fair laptop replacement? - Eee Pad Transformer Q&A, Help & Troubleshooting

|I think I have seen something that can now replace my laptop and tablet into one complete package.
I use my laptop to surf, word process, email, listen to music and play movies.
my tab is for games, movies and music and web browsing.
now the transformer prime seems to be a convergence device for me, provided 'docs to go' is any good?
I 've never used it before. I don't do stuff like that on my phone. I don't do it on my tablet cos I've got my laptop. so provided the docs to go is 'good to go' then this is for me. it'll have better res than my laptop and it'll do everything I want, as long as I can word process.
so
anyone who uses docs to go on the current transformer. what's it like? what's your experience of word processing on the tablet?

Erm, I've been typing personal statements on my tablet lately, and I gotta say, it's mostly like how it is on my laptop (I use open-office, starting to learn to LaTeX). With Polaris, the office app that comes with the TF, I gotta say, it's more or less just a normal word processor with the one exception of the lack of spell check. I've gotten used to seeing the red lines if I have typo's so that would be a big plus if they had it. Otherwise, nothing wrong with typing on my TF. (By the way, anyone recommend a different office app, which is as good as Polaris, but with an auto-spell check thing?)
Ooo, also, copying and pasting is kind of a hassle because you gotta long click and etc.
TL;DR: Tablet word processor (Polaris) = same as laptop, with exception of copy and paste, and spell check.

thanks for that. It sounds what I'm looking for. I don't do anything complex on laptop. Its just my work a day tool. I do all my main editing, typesetting etc on my main machine. The laptop is purely for me to work when I'm not in the office and I need to do some more writing.
this sounds good. Can the built in processor handle doc format? I assume that would be a no which is why docs to go would be what I'd have to consider.
anyone who's used docs to go on the TF able to chime in?

I just sold my Transformer today, but I do have Docs to Go. It is pretty fair. I find the user interface the most lacking, but I might be spoiled by a PC.
Although Asus ships with Polaris Office. I've used it in a pinch, but Docs to Go is much better. I also prefer the FAOTD from Amazon better as well (Office Suite 5 Pro).

office suit 5 sounds not bad either. I'll do some more reading. like I say, I just want to type already created docs for word.
anything I create fresh will just have basic layout anway. this is sounding pretty good.
a convergence device, capable of doing all the multi media, AND be used for work purposes, presentation work as well. I LIKE

ExploreMN said:
I just sold my Transformer today, but I do have Docs to Go. It is pretty fair. I find the user interface the most lacking, but I might be spoiled by a PC.
Although Asus ships with Polaris Office. I've used it in a pinch, but Docs to Go is much better. I also prefer the FAOTD from Amazon better as well (Office Suite 5 Pro).
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I got office pro when it was free on amazon the other day...quite nice actually.
BTW....what did you get for your TF? I'm thinking its time to sell mine and its dock because I'm going back to my laptop which has no issues with HD video

out of interest what issues did you have with HD vide on the tablet? was this using a native player or an app from the market?

It won't play some encoding. I have a ton of mkv with ac3 encoding that just wont play.

thebadfrog said:
BTW....what did you get for your TF?
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$350 for the TF and a nice carbon fiber case. But it was a B60 model which seems to sell better. The person buying it said he was looking everywhere for this version and none of the other on CL for weeks were the rootable ones.

thebadfrog said:
It won't play some encoding. I have a ton of mkv with ac3 encoding that just wont play.
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thanks. well that's all right then, cos I don't use MKV files on tablets or my phone.
I stick to flv, avi (with xvid codec) and mp4. so I should be okay then.

ExploreMN said:
$350 for the TF and a nice carbon fiber case. But it was a B60 model which seems to sell better. The person buying it said he was looking everywhere for this version and none of the other on CL for weeks were the rootable ones.
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Thanks....good to know. I have a B40 with a dock so I should be okay then
Sent from my Transformer TF101 using xda premium

Polaris Office works fine with MS Office files I've tried, onoy gripe I have is it can't read my Open/Libre Office files!
asdfuogh said:
I use open-office, starting to learn to LaTeX
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Using a Debian chroot you can run LaTeX on your TF. TeXLive might be impossible though, never tried it for Linux/ARM.
I am happily using my TF to replace my netbook and workstation, which replaced my laptop; and it has almost replaced my new quadcore desktop. Should note that I don't care about office suites though, lol. I use other tools for that.
Sent from my Transformer TF101 using Tapatalk

Hmmm, interesting.. I have some different app I use to run OpenOffice documents. Not on tablet atm so I can't check .

To answer the OP's original question, yes the transformer+dock can replace your laptop GIVEN that you do not try to use it like a laptop.
3 things the OP needs to know.
(1) The transformer ain't no laptop.
(2) Android ain't no windows.
(3) Android ain't no mac OS either.
If you try to use the transformer like a laptop, you will be vastly disappointed. It's like buying a motorcycle and then try to use it like a car. You will complain about the cold weather, the lack of storage space (like the trunk), the lack of a windshield, the air blowing into your face, etc. People don't buy motorcycles and try to use it like a car. Why in the world would you buy a laptop-tablet hybrid and try to use it like a laptop?
I have not touched my laptop for 5 months now. I've found that the transformer has completely replaced my laptop plus more. I can do things with my transformer that I previously could not do with my laptop. Here are just a few things that I need to do with my transformer that I used to do on my laptop.
-Check emails.
-Type reports.
-Create and give presentations.
-Play games.
-Skype.
-Surf.
-Read pdfs.
-Much much more!
Here are some things that I can now do with the TF that I never could have done with a laptop.
-Go on the entire day without even thinking about recharging.
-Carry around just the tablet part in the field for aci and astm references.
-Take hand written notes.
-View autocad drawings on-the-go.
-Much much more.
The point is if you're going to try to use the tablet like a laptop, you will be disappointed. The tablet is an entirely new thing. You need to treat it like a new thing.
Will I do heavy duty things like autocad drawings on my tablet? Probably not. That's what my PC is for.
Now, the part where the transformer is superior to all other tablets. It is not a coincidence that all ipad users I know carry around their ipads for fun and games and their clunky laptops for real work. I only carry around my transformer+dock for everything.
Just the other day, I saw a guy sitting across the room typing on his laptop. Now, this was one of the guys who for months kept telling me I should have gotten an ipad 2 instead of a cheap imitation (the transformer). I went over to make small talks. Eventually, I asked him where his ipad was and what he's been using it for. He told me he uses it to play games every once in a while and that he now thinks he wasted money on it. That answer surprised me, because for months he was convinced his ipad was much better than my transformer. As I was about to turn around and went back to my thing, he said, "yeah, I should have gotten what you have" nodding at my transformer+dock sitting across the room.
So, if you want to get a tablet that you have for bragging rights, get the ipad2. If you want something that's worth your investment, get the transformer.

@ above poster. that was precisely my reasoning.
I only use my laptop to type when I'm out and about but all the other media stuff I know do on a pad. ergo. if android can now handle office stuff well with docs to go or some other office suite software and can open doc files, then I've found exactly what will suit my needs.

I'm looking to cover that laptop aspect with a transformer prime as well. My question is how you subjectively feel the productivity suites on transformer can stack up against a laptops. I've typed a bit on the keyboard and feel comfortable there, but haven't used any android word processors or presentation makers to get a good comparison vs something like ms office software. I know they won't be as powerful, but in practice, do you feel the lack, or are you happy with stuff on transformer?

