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Transformer or Iconia A500?

I am debating on which to buy. I've been wanting a tablet for awhile now and have slimmed it down to these two options, but would like some feed back if possible.
I'm looking for s-off and root (quickly glancing at the forums, it looks like both are able to achieve this. I like to toy and tinker with things and having a root, with s-off, is a must for this.
Are there any huge differences between the two? I am liking the additional dock available for the Transformer.
Going to post this in the Iconia forum as well. Transformer people, win me over!

I've owned both and I can tell you that they're both great devices. It really depends on what you find more important.
The Iconia has a massive dev community, great sound, and a full sized USB port.
The Transformer has a brilliant display, is much lighter, has a full dock, VERY fast official updates, and a solid dev community.
My issue with the Iconia was really just the display (and weight to a certain extent). It has the second worst display of the current widely available android honeycomb tablets (Second only to the Xoom). 256K colors w/dithering vs 16M, and fairly poor display angles. That really sealed it for me. I loved the option of having the Virtuous roms available to me. Being able to run the UI of all of the other tables is a cool option, however I couldn't get past the washed out colors and blurry text. This tab also seems to suffer from the sleep of death a bit more than some of the other tabs out there (the Thrive is the worst suffering from this problem). This is where the tab goes into deep sleep and won't wake up. You have to hold the power button to reboot the device.
The Transformer isn't without it's own warts. The speaker quality is pretty poor overall. The biggest issue is that you're rolling the dice on a couple other problems that seem to happen at random regardless of the model revision (does seem to be a reduced chance of a lemon with the B6 and B7 revisions).
- Light bleed (standard led backlight flash lighting from the edges of the screen)
- Poor bezel attachment (the screen lifts in the corners on some tabs)
- Creaky back plate (the back panel of the tab creaks when manipulated)
Again, these are random and most that do have them don't see it as a deal breaker. I have 1 4mm spot of light bleed on the right side of my monitor that I can only see upon boot up in a completely dark room.
Modding on either of these tabs is incredibly easy to do. The NVFlash method of rooting/CWM'ing the Transformer is the easiest I've done. It's a wonderful thing. 3.2 was just released last week, so now we're all basking in the dev community molding that revision into new juicy roms and kernels.

go to bestbuy and try it out yourself. The A500 immediately turned me off the second I held it in my hands.
Sent from my Transformer TF101 using Tapatalk

myamex said:
go to bestbuy and try it out yourself. The A500 immediately turned me off the second I held it in my hands.
Sent from my Transformer TF101 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ditto, the form factor of the Iconia is plain ugly to me. As with the screen, it doesnt compare to the TF either.
+1 on Transformer.

+1 for TF - better display, slimmer, lighter, wonderful keyboard dock.
The Iconia does have better audio then the TF. If the Dolby enhancements are turned off , the Iconia sounds as bad as a TF.
I had a iconia for a few days, but eventually settled on a TF.

I have a TF for personal use and an Iconia I got for my store to take credit card payments (with Square). Besides the fact that I can't even use it for it's intended purpose (the Square credit card reader doesn't work with the Iconia for some reason) it is a pretty solid device.
However, in aesthetics.
The screen is not as good, it FEELS fatter and bulkier and the TF looks a lot more quality to me. The Iconia looks a bit dated and cheap (many others have commented on that as well).
I did put the two side by side and the Iconia is actually smaller than the TF.

You are going to get a lot of "pro Transformer" replies being that this is the Transformer forum, so I will give you the other side of the coin.
The Transformer has a proprietary power plug and they give you a very short cord. Accessories from Asus are freaking expensive and 3rd party accessories are almost non-existent.
I don't know how things are for Iconia 3rd party development (roms, etc) but for the Transformer it is relatively slow... not really much going on compared to other devices... very small number of interested developers.
Asus seems to be actively supporting the device, as a couple updates have been released for it, but they have failed to address some issues that have been complaints from the beginning for some people.
Overall, I am happy with the device. All devices have their drawbacks, so you just have to use the information you can find and make an informed decision. If I could do it over again I would spend the extra bucks and get a Galaxy Tab... but that's just me.

Im actually in the same boat as the op. I purchased both last week (using the $100 off Staples coupon) so i can get a hands on review of both. As of now, Im really leaning towards the TF but something keeps drawing to the Acer.
I like the screen on the TF and the feel of it, but the sound is terrible (even with the custom roms I have tried even tho i havent tried them all). I did like the usb on the Acer as I dont see myself buying the dock for the TF. I am a little concern with build quality as I am seeing more post of people having issues with screen/bleeding/spots appearing few months after having the TF.
In all I think you really cant go wrong with either but for me Im currently leaning towards the TF since it has the better screen and my main purpose for this is entertainment..just praying that the screen and build hold up long term

LOL you asked about whether getting TF or Icona in the TF forum and of course all these guys or gals here are owning TF so they +1 all for TF...
I would suggest to go with your guts,,,whatever you see the tablet applicable to your own use, go with it since you already narrowed down two... good luck
I chose TF because it weight, official update support, and I felt good when I held the TF in hand (have you held Viewsonic Gtab in hand? heavy like brick and uncomfortable? --it's just like that!)
One more thing,,, about the sound,,,it is tablet - do not expect it being great like laptop or PC - it won't be different if you use the headset

Drybonz said:
You are going to get a lot of "pro Transformer" replies being that this is the Transformer forum, so I will give you the other side of the coin.
The Transformer has a proprietary power plug and they give you a very short cord. Accessories from Asus are freaking expensive and 3rd party accessories are almost non-existent.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just a fyi - I bought a 6 Foot USB 3.0 extension cord on amazon for $4.75 shipped. Now I have about a 9 foot power cord combined for cheap.
Otherwise, I agree. The power cord is so short, and makes no sense at all to me.

