resurrection remix. So i do like android a lot and very comfortable using it.
on the other hand my girlfriend had an ipad 3 already and i do kind of like it a lot and use it a lot when im at hers, i never find any fault with it, it runs extremely smooth giving its lower specs to current new android tablets out. on my phone i must admit i will get the odd app saying it has to close or it couldn’t start and vie had to restart my phone etc.. i have not once seen my girlfriends ipad crash.
This now leaves me unsure about what to get and would like some opinions, my hearts telling me you have to stick with android because its what you know and love.. and your supposed to hate apple!
But my brain is telling me deep down, you know the ipad is going to be better long term with less problems and a much bigger market.
giving that android are having so many issues now with patents, they have lost the right to carry on using flash etc which used to be a big bonus for android users. how many other issues are going to crop up where every time you update your android tablet you will lose some of its function because android have been ordered to take it out because of a patent ruling.
this all kind of worries me a little in terms of the future, will devs start favouring apple before anyone else when it comes to making apps, will at some point they say we aren’t making them at all for android because of all these issues (of course they already make more for apple than they do android now) im just wondering if it will get worse? i know android was certainly catching up but i think that may start to reverse a little soon.
Most of the above comes from what i have either heard people say or what i have read, i dont know 100% of everything above is correct or not. so some advise would be good.
How good / bad is the android market and is the apple store that much better.
will all my current bought apps, and the majority of free ones probably work fine on an android tablet, or would some look stupid stretched, or do they have to be designed especially for tablet use?
I was wanting to be able to transfer files from usenet on my tablet to a media player, I’m guessing from what i have read that will be impossible with an ipad and do-able on an android tablet but still probably nowhere near as easy as from a laptop, this is one main reason i am not going to get rid of my laptop to soon incase it proves a nuisance. If i got an ipad i assume i would have to keep my laptop for this purpose?
is there any reason why the specs of say the ipad are fairly standard compared to some of the newer android tabs and i still hear a lot about the android tabs being sluggish sometimes and the menus not being smooth, if apple can do a dual core 1ghz pad with 1gb of ram and it be soo smooth, how come android tabs which are also 1 and sometimes 2gb have multi core cpu's at 1.2 - 1.6 ghz yet they perform much more sluggish to the ipad?
is it because android is being added into a whole host of different makers to fit their specs, where as the ipad is being made only for apples own operating systems therefore its always going to be smoother as its all been made for the one system rather than for multiple systems?
i am assuming if android also made their own hardware the two would go together much more smoothly, or am i wrong?
From reading the above back it feels like in am heading more towards the ipad, but i would like reasons why i should maybe not choose the ipad.
the tablets i have been looking at are:
Huawei MediaPad 10 (which i have literally only just come across but looks good specs)
Asus transformer pad infinity 32gb (i don’t know how much this is going to cost without the dock, i think i would only need the dock if i was to get rid of my laptop)
Samsung galaxy note 10.1
Ipad 3
Up to now that’s my shortlist, i would be looking at the 32gb versions unless the 64 wasn't a bad price, i am looking to spend about £400 - £500 max, i have seen new ipad 3's 64gb on ebay for £480, not sure how much the others will be, i would need to hold out for the 32gb or 64gb versions of the galaxy note 10.1 if i was to get that, not sure why they have only released a 16gb version and no others.
Thanks for any feedback you give
James
james_lpool said:
Hi, i am currently looking for a tablet, i am hoping in the long run it may replace my laptop but i am not going to sell that yet incase, but for day to day use i would like to use a tablet more.
i understand that on here we maybe a little more biased to apple, i usually am myself lol
i have always used android on my phones, i currently have a Samsung galaxy s2 using a custom rom, resurrection remix. So i do like android a lot and very comfortable using it.
on the other hand my girlfriend had an ipad 3 already and i do kind of like it a lot and use it a lot when im at hers, i never find any fault with it, it runs extremely smooth giving its lower specs to current new android tablets out. on my phone i must admit i will get the odd app saying it has to close or it couldn’t start and vie had to restart my phone etc.. i have not once seen my girlfriends ipad crash.
This now leaves me unsure about what to get and would like some opinions, my hearts telling me you have to stick with android because its what you know and love.. and your supposed to hate apple!