ExploreMN said:
$350 for the TF and a nice carbon fiber case. But it was a B60 model which seems to sell better. The person buying it said he was looking everywhere for this version and none of the other on CL for weeks were the rootable ones.
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Was that for just the TF or the TF and a dock?
---------- Post added at 07:23 AM ---------- Previous post was at 07:16 AM ----------
ExploreMN said:
$350 for the TF and a nice carbon fiber case. But it was a B60 model which seems to sell better. The person buying it said he was looking everywhere for this version and none of the other on CL for weeks were the rootable ones.
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Click to collapse
johnchad14 said:
I'm looking to cover that laptop aspect with a transformer prime as well. My question is how you subjectively feel the productivity suites on transformer can stack up against a laptops. I've typed a bit on the keyboard and feel comfortable there, but haven't used any android word processors or presentation makers to get a good comparison vs something like ms office software. I know they won't be as powerful, but in practice, do you feel the lack, or are you happy with stuff on transformer?
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Click to collapse
Personally, I find the Android office suites only good for the simplest projects. For example, I can write fiction using them but not non-fiction or work documents because those need things like robust headers and footers. Polaris is pretty good at viewing my work presentations (which have complex graphics) but not for creating them. And etc.
Overall, I've found the Transformer+dock to be good for doing draft work on-the-go, but not for any complex creative work. The office suites just aren't robust enough. But for just laying down text, it's great--there's just not a better lightweight device with such great battery life and decent keyboard available anywhere, particularly for the price. The Prime is just going to make that equation stronger.
Note: For pure writing without worrying about formatting and such, I've actually been using Evernote. It works well enough, and of course everything I write gets automatically synced to every device I own. It's nice to not have to worry in the slightest about whether my latest version of a document is saved everywhere.

Thanks, prettymuch what I figured. Doesn't dissuade my interest in the device. I'm looking forward to the day when some real high quality productivity stuff gets made...or will hope someone figures a way to dual boot with win 8 down the road =).

After playing with a TF since April I think it is OK for many tasks, but is not a laptop replacement. Too often I find I need to run some applications that is only available for laptops. This is where I think Windows 8 can really shine so I will probably hold off on another 10 inch tablet until I can try something running Windows 8.

johnchad14 said:
I'm looking to cover that laptop aspect with a transformer prime as well. My question is how you subjectively feel the productivity suites on transformer can stack up against a laptops. I've typed a bit on the keyboard and feel comfortable there, but haven't used any android word processors or presentation makers to get a good comparison vs something like ms office software. I know they won't be as powerful, but in practice, do you feel the lack, or are you happy with stuff on transformer?
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I have. I absolutely don't miss my laptop at all. I've created several presentations while on the train with my TF+dock. I've typed many reports with the TF+dock.
Again, I got the TF+dock with the attitude that I needed to learn an entirely new platform to make it productive. And in this, I've succeeded. My laptop has been untouched for 5 months. It will soon go onto ebay.
I've also known some people who got the TF+dock intending to use it like a laptop and then when they couldn't they ***** about it.
Your choice, really, what you want to do with your investment.
Added by edit.
Windows 8 will be a plus. While I do not have a windows 8 tablet, I have some friends who are devs and have gotten their hands on the windows 8 tablet. They've assured me that it's pretty slick, even if it's only a beta. When it comes out, we will be able to enjoy all the full features of microsoft office right on our tablets.
Of course, by then android devs may have already created office apps that have just as much and good functionalities as microsoft office. Only time will tell.
BTW, I've bought all the office apps available on the market. My favorite is office suite pro 5, but others are good, too. My only disappointment is none of the excel functions have something as simple as x-y scatter plot. What I wouldn't give for an android excel app that could do this.

Related

Anyone use for school? Hows it do?