Just a quick reply before I go to work. I live in Japan. I don't have a Best Buy here. They have a Iconia A500 at the BX and I've played with it some, but can't compare to the Transformer.
I'll reply back later today when I have more time. Thanks for all the good input!

Drybonz said:
You are going to get a lot of "pro Transformer" replies being that this is the Transformer forum, so I will give you the other side of the coin.
The Transformer has a proprietary power plug and they give you a very short cord. Accessories from Asus are freaking expensive and 3rd party accessories are almost non-existent.
.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Like I said...I have both.
Acer power cord is just as short and it is also proprietary btw

Get what YOU want...NOT what we say.
Learn to think for yourself.

I agree. You should go with what works best for you.
I've tried each one to review and each has it's pro's and con's tbh.
The Iconia is just plain ugly for me to hold in my hands and feel comfortable with but that's just me. It is nice to have a USB on the tablet but Im not missing much if I just have my dock w/ tablet here. - The idea of a micro HDMI on a tablet, to me, is a not that practical as you have to hunt for those lil' things apposed to a mini HDMI cable which I just can't hype up anymore with everyone who see's this.
I also tried the Galaxy Tab bu I immediately returned it due to the fact that Sammy just completely cloned an iPad, leaving out any extra input options like micro SD!!!! - I'm not knocking on GTab owners at all but rly???
You should just youtube some videos and then see what you like.. THERE IS A RETURN POLICY FOR MOST STORES YOU KNOW
Sent from my Transformer TF101 using XDA Premium Appith w

Hi, I plan to buy a tablet in a few weeks and my favorites are also the iconia and the tf.
Right now I prefer the tf, but i've read in some reviews that thr video playback is sometimes laggy compared to other android tegra 2 tabs and this would be a deal breaker for me. Is fhis true? if so, do custom roms fix this problem?
Sent out of my Free Candy Van.

newtybar said:
Acer power cord is just as short and it is also proprietary btw
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Good info... how is the availability/pricing on accessories for the Iconia?

Digiguest said:
Get what YOU want...NOT what we say.
Learn to think for yourself.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Alright. Thanks for all your replies everyone. I am and will decide for myself but since I cannot try out both I was reaching out to the community to give me their pro's and con's so I can weigh them for my own decision.
I'll have to go back to the BX later and play around with the Iconia some more. I didn't really play with the form factor, but what I really like from the Transformer is the keyboard/battery/etc dock. From my understanding it'll be future-compatible too.
dills2214 said:
Just a fyi - I bought a 6 Foot USB 3.0 extension cord on amazon for $4.75 shipped. Now I have about a 9 foot power cord combined for cheap.
Otherwise, I agree. The power cord is so short, and makes no sense at all to me.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Things like this is what I'm looking for. Thanks for all the positive feed back. I'm still a couple months away from getting either or, but like to research before I make the switch.

If you like the idea of the dock/keyboard/battery++, the choice is pretty much made.
Personally I think the dock makes the Transformer a completely different animal than all the other tablets out there. Funny thing is, I see the fact that you can use it as "strictly a tablet", as an added bonus of sorts. Not the other way around.
In my mind it's a little computer running Android, with a detachable screen. I can't picture myself ever owning "just a tablet" after getting used to my beloved Transformer.
Beware of bias. I'm in love.

Is the Transformer capable of stylus use? or does it allow for decent digital painting?

my 2 cents:
Asus Transformer
-way better screen (most important feature in a tablet, imho)
-a lot lighter then the Iconia (Iconia is the heaviest Android tablet)
-faster updates
-less freezes & runs smoother
-dock option
Acer Iconia
-USB port (the Transformer only has this on the dock)
-better built? allegedly. (my Asus is also very solid but the Iconia metal back feels stronger)
-better sound
-better camera (with flash)
For me it boils down to needing a USB port or not & to wanting the dock option or not.
If you don't need the USB port, then the Transformed is the obvious choice.
If you do (and don't want to spend the extra $150 for the dock) then go for the Acer.
Also if you really want a better screen and the dock option, again the obvious choice is the TF.
good luck & enjoy your new toy either or!

I need real advice on this issue on the TF Dock

Ok, I love my TF. And I mean it is awesome. And just being to get a Dock/Keyboard is very cool too..
But I am having a hard time buying the keyboard/. Yes I know all the advantages. But this is what my wife says about it. If you wanted a laptop, then why did you get a tablet?
I have no way of arguing with her on this point. But I would use it if I bought one.
So can you guys give me some advice to help me decide?

