I have 500 bucks to spend and am hesitating between getting either the Surface or a nexus 7 + a chromebook. For those who have had some experience with those devices, what do you think would be a better way to go? I am honestly hesitating between the two choices.
Sent from my ADR6425LVW using Tapatalk 2
The Chromebook really doesn't enthuse me...I don't completely think that its existence is justified yet. It depends how you consider the convenience of two devices vs one.
What are you planning on doing? Will you type a lot? Integrate the products into an existing Windows 8/Android phone ecosystem? Watch movies and videos? Games? Travel with it, or are they devices for home? Will you carry a Nexus 7 around alongside your Chromebook?
Personally, I'd look at the range of Atom-based Windows 8 Pro hybrid tablets. They get better battery and performance than the Surface RT, and have access to all Windows applications of the past. There's heaps from every OEM, and I don't know your exact price-point, so I can't really make a recommendation.
I don't agree re: the Atom systems providing better performance and battery than the surface. I've used an Atom Windows machine and it was a dog and the battery life was comparable to a PC.
I do agree regarding understanding just what you are going to use it for.
Are you a student? An office worker?
Are you watching movies? Playing games? Just browsing the web?
Are you going to need any Office document editing?
The Nexus is going to give you the best app ecosystem and access to Google Play books, movies, and music. The Chromebook is basically just an android tablet in a laptop form factor (with some limitations).
The Surface is more of a PC with some restrictions but doesn't benefit from the Google Play Store. It does have access to the XBox ecosystem but it is not as extensive as Google offerings (yet?).
I have Android tablets and an iPad and in the week I've had the Surface I have found the Surface to have more utility than any other tablet I've owned, but I look at things from a work standpoint. I don't play games or use "apps" on a tablet. I need them on my phone (which is why I have an Android phone).
Thanks for your input. I had the transformer prime but returned it because of a screen that went really bad. I am planning to go to school and was wondering which device (surface or chromebook) would help more on the go (I have a 17" Toshiba at home). I don't play much on my tablet but I like to watch movies on Netflix and videos online and browse the web. I am leaning toward the surface, I guess I am looking for assurance that I won't be disappointed.
Sent from my ADR6425LVW using Tapatalk 2
Wendemixda said:
Thanks for your input. I had the transformer prime but returned it because of a screen that went really bad. I am planning to go to school and was wondering which device (surface or chromebook) would help more on the go (I have a 17" Toshiba at home). I don't play much on my tablet but I like to watch movies on Netflix and videos online and browse the web. I am leaning toward the surface, I guess I am looking for assurance that I won't be disappointed.
Sent from my ADR6425LVW using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's an impossible assurance, but if this is for school, I think Surface is the way to go. They have a no-restock 14 day return policy. Worst case scenario, you can buy it, use it, and if you don't like it, return it.
Surface already has Netflix, Hulu, Kindle, and supports Amazon Instant Video via the web browser.
If you need Office, then get the Surface. I've tried just about every word processor/spread sheet app on android and none of them come close to the real thing. The Touch Cover and the way it's integrated is also vastly superior to any keyboard peripheral I've used on my android tablets.
If you do work with a lot of PDF's though be warned that right now you're pretty much stuck with converting them into office docs for now, the pdf reader that comes with the Surface barely has any functionality beyond the ability to open and read them, and there aren't any alternatives on the market yet.
As for netflix, hulu and web surfing it's all there. The Surface uses the desktop version of IE10 and as far as I know, it's the only new tablet to have flash support. Subjectively speaking I've found it to be just as fast as Chrome on Android 4.1.1, while I like the way Chrome renders some websites better, IE10 will always pull the desktop version of websites and does a much better job with animated gifs and embedded video.
hoodoomagic said:
If you need Office, then get the Surface. I've tried just about every word processor/spread sheet app on android and none of them come close to the real thing. The Touch Cover and the way it's integrated is also vastly superior to any keyboard peripheral I've used on my android tablets.
If you do work with a lot of PDF's though be warned that right now you're pretty much stuck with converting them into office docs for now, the pdf reader that comes with the Surface barely has any functionality beyond the ability to open and read them, and there aren't any alternatives on the market yet.
As for netflix, hulu and web surfing it's all there. The Surface uses the desktop version of IE10 and as far as I know, it's the only new tablet to have flash support. Subjectively speaking I've found it to be just as fast as Chrome on Android 4.1.1, while I like the way Chrome renders some websites better, IE10 will always pull the desktop version of websites and does a much better job with animated gifs and embedded video.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I find the built in pdf reader more than capable. I work with large pdfs for work and with the options menu at the bottom I can search , find bookmarks, highlight and add notes. What else do you want from a reader?
The only other thing I need is a pdf driver to create pdfs on the go but that is a different app.
guitar1969 said:
I find the built in pdf reader more than capable. I work with large pdfs for work and with the options menu at the bottom I can search , find bookmarks, highlight and add notes. What else do you want from a reader?