But my brain is telling me deep down, you know the ipad is going to be better long term with less problems and a much bigger market.
giving that android are having so many issues now with patents, they have lost the right to carry on using flash etc which used to be a big bonus for android users. how many other issues are going to crop up where every time you update your android tablet you will lose some of its function because android have been ordered to take it out because of a patent ruling.
this all kind of worries me a little in terms of the future, will devs start favouring apple before anyone else when it comes to making apps, will at some point they say we aren’t making them at all for android because of all these issues (of course they already make more for apple than they do android now) im just wondering if it will get worse? i know android was certainly catching up but i think that may start to reverse a little soon.
Most of the above comes from what i have either heard people say or what i have read, i dont know 100% of everything above is correct or not. so some advise would be good.
How good / bad is the android market and is the apple store that much better.
will all my current bought apps, and the majority of free ones probably work fine on an android tablet, or would some look stupid stretched, or do they have to be designed especially for tablet use?
I was wanting to be able to transfer files from usenet on my tablet to a media player, I’m guessing from what i have read that will be impossible with an ipad and do-able on an android tablet but still probably nowhere near as easy as from a laptop, this is one main reason i am not going to get rid of my laptop to soon incase it proves a nuisance. If i got an ipad i assume i would have to keep my laptop for this purpose?
is there any reason why the specs of say the ipad are fairly standard compared to some of the newer android tabs and i still hear a lot about the android tabs being sluggish sometimes and the menus not being smooth, if apple can do a dual core 1ghz pad with 1gb of ram and it be soo smooth, how come android tabs which are also 1 and sometimes 2gb have multi core cpu's at 1.2 - 1.6 ghz yet they perform much more sluggish to the ipad?
is it because android is being added into a whole host of different makers to fit their specs, where as the ipad is being made only for apples own operating systems therefore its always going to be smoother as its all been made for the one system rather than for multiple systems?
i am assuming if android also made their own hardware the two would go together much more smoothly, or am i wrong?
From reading the above back it feels like in am heading more towards the ipad, but i would like reasons why i should maybe not choose the ipad.
the tablets i have been looking at are:
Huawei MediaPad 10 (which i have literally only just come across but looks good specs)
Asus transformer pad infinity 32gb (i don’t know how much this is going to cost without the dock, i think i would only need the dock if i was to get rid of my laptop)
Samsung galaxy note 10.1
Ipad 3
Up to now that’s my shortlist, i would be looking at the 32gb versions unless the 64 wasn't a bad price, i am looking to spend about £400 - £500 max, i have seen new ipad 3's 64gb on ebay for £480, not sure how much the others will be, i would need to hold out for the 32gb or 64gb versions of the galaxy note 10.1 if i was to get that, not sure why they have only released a 16gb version and no others.
Thanks for any feedback you give
James
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If you prefer the ipad then go for that, it's fine asking what people think but they don't have to live with the tablet you get, you do and it sounds like you've made a choice and are hoping people can change your mind.
Regarding not seeing ipad crash, well no one does because when it does crash it won't actually tell you and on startup of an app it shows a picture not the app itself.
This makes it seem to start quicker as user thinks they are seeing the app starts and if app crashes and restarts the user won't usually realise.
Android didn't lose the right to have flash, adobe chose to pull it....but it is still available for uk android users from play store.
You can stream media from an android tablet to other devices using free apps like mediahouse upnp dlna. You can try some apps on your phone to see if they do what you need.
Android appears more sluggish than ios because ios prioritises user input whereas android multitasks fully and so doesn't single out one aspect for more attention although jellybean does try to improve ui interaction to be much smoother.
The ipad will be easy to use and do what you want, you will lose the customisation and lack of restrictions offered by android so you might get bored a bit but it will do the job just fine.
Apps wise both markets are fine but apples is safer if you're worried about malware, both have a large amount of apps to choose from but a lot of devs do release to ios first because it is easier to code for (ie not hundreds of different spec devices to get an app working on, just a few) and has a high number of users who pay well for apps.
As for apps on android tablets, some do have special tablet only versions but most adapt to your tablets resolution so most should look fine especially as more and more phones are released with higher tablet like resolutions and as these resolutions are becoming much more common developers make their apps display better on them.