If your wife doesn't understand why it's better you chance your wife ;-)
Try to show herramientas that with a keyboard you have the best of two worlds. A laptop for some situations a tablet for other.
Enviado desde mi Transformer TF101 usando Tapatalk

I enjoy having the keyboard dock simply because it bridges the gap between a tablet and a netbook. In addition to all the features it offers typing is so much more convenient while still experiencing the touch screen of the tab itself (whenever I use mine or my wife's laptop I actually try to scroll on the screen...).
You can ask your wife to remove the screen from a netbook when you want to use it separately . I'd say go for it! According to ASUS it will also be compatible for future tablets.

Now having the keyboard dock, I wish i didn't. I wish i would have picked up a good bt keyboard that i could interchange with my cellphone/htpc/future cell./future tablet. my .02

It all comes down to what your main purpose/use for the dock is. I personally like that you can hook up external drives etc. without issues, take screenshots, have dedicated android shortcuts and so on. I had a BT keyboard for my XOOM but it wasn't that great (admittedly, it was a cheap generic Apple keyboard that I taught some android shortcuts). If it's just for the sake of typing on a keyboard then yes, maybe it's better to get a good wireless (BT) keyboard that works with other BT devices. If you want connectivity and expandability then the dock is the best (only?) solution.
phlunkie said:
Now having the keyboard dock, I wish i didn't. I wish i would have picked up a good bt keyboard that i could interchange with my cellphone/htpc/future cell./future tablet. my .02
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

For me, I enjoyed using the tablet only. I got the keyboard/dock so I could type faster, and keep the tablet charged. Sometimes I use the USB & SD slots, too.
What happens now: I leave the tablet in the dock most of the time. I only disconnect the tablet when I want to read or play something that works better without a keyboard/dock.
The dock transforms your use from primary tablet, to primary tablet/dock. HTH.

One of the ways I justified it is that with any other tablet you have to buy a BT keyboard anyways, and in addition the dock when folded PROTECTS the tab's glass, basically eliminating the need for a case or sleeve

+1 To " get a new wife"

I make good use of the extra USB, SD, and battery so its really justified for me.
And +1 to fldude99 about protecting the glass. If you think it will benefit you for what you do with the tab then get it. I for one, love it.

I decided to go ahead and get one. Found a brand new one for $123.00. I can always use it on the next transformer I get that happens to have a number 2 next to it.

good for you, oh, and a word of advice, you might like to know what one would do about the weird trackpad and scrolling problems, and that is this: get a usb mouse... It works great with the dock and makes for the full "netbook" experience. (I would go for a wired one though because I occassionally have problems with my wireless one)
hope I could make your experience a little easier

cost with dock and tf is about 5 or 600 cost for new laptop, over 700 dollars. point made
Sent from my Transformer TF101 using xda premium

Considering I got my TF + Dock for $230 shipped brand new, Im thrilled with this thing. The dock is amazing because it gives you the flexibility to work or play. It's very portable with or without the dock, but I usually take just the TF with me when I go places and I dock it the second I get home. Not to mention the extra battery life is a blessing. I say go for it man, you won't regret it.
Sent from my Transformer TF101 using xda premium

It makes typing a hundred times easier and the extra battery are the main reasons I love the dock.
Sent from my Transformer TF101 using xda premium

(1) Laptop battery doesn't last 16 hours.
(2) Laptop can't transform into a tablet when you just want a tablet.
(3) Laptop doesn't have multi-touch capacitive screen.
(4) Laptop feels like an anchor.
Just a few off the top of my head.
I've found that people, ipad users in particular, have a hard time understanding choice. To them the issue is whether you want a tablet or a laptop. What if you want both but don't want to carry a laptop and a tablet around?
Earlier today someone on the train asked me just this question. She was crazy about her ipad 2. So, we talked about our tablets because she was curious about what I have. The question inevitably came up. Why didn't I just get a laptop? I gave her my short answer, which was "I like having the choice to either have a laptop or a tablet". She just gave me a blank look.
This goes back to what I've been saying for months. Apple has done a very good job at convincing people that you cannot be productive with your ipad. You need a laptop for that, preferably the macbook air. So, this woman, like so many others I've talked to, was puzzled why I wanted to do work with my tablet. She couldn't imagine typing for too long on her ipad because the softkeys are just horrible to type on if you're doing substantial typing. Even after I plugged my Tf into the dock, she still had trouble understanding how I could work with a tablet. I had to show her some documents I had put together on nothing but the TF and my powerpoint presentation.
By the time she got up to get off the train at her stop, I still got the feeling that she was still not convinced you could be useful with the tablet platform.
Last month, ,I read an article that claimed the author believed strongy the future will belong to the tablet-notebook hybrids. I guess only time will tell. I agree with that article, though.

i damaged my tablet by packing it with an extension cord for a flight - the prongs dug deep into the screen and damaged it somewhat - d'oh
so i picked up the keyboard primarily so that it could protect the screen
what i got was a keyboard that seems even better made than the tablet
i like the keyboard too for note-taking or long emails, while keeping the tactile yumminess of a touchscreen
Sent from my Transformer TF101 using xda premium