The only other thing I need is a pdf driver to create pdfs on the go but that is a different app.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You're right, I was a too quick to judge and missed a lot of things that the stock reader is capable of doing. I'm used to using ez-pdf on android and that throws a lot of options in your face and was thrown off by the cleaner interface of the ms reader. I still can't figure out how to quickly get to a page though, and a night mode would be nice.
hoodoomagic said:
I still can't figure out how to quickly get to a page though
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Pinch to zoom out.
mk1151 said:
The Chromebook is basically just an android tablet in a laptop form factor (with some limitations).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Except that it isn't that at all!
No Android whatsoever in the Chromebook.
Regards,
Dave
Sent from my GT-N7100 using Tapatalk 2
foxmeister said:
Except that it isn't that at all!
No Android whatsoever in the Chromebook.
Regards,
Dave
Sent from my GT-N7100 using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
correct, chromeOS doesn't share app stores with android, so no apps aside for the ones built specifically for that OS (which is just a fullscreen chrome browser)
aside from the rock bottom pricing for a basic use computer, i don't see the point of the chromebook at all.
Related
I am a new member and have just bought the last 3 G's from my local office depot based on the forum support here for the tab. You guys are outstanding and based on the mods I convinced my wife to ditch dreams of her gettin an iPad.
Now my 1sst question I'd like to ask the community is has anyone tried the dual boot version of the G tablet and is it worth the money? I do alot of remote access to my server from my laptop, and would like to find a replacement for that method.
Not finding any good info on remotely accessing a windows machine from and android device, so I am considering the dual boot version for that purpose.
Any input?
There are plenty of VNC clients for Android, but I personally use LogMeIn Ignition (which is, admittedly, pretty expensive) because I already use LogMeIn's service elsewhere. Works like a dream.
For most people, typical VNC clients will work just fine. Depends on how you roll.
PhoneMyPC works well also.
machine73 said:
I am a new member and have just bought the last 3 G's from my local office depot based on the forum support here for the tab. You guys are outstanding and based on the mods I convinced my wife to ditch dreams of her gettin an iPad.
Now my 1sst question I'd like to ask the community is has anyone tried the dual boot version of the G tablet and is it worth the money? I do alot of remote access to my server from my laptop, and would like to find a replacement for that method.
Not finding any good info on remotely accessing a windows machine from and android device, so I am considering the dual boot version for that purpose.
Any input?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's not "cheap", but the Xtralogic Remote Desktop Client for Android is actually a very slick solution. It supports encryption, and has all the support you need for accessing Windows machines through RDP. The mouse is moved by using the screen like a trackpad, all keys are available, and with the Gtab screen size it's actually fairly usable.
Also want to throw out there WYSE PocketCloud works great and the trial is more than enough for my remote desktop needs (15+ servers). Works great on the 10 inch screen, no complaints here!
I can give you some real-world recent feedback.
I have dozens of servers I need to be able to remotely access and we do not allow RDP, so UltraVNC and LogMeIn is installed on each. I have already set up shortcuts for each server for convenience in setting up a new user to access them.
Every one of the VNC clients I have tried is lacking in some way. Some in several ways.
RemoteVNC has ads across the top so it is essentially worthless. I didn't bother trying it other than the first connection.
PocketCloud looks great, but I cannot find a way to import .vnc files (shortcuts) or send keystrokes to the login window. Very counter-intuitive, IMHO. Their support is almost non-existent in my recent experience, since I have asked in their forum and have yet to get ANY kind of answer from either their devs or their forum community. UPDATE: they JUST responded to me with "Sorry."
MochaVNC Lite has no ability to send CTRL+ALT+DEL that I can find so ... worthless.
Android-VNC has weird glitchy graphic issues the two times that I tried it.
LogMeIn is the only one that looked good and performed well enough for me to check statuses.
jwischka said:
It's not "cheap", but the Xtralogic Remote Desktop Client for Android is actually a very slick solution. It supports encryption, and has all the support you need for accessing Windows machines through RDP. The mouse is moved by using the screen like a trackpad, all keys are available, and with the Gtab screen size it's actually fairly usable.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
+1, this product is AMAZING and well worth the cash if you plan to use it a lot. I have it on my phone and tab and it's flawless. It allows you to save all settings for one click TS access and set the screen to 'full-screen' and will resize according to device AND layout!
+1 for LogMeIn Ignition for Android. I used to lug around my crazy heavy laptop when I traveled for business and now I leave it logged in at the office and access it via my gTab using LogMeIn. It works great and has plenty of folks using it if you need a question answered or issue resolved.
Thanks for the input on logmein. I've been using UltraVNC on my laptop to access all my machines on the network and has been great.
Will deffinately look into logmein pro.
THanks guys.
But 1 question remains unanswered. Has anyone had any experience using the dual boot G tablet? Is it worth the extra 2 bills for the dual boot option, or is just gimicky?
machine73 said:
Thanks for the input on logmein. I've been using UltraVNC on my laptop to access all my machines on the network and has been great.
Will deffinately look into logmein pro.
THanks guys.
But 1 question remains unanswered. Has anyone had any experience using the dual boot G tablet? Is it worth the extra 2 bills for the dual boot option, or is just gimicky?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Do you Mean the Viewpad? Not worth it if you want android. it has android 1.6, also it uses an atom processor instead of a Tegra 2 Dual core.