How does this work as a laptop replacement in a school environment? Taking notes, web experience, etc. I'm looking to replace my laptop for at school.
How does it do rendering blackboard ?
Any help would be appreciated I might pick one up tomorrow with the keyboard. Is it responsive to type documents on?
Sent from my MB860 using Tapatalk
As a direct laptop/desktop replacement, I do not believe it will do that. However, if you are looking for something that is light, takes notes with a stylus, web surfing, movies, music, etc... Then it would be perfect. I am a college student, and have used an iPad and now this for school, and it fits perfectly into my daily life.
With the keyboard dock, this thing would seriously be a netbook type device, so typing on one I would not know. I use the Transformer by itself.
Hmmmm, I have found the best solution for my studies (masters in education) was a touchscreen laptop like the fujitsu lifebook using OneNote. I have the keyboard dock for the transformer and I simply love it. I am currently forcing myself to use this instead of my lifebook simply to see the abilities of this in the classroom. This machine falls a bit short of being the perfect companion, thats pretty good. No OneNOTE, but with printershare that makes up for it a bit.
The lightness of it is huge ofcourse, its sturdy as well. Internet is less cumberson than on a windows based machine. There are several apps that can be used for office, or you could use google Docs. Also, once rooted, you can download any file type and with the USB ports on the dock you will be able to move files at your whim.
ON THE OTHER HAND... (And this point just came to me as I was typing this) I have not used my laptop since I purchased this machine a few weeks ago and currently about to finish my last class. So maybe it is a good solution.
Give me sme real world applications (how you want to use it) and maybe I can give you some suggestions.
Sent from my Transformer TF101 using XDA Premium App
boglwe said:
Hmmmm, I have found the best solution for my studies (masters in education) was a touchscreen laptop like the fujitsu lifebook using OneNote. I have the keyboard dock for the transformer and I simply love it. I am currently forcing myself to use this instead of my lifebook simply to see the abilities of this in the classroom. This machine falls a bit short of being the perfect companion, thats pretty good. No OneNOTE, but with printershare that makes up for it a bit.
The lightness of it is huge ofcourse, its sturdy as well. Internet is less cumberson than on a windows based machine. There are several apps that can be used for office, or you could use google Docs. Also, once rooted, you can download any file type and with the USB ports on the dock you will be able to move files at your whim.
ON THE OTHER HAND... (And this point just came to me as I was typing this) I have not used my laptop since I purchased this machine a few weeks ago and currently about to finish my last class. So maybe it is a good solution.
Give me sme real world applications (how you want to use it) and maybe I can give you some suggestions.
Sent from my Transformer TF101 using XDA Premium App
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thanks in advance you are really helping me out. Well some apps i'd like to use would be:
-an office-like application to edit/compose word docs or essays.
-view pdf files
-i have used evernote in the past, but i also like using powerpoint to take notes in the notes pane under slides....(i think with google docs i can toggle speaker notes which may solve this issue)
-another thing on taking notes, can u insert bulleted lists/ numbered lists/ indents to keep notes organized on any notetaking software for the transformer?
-as far as music goes, how does it handle multitasking with music. FOr example, playing audio in the background while i study.
-ease of copying/pasting.
I am thinking it may just suffice and have that 'wow' factor too. I do have a desktop at home, so for anything real intensive i am sure i could use that (which i have been neglecting lately).
Im familiar with rooting/flashing devices as i've come from a captivate and now use a atrix. I feel like im rambling, but the more i type the more it sounds like a viable solution for taking notes in class.
one last thing, i have seen a few threads about some keyboard lag...is this a serious issue? is there a fix? I saw that there are several iterations of the keyboard, is there one i should try and get when i go shopping over others?
i just dont want to have to wait for the keyboard to catch up if i'm taking notes in evernote.
I think i may just pick it up tomorrow and try it out for a few weeks since school isnt until august 29th...but i could use any insight on it i could get!
August 29th... semester system?
I've not used it to take notes yet (summer research), but for school life, entertainment-wise, since I've had it, I haven't used my laptop much for anything other than the occasional Netflix (and I've stopped since I finished BSG ).
I'm using my laptop right now to play some game, but really, the TF has almost replaced everything I need it. The typing lag does kind of suck so if you're some kind of student with a major that will require lots of typing..
asdfuogh said:
August 29th... semester system?
I've not used it to take notes yet (summer research), but for school life, entertainment-wise, since I've had it, I haven't used my laptop much for anything other than the occasional Netflix (and I've stopped since I finished BSG ).
I'm using my laptop right now to play some game, but really, the TF has almost replaced everything I need it. The typing lag does kind of suck so if you're some kind of student with a major that will require lots of typing..
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how bad is the typing lag? i dont do a TON of typing, but i am taking an online class so i may need to type into a forum style system box to submit.
edit:
i see that it is only an issue with SOME apps? have you used thinkfree office?
domin8 said:
how bad is the typing lag? i dont do a TON of typing, but i am taking an online class so i may need to type into a forum style system box to submit.
edit:
i see that it is only an issue with SOME apps? have you used thinkfree office?
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It is not too bad but not like iPad fast either,it lags but catches up easily on everything you type.
It catches up for short typing sessions. When I typed up a document for my parents, it was really noticeable in a bad way though.
The keyboard lag is NOT all the time; I mostly see it in the browsers and its actually rare but when it happens, you know it. A few things to note regarding using this machine for serious work...First there are several apps that can be used for Office (documents to go, and polaris, that latter comes with the machine, but I have yet to find one that has auto-save, and that can be scary when writing those long papers. If the machine is rooted you can copy paste ANYTHING, without root, its kind of a hit and miss.
You can play music in the background, so no worries there. most music apps attach to your task bar in any ways.
The way I find myself using this device many times in in conjuction with my own desktop now or at the school library computers and have this next to me at all times. It is an amazing resource to share information point blank with peeps and youself. There is also a thread somewhere here talkin about a Onenote alternative for android using a stylus, I have yet to try one of these apps.
PDF files are easy enough, here are tons off apps to do this.
Something else to remember is that these pads are getting TONS of attention right now from all kind of devs and apps are being made DAILY, its really just a matter of time for an app to show up to do EXACTLY what you need. IMHO
Sent from my Transformer TF101 using XDA Premium App
Yeah, he's totally right about the apps showing up. Now... all I need is... STRATEGY RPG LIKE FINAL FANTASY TACTICS! (Who's up for making/porting one?)
Anyway, I like my TF for what I've used it for so far. Just grab one and try it, and return it if it doesn't work for you ?
I'm pretty much in the same boat as you bud. I bought the TF foreseeing that I would hopefully be able to us it for school and I was very pleased with my decision in the end.
To answer your questions...
It is a very viable (and in most case preferred) option to do basic school work on, especially simple stuff like note taking and editing documents. The included office app (Polaris) is actually a very nice feature and includes just about everything you would need to type an essay such as indentations, points/dots/whatever they are (as you were looking for), also includes numbering, double spacing, different font sizes and colors. Now it's not a full Microsoft Office replacement, but it definitely has all the basic features you'd be looking for.
You can also find a handful of microsoft office editors in the Android market. I haven't personally tested any of them yet (but will use them when school comes around) however from my knowledge they seem capable of editing word, powerpoint and couple other office applications--which is good enough for me.