Dave
( http://www.google.com/producer/editions/CAownKXmAQ/bigfatuniverse )
Sent from my LG P920 using Tapatalk 2
Whichever you decide... You have to keep in mind what you are going to use the tablet for to begin with... There are alot of things that tablets cannot do well which in turn we use our personal computers for... These tablets are new technology, and will be growing at an exponential rate... As of now the tablets are performing more and more than once originally released... I myself will not be giving up or replacing my computer for a tablet because I do lots of photo editing, video editing and most importantly my music software... So as for a tablet, I would only be using it to browse the web and social networking alongside the other various basic needs for internet use... As of now I currently own a Galaxy Nexus from Sprint, and it suffices for the daily rounds of networking and web search... But in the future with the new implementation of Microsoft Windows 8 and tablets, it seems that I might be replacing my PC... But in my opinion... Wait for the better tablets... Apple builds it's hardware to do what it does... There is little room to upgrade anything efficiently... Android is working on making their devices more breathable like a personal computer...
And in my opinion, Microsoft is the leading factor here as far as developing the better tablet... I am not a big Microsoft guy as opposed to Linux... But the money, resources, and experience tend to lean at Microsoft... In my opinion... Get the low cost Nexus 7 tablet for now... Keep the laptop... And save up for the swagger that Microsoft might develop here in the near future... or wait for Android to steal the spotlight and WOW us with the new tablet that might one day surpass the PC...
As far as Apple and their products... I am against them simply because of the crybaby courtroom antics... I will probably never buy another Apple product again because of their David Caruso like opportunistic grievances over their patents... They simply lost money because they're not on the ball as quick as Samsung... They lost out on sales due to the minimal changes in the iPhone hardware and design... It was a great run for the awesome product when it FIRST came out on the market... I think that their devices are well put together... but on the same note... the patents are ridiculous... and pretty soon someone will see the lawsuit rulings and get the bright idea of making car companies start having to pay royalties to whomever developed the first vehicle, and we'll all be driving on 3 tires instead of four...
Okay, first off, the myth about ipads never crashing is not true. iOS has a weird way of force closing crashed apps in the background, so you would never know that it happened. The reason why iOS seems very fast is that the OS itself is optimized to run on less resources and iOS has zero fragmentation. The main problem with android is the lack of unity in hardware and software. Apple has full control of iOS and hardware, so it is very efficient in that sense.
Moving on to the issue of replacing a computer with a tablet. My own view is that the easy things that you do on a laptop is a bit harder on a tablet as its OS tends to be much simpler and that means it can include a limited number of features. My suggestion is to wait for the new Microsoft Surface RT and Pro. http://www.pcworld.com/article/2601...s_surface_pro_which_tablet_will_you_want.html
The Pro version has a fully-powered intel ivy bridge cpu with a fully featured windows 8 in a tablet form. If the form factor has you staying away from laptops, then this is the thing for you. Keep in mind that the surface pro is essentially a laptop in tablet form and I think that's pretty cool.
If you really insist on just a android tablet, then it's either the asus transformer infinity or the galaxy note 10.1. I personally have used asus transformer pads and they are AMAZING. They are designed beautifully and definitely high-end. I haven't used the galaxy note 10.1, but the exynos quad does give it a significant boost over the asus tablet.
Reasons for not choosing ipad:
1. The ipad 3 is nothing that new. It still packs the outdated A5 cpu, but the gpu is something noteworthy. Retinal display is alright, b/c to tell you the truth, I can't tell the difference.
2. You cannot customize the ipad to your liking, that means no custom ROMs, kernels or skins, just plain-old iOS
3. The truth is between ipad and android tablets, it comes down to control and whether you like rooting and flashing ROMs. If you're tech-savvy and like to tinker with stuff, then go with android. If not, then it's down to personal preference, ipad or android, choose what you like.
4. Don't support Apple and it's anti-competition ways (more of a joke reason)
Good luck on choosing a tablet
If you want apps go for the iPad simple as. It has a greater catalogue of apps designed for the tablet which is lacking on Android. I've had an android tablet before but now own the new iPad. The apps are far better, and better optimised to make use of the hardware. The OS is smooth and optimised.