HorsexD said:
Do you Mean the Viewpad? Not worth it if you want android. it has android 1.6, also it uses an atom processor instead of a Tegra 2 Dual core.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Supposedly there's a group that's ported 2.2 over to x86, and the Viewpad is one of their main targets. I have no idea how well it works, or what its maturity is.
it2steve said:
+1, this product is AMAZING and well worth the cash if you plan to use it a lot. I have it on my phone and tab and it's flawless. It allows you to save all settings for one click TS access and set the screen to 'full-screen' and will resize according to device AND layout!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ah yes, another thumbs up for this one, Xtralogic that is! Absolutely top notch in my book. Well worth the 25 bucks if you plan on using it often.
Sent from my VEGAn-TAB-v1.0.0B5.1 using Tapatalk
are you selling any of those 3
sjmoreno said:
+1 for LogMeIn Ignition for Android. I used to lug around my crazy heavy laptop when I traveled for business and now I leave it logged in at the office and access it via my gTab using LogMeIn. It works great and has plenty of folks using it if you need a question answered or issue resolved.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The biggest selling points for me, outside of my nearly everyday use of LogMeIn, are multiplatform support, ease-of-use, and integration with an existing workflow. Mac or PC, I've never had problems. Couple that with ConnectBot (which I use to do CLI-based Linux admin) and the Linode and Rackspace Cloud clients for Android, and I'm pretty much set anywhere I have WiFi to rock things out.
I <3 this tablet.
I must say after playing and tweaking my tab to my likings, I am nothing but pleased. Spent some time setting up LogMeIn and everything is running smoooothhh....like butta.
A few FC's but nothing to get all bent over.
A bit of background: I will be attending UCLA as a computer science student in the fall. I will be bringing my desktop with me, and am trying to decide between a laptop/netbook or the Transformer.
Would the transformer work in conjunction with the desktop, or will I need a full laptop.
Thanks.
Sent from my ADR6300 using XDA App
You should consider what you want to use this device for before you decide. As a CS major, you will certainly be doing quite a bit of programming, and you might want to prefer to use a full linux environment for this, depends largely on the program you have at UCLA. What you can consider is to get this device and using the splashtop program access your desktop to do your programming. However, you will want to consider whether or not you want to utilize the local processing power of your device. It would be far simpler to use a laptop/netbook for those purposes, rather than trying to find solutions with the tablet+dock. In the end, if you find that you will be using the device docked most of the time for school, then you should probably consider just getting a laptop/netbook. If the convenience of the tablet and media consumption is something you'd prefer, then get the transformer.
tl;dr, I consider the transformer+dock a fun/entertainment device. For CS based schoolwork, you would most likely want a laptop/netbook.
unless you wanted to focus on tablet development in your coursework...but that's not for another 2 years...
Hope that helps.
It helped a lot. Thank you.
Sent from my ADR6300 using XDA App
Keep in mind that you can use the Transformer's bundled remote desktop app and/or a terminal app to control your PC, and run stuff that way - assuming you can connect to your desktop from wherever you are.
I do agree with omguss, if you don't plan on using the device mostly for entertainment, get a netbook/laptop.
Sorry if this is hijacking your thread (ill start a new thread if you want) but just wondering if there is a good note taking apps for android?
There are two uses I can see being needed for me.
First I would need something to annotate on pdf's and powerpoints. I remember seeing an app that looked pretty solid for this so it should be good.
Secondly I would need an app that I can be typing with the keyboard, and then when needed draw in equations, graphs, pictures, whatever. Not really sure if there is something good for this.
As a programmer, I would suggest getting a full laptop for somebody majoring in CS. As much as I love the transformer, you cannot compile code on it. At least in my searching I have not found a single IDE meant to be run on Android (Lot's target Android, but none run on Android). More than likely, there will be several times that you want to do work away from your room. On the transformer, the only real way to do this will be remote desktop software. It's up to you whether you think the remote desktop software will be sufficient for this, but one other thing I would caution against is the small keyboard. It is far more comfortable (and efficient) to program on a full-size (or as near to full-size as possible) keyboard.
I don't know what type of program you are going into, but if you take any courses on 3d graphics you are almost certainly going to lose the ability to test your programs through a remote desktop connection.
I personally think that tablets are great in conjunction with a desktop. I plan to get rid of my netbook once I get the transformer. My only concern for you is that a tablet simply isn't a good tool for programming. If the hacker community manages to get ubuntu onto the transformer then the device will be an acceptable programming tool in my opinion; although, you will still lack a full size keyboard.
My advice to you is wait until mid-to-late summer. There is a slew of new tech toys coming out this summer, and almost anything you get now will be outdated by the time you start in the fall. By summer you will know if we managed to get Ubuntu on the transformer, AMD's Llano processor will be out on laptops, and Tegra 3 tablets may be just around the corner.