To address the keyboard lag. I can speak from experience, when typing in most apps (especially apps like colournote, AKnotepad, Polaris or anything else that allows you to take notes or write extended paragraphs/papers) there is absolutely no lag with the keyboard. Once you get the hang of it, you will be typing at a decent wpm rate and you won't tell the difference between the tf dock keyboard and any other. There is however a noticeable lag when using the stock browser but from my knowledge this is due to having flash enabled and has nothing to do with the dock/keyboard itself. Also, the knew dolphintab browser seems much better at cleaning up any lag in the browser and I feel with the net couple updates it will be a near perfect option for tab browsing. That aside, I would like to reiterate the fact that the keyboard does not lag when using things related to note taking or Polaris office. It is for the most part a browser specific issue.
As far as highlighting words and copying and pasting, that is the one thing the tf doesn't really excel at. You can still copy/cut and paste pretty much anything you want but it is just not as fluid as using a pc.
So there you have it. The transformer is pretty much a nice fit for doing basic school work BUT it is not in any means a complete replacement for having a desktop/full size laptop. There will definitely be times when you will come across things that you just have to have a pc to do, but for the most part, especially when it comes to basic stuff like note taking and writing papers, the TF is perfect.
I would also like to note that there are some apps out there that let you control a pc from your android tablet/phone such as phoneymypc or logmein. I highly suggest taking a look into those as they are great tools that you can have at your disposal with the TF and will make being away from you pc all the much easier.
Like I said, i'm pretty much in the same boat as you. I'm an MIS major and I often get annoyed at having to lug around my laptop just to take notes and do basic remedial things that something much lighter and more compact such as the TF can do wonderfully....
One more thing (wow this is a long post). You can easily find top notch netbooks (which offer the productivity of a pc with the portability of a tablet) for the same or even lesser than the TF. This was one of the things I took into consideration before I got my TF. I had to ask myself am I getting this thing solely for school, or do I want it for the other things android has to offer (entertainment wise). Overall I decided that i'd go with the TF because to me it had the best of both worlds as I am a huge android fan and have been an early adopter since the days of the G1, so the TF was a perfect fit for me...Just something to keep in mind.
boglwe said:
The keyboard lag is NOT all the time; I mostly see it in the browsers and its actually rare but when it happens, you know it. A few things to note regarding using this machine for serious work...First there are several apps that can be used for Office (documents to go, and polaris, that latter comes with the machine, but I have yet to find one that has auto-save, and that can be scary when writing those long papers. If the machine is rooted you can copy paste ANYTHING, without root, its kind of a hit and miss.
You can play music in the background, so no worries there. most music apps attach to your task bar in any ways.
The way I find myself using this device many times in in conjuction with my own desktop now or at the school library computers and have this next to me at all times. It is an amazing resource to share information point blank with peeps and youself. There is also a thread somewhere here talkin about a Onenote alternative for android using a stylus, I have yet to try one of these apps.
PDF files are easy enough, here are tons off apps to do this.
Something else to remember is that these pads are getting TONS of attention right now from all kind of devs and apps are being made DAILY, its really just a matter of time for an app to show up to do EXACTLY what you need. IMHO
Sent from my Transformer TF101 using XDA Premium App
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wish i'd of read this post before I spent 10 min typing mine up... I suck at making things compact, lol.
To the dude asking about rpg games. You absolutely HAVE to buy battleheart RIGHT NOW. It's not ff but it is an amazing rpg game and hands down the best you will ever find for android. (I haven't played them all so I really can't say that, but it is freaking awesome.)
Best of luck to you OP.
I'm used to use a 15" HP ProBook at school, but I do feel that my transformer can replace it...
But I guess I have an advantage as IT Professional, I run some servers at home (one of them has serveral types ov VPN on it, in case one is blocked by any firewalls), so I can access my desktops, and just use Office 2010 or Sony Vegas on a Core I7 (video editing), there is pretty much no limit for me...
But even if I was not able to make it this easy for me... I really love the Android OS, and it grows so fast in a short period of time... I wonder where it is in another 5 years... If Android goes on liek this, I think it will replace Windows (for regular users, not for companies)...
When I go back to college in 4 weeks )), I'll leave my laptop at home for the first week to see if I miss it for my everyday tasks...
I've used it for school and managing my work.
As a photographer it is needed that I have seemless integration of the sd card slot and a good device to support it, the transformer can handle it with ease!
The polaris office (or whatever its called) lets you make documents, excel sheets and powerpoint.
With a good stylus you would be able to take notes in like drawfree for example.
It handles music quite fine as it lets you multitask between apps and music.
And while Im doing all of this I can still get in touch with my friends because of the social part of the transformer that updates my status once in awhile ! ^-^
Its not a full fledged netbook but a nice replacement so far!
asdfuogh said:
Yeah, he's totally right about the apps showing up. Now... all I need is... STRATEGY RPG LIKE FINAL FANTASY TACTICS! (Who's up for making/porting one?)
Anyway, I like my TF for what I've used it for so far. Just grab one and try it, and return it if it doesn't work for you ?
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Click to collapse
Already exists, playstation one emulator or gba emulator. They redid fft on gba.
Sent from my T-Mobile G2 using XDA App
domin8 said:
How does this work as a laptop replacement in a school environment? Taking notes, web experience, etc. I'm looking to replace my laptop for at school.
How does it do rendering blackboard ?
Any help would be appreciated I might pick one up tomorrow with the keyboard. Is it responsive to type documents on?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I use it for uni, and it seems to function quite well.
As a notetaking tool in lectures, it works fantastically, and it's so much better than lugging my Dell laptop around with me all day, which would just be a pain. If you've not got the dock or a bluetooth keyboard, it might be a bit of a hassle- I found that on the touch screen keyboard, hurriedly jotting down notes meant that I had to constantly backspace to correct formatting, punctuation, or spelling mistakes.
Polaris Office also tends to be a bit weird with me, though- sometimes files that I make on the transformer refuse to open using Microsoft Word on my computer, and vice versa. If you're doing a project with heavy formatting, you should probably stick to your desktop as Polaris tends to screw all that up for me.
It renders BlackBoard very quickly, and is great if you want to sneak a peek at a document that a teacher has uploaded there.
I'd say that you shouldn't use it as an all out replacement for your laptop where all school work is concerned- but as a device to take notes on, get quick snippets of information on, and access the web, it's perfect. Plus it helps that I can play Angry Birds if a lecture gets especially boring...
My semester just started again last week and I've been trying the TF (with dock) out as a netbook replacement for a week now.
I've been using freenotes to take notes in lectures and it's worked wonderfully. The built in email/gmail apps have worked wonderfully for email use and I use Dolphin for web-browsing and it's all been a real delight to use. Reads pdfs fine and I've got all my textbooks on internal storage (best thing ever).
The only annoying thing is coding on it. Doing a few Java projects this semester and as I'm still getting to terms with this language, I like to be using a full IDE for auto-correction etc. Anyway, I've been using vi via the terminal and this has been fine so far for code editing.
So yeah, after a week it's proved to be a pretty nice netbook alternative. Plus everything's nice and speedy unlike my clunky atom based netbook, plus it doesn't run hot on my lap and I've got no fans blaring constantly. Best thing about ARM from an end-user point-of-view
EDIT: I've also purchased a stylus for my TF last week, so I'm going to see how that goes for taking quick notes during lectures on my TF. Will report back if it's any good or if the keyboard is easier.
If you're looking for a more "desktop"-like experience, install Ubuntu on the internal storage. It's working wonderfully now (apart from a few small things) and you've pretty much got a full x86 laptop replacement in a nice lightweight ARM tablet.
this is why i love XDA, you guys have really answered all of my questions thoroughly! I am going to try and use that staples coupon that's floating around since it expires today and pick one up thanks so so so much guys, I plan on sticking around the transformer forums just as much as i do the atrix forums now
so it works! im glad i found this. this was my original plan to buy a tablet of some sort tablet with a dock (atrix with lapdock was my failed attempt) cuz i dont plan to carry my 17 inch laptop around. lol.