TF300 + dock or TF700

I'm still within my 30 days for my tf300, and I have to return it because of a piece of dust stuck under the display glass. I also bought the tf300 dock and find it quite useful. Im thinking of going for the tf700. But If I get the TF700, I dont think i'll be able to afford the dock. Has anyone hear tried both tabs and know if the difference is worth sacrificing the dock?
The pixelated look of the tf300 screen does kinda bother me a little.

rightonred said:
I'm still within my 30 days for my tf300, and I have to return it because of a piece of dust stuck under the display glass. I also bought the tf300 dock and find it quite useful. Im thinking of going for the tf700. But If I get the TF700, I dont think i'll be able to afford the dock. Has anyone hear tried both tabs and know if the difference is worth sacrificing the dock?
The pixelated look of the tf300 screen does kinda bother me a little.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
the docks are interchangeable but like you said you gotta give up some stuff. Also the prime dock doesnt fit as neately

polish_pat said:
the docks are interchangeable but like you said you gotta give up some stuff. Also the prime dock doesnt fit as neately
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well since I bought the dock with the tab, I could easily use the refund money for the tf300 dock to buy the infinity dock, but I would need that refund money too buy the infinity. The price of the full infinity and dock package is too much for this starving college student.

i dont understand why youre switching...the only real advantage youre getting is HD screen. the rest of the specs are negligeable

polish_pat said:
i dont understand why youre switching...the only real advantage youre getting is HD screen. the rest of the specs are negligeable
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
"Only"? In my opinion the display is one of the most important things in a tablet. Or a phone for a that matter.
Sent from my ASUS Transformer Pad TF700T using Tapatalk 2

rightonred said:
I'm still within my 30 days for my tf300, and I have to return it because of a piece of dust stuck under the display glass. I also bought the tf300 dock and find it quite useful. Im thinking of going for the tf700. But If I get the TF700, I dont think i'll be able to afford the dock. Has anyone hear tried both tabs and know if the difference is worth sacrificing the dock?
The pixelated look of the tf300 screen does kinda bother me a little.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
First things first: you are right in that the TF300 dock IS NOT compatible with the TF700 tablet! Do not heed the other poster telling you so, you will be in trouble. It was clear you knew that, but I thought I'd chime in on behalf of the less informed visiting this thread with the same question you had.
More on-topic: the keyboards are essentially the same as far as ergonomics go, so in that respect, so it'd be a matter of asking yourself if you'd miss the keyboard of the TF300 if I broke in in two on my knee at this very moment. If not, you won't miss it on the TF700. (I would, as I like the hard keyboard very much.)
As far as the screen is concerned: it's wonderful. Can;t really say anything more than that; you will absolutely notice a difference.
I cannot imagine where the reviewers who said there is not a noticeable difference between 1280x7.. and 1900x1200 gathered that from -- have they actually compared even the desktops? Sheesh.

I am definately one for high resolutions. I am trying my tf300 out without the dock, and I can get used to it. It is harder though and I can't type as much as if I had a hard keyboard.
Since a tablet is basically a touchscreen connected to an SoC package, the higher resolution does justify paying more for the pad itself.
The other thing to take into consideration is the boatloader. I know it seems weird to make that a deciding factor, but you do pay a lot for it and its a pretty serious device, so you'd expect an unlockable bootloader to be standard. (that and since I'm a CompE student, tampering is definately on my last of things to do with the device). ASUS hasn't released one yet for this tab. (I'm sure they will though)

rightonred said:
I am definately one for high resolutions. I am trying my tf300 out without the dock, and I can get used to it. It is harder though and I can't type as much as if I had a hard keyboard.
Since a tablet is basically a touchscreen connected to an SoC package, the higher resolution does justify paying more for the pad itself.
The other thing to take into consideration is the boatloader. I know it seems weird to make that a deciding factor, but you do pay a lot for it and its a pretty serious device, so you'd expect an unlockable bootloader to be standard. (that and since I'm a CompE student, tampering is definately on my last of things to do with the device). ASUS hasn't released one yet for this tab. (I'm sure they will though)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, I think I'd go for the TF700, then, if I'd were you. The resolution indeed is superb, and the unlocked bootloader undoubtedly will be available in a few weeks. And as I said, I love the keyboard, though I wouldn't fancy typing longer reports or essays on it -- but that time lies in my (to my feeling already somewhat distant) past. ; )

Well after trying my tf300 for a while without the keyboard dock, I snapped them back together, and the difference is night and day. I have to choose between one great feature or the other, but not both. At least with the TF700 I can always get the dock later. Upgrading the screen is not quite as easy.

MartyHulskemper said:
First things first: you are right in that the TF300 dock IS NOT compatible with the TF700 tablet! Do not heed the other poster telling you so, you will be in trouble. It was clear you knew that, but I thought I'd chime in on behalf of the less informed visiting this thread with the same question you had
.
hmmmm just got my tf700t and accidentally ordered a 300 keyboard dock.....seems to be just ducky so far....incompatible how?
more battery?....buttons?
I'll admit there is some play in the hinge system, but it stays where you put it....please advise
Chas
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

>2012
>not buying the most high end of high end tablets
i shiggy diggy
JK, tf700 is best for movies, tf300 is good for anything else.