BongoBong said:
Sorry if this is hijacking your thread (ill start a new thread if you want) but just wondering if there is a good note taking apps for android?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Don't need to hijack anything. Just look here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=980783
I'm a secondary school student, I have a HP DM1 (Not the Z ), runs 7 pro X64 + VS 2010 Pro + VS2008 Pro. Got a load of VM's for debugging ETC...
Windows is good for note taking to, Onenote is great.
Hope this helps
Badwolve1
good old days of using SSH + eMacs + X client, they all switched to windows in school?
Magnesus said:
Don't need to hijack anything. Just look here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=980783
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks, but I have already seen that thread and done some other looking up and the majority of discussion is whats the best handwriting app. They really don't mention how good it would be for mostly typing (understandable since most would be using the on screen keyboard).
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1039287&highlight=onenote
someone seriously needs to start porting some compilers to android..
many scripting languages are available through SL4A but most CS courses are taught with C/C++ or Java. I'd love to help out with this project but I just wouldn't know where to start
Just adding on to this, since I'm a student and also looking for a tablet solution.
I'd love:
1. Printing to my university printers. My university currently requires you install some software to use their printers. Mac and Windows versions available, no Linux, no Android.
2. Onenote would be awesome. I read that there was an iPhone version available? Android should be coing soon hopefully.
I would suggest a full laptop, and something with high resolution. Once your CS load picks up you'll need something you can work on in between or during classes. Android lacking compilers on the OS itself is the killer here, otherwise you are free to code all you want via text editors.
j7899 said:
I would suggest a full laptop, and something with high resolution. Once your CS load picks up you'll need something you can work on in between or during classes. Android lacking compilers on the OS itself is the killer here, otherwise you are free to code all you want via text editors.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As a CS student myself I would agree with the above and add that in programming classes you will want all the screen real-estate you can get your hands on(17"+), a good amount of hard disk space, 4gb+ ram, and a good Virtual Machine program. Less important is video and cpu power unless you intend to make it a desktop replacement/gaming machine.
That being said... Such a laptop is going to be rather heavy. I am getting the Transformer to replace an early gen AspireOne for less technical classes.
Just my $0.02
Flowah said:
Just adding on to this, since I'm a student and also looking for a tablet solution.
I'd love:
1. Printing to my university printers. My university currently requires you install some software to use their printers. Mac and Windows versions available, no Linux, no Android.
2. Onenote would be awesome. I read that there was an iPhone version available? Android should be coing soon hopefully.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I was about to say that you're insane and that MS would never make OneNote for iOS but.. turns out you're right. That's really strange. Hopefully they start work on an Android version soon.
Edit: The iOS version of OneNote doesn't seem all that great. You can't write with a stylus.. it's just keyboard input. lame. Writing with a capacitive stylus on the transformer would kind of suck anyway, but I might still consider the HTC Flyer which has an active digitizer.
smaskell said:
I was about to say that you're insane and that MS would never make OneNote for iOS but.. turns out you're right. That's really strange. Hopefully they start work on an Android version soon.
Edit: The iOS version of OneNote doesn't seem all that great. You can't write with a stylus.. it's just keyboard input. lame. Writing with a capacitive stylus on the transformer would kind of suck anyway, but I might still consider the HTC Flyer which has an active digitizer.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Right, but I'm interested in the Transformer almost purely because of the keyboard dock, so keyboard input only is fine with me tbh. As long as it's decently full featured.
I'm waiting to see if the AMD Llano will make the best thin gaming laptop. Hopefully, new AMD laptops will come out in June, right before back-to-school season.
Oh yeah, OneNote. Yeah, that's important too.
joe_dude said:
Oh yeah, OneNote. Yeah, that's important too.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Onenote is the single most useful piece of software MS has ever produced (Excluding win7;p))
Virtual Machines? Eh, I never needed to use one except when I was using a Mac. Wandering what you guys are doing with it.
Any laptop that is 13"+ in screen size is good. The power of the computer depends on what you plan to do. So you have to decide on the specs yourself. Dual Core is fine unless you plan to do any CPU intensive tasks. If you ever need a bigger screen, then you can just buy a monitor and hook it up so even a netbook could be fine if you are okay with the power it gives. 13"-15" is good. 17" is just monstrous and you don't want to be lugging that around.
Im undecided if i should buy the TF or the iPAD2.
I enjoy android hence my Sony Ericsson Xperia X10 2.3
I have been reading reviews on both tablets but im still undecided but i would like to have the TF as i prefer android but i want to know if its better than iPAD2.
i need the tablet to browse the net wifi, read books and documents, type documents on it, watch movies on a plane, enjoy good prudctivity and game apps too without too much glitches.
Please advice as im purchasing either one next week.
A similiar thread I started, before bought mine:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1248557
davebugyi said:
A similiar thread I started, before bought mine:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1248557
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
thanx mate...i was specifically looking for reasons why i should buy the TF either than the ipad2.
do u still have urz? enjoying it still? i read a review that some android apps are not made for tablets.
I use both my laptop and TF all the time, both have their own purpose and neither of them and fully replace the other in my opinion. At least not yet.
If I was in your situation I would have wait until the transformer prime released (TF2) on November. but if you can't wait buy the tf1, you won't regrat it.