Does the eee pad suit my needs ?

Hi im looking for a bit of advice from currents users, I start back at uni in September and was considering buying a laptop but my friend threw in the eee pad into the mix, I would like to know is the eee pad able to compete with a laptop are there apps where I can word process, use powerpoint and the real deal breaker would be if I was able to annotate by hand pdf, docs and possibly ppt files or am I asking too much from it.
Thanks
Sent from my X10i using XDA App
Can anyone shed some light on this
Sent from my X10i using XDA App
The TF comes with Polaris Office installed.
It has word processor, spreadsheet and presentation which are, at least partially, msoffice compatible.
I've just bought Repligo Reader for navigating and annotating electronic and electrical diagrams, though I haven't had much chance to explore it yet.
You need to do some thorough googling to get an idea of whether the TF will suit you or not.
HTH.
miniGT said:
Hi im looking for a bit of advice from currents users, I start back at uni in September and was considering buying a laptop but my friend threw in the eee pad into the mix, I would like to know is the eee pad able to compete with a laptop are there apps where I can word process, use powerpoint and the real deal breaker would be if I was able to annotate by hand pdf, docs and possibly ppt files or am I asking too much from it.
Thanks
Sent from my X10i using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As much as I like my TF and iPad, I think you would be better off with a Windows or Mac laptop. There are some good "back to school" deals this time of year.
For this specific need I'd say no... it doesn't suit your needs. Or, there are other devices suiting your needs better (notebooks). It does the job fine when used for that on the side, but it's not it's main aim.
Get a laptop, or even a netbook. The TF would be great as an adjunct to a "regular" computer, but IMO it's not yet a replacement for one.
Yep you guys basically confirmed what I was thinking, thanks for the replies im not a fan of netbooks particularly so think I will wait and possibly get a laptop they seem to crashing in price.
Sent from my X10i using XDA App
miniGT said:
Hi im looking for a bit of advice from currents users, I start back at uni in September and was considering buying a laptop but my friend threw in the eee pad into the mix, I would like to know is the eee pad able to compete with a laptop are there apps where I can word process, use powerpoint and the real deal breaker would be if I was able to annotate by hand pdf, docs and possibly ppt files or am I asking too much from it.
Thanks
Sent from my X10i using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
don't get why the other forumers said no but all the things that you mentioned, it's possible to do it with the ASUS transformer WITH the dock. however, maybe not up to the speed as compared to a netbook or a notebook but still, doable. if your requirement is not that big towards the heavy CPU processing part (i can only think of the powerpoint in your requirements), then i don't see why you can't consider it.
go try out a transformer from one of your friends and give it a go before committing.
I'm in a similar position to you, the transformer is great for uni, but only as an addition to a PC you already have.
Before mine went into a bottomless pit of terrible asus support I used it a lot for taking notes using polaris office etc. It's quite basic but good enough for this, and is quite nice for watching iplayer etc.
The battery life is also fantastic.
But ... If you don't have a windows laptop/desktop then I wouldn't recommend it. I use mine with a high end desktop which I use for more advanced things.
I do have a desktop at home which I would use for reports etc I am a chemistry student and I am always annotating notes and pdf diagrams this is where a tablet could possibly be better due to it being touch screen could I possibly draw molecules on my pdf essentially I would hardly need any paper and all my notes would be digital instead of hundreds of paper copies
Sent from my X10i using XDA App
miniGT said:
I do have a desktop at home which I would use for reports etc I am a chemistry student and I am always annotating notes and pdf diagrams this is where a tablet could possibly be better due to it being touch screen could I possibly draw molecules on my pdf essentially I would hardly need any paper and all my notes would be digital instead of hundreds of paper copies
Sent from my X10i using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Here's a link to Repligo Reader.
I use it to notate electrical and electronic drawings, have a look and see whether you think it would do the job for you, you could always email the developers and ask about your requirements.
Spakka made a good point which I fully agree with, the TF is MUCH more convenient to use than a laptop, its battery lasts ages and it's instant on like a phone, it doesn't have to go in and out of hibernation or sleep mode like a laptop.
Downsides are the sluggish keyboard response and.....err I can't think of any others, there's even an OpenOffice document reader
A year or two from now, an Android tablet might cut it. But generally, schools are set up to accommodate PCs and grudgingly Macs. It takes a long time for institutions to integrate new technologies.
Right now, Android tabs are Internet/communications and media appliances. You can get a lot of real work done on them, but the brick walls where there's no application to address a certain need are thick, high and wide right now.