I use an android phone and an ipad to give me best of both worlds. I got bored with my Samsung Galaxy 10.1 tablet as it just felt like a bigger version of of phone.
Also Apple hardware tends to hold value better than most other products. So that's another thing to consider if reselling in the future.
Both are good don't get me wrong but choose one based on what you need and want it to do.
I use my iPad for streaming my music via home sharing, browsing the net, social networking, I watch my tv on it whilst in my bed by streaming off my satellite box, reading books, editing images now and then for quick fixes, and more.
Sent from my HTC One X using Tapatalk 2
The people above have already summarized the main points, but allow me to emphasize a few things:
james_lpool said:
Hi, i am currently looking for a tablet, i am hoping in the long run it may replace my laptop
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The tablets currently out will not replace your laptop. Both android and especially iOS are pretty much toy OS's that, for example, only let you work with one app at a time (though there are some limited efforts on the android side to overcome it). The closest you might come to replacing your laptop is the Surface Pro, coming Jan 2013ish, or the mysterious Ubuntu tablets that haven't materialized so far. Even those probably won't be powerful enough; it'll take a few years for the technology to catch up.
That is why I bought my tablet (the nexus 7) in a completely different niche than my laptop. It's meant to be an easy-to-carry, convenient device for mostly consumption.
Of the ipad alternatives you listed, I reckon that the galaxy note 10.1 is the most interesting. Who knows, maybe the stylus actually would be as useful as they portray in those business commercials.
Personally, i would stick with android. you have so much flexibility with it. and if you do want to get the framework of the ipad on your tablet, you could always flash miui also, you can download apps without using installous. you can view your storage files and folders with the android, but you can't do so so easily with the ipad.
As someone forced by work to use an ipad3 I have to say it is crap.
My sensation browses the web faster, android apps are cheaper or totally free, the iPad is buggy as hell.
Apps crash on it a lot, despite being on the same network as my phone, even with a stronger signal the 3G speed is much slower.
XDA takes longer to load fully, even in chrome on the iPad, and if you try to type a reply before it has fully loaded expect to find yourself unable to type at all do you have to reload the page.
Scrolling any pages with images is laggy as hell, really jerky if you flick the page up or down.
Predictive text is a joke, you type a word and one letter from completion it makes a suggestion, and god help you if you don't want the word it suggests!
I'm fricken fed up having to change keyboard mode for punctuation or numbers too!
Oh nearly forgot, a couple of weekends ago it started needing hard reboots if I wanted to spend more than 10 minutes online with 3G.
My razors all I need I just "dock" it and I've got a working linix computer. But I too am waiting but I want to see the windows 8 also first. I own apple stock but I'd never buy an Apple phone. I have thousands of songs hundreds of cartoons dozens of movies and all for free . and I'm also 99 percent add free
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Android tablets are closer to replacing laptops than Apple tablets. iOS is just too restrictive to be productive on. You can't even download files off the internet on the iPad.
That being said, the Surface Pro will actually be a laptop replacement, as you can run all your favorite laptop software on it, and it runs a full fledged OS.
xaccers said:
As someone forced by work to use an ipad3 I have to say it is crap.
My sensation browses the web faster, android apps are cheaper or totally free, the iPad is buggy as hell.
Apps crash on it a lot, despite being on the same network as my phone, even with a stronger signal the 3G speed is much slower.
XDA takes longer to load fully, even in chrome on the iPad, and if you try to type a reply before it has fully loaded expect to find yourself unable to type at all do you have to reload the page.
Scrolling any pages with images is laggy as hell, really jerky if you flick the page up or down.
Predictive text is a joke, you type a word and one letter from completion it makes a suggestion, and god help you if you don't want the word it suggests!
I'm fricken fed up having to change keyboard mode for punctuation or numbers too!
Oh nearly forgot, a couple of weekends ago it started needing hard reboots if I wanted to spend more than 10 minutes online with 3G.
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Serius,crash???my gilfriend have the nexus and the galaxy 2,and my ipad 3 is 300% better,than nexus,100% more stable,more beautiful,and responsive etc!!!!ipad =the best ecosystem in the world(in tablet)
Pd:just walk to bestbuy and touch the nexus and touch the ipad the diference is too long!!!

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