I would say that it might be closer to replacing a NETbook, but not a notebook.
You can of course do basic things like email, youtube, watch video, and web browsing (although I haven't found this to be as good an experience as I had hoped). But I wouldn't rely on it to do seriously productive things yet (like typing documents etc). Its not impossible... its just not quite there yet IMO.
Definitely get the ipad 2.
khakhi said:
thanx mate...i was specifically looking for reasons why i should buy the TF either than the ipad2.
do u still have urz? enjoying it still? i read a review that some android apps are not made for tablets.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I still have mine. But it is more like a netbook replacement than a notebook
Some apps are not, but developement is underway. But as Siad, i'd wait a bit longer and get the Transformer Prime
goodintentions said:
Definitely get the ipad 2.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
But y? thats my question.
look, i want to get the TF but i would like to know that it is worth getting regarding being up to the same level as the ipad2.
i like the flexibility of android but i would like to know if the TF is quality too and wont glitch, freeze, crash frequently.
goodintentions said:
Definitely get the ipad 2.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
yes definately
goodintentions said:
Definitely get the ipad 2.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
reaperzero said:
yes definately
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
http://www.gsmarena.com/compare.php3?idPhone1=3936&idPhone2=3847
this can say otherwise
The-Original-Ki said:
I would say that it might be closer to replacing a NETbook, but not a notebook.
You can of course do basic things like email, youtube, watch video, and web browsing (although I haven't found this to be as good an experience as I had hoped). But I wouldn't rely on it to do seriously productive things yet (like typing documents etc). Its not impossible... its just not quite there yet IMO.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I use my Transformer for this no problems.
Android has few if any "Serious" editors and even less useful tools for creating rich content that isn't HTML; Polaris Office is the most useful I've seen. Being ARM and Linux based however, I am able to run vim and other serious editors like GNU emacs on my transformer. I can even access more serious type setting tools for creating rich and or structured content.
Now if you live and die by MS Excel & PowerPoop, that might be a big problem.
Just for native-ness, I've thought of creating a vim/emacs style Android app and trying to stitch it to a Lua interp over RPC (to be used ala elisp), but have yet to have that big a need of yanking text from my terminal to other apps, versus just using e.g. Dropboxes editor for that.
If you have a pc and an always on internet connection, if you are savy enough, you can set up a remote desktop server on your pc by using VNC or Splashtop Remote Streamer. This may be alot to set up initially, but once its set up, its a great solution to this issue, so you won't have to carry around both your PC and your tab. Splashtop is a great program that makes it appear that your native PC OS is native to your tab. The downside to splashtop is that it does not encrypt your remote desktop sessions.
I don't know what you are looing to hear?The number of which one is better? This is totally subjective.
Go and try both of them out and then choose one.
khakhi said:
But y? thats my question.
look, i want to get the TF but i would like to know that it is worth getting regarding being up to the same level as the ipad2.
i like the flexibility of android but i would like to know if the TF is quality too and wont glitch, freeze, crash frequently.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Everybody's got an ipad 2. So, obviously, it's better than the TF. Also, I'd like to see less whining in the TF forums. Apple's already got an army of whiners. One more wouldn't hurt them.
---------- Post added at 01:13 AM ---------- Previous post was at 01:09 AM ----------
Spidey01 said:
.
Now if you live and die by MS Excel & PowerPoop, that might be a big problem.
.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is not true. I've made several ppp on my TF. I've also written a bunch of stuff with it. And I live and die by excel spreadsheet.
If you're looking for something free, of course polaris is inadequate.
I have bought quickoffice, freethink (or thinkfree, I always forget), officesuite pro, and doc2go. Between these, I can do everything I need to.
---------- Post added at 01:16 AM ---------- Previous post was at 01:13 AM ----------
khakhi said:
http://www.gsmarena.com/compare.php3?idPhone1=3936&idPhone2=3847
this can say otherwise
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Doesn't matter what that comparison chart says. The ipad 2 is the king of the hill right now. Have you any idea how many times I've heard people on the train say "asus transformer? What is that?" Yet, everybody knows what the ipad is.
What's more, everytime I show people my TF, people always say "oh, it's an ipad..."
I still say if you have to ask which one to get, it's best that you get the ipad 2. If there's any disappointment after getting it, let apple and the iOS community deal with the inevitable whining session. And based on my experience with tablet users, there will undoubtedly be disappointments. Most people will start out trying to use the tablet like a laptop anyway.
I absolutely love my TF still, and I'm a big fan of Android. I dont know. The TF will do anything that the ipad can do and more, with the ability to customize and change whatever you want.
Being able to set up your TF like this is a great way to show why honeycomb is amazing. There's no way to even come close to setting up your ipad like this:
HUBS!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TrzQPkbkYOw
I need to upload a video of my hubs.... it's a GREAT way to use your tab
Ipad 2 or TF? If you plan to type more, use the editing options for word, excel etc, watch movies then go for the transformer. The extra laptop dock should be very helpful too. But if you are more inclined to play games, then go buy the ipad2,. Or.... Just wait for the prime. The Kal EL processor is a beast.