[Q] TF700 vs. Laptop

I have been wrestling with the issue of usefulness in a college situation, note taking, researching etc. It is quite a large investment and I wanted to make the right choice.
Two Questions:
1. Do you love your tablet?
2. Is it better than or does it replace a laptop?
I'm sure this thread has been made before, but the search function for the xda app is horrific.
Thanks!
1. Do you love your tablet?
Yes, no homo.
2. Is it better than or does it replace a laptop?
Depends on what you want. I don't have a laptop so I don't have a choice. If you want something powerful to run workstation type programs, then you need a laptop. If you only want to watch movies or edit documents, a tablet would be a good idea.
1. Do you love your tablet?
Yep! first tablet (had the prime, but its the same thing basically!) and so far its working really well...may not be as fluid as ipad (my other choice) but nevertheless very versatile and gets the job done (of taking notes)
2. Is it better than or does it replace a laptop?
It can replace a laptop depending on what your using for....i had a laptop for taking notes in skool but i upgrade to my custom build desktop and got the transformer instead. Did it replace the laptop for me? yep, easy to take notes with and is half the size and weight. not to mention you can play angry birds when your bored in class. But is it better than a laptop? Maybe not in terms of multi-tasking. but its still kick a** for a portable device that last up to 10 hours in battery life.
bottom line is if the transformer suits your needs. For me, it def did.
As to "love", that is purely subjective. I do enjoy it if that helps.
As to which is better for your situation, that is going to depend purely on your needs. Not a knock on the Infinity, but if you get the dock station keyboard, that make the cost $650 to $750US. You can get a pretty decent laptop, non-apple. Although, there are plenty of apps that can handle most things people want to do, tablets, at this point, are just not as robust as a laptop with say, Windows 7.
If you're just taking notes in class, writing papers, surfing the web, maybe some research on the net, probably be fine. If you're a computer science major and need to do code, not likely.
I've owned laptops for about ten years. Have used them in the class room setting. Been using PCs for a little under twenty years. I graduated college a little thirteen years ago. I've only been using Android for about a year and half on a Evo 4G--email, IM, media, writing notes using Dos2Go, using spreed sheets in Docs2Go, games, rooted, and so forth. Only got the Infinity a few days ago myself. Despite not being well versed on the Infinity, I think I may have an decent idea.
On top of that, make sure the school doesn't have some kind of requirements in regards to the PC you may be able to use. Some may have requires because of how homework is turned in or exams are done.
The infinity (or any of the Transformer models) is great for taking notes because of the keyboard dock. The device is super thin, super light, has a keyboard dock, long battery life, completely silent and pretty damn powerful! I use my Infinity for all note-taking at work. I use an app called "Classic Notes + App Box" - it does everything! You can type in your notes, attach sketches, attach pictures, etc. You can even do stuff like look up zip codes, convert measurements, etc. Really powerful app.
And the really nice part is that it's 100% searchable! If I need to look something up in my notes, I just search for whatever I'm looking for and shows me all of the matches almost instantly. It has tons of other features and the author provides the best support that I've ever seen. Want a new feature? Let him know and if it makes sense, it will be there shortly!
Highly recommended..
Sent from my ASUS Transformer Pad TF700T using Tapatalk 2
upstandingcitizen said:
I have been wrestling with the issue of usefulness in a college situation, note taking, researching etc. It is quite a large investment and I wanted to make the right choice.
Two Questions:
1. Do you love your tablet?
2. Is it better than or does it replace a laptop?
I'm sure this thread has been made before, but the search function for the xda app is horrific.
Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
1. Yes I like it a lot.
2. It depends. When I'm at home I use mostly my PC or the Infinity depending on what I want to do. When I'm travelling <3 weeks I take the Infinity with me because it's light and has a good battery life.
However if I would've to travel for a longer time (+3 weeks) . I would definitely take my laptop with me but I haven't done that for over a year now so my laptop is now collecting dust which is a shame because it was quite expensive.
So I would say if you have a PC get the Infinity if not buy a good laptop.
Sent from my ASUS Transformer Pad TF700T using xda premium
1.) I rely heavily on Jorte calendar to keep me headed in a straight line. I've given up on my companies outlook calendar and simply transfer meetings over to google calendar (Jorte pulls in google calendar) at work. This along makes me depend on this tablet. I don't "love" this tablet, as any similiar device would do, but I would be at a big loss with out it. I keep HDMI cables in my bag so I can watch movies on my hotel TV while traveling and when the kids are with me on the road they can watch Cars or other toons while I take care of other things.
2.) No it absolutely does not replace my laptop. Never could. But I would never expect it to. Everyones different, so if you do alot of reading on your laptop and basic web surfing it may work fine for you. Even the occasional paper being written would be ok. But for me I rarely sit down and type anything other then email and forums that is less then 5+ pages. Windows is my "get stuff done" OS. Android is more of my assistant, entertainment, makes life easier OS.
i love my tablets and have more tablets than either desktops or laptops (but not combined, lol).
tablets are better at certain things than a laptop. you can get better battery life without spending over a grand on an ultrabook. plus the portability, instant on, touch interface (i can't stand track pads, but somehow the transformer trackpad seems to work well). For portable entertainment, it's hard to beat.
that the only laptop that the tablets have replaced was my "netbook." actually an acer 12" timeline. it was far better spec-wise, but not as portable.
upstandingcitizen said:
1. Do you love your tablet?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So far I really like my tablet. This is kind of a nonsense question...of course we love our tablets.
upstandingcitizen said:
2. Is it better than or does it replace a laptop?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Simply? No. Of course not. But it can be better in some situations like note taking, as you suggested. I'm personally planning on using this thing for note taking and simple tasks, but more powerful tasks will be done on my laptop. My suggestion is to have a laptop or desktop around to do more power-hungry tasks, but for most simple cases it should work just fine.
upstandingcitizen said:
It is quite a large investment and I wanted to make the right choice.
Two Questions:
1. Do you love your tablet?
2. Is it better than or does it replace a laptop?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
________________________________________________
1. Ummm...I like my tablet
2. In no way does it replace a notebook
$500.00 can buy a pretty decent notebook.
My last notebook has the AMD Vision quad core APU with 16 GB of RAM.
It handles Photoslop CS5, MAYA and PoserPro 2012 like a champ.
When Android tablets are able to run desktop graphics 3D rendering stuff like these they will no longer be toys for the gadgeteer!
1) Yes
2) As others have said, its highly dependent on both what your needs are and how much you're willing to tinker with things to get it doing what you want. Simple web browsing and lightweight document editing? Sure. Photo editing or software development? Maybe. Anything more than that? Probably not.
Chief Geek said:
1.) I rely heavily on Jorte calendar to keep me headed in a straight line. I've given up on my companies outlook calendar and simply transfer meetings over to google calendar (Jorte pulls in google calendar) at work. This along makes me depend on this tablet. I don't "love" this tablet, as any similiar device would do, but I would be at a big loss with out it. I keep HDMI cables in my bag so I can watch movies on my hotel TV while traveling and when the kids are with me on the road they can watch Cars or other toons while I take care of other things.
2.) No it absolutely does not replace my laptop. Never could. But I would never expect it to. Everyones different, so if you do alot of reading on your laptop and basic web surfing it may work fine for you. Even the occasional paper being written would be ok. But for me I rarely sit down and type anything other then email and forums that is less then 5+ pages. Windows is my "get stuff done" OS. Android is more of my assistant, entertainment, makes life easier OS.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This ^^ pretty much sums up my usage, except I use Touch Calendar and Work Calendar (hospital shifts). The 700 is a great appeaser as far a small kids (I have a 4- and a 2-year-old) go.
1. Yes i love my tablet
2. Yes and no it will all depend on the person and your personal usage. I find no need whatsoever to have a big and bulky laptop when i can have my Tab with me when i need to be mobile. When I need a lil more power I use my gaming rig back in my dorm
Sent from my ASUS Transformer Pad TF700T using xda app-developers app
I was planning to replace my laptop; but the inability to connect to monitor over DVI puts a crimp in my plans. All my monitors are DVI only, and the TF700 won't work with any of them using the DVI/HDMI adapter. It's a pain to code on the 10" screen.
I got this thing 2 days now and I love it. It is a replacement for my old laptop wich I used to edit text and stuff like that. surf a little. And watching movies with that old thing was a no go anyway. Now with this I can even use AirPlay to play stuff on my TV or something else. I love it
So to 1 a defenite YES.
And to 2, for me it is a yes. But I use my desktop for the heavy stuff. like gaming and all that crap.
And to have a touchscreen and a keyboard, I never did stuff this fast and nice. I love it. And the batterylife on this is 4 times longer then my old lappy.
1. This is my first tablet and so far I really like it. It is very light which makes it easy to bring to class and you are able to do most of your class work with it.
2. Currently, I do not think it will replace a laptop. There are numerous reasons as to why and I am sure people before me have mentioned it. But if you have a tablet and laptop, you could look into RDP (Remote desktop) to access your desktop through your tablet. There are a bit of issues with it, but it gets the job done (depending on what you do)
All in all, 500 dollars is a big investment and not to mention that you will probably buy accessories too. I would really determine what you will be doing at school and in your leisure time. After, weigh each pro and con for each device and go from there. I hope this helps
Sent from my ASUS Transformer Pad TF700T using xda app-developers app

[Q] Best laptop replacing tablets

Hi Everyone,
I wanted to gather people's thoughts on the best tablets currently out, or due out in the coming 3 months, that would be viable laptop replacing options.
I am currently in this situation, where I want to purchase a tablet and sell my Macbook 13". I travel a lot and a tablet would be very useful because of it's size, portability and the fact that my Macbook is from 2008, so an update is about due I think!
Currently I use my laptop for :
- Browsing the internet
- Occasional listening to music (Use my phone more though)
- Occasional word editing (however, not that often to be honest)
- Transferring photo's from my camera (Sony NEX-6), viewing photo's and occasionally doing minor editing of said photo's
So as you can see, my usage is fairly limited these days. A good screen is of importance to be because of the photo's, as well as watching movies whilst travelling.
Operating system is not a massive deal, I've used all three. I got bored of IOS after I had the iPhone 3GS for a while, then moved to Android (currently using). I've also played around with Windows 8. All have there own advantages and disadvantages.
I have to say, even though most things I say about Apple these days is negative (I feel they've stalled quite a bit in the past 2 years), the Ipad probably still has the best look and feel, but I'm not sure if I would grow bored again with it's tired and outdated looking operating system? I love the photo options and journal options though!
Android is more customisable, I still find new ways to keep myself entertained on my HTC Sensation, thanks to amazing developers, but would a tablet just be an enlarged phone for me then? Would this become unappealing?
Windows 8 looks lovely, it's a fresh faced interface, something new and shiny! It's great fun to play with, but the current Windows RT version is quite limited I'm not sure it's worth gamling on any of the current lineup of Windows Tablets, perhaps not until they get to there second generation at least.
So what would everyone top choice be for a laptop replacing tablet? Personally, I would want something within the same budget as the iPad 4 or less. But, would love to see opinions for any value!
Mike
I don't have experience with the Windows tablets, but the Transformer Infinity - TF700, is a great choice in the Android department. The keyboard dock allows for easy document-editing when you want it, but without being stuck with it.
The older versions of the Transformer line can still offer good performance - not sure what your budget is. You can use bluetooth keyboards with other tablets, and that's an idea, but the integration on the Transformer line is great. Since I built a desktop, I have largely stopped using my laptop and have replaced it with one of the Transformer tablets. With Flash and Drive and office software it does everything I needed my laptop for now that I have a desktop for the video games that require a bit of oomph (and I'm enjoying the gaming on the tablet as well - something I never really got into on my phone).
Not sure how your camera works for transferring photos, but the TF series docks have full-size USB ports and a full-size SD card reader (as well as the microSD slot in the tablet). I have hooked an external hard-drive up to it and all went well.
Pennycake said:
I don't have experience with the Windows tablets, but the Transformer Infinity - TF700, is a great choice in the Android department. The keyboard dock allows for easy document-editing when you want it, but without being stuck with it.
The older versions of the Transformer line can still offer good performance - not sure what your budget is. You can use bluetooth keyboards with other tablets, and that's an idea, but the integration on the Transformer line is great. Since I built a desktop, I have largely stopped using my laptop and have replaced it with one of the Transformer tablets. With Flash and Drive and office software it does everything I needed my laptop for now that I have a desktop for the video games that require a bit of oomph (and I'm enjoying the gaming on the tablet as well - something I never really got into on my phone).
Not sure how your camera works for transferring photos, but the TF series docks have full-size USB ports and a full-size SD card reader (as well as the microSD slot in the tablet). I have hooked an external hard-drive up to it and all went well.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've done quite a bit of research on the TF700, I even came close to committing, however I've just read about too many issues with the I/O and internal memory performance that has put me right off. It seems to be a problem for almost every owner I've encountered. I love the look and style of the tablet, also the connectivity and battery are brilliant. But I want something with excellent performance and I think this is outdated already in that regard. The fact that you have to void your warranty to root it and then install a ROM to make it smooth is a worry.
I was hoping Asus came up with an update to it at CES, but it seems this won't be happening.
The TF700 and the Nexus 10 are the two I consistently hear people say are the best and the fastest right now. I'm not sure about the N10 as laptop replacement, it seems like for that or a tablet without a dock that you'd have to do so many work-arounds that you might look into an ultrabook instead. It would try my patience, but I suppose it's personal preference what you're willing to do and put up with.
I'd recommend you take a look at the Surface RT tablet. It is not anything like as limited as you might think and it would meet pretty much all your requirements. I have one and for most purposes I have stopped carrying a full-on laptop and just take the Surface.
There is also the Pro coming out this month - it would be over your budget but actually is a genuine laptop replacement. There was a review of it on the Verge yesterday.
Inadorel said:
I'd recommend you take a look at the Surface RT tablet. It is not anything like as limited as you might think and it would meet pretty much all your requirements. I have one and for most purposes I have stopped carrying a full-on laptop and just take the Surface.
There is also the Pro coming out this month - it would be over your budget but actually is a genuine laptop replacement. There was a review of it on the Verge yesterday.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I wish I could have a play with one in a store... Hopefully soon. What is the screen like? This is an important aspect for me. It doesn't need to be as good as the Nexus 10 for example, but a HD screen would be a minimum I think for me.
Maybe the thinkpad tablet 2 could be a good choice for you. It has win8 pro, is beautifull and light. So no RT limits, no IOS boaringnes, real USB port, HDMI port and a good display.
Sent from my GT-I9100 using xda premium
olarf said:
Maybe the thinkpad tablet 2 could be a good choice for you. It has win8 pro, is beautifull and light. So no RT limits, no IOS boaringnes, real USB port, HDMI port and a good display.
Sent from my GT-I9100 using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Looks quite nice. Concerned about the battery life being reported on most of the Windows tablets though? As i'll be travelling quite a bit, this could present an issue?
Hi guys, is the Lumia series of Nokia can be an option to replace a laptop computer?
Anyone else have any thoughts?
I recommend Nexus 10 is way to go especially when your priority is photos. Ipad could be the best choice, but if you want to enjoy quality with reasonable price, Nexus 10 won't disappoint you.
lkirra said:
Hi guys, is the Lumia series of Nokia can be an option to replace a laptop computer?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No comment
Sent from my GT-S5360 using Tapatalk 2
Magnector said:
I recommend Nexus 10 is way to go especially when your priority is photos. Ipad could be the best choice, but if you want to enjoy quality with reasonable price, Nexus 10 won't disappoint you.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is probably my top choice right now, although I'm in the UK, so have to wait until they are back in stock to even consider it... I don't have to rush out and get something luckily, I can probably hold off until around May / June before I will have to buy. So it might be worth me waiting as there are bound to be some new releases by then. Hopefully a few Tegra 4 devices start showing themselves by then.
Mikeparakh said:
Looks quite nice. Concerned about the battery life being reported on most of the Windows tablets though? As i'll be travelling quite a bit, this could present an issue?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So far all tests talking about 10 hours of serious use. I get one tomorrow so soon i can tell you if 10h is a fact.
Sent from my GT-I9100 using xda premium
olarf said:
So far all tests talking about 10 hours of serious use. I get one tomorrow so soon i can tell you if 10h is a fact.
Sent from my GT-I9100 using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'd really appreciate that, thanks! Is it the Surface RT you've bought?
No the thinkpad tablet2 with win8 pro. So far it is great but still loading so i have no idea about Akku durance. Soon i have
Sent from my GT-I9100 using xda premium
I have a Surface RT, and it gets the job done pretty well. I know some people still complain about a "lack of apps" on the Windows RT platform, but it hasn't been an issue for me - IE10 as a browser and Office (just Word, PPT, Excel, and OneNote, of course) comprise most of my use.
I get between 7.5 and 9 hours of battery life out of the device, depending on what I'm doing. On average, it'll get me through about a day and a half of classes - that's three hours each day, plus about 1.5 hours of additional use outside of that on each day (until the battery runs out after usually 8 or so hours). It charges really fast, though - I don't often have to charge it for much more than an hour to nearly fill the battery. A full recharge from a dead batter will probably take you 2 hours, though.
About the only thing I miss on it is the ability to run some programming interfaces (Python, Java, etc.), but with that fancy new jailbreak tool this may be changing - they've already ported most of Python 2.7, for example. I'd heartily recommend the Surface, given both its advantages and shortcomings.
MacBook replacement?
Mikeparakh said:
I'd really appreciate that, thanks! Is it the Surface RT you've bought?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Have you purchased a replacement for the MacBook? Would love to get your thoughts.
Best computing options for general use
Mikeparakh said:
Hi Everyone,
I wanted to gather people's thoughts on the best tablets currently out, or due out in the coming 3 months, that would be viable laptop replacing options.
I am currently in this situation, where I want to purchase a tablet and sell my Macbook 13". I travel a lot and a tablet would be very useful because of it's size, portability and the fact that my Macbook is from 2008, so an update is about due I think!
Currently I use my laptop for :
- Browsing the internet
- Occasional listening to music (Use my phone more though)
- Occasional word editing (however, not that often to be honest)
- Transferring photo's from my camera (Sony NEX-6), viewing photo's and occasionally doing minor editing of said photo's
So as you can see, my usage is fairly limited these days. A good screen is of importance to be because of the photo's, as well as watching movies whilst travelling.
Operating system is not a massive deal, I've used all three. I got bored of IOS after I had the iPhone 3GS for a while, then moved to Android (currently using). I've also played around with Windows 8. All have there own advantages and disadvantages.
I have to say, even though most things I say about Apple these days is negative (I feel they've stalled quite a bit in the past 2 years), the Ipad probably still has the best look and feel, but I'm not sure if I would grow bored again with it's tired and outdated looking operating system? I love the photo options and journal options though!
Android is more customisable, I still find new ways to keep myself entertained on my HTC Sensation, thanks to amazing developers, but would a tablet just be an enlarged phone for me then? Would this become unappealing?
Windows 8 looks lovely, it's a fresh faced interface, something new and shiny! It's great fun to play with, but the current Windows RT version is quite limited I'm not sure it's worth gamling on any of the current lineup of Windows Tablets, perhaps not until they get to there second generation at least.
So what would everyone top choice be for a laptop replacing tablet? Personally, I would want something within the same budget as the iPad 4 or less. But, would love to see opinions for any value!
Mike
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For general use like web surfing , email, youtube and netflix watching with a little gaming to pass the time away I would say a tablet ( your choice ) . If its for all that plus working in office regularly along with photo editing and such I would say a laptop . You can get them from basic like an i5 or i7 or even a Celeron or pentium based ones to almost as powerful as a desktop ( Razer , Alienware , MSI, are all gaming laptops and workstations like thinkpads and such and are very powerful ) If you will be doing anything harder like working in CAD or developing or 4k video editing and exporting although many laptops can do these you would be better suited using a desktop , (the CPU , ram , mother board components will be more robust and able to keep cool longer under load than in a laptop). Tablets like the iPad or android tablets are great to pass the time away , are capable to play games or watch videos on and for many people is all the computer they need . I only used my iPad for 3 years ( before that I ran several windows pcs , 4 Macs, and a linux desktop running all the programs I used in my computer repair business ) until I got my MacBook but honestly with what I do on the laptop now the iPad did just as well . I am retired now so my time on the laptop is nothing like what I had done for many years before ( since 1994).