Well I took the plunge, there's a tf700 in shipment somewhere with my name on it. In just one week, it will be all mine.
hesynergy said:
hmmmm just got my tf700t and accidentally ordered a 300 keyboard dock.....seems to be just ducky so far....incompatible how?
more battery?....buttons?
I'll admit there is some play in the hinge system, but it stays where you put it....please advise
Chas
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Is there a return policy for your dock? If so, you can probably just exchange it for the correct one.
I'd exchange it for insurance reasons.
I'm just thinking if something dock related went wrong with your (very expensive top of the line) tablet, and you were using the wrong dock, you warranty would be void, and you would be out of luck.
Plus the correct dock would look and fit better.

hesynergy said:
MartyHulskemper said:
First things first: you are right in that the TF300 dock IS NOT compatible with the TF700 tablet! Do not heed the other poster telling you so, you will be in trouble. It was clear you knew that, but I thought I'd chime in on behalf of the less informed visiting this thread with the same question you had
.
hmmmm just got my tf700t and accidentally ordered a 300 keyboard dock.....seems to be just ducky so far....incompatible how?
more battery?....buttons?
I'll admit there is some play in the hinge system, but it stays where you put it....please advise
Chas
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, if it fits.... it... .errrmm.... fits.
All kidding aside, I do think the battery in the TF201/700 dock is more powerful, but I'd have to look that one up to be sure. I believe the connectors are essentially the same, although the placement might be off a bit -- since that didn't stop you from docking the tablet, I wouldn't mind too much. The Prime's dock is compatible with recent firmware, even if slightly off-color, but I do not know what the specific reasoning was behind the TF300's not being compatible (except for the thickness of the tablet, and the resulting lack of "hinge fit").
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

MartyHulskemper said:
First things first: you are right in that the TF300 dock IS NOT compatible with the TF700 tablet! Do not heed the other poster telling you so, you will be in trouble. It was clear you knew that, but I thought I'd chime in on behalf of the less informed visiting this thread with the same question you had.
More on-topic: the keyboards are essentially the same as far as ergonomics go, so in that respect, so it'd be a matter of asking yourself if you'd miss the keyboard of the TF300 if I broke in in two on my knee at this very moment. If not, you won't miss it on the TF700. (I would, as I like the hard keyboard very much.)
As far as the screen is concerned: it's wonderful. Can;t really say anything more than that; you will absolutely notice a difference.
I cannot imagine where the reviewers who said there is not a noticeable difference between 1280x7.. and 1900x1200 gathered that from -- have they actually compared even the desktops? Sheesh.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
WHAT TROUBLE? tf300 dock works just fine on tf700.- I have tf300 and tf700. So here is the pix
Please don't tell people something what you did not even try
(Powered by frubar.net)

My video
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b0vQrzK-TaM&feature=youtube_gdata_player
SENT FROM ASUS INFINITY TF700

DARK SIDE said:
WHAT TROUBLE? tf300 dock works just fine on tf700.- I have tf300 and tf700. So here is the pix
Please don't tell people something what you did not even try
(Powered by frubar.net)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
THANK YOU. My wife dropped her Prime so I'm going to hand her down my TF300 but I couldn't stand the though of loosing my keyboard as I've grown quite accustomed to it when traveling. I was on the fence and not having to drop another $150 on the dock is the deciding factor. TF700 here I come.
PS Anyone looking to buy a 201 with a cracked screen. Dig works....

I tried my tf700 in a tf300 dock. It works but the fit is terrible. The tf300 is thicker than the tf700. I would reccomend selling your tf300 dock on ebay, and buying a prime or infinity dock with the money.

Hi,
I got a tf700t and i bought a tf300t dock as there were no other docks and it looked asit wworkks. The dock fits ok (slightly loose) , and the keyboard works ok and is detected by the tablet as (DOCK EC20N 0207). But when docked the dock does not seem to charge the tablet. The tablet battry depleets andthe taab turns off while the dock reminsat 97% charge.
Anybody else having this? Or is my doock broken?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b0vQrzK-TaM&feature=youtube_gdata_player
Sent from Asus infinity tablet

Those who up'd from TF101 - was it worth it ?

I have 2 of TF101 plus a dock. Thinking about getting TF700 . Those who took the route - what are your impressions ?
I use the table 90% of the time as ebook reader - pdf and epub, using Mantano reader most of the time. Higher rez should make for a better ebook experience I hope, although I can not claim that I find TF101's screen lacking in clarity/sharpness department.
So far I dont feel that dropping $700 will fetch me much outside of small incremental gains over TF101

rashid11 said:
I have 2 of TF101 plus a dock. Thinking about getting TF700 . Those who took the route - what are your impressions ?
I use the table 90% of the time as ebook reader - pdf and epub, using Mantano reader most of the time. Higher rez should make for a better ebook experience I hope, although I can not claim that I find TF101's screen lacking in clarity/sharpness department.
So far I dont feel that dropping $700 will fetch me much outside of small incremental gains over TF101
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Biggest advantage is screen. Most apps don't push the 101 cpu anyway. But the screen is amazing and i loved tf101 screen too. For books it's probably iffy. I read a lot of comics and all I can say is wow. It's also a little thinner and lighter but i dont find it much easier to hold for reading. So if you're a gamer or you read comics or magazines its totally worth it.