My girlfriend ditched her netbook for the TF months ago and hasnt had only one complaint. Her netbook had a VGA out and the TF only has HDMI. 99% of projectors dont support HDMI yet so she has to break out the old Dell to do that.
But otherwise you can open/edit office docs, PDFs, all websites, etc. She loves it. Even used it to take pictures of, edit and display cells and such she is working on.
ryan stewart said:
Her netbook had a VGA out and the TF only has HDMI. 99% of projectors dont support HDMI yet so she has to break out the old Dell to do that.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Maybe it has a DVI input? There are plenty of HDMI adapters available. In fact, there are also HDMI to VGA adapters.
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The-Original-Ki said:
I would say that it might be closer to replacing a NETbook, but not a notebook.
You can of course do basic things like email, youtube, watch video, and web browsing (although I haven't found this to be as good an experience as I had hoped). But I wouldn't rely on it to do seriously productive things yet (like typing documents etc). Its not impossible... its just not quite there yet IMO.
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I have to agree great replacement for the netbook I think if i had a real laptop I would probably play w them both about the same
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Hello
I just orderd a Motorola Xoom 32GB 3G for 220€ and I was wondering if Motorola Xoom will work fine to complement for studies in example universety? What app's is then required that works fine for Xoom+studies? I understand that the Ipad is superior when it comes to handy apps for studies is there something likely for Xoom or should I cancel the order? Does any bluetooth keyboard+mouse work or is it only a few?
Let me hear your thoughts..
The Motorola BT keyboard and mouse work great, and I know that a number of others also do. There are lots of writing/note taking apps as well as apps that allow you to read and mark-up pdfs, etc.
It has a good wifi connection ability, and is very portable, as you know. You should update it to ICS as soon as possible.
a favorite or two
just quick... i am not currently a student but i am a teacher. i use Springpad a lot to take notes on projects and meetings and such. it is an essential for me. after that the essentials are thumbpad and an office program. I just saw a thread that looked like it would review the office apps. the only reason the ipad. is better is it got to the market first, it isn't actually better.
okantomi said:
The Motorola BT keyboard and mouse work great, and I know that a number of others also do. There are lots of writing/note taking apps as well as apps that allow you to read and mark-up pdfs, etc.
It has a good wifi connection ability, and is very portable, as you know. You should update it to ICS as soon as possible.
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Is there any apps that is compatible with microsoft's word? If I for instance write something on my Xoom and then want to edit it with Microsoft Word, is that possible?
Do any keyboard/mouse with bluetooth or USB work with Xoom?
romdroid. said:
Is there any apps that is compatible with microsoft's word? If I for instance write something on my Xoom and then want to edit it with Microsoft Word, is that possible?
Do any keyboard/mouse with bluetooth or USB work with Xoom?
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I'm using the Bluetooth Keyboard case and love it along with the logitech bluetooth mouse. But any bluetooth mouse will work.
And there are various programs you can use to do that. I like Quickoffice Pro personally.
omac_ranger said:
I'm using the Bluetooth Keyboard case and love it along with the logitech bluetooth mouse. But any bluetooth mouse will work.
And there are various programs you can use to do that. I like Quickoffice Pro personally.
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Is Quickoffice Pro compatible with Microsoft's Word? If so then I dont thing i'll never find a greater laptop/netbook for the price of this Xoom with dualcore, camera etc.
Also is it neccesary to be a wirless bluetooth keyboard? regular wirless keyboard with usb-stick that goes in the usb-port in pc for example doesn't work in xoom?
Radio (RF) does it work with xoom?
romdroid. said:
Is Quickoffice Pro compatible with Microsoft's Word? If so then I dont thing i'll never find a greater laptop/netbook for the price of this Xoom with dualcore, camera etc.
Also is it neccesary to be a wirless bluetooth keyboard? regular wirless keyboard with usb-stick that goes in the usb-port in pc for example doesn't work in xoom?
Radio (RF) does it work with xoom?
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Yeah Quickoffice pro is compatible, the only issue is that you might have to go back to word to do some final formatting (like the headers and such). Other than that it works great. I have all my schoolwork synced with Dropbox so I can edit it on the go with Quickoffice. It has built in support for Dropbox.
If you want to use a usb device you're going to have to order an micro-usb to usb OTG adapter. It doesn't have a full size usb port, which I'm sure you know.
I do not believe that radio works on the xoom...
My Xoom is great for what I do at school. I've had it for a semester so far, and I must say it's fantastic to just have to carry this around rather than a backpack full of stuff. With the Kindle app I can download most of my textbooks, and you can highlight and bookmark pages right in the app. Plus with the apps that support office documents (QuickOffice, DocumentstoGo, ThinkFree, and others) you can edit and even print (with compatible printers) papers and stuff. It's a great tool. I plan on buying a logitech keyboard/stand for mine for when I go back to school, that way it's easier to take notes in class.
omac_ranger said:
Yeah Quickoffice pro is compatible, the only issue is that you might have to go back to word to do some final formatting (like the headers and such). Other than that it works great. I have all my schoolwork synced with Dropbox so I can edit it on the go with Quickoffice. It has built in support for Dropbox.