Best tablet for a laptop replacement?

I am willing to sell my laptop because I am addicted to computer games (dota 2, total war series etc), especially that I'm at university and I need to keep focus on studies.
So I need a tablet for the occasional browsing, office editing/reading and especially for watching movies and TV shows (this is the most important aspect). I will get enough money from my laptop to buy the best thing out there, so budget isn't a problem.
I am an Android user since I used the HTC Desire back in the days, then moved on to nexus S and fell in love with Nexus devices. So the Nexus 10 was my top interest so far, but I heard some of the devices have light bleeding (and I'm very sensible to display quality) and the resolution is actually too big, so the GPU is not powerful enough for it. There are some rumors a new nexus 10 will be unveiled by google with a quad core CPU and a better GPU, but I need a tablet now, not in 4 months or even later, especially that my country doesn't sell nexus devices on google play. Online stores in Romania just got the nexus 10 at the start of this month, so there's no way I'm gonna wait for the new one.
Then I had a look at the iPad 4: I absolutely loved the build quality and how it generally felt, everything was extremely smooth and it looked great, but the 4:3 aspect ratio is a total bummer, considering that I will watch a lot of movies. I tried to find a video to see how movies run on the ipad but had no luck.
Other tablets didn't seem to get me excited too much, was looking at the asus transformer t700 but it has outdated hardware and I heard its slower then the nexus 10.
So the question is, iPad 4 or Nexus 10?
I don't want answers from fan boys, please be realistic.
Also, I don't want to hear anything about converting movies and things like these, I just want to throw the movie on the tablet and see it, be it mkv or avi, blu-ray size etc.
Nexus 10 is way much better and could do all the things you listed above, unless your prefer iOS
El7r said:
Nexus 10 is way much better and could do all the things you listed above, unless your prefer iOS
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I never owned an iOS device, I'm just wondering which one is better.
bump
I would suggest the Asus Transformer prime with the keyboard dock especially since you're a student and you could use it like you would a laptop in class.
In terms of specs and power, the ipad is pretty great and has the biggest library of apps.
The nexus 10 isn't as absolutely all mighty but it's pretty close, and it's got android, so it'll be much more capable of replacing a laptop computer than the ipad ever will be.
I personally despise Apple, I have had extremely bad experiences with them. I'm currently on an iMac, so it's not a matter of bandwagoning and fanboyism and stuff. I truly believe Android is better and more capable than iOS. The nexus 10 is probably the best android tablet on the market, though the Samsung Galaxy Note could be good for you as you want to use it for productivity and the s-pen is supposed to be amazing. No experience with it though, but I have a nexus10 and I got rid of my laptop afterwards, don't need it anymore.
I use the n10 as a laptop too, I take notes in class and everything, if you add a bluetooth keyboard, you'll get a lot of functionality out of it.
drarnold said:
I would suggest the Asus Transformer prime with the keyboard dock especially since you're a student and you could use it like you would a laptop in class.
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^^^ This
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Nexus 10 is beefy specs, very beautiful.
I'm using a nexus 7 right now, with logitech android keyboard and wacom tablet pen.
If you plan on writing notes on tablet instead of paper; I found it difficult in classes where proff writes so fast its hard to keep up.
I'm sure depends on tablet pen you get. But for writing apps for android, there's not too many good ones like there is on apple app store atm.
I tried alot of writing apps; best one that was suited for me was papryus for android. I still couldn't keep up writing notes on it.
Typing notes on it is amazing. Much better then lugging around a laptop.
If you plan on going with writing notes, I suggest something with a digitizer.
If writing notes on tablet isn't an issue your on your mind.
Then i would go with nexus 10 w/ bluetooth keyboard.
lvnatic said:
I am willing to sell my laptop because I am addicted to computer games (dota 2, total war series etc), especially that I'm at university and I need to keep focus on studies.
So I need a tablet for the occasional browsing, office editing/reading and especially for watching movies and TV shows (this is the most important aspect). I will get enough money from my laptop to buy the best thing out there, so budget isn't a problem.
I am an Android user since I used the HTC Desire back in the days, then moved on to nexus S and fell in love with Nexus devices. So the Nexus 10 was my top interest so far, but I heard some of the devices have light bleeding (and I'm very sensible to display quality) and the resolution is actually too big, so the GPU is not powerful enough for it. There are some rumors a new nexus 10 will be unveiled by google with a quad core CPU and a better GPU, but I need a tablet now, not in 4 months or even later, especially that my country doesn't sell nexus devices on google play. Online stores in Romania just got the nexus 10 at the start of this month, so there's no way I'm gonna wait for the new one.
Then I had a look at the iPad 4: I absolutely loved the build quality and how it generally felt, everything was extremely smooth and it looked great, but the 4:3 aspect ratio is a total bummer, considering that I will watch a lot of movies. I tried to find a video to see how movies run on the ipad but had no luck.
Other tablets didn't seem to get me excited too much, was looking at the asus transformer t700 but it has outdated hardware and I heard its slower then the nexus 10.
So the question is, iPad 4 or Nexus 10?
I don't want answers from fan boys, please be realistic.
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Asus Transformer Prime / Infinity: I've played with the Nexus 10 and as far as options go it trumps the Nexus 10. The 10 is a great device, but as far as using USB, adding options, batteries expansion (DOCK), SD, etc the Transformer wins. The outdated hardware/slower than nexus is partly true. The real truth is that the noticeable speed is only on tests. Running apps side by side the speed difference is down to a second or two. The TFT700 is a quad core and the Nexus 10 is a dual core. If you don't put the TFT700 into econo mode then the speed is pretty much even or going to the TFT700 at times.
Now the biggest thing I liked with Nexus over the TFT700 is the micro usb charger and plugin. That and the screen. But outside of that, the TFT700 offers something that no other tablet offers, expansion and expansion. Want another battery? Plug into the dock and you get a keyboard and a battery. Want to add an SD/MicroSD for more space? Just slide the car in. Need to use a USB thumb drive to share something with somebody that has a computer or laptop but don't have a wireless signal? Just put it into the dock. Comparing the batteries in just the devices alone, the 700 to outlast the Nexus 10 in a side by side comparison.
The Nexus does offer the best picture and the newest software updates, but the ASUS team and XDA does a pretty good job of keeping the two running in a neck and neck race.
Transformer series tablets are great. I bought a tf300t after much research and an extremely happy with it. As stated before, the dock ads full functionality for taking notes in class. Supernote came pre-installed on mine which allows you to add drawings to your notes which is essential if you will be taking any chemistry classes.
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I am attending a medical university and I need a notebook for notes, professors also verify our notes at the end of semester so writing on an electrical device isn't possible for me. I will be using the tablet to watch movies and occasionally create some office files on it (though I can still go at the university's library where we have computers for that).
Does anyone have any experience with a jailbroken iPad? How dependent is it to a PC? I heard you need one when you jailbreak it (same goes for rooting on android), but what then? Can I just download cydia apps on it and install without problems?
The Nexus 7 will fit into your back pocket. ...
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lvnatic said:
I am attending a medical university and I need a notebook for notes, professors also verify our notes at the end of semester so writing on an electrical device isn't possible for me. I will be using the tablet to watch movies and occasionally create some office files on it (though I can still go at the university's library where we have computers for that).
Does anyone have any experience with a jailbroken iPad? How dependent is it to a PC? I heard you need one when you jailbreak it (same goes for rooting on android), but what then? Can I just download cydia apps on it and install without problems?
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Click to collapse
Well it seems you really want an iPad. I will say this, your notes can be verified on either Nexus ( 7 or 10) and the Transformer. In fact the supernote feature of the Asus is very similar to evernote (although I would still use Evernote or Onenote). You can even use Google to transcribe directly to the supernote feature. If you are looking to take notes in class for Medical, try looking at LiveScribe Skypens.
Ok back to your question, not to bash the iPad, my mother and sister love theirs, but it is too restrictive for my tastes. This includes jailbroken. If you are planning on doing any kind of syncing that does not involve your cloud features you will have to sync via a PC. Apps / updates /purchase can all be done with a wireless feature (although it is much slower). Taking notes you can use Evernote / Onenote, but the handwriting / bluetooth keyboards are not even on the same playing field as the Nexus / ASUS. I can verify that as a CS/Cyber major these notes can be verified and the audio playback / video playback you will have to get permission from your teach if you are allowed to record in class first. Also in terms of watching movies you will be limited to what ever you purchase or convert to the iPad's movie player unless you sync / convert / play with it on your PC first.
PC / Mac Rules for Tablets:
You do need one for an iPad and most Android devices. I say most because there are some devices you can root/break via webpages (Apple has since closed the security hole... so you would need an older OS).
Downloading from Cydia is just like downloading from any market place, with the exception of that you do not know if it has been scanned for malware/virus/permissions. Unlike Google/Amazon you will not be told of the permissions or what exactly it will be using on your system. Also keep in mind that some apps will just not work due to the age of your device / os if you are going from Cydia.
Just to be more specific: when I meant notebook, I meant an actual notebook
You know, the one with real papers on which you use a pen to write
So I am not writing absolutely anything on a tablet/laptop. I will only use the tablet in university when I'm on some boring classes, to surf on some blogs or play some games.
Edit: I'm not really that convinced to buy the iPad, I would just be curious to own one for a while, to see how it performs in the long run. So I will probably buy it and if I don't get the hang of it in 30 days then im gonna return it and go for the nexus, where everything will be so simple for me.
I never actually held the nexus 10 in my hands so far, didn't get the chance to see it in any store, just online. Does it have at least equal quality as the ipad? I know its some kind of rubber plastic like the nexus 7, which felt good (tried that one).
If you want a good laptop replacement tablet: Go buy a PC Tablet (with the rotating displays, keyboard based).
Expensive, but fits the bill. Im pretty sure Hewett Packard (HP) and Dell have some tablets like that. Look up touchsmart on Google.
Anyone say razer edge yet
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---------- Post added at 04:35 AM ---------- Previous post was at 04:34 AM ----------
lvnatic said:
I am attending a medical university and I need a notebook for notes, professors also verify our notes at the end of semester so writing on an electrical device isn't possible for me. I will be using the tablet to watch movies and occasionally create some office files on it (though I can still go at the university's library where we have computers for that).
Does anyone have any experience with a jailbroken iPad? How dependent is it to a PC? I heard you need one when you jailbreak it (same goes for rooting on android), but what then? Can I just download cydia apps on it and install without problems?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can peint from a tablet using wifi
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lvnatic said:
Just to be more specific: when I meant notebook, I meant an actual notebook
You know, the one with real papers on which you use a pen to write
So I am not writing absolutely anything on a tablet/laptop. I will only use the tablet in university when I'm on some boring classes, to surf on some blogs or play some games.
Edit: I'm not really that convinced to buy the iPad, I would just be curious to own one for a while, to see how it performs in the long run. So I will probably buy it and if I don't get the hang of it in 30 days then im gonna return it and go for the nexus, where everything will be so simple for me.
I never actually held the nexus 10 in my hands so far, didn't get the chance to see it in any store, just online. Does it have at least equal quality as the ipad? I know its some kind of rubber plastic like the nexus 7, which felt good (tried that one).
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Click to collapse
If you are under the age of 14, or, over the age of 45 than an iPad is a better choice.
If you want flexibility than get an android tablet.
If you want buisness stuff then get a non RT tablet (Windows 7, 8) (RT is no good for business stuff).
I find the tablets with folding displays to have the most bang for their buck. That is just my opinion though.
Please thank if this was useful.
andronald said:
If you are under the age of 14, or, over the age of 45 than an iPad is a better choice.
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My mom, my dad, and my step mom all have Android phones or tablets. They are all over 45. My mom is the kind of person who asks me to find where a program saved a file, my dad got his phone after having only had a flop phone. None of them are struggling.
As of ICS simplicity and noob friendliness isn't really an issue.
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Hi,
I have an Asus Transformer TF300TG and it is absolutely great. We are using it at home for fast access to internet (emails, cooking receipts, small gaming). It has 3G capability, so you just plug a data sim of your favourite GSM carrier and you are OK to travel and use it on the way.
The battery lasts literally for hours, there is one battery in the tablet part and other in the keyboard part - when tablet is drained and you connect it to the keyboard unit, it recharges from it.
There are a office pack preinstalled (Supernote) and for making notes and easy spreadsheets, it works quite OK.
Hope it helps.

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