if you read books a lot then i think you should get a 7 inch tablet like the nexus 7, it's light, easy to hold and you can hold it by 1 hand without getting tired. more importantly the nexus 7 has a very good screen display (1280x800)

For me I went from a TF101 to a TF201 and then to my current TF700T. From the TF101 you will notice a faster unit, better screen, thinner profile unit (both for the tablet as well as the dock keyboard), better battery length (at least for me). On the negative you will have one less USB port to use. I ended up getting a small USB hub to use and all of the things I used the USB ports on the TF101 would connect into the USB hub and work just fine, in fact all at the same time! Do not get the TF201 as an interim step simply because the GPS and in some instances the WiFi radios do not work or work in a restricted way. The TF700T that I have all of its radios work just fine.

I'm getting worse battery life but I'm experimenting with uninstalling and disabling apps and any background stuff (updates/sync/etc), I'm hopeful it will improve.
ergonomics, fit and finish, display resolution and readability, brightness, wifi range, storage (got 64GB with a 64GB card on the way), and the placement of controls and i/o connectors - hell yes, it's a primo upgrade from the Tf101.
Color balance on the screen is not good, too yellow, and battery life like I said is terrible compared to the TF101. I also don't like how the dock charges the battery, much prefer the TF101's method of keeping the tab at 100%.

Coming from a TF101 was a big jump for me. I decided to wait for the nicer screen. The screen and much more powerful CPU make watching movies a lot better.
I'm having to get use to the button and input placements, especially the power button. Coming from a TF101 dock to a TF201 dock, I was sad to lose a USB port. I still have my TF101, though I am trying to get rid of it, but once more apps are updated, and rooting/recovery becomes easy/one-click I will not use it again.

I'm coming straight from a rooted tf101 which I sold tablet/dock to a buddy of mine for $250. I mainly used my tablet for browsing the internet and watching movies. As you already know, the screen is much nicer and the engine in this thing is blazing. I get random lags here and there even after the newest update, but it can only get better especially after rooting and custom roms become more widely available. My tf101 couldn't even play 720p mkvs, but the tf700t handled the highest quality 1080p mkvs that I have without a hiccup. Colors are very vibrant imo. As far as internet browsing, some content takes slightly longer to render because of the hd screen I presume, but I know it will get better. It's lighter and more sleek than my bulky brown tf101. I also noticed I don't get as much battery drain while sleeping than I did with my tf101. As others have stated, I would rather my dock drain first leaving my tablet at 100% instead of both draining simultaneously.
The tf101 advantages were the 2 speakers and the two usb ports. I bought a small cheap rechargable speaker from walmart for $8 which was surprisingly useful called bomb speaker. I will also get a usb hub from amazon so those disadvantages are no deal breaker to me.

Just curious - what the hell are you guys connecting to your TF700 where one USB port isn't enough for normal use? I don't think I've even used both USB ports at the same time on my TF101, so 1 USB port didn't seem like a problem. I'm just curious what types of devices you guys connect where you need more than one USB port normally...
Thanks!
Sent from my ASUS Transformer Pad TF700T using Tapatalk 2

jtrosky said:
Just curious - what the hell are you guys connecting to your TF700 where one USB port isn't enough for normal use? I don't think I've even used both USB ports at the same time on my TF101, so 1 USB port didn't seem like a problem. I'm just curious what types of devices you guys connect where you need more than one USB port normally...
Thanks!
Sent from my ASUS Transformer Pad TF700T using Tapatalk 2
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Click to collapse
Not a big deal but I have a low profile usb thumb drive in my dock at all times, and would then want to attach a mouse. Now I have to pull it to use mouse

rashid11 said:
I have 2 of TF101 plus a dock. Thinking about getting TF700 . Those who took the route - what are your impressions ?
I use the table 90% of the time as ebook reader - pdf and epub, using Mantano reader most of the time. Higher rez should make for a better ebook experience I hope, although I can not claim that I find TF101's screen lacking in clarity/sharpness department.
So far I dont feel that dropping $700 will fetch me much outside of small incremental gains over TF101
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The screen alone is worth the money.
I was never able to read a lot on my TF101G I still used my ebook reader because it looked so pixaleted on the TF101G.
However with the TF700 that problem is gone and I just like it very much.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using xda premium

jtrosky said:
Just curious - what the hell are you guys connecting to your TF700 where one USB port isn't enough for normal use? I don't think I've even used both USB ports at the same time on my TF101, so 1 USB port didn't seem like a problem. I'm just curious what types of devices you guys connect where you need more than one USB port normally...
Thanks!
Sent from my ASUS Transformer Pad TF700T using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I connect a wireless mouse at times as well as a external USB cased hard drive. Also occasionally a memory stick. The USB hub is also used for my Asus UX31E for the same devices.

rlarson)mn said:
I connect a wireless mouse at times as well as a external USB cased hard drive. Also occasionally a memory stick. The USB hub is also used for my Asus UX31E for the same devices.
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Click to collapse
Ahh, I've been using a bluetooth mouse, which leaves the USB port free... Wasn't thinking about a mouse that required a USB port - then I could see two USB ports being useful....
Sent from my ASUS Transformer Pad TF700T using Tapatalk 2

rashid11 said:
I have 2 of TF101 plus a dock. Thinking about getting TF700 . Those who took the route - what are your impressions ?
I use the table 90% of the time as ebook reader - pdf and epub, using Mantano reader most of the time. Higher rez should make for a better ebook experience I hope, although I can not claim that I find TF101's screen lacking in clarity/sharpness department.
So far I dont feel that dropping $700 will fetch me much outside of small incremental gains over TF101
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
\
I upgraded from the TF1010. The factors for me were the screen, the faster speed and the lighter weight. The TF101 was just starting to feel a little heavy for me, especially once I had it in a case. My TF101 was also starting to feel a little sluggish, so I decided to go for it. Couldn't be happier, the TF700 is really smooth and I haven't had any problems, with the exception of the battery life, I am one of those people that feel the Wifi is draining the battery pretty quickly.

nooktablet said:
if you read books a lot then i think you should get a 7 inch tablet like the nexus 7, it's light, easy to hold and you can hold it by 1 hand without getting tired. more importantly the nexus 7 has a very good screen display (1280x800)
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If you read a lot of Comics or magazines or illustrated books, I would give the exact opposite advice. I have a 7" and 10.1" device and comics/magazines are unbearable on the 7 incher after having used a 10 incher. Provided you're strong enough to hold up the 10 incher. LOL.
That said, if 90% of your application is eBooks and you have already outlaid for the TF101 dock, I personally would not even consider upgrading until the next device given the cost for what would only be a very small incremental improvement for your application.
ASUS still needs to get their firmware act together for the T3 devices and QA is still something I'd be wondering about.

I upgraded from the prime after selling it (originally was going to get the Acer a700, glad I passed on that debacle). It was definitely worth it although I do miss AOKP and Jermaine's other work.
Signature: Going to butthurt ban me? Well go ahead.

Yes. Just for the screen
Sent from my ASUS Transformer Pad TF700T using xda app-developers app

I also primarily use mine as an ebook reader (using the Aldiko app), and also use a few different news ready apps (Currents, Appy Geek and Pulse primarily).
I don't see much of a difference in how crisp the text is in any of these apps, however on the TF101 the white background had very faint artifacts (you might see them as little dots, or a pattern of some sort) which the TF700 doesn't. The white background on the TF700 is just solid white to my eyes. That makes reading for a long time much easier on my eyes.
I never really noticed that 'artifacts' (Warehouse 13 anyone? ) on the TF101 until I tried (and returned) an iPad 3. The screen on the iPad is gorgeous, as one would expect, but IOS is not for me. If there is a difference between the iPad and the TF700 screens, it's not something that *I* can see. I know the iPad has a somewhat higher resolution, but it's not enough for me to tell the difference - and that's all that matters.
So, in short, go for it - you'll love it.

I actually wasn't planning on upgrading, but the charging port on my TF101 broke about a week ago and the RMA process was going to take a few weeks so I figured why not? Honestly if my TF101 hadn't broken I would have been fine with it for another few months at least, if not another year.
As mentioned above, battery life isn't as good. Screen is excellent. I do notice considerably less lag when typing, especially in a browser. Loading pages is a bit snappier. It's a nice upgrade, but not worth $500 IMO, unless you have to like I did.

Headcase_Fargone said:
I actually wasn't planning on upgrading, but the charging port on my TF101 broke about a week ago and the RMA process was going to take a few weeks so I figured why not? Honestly if my TF101 hadn't broken I would have been fine with it for another few months at least, if not another year.
As mentioned above, battery life isn't as good. Screen is excellent. I do notice considerably less lag when typing, especially in a browser. Loading pages is a bit snappier. It's a nice upgrade, but not worth $500 IMO, unless you have to like I did.
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That's why I sold mine for 200$ .
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using xda premium

Nebucatnetzer said:
That's why I sold mine for 200$ .
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Click to collapse
Clearly you don't have a wife that swipes your gadgets when you're done with them.

whose happy without dock?

I constantly hear "keyboard dock this, and keyboard dock that. I bought this because it's a kick a** tablet. I don't want a net book. Hell, i could've gotten one of those cheaper.
Anyone else with me? I feel so alone.

Me.
le rustle face

I have my tablet without the dock and a nice case that has various angles to view the tablet at. I also have a Bluetooth Microsoft keyboard that I use with my tablet when I am too lazy to sit at the computer to type something out or stuff like that. But without the dock and loving it!
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using xda app-developers app

The only thing that tempted me to the keyboard was the extra battery, I went for the Anker Astro 3 instead. The keyboard would be nice but at more than £100 and at the risk of getting a screen breaker its not worth it.

My TF201 (which was a "good" one except for the GPS) was a great stand alone tablet without the dock. I used it like that most of the time I had it. I only picked up the dock when it went on sale at Best Buy as they were closing them out.
But, now that I have a dock, I love it. I still frequently use the 700 as a tablet undocked for reading or travel all the time, that convertibility is one of the most awesome things about the TF series and they are GREAT tablets all by themselves.

I have the keyboard dock but I usually use my tablet standalone. It's awesome either way.
Sent from my ASUS Transformer Pad TF700T

redheadplantguy said:
I constantly hear "keyboard dock this, and keyboard dock that. I bought this because it's a kick a** tablet. I don't want a net book. Hell, i could've gotten one of those cheaper.
Anyone else with me? I feel so alone.
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Click to collapse
No dock and really don't see the need. Like you , I wanted a tablet not a netbook!

I think that if you guys had the dock for a day, you'd never go back! Not only does it make typing *so* much easier, it's also like a built in stand for the tablet! Not to mention the extra ports, extra battery life and the fact that you can see the *whole* screen while typing (instead of the keyboard taking up half the screen).
You can always remove the tablet *very* easily to go back to being a tablet, but you'll find that most of the time, you simply leave it docked so you don't even have to hold the tablet while using it!
Again, you may not think you'd use it, until you actually have it for a day or two...
Sent from my ASUS Transformer Pad TF700T using Tapatalk 2

Had the doc and never used it. Sold my Prime + Doc and purchased an Infinity without the doc and that will be my setup going forward.

im happy without it cuz i want a tablet not a netbook

I love to use mine in portrait, which with the high res screen is very comfortable and provides tons of viewing real estate.
I might pick up the dock when it goes on sale for easier video chatting, movie viewing and typing, but 95% of my use is browsing and it's very comfortable holding it in portrait doing that.

Me happy.
No dock.

jtrosky said:
I think that if you guys had the dock for a day, you'd never go back! Not only does it make typing *so* much easier, it's also like a built in stand for the tablet! Not to mention the extra ports, extra battery life and the fact that you can see the *whole* screen while typing (instead of the keyboard taking up half the screen).
You can always remove the tablet *very* easily to go back to being a tablet, but you'll find that most of the time, you simply leave it docked so you don't even have to hold the tablet while using it!
Again, you may not think you'd use it, until you actually have it for a day or two...
Sent from my ASUS Transformer Pad TF700T using Tapatalk 2
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I have USB adapter, extra micro cards, and USB micro reader. I've hooked up a 320 GB HDD, used flash drives, all kinds of stuff. And for typing, i use Swype and a stylus.

redheadplantguy said:
I have USB adapter, extra micro cards, and USB micro reader. I've hooked up a 320 GB HDD, used flash drives, all kinds of stuff. And for typing, i use Swype and a stylus.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I know these things *can* be done without the dock, but nowhere near the ease that they can be done with the dock... Trust me, I've tried! The dock just makes everything that much easier... It's completely changes how useful the tablet really is. There is *no way* that you can enter text as quickly and easily with a stylus as you can with a keyboard - period.
I guess it all boils down to what you use your tablet for. I take a *lot* of notes at work and it would be a disaster without the dock (I simply wouln't use it at work without the dock - it just wouldn't make much sense). If you just use it casually to play games and surf the web, I can see the dock not being needed, but if you do any kind of emailing or note-taking (or even posting on XDA), the dock just makes it that much faster and easier. To be honest, I personally leave it docked even while playing a lot of games!
Sent from my ASUS Transformer Pad TF700T using Tapatalk 2

Happy using swiftkey
Sent from my HTC One X using Tapatalk 2

lofgents said:
The only thing that tempted me to the keyboard was the extra battery, I went for the Anker Astro 3 instead. The keyboard would be nice but at more than £100 and at the risk of getting a screen breaker its not worth it.
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How well does that work? TF's require 15 volts.

lofgents said:
The only thing that tempted me to the keyboard was the extra battery, I went for the Anker Astro 3 instead. The keyboard would be nice but at more than £100 and at the risk of getting a screen breaker its not worth it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just read "is not compatible with Asus tablets." How does it work in real life?

I use my tablet all the time without the dock and absolutely love it. The only time I use the dock really is when I'm taking notes, since I could never really get the hang of fast screen typing, watching movies, or recharging the battery. One of the nicest things is having the keyboard charging up while I use the tablet, then dock up and recharge the tablet while still using it.
Sent from my ASUS Transformer Pad TF700T using XDA Premium HD app

I want a tablet not a netbook. Except when i want a netbook and not a tablet! I can use mine either way and am happy.

jtrosky said:
I know these things *can* be done without the dock, but nowhere near the ease that they can be done with the dock... Trust me, I've tried! The dock just makes everything that much easier... It's completely changes how useful the tablet really is. There is *no way* that you can enter text as quickly and easily with a stylus as you can with a keyboard - period.
I guess it all boils down to what you use your tablet for. I take a *lot* of notes at work and it would be a disaster without the dock (I simply wouln't use it at work without the dock - it just wouldn't make much sense). If you just use it casually to play games and surf the web, I can see the dock not being needed, but if you do any kind of emailing or note-taking (or even posting on XDA), the dock just makes it that much faster and easier. To be honest, I personally leave it docked even while playing a lot of games!
Sent from my ASUS Transformer Pad TF700T using Tapatalk 2
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Click to collapse
I got bored of the dock after the prime.
le rustle face