If you want to use a usb device you're going to have to order an micro-usb to usb OTG adapter. It doesn't have a full size usb port, which I'm sure you know.
I do not believe that radio works on the xoom...
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Are you sure that RF radio wirless keyboard's and mouse doesn't work? I thought i read somewhere it did but u need to use an otg cable
I use my Xoom to read .pdf's all the times, and use Internet when class is boring! but just for it, I hate "typing" in Xoom, so I use notepads yet!
romdroid. said:
Is there any apps that is compatible with microsoft's word? If I for instance write something on my Xoom and then want to edit it with Microsoft Word, is that possible?
Do any keyboard/mouse with bluetooth or USB work with Xoom?
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All of the full office suite will allow that but I recommend Office Suite Pro. It has the most compatibility and the most features, IMHO.
I always had typing lag issues with that one, which annoyed the hell out of me
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omac_ranger said:
I always had typing lag issues with that one, which annoyed the hell out of me
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ICS has eliminated any typing lag, for me and from all reports, from just about everyone.
Does anyone know for sure if any RF wirless keyboard and mouse work with Xoom? With OTG cable..?
romdroid. said:
Does anyone know for sure if any RF wirless keyboard and mouse work with Xoom? With OTG cable..?
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I'll be able to test this soon. I've ordered an OTG cable from Amazon that should be here any day. I also have a couple of wireless devices so I'll let you know when I get it in.
One thing to be aware of is the increasing amount of homework that is done online now. You need very specific OS/software requirements to be able to do these online assignments. If the only computer you have is a xoom you will have to borrow a roommates PC or use a computer lab to do all your homework. Depending on your major there may also be software tools that you can only use on a PC. So just be prepared for that.
nukedukem said:
One thing to be aware of is the increasing amount of homework that is done online now. You need very specific OS/software requirements to be able to do these online assignments. If the only computer you have is a xoom you will have to borrow a roommates PC or use a computer lab to do all your homework. Depending on your major there may also be software tools that you can only use on a PC. So just be prepared for that.
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I currently use my Xoom for all of my online homework. The only issue it's given me is no keyboard pops up when in flash based content. But other than that it had been compatible with everything so far.
I do see where you're coming from as far as actual software goes. Just wanted to give a heads up saying that it works well for everything else.
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omac_ranger said:
I currently use my Xoom for all of my online homework. The only issue it's given me is no keyboard pops up when in flash based content. But other than that it had been compatible with everything so far.
I do see where you're coming from as far as actual software goes. Just wanted to give a heads up saying that it works well for everything else.
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I wasn't as fortunate. Every online homework program was different so I think it just comes down to luck. One application required me to open specific ports for communication, another only ran in explorer, ect. Just a real PITA. But like I said there is always a computer lab or a roommate where you can find a PC if you need one. If you live on campus its not an issue to get to a computer lab. I always lived off campus and did homework late at night after lab hours so I had a netbook that was portable and had 9 hours of battery, plus guaranteed compatibility with any required program. I was taking mostly science courses and document collaboration was necessary so using a tablet to make edits to a document would have been doable but not ideal. PowerPoint presentation would have been impossible on a tablet given the complex nature of the presentations. Like I say you just have to evaluate your specific needs.
I use my Xoom for graduate school class to take notes and for presentations at work. A cheap laptop is sometimes a better deal. I bought mine at launch and for that price it was a waste of money but if you can get one for less than 250 USD, it isn't a bad deal for that use.
Even with Office Suite Pro (I've also tried all the others,) the office like apps are lacking. You still need the desktop version of Word to do real work with it. It still loses some page formatting and references aren't robust enough yet. OneNote just doesn't seem to be happening. There is a program out there that sort of does it but we really need the attention that Microsoft gave iOS for the iPhone and iPad versions. The office emulators are worth waiting until Amazon is offering them for free. The development teams should charge more for the apps but integrate more features. It's cheap now, but it's hard to justify $10 when you have to go to the desktop anyway. You could have saved your money, used a free text editor and put the document on a desktop to finalize. Editing office docs is convenient but you still run the risk of losing things.
It still isn't that good for PowerPoint presentations. If you convert your slide show to PDF you get along a little better. The Xoom's screen is a lot nicer than what you'll be getting out of most projectors so you have to be careful. Plugging in through HDMI will not save it. This isn't the fault of the Xoom it's just what happens when you use cheap projectors. It's just more noticeable when you have nice visuals in your hands yet on the big screen it's a washed out mess for hundreds of people to see.
Just remember that this is a cheap stop gap measure until the technology catches up. If lightweight mobility in a device that you can use to organize your teaching work is the biggest priority, this isn't a bad option but if you really need the features and not a toy, you're better off with a cheap HP laptop. It can do everything you need even though it's a boat anchor.
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Thanks for your reply's guys. I wont start university untill after the summer, hopefully I then will begin law school, if I am lucky I have a chance to go to an universety near my home and then having avablity of a PC will not be a problem.
I bought the Xoom for 325$ with motorolas dock, otg cable and folder case. It is the 32GB with 3G. Do you think that the apps for tablets will expand and we can have similar good apps like ipads?
I am using my dear little Infinity as a word manager at school which works somewhat good. I wish that Google Drive worked better with the browsers tho, maybe it will work better in the future
Back to the main question, to print documents I have to use it from a computer at school which in general means I have to save it in Word doc format. Sofar I find that OfficeSuite works best but it is usually a big difference how it formats the page compared to Word on the computers at school. Do you have any tips for minimizing this, like a better working Word app for Android or such?
Currently it's Textmaker from Softmaker - it's the only one that holds Word formatting and you can just import fonts from Windows. The UI takes a bit of getting used to, though.
I quite like smart office.
Ok, Ill try that when I get a bit more cash Kinda irritating that I bought OfficeSuite about a month ago before I asked this question... =)
EDIT: Is SoftMakers Presentations good too? Because its the same with the Presentations with all the different Office packs Ive tried, they simply dont work good.
dgjl said:
Currently it's Textmaker from Softmaker - it's the only one that holds Word formatting and you can just import fonts from Windows. The UI takes a bit of getting used to, though.
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for words, i generally use officesuite pro.
but for powerpoint, i like quickoffice better.
the other choice you have is kingsoft office, but i never tried it. many people say it's pretty good.
i think it's more of personal preferences rather than the software it self.
I use OfficeSuite Pro 6 but find that it's choppy with a simple Word document. Anyone else experience this? Maybe it has to do with the fact that I'm using Dropbox to keep documents synced, but I doubt it. Feature wise though, OP6 seems pretty nice, never had an issue aside from performance. Doesn't seem to slow down on my X2.
hobs0n said:
Ok, Ill try that when I get a bit more cash Kinda irritating that I bought OfficeSuite about a month ago before I asked this question... =)
EDIT: Is SoftMakers Presentations good too? Because its the same with the Presentations with all the different Office packs Ive tried, they simply dont work good.
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Softmaker's PP is pretty good - it keeps most formatting and it allows for animations. Not so good for creating PPs,
Thanx for your tips but as I said, none other than TextMaker seems to keep the format which is the most important part for me Hopefully they will fix that in the future tho And I spent the money for TextMaker yesterday =) And as you said, not the best gui...
Hi from Rage by the way hobs0n
kingsoft is amazing! seriously i have office suite, quick office and documents to go, and by far kingsoft is the best. Plus its free. Just try it out and you will see what im talking about.
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pierrekid said:
kingsoft is amazing! seriously i have office suite, quick office and documents to go, and by far kingsoft is the best. Plus its free. Just try it out and you will see what im talking about.
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I agree! the ui of kingsoft is amazing. It much much much better than officesuit pro and polaris office.
And it is free!!!
noobwow said:
I agree! the ui of kingsoft is amazing. It much much much better than officesuit pro and polaris office.
And it is free!!!
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Another vote for Kingsoft.
I really like Kingsoft as well. My only issue with it, is that it doesn't know how to handle equations and certain symbols properly, so I usually just ask someone to export it to pdf and send it to me.
I've fond that a mixture works best for me.
For Spreadsheets, I find that my old, tried, tested and true Docs2Go works best, for both viewing existing spreadsheets and for adding new data. I bought D2G a long time ago when they put it on an absurd sale price.
For Word docs, it's a toss up, bit it seems like Kingsoft is edging out the competition. QuickOffice is a very close second. I got the Pro version of QO via Amazon Market place when they had it on sale for free.
For PPTs, well, I haven't found anything that is fool proof, other than a laptop running Windows XP+ and M$ Office 2007+.
On my Infinity, I've got like 5 suites installed to try to test this out (it's funny seeing 2 rows of icons asking me which program I want to open .docx, .xlsx, and .pptx files every time lol).
Here's to wishing that CloudON was working on the Infinity - problem solved, from what I hear.
I'm almost tempted to start using my RDP Client and using my home beast to do all of this stuff....sheesh.
Thanx again all for the tips and replys but I have already decided, TextMaker is the only one thats interesting because the other ones have too much difference in formating
berfles said:
Hi from Rage by the way hobs0n
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Hoho why hallo thare =) Same name on R3D?
I use textmaker out of all programs including quickoffice HD and kingsoft, and that is the only one that keeps up with my typing speed, and seems to have the most functionality and ease of use, as well as a built in spell check, that once downloaded and installed works amazingly. It is basically the only program I use for writing, and has gotten rid of my chief grievance, that I miss MSword, about my switch from a laptop to a tablet for daily use.
It's fairly cheap too.
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After some testing I use Officesuite
Only suit with which the spreadsheet is not a letdown and where you can use the arrow keys on the keyboard to navigate.
Haven't used Softmakers SW yet
Though every improvement in Office programs is welcome... since it's definitely a weak spot of Android for now
I've only used Polaris Office and OfficeSuite. I can't really pick a favorite. We should have MS Office availability in May 2013 so that's cool. I've used Office 2013 on the Surface and it blows away any of the Android Office products.
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Ah yah, I'm looking forward to the ms office, hopefully it will be much better than the other android office suits
Try moffice:laugh: