What's up with webcams? - Monitors

As a webcam usually goes on top of a monitor, this is the nearest topic to post in
So. I got a Logitech HD Webcam C270 back in 2013 for about €18 and figured after 9 years it was time for an upgrade. The foot has broken off so it doesn't properly stand on my monitor any longer and the image is quite poor compared to any modern selfie camera on a phone.
Boy was I surprised how messed up this market has become! THEY ARE STILL SELLING 720P WEBCAMS! And not only are they still selling poor quality webcams, they are charging big bucks for them too! I can apparently still buy the same C270 I got back in 2013 for €35 today! Looking at the cheapest 1080P version on the Logitech website, which is a C920S HD PRO, it costs €100! There are €100 smartphones with better cameras! The most expensive Logitech webcam in that list is €250 and that's far from the most expensive one out there.
I can get a pretty good deal on a Razer Kiyo X (€40), which is reviewed as one of the best. Worth it? Better alternatives?
What happened to webcams anyway? After 2 years of video meetings you'd think there would've been some progress in this area but that doesn't seem to be the case. I'd probably even get better results transforming my old OnePlus One into a webcam, no? At least that supported [email protected] BACK IN 2013 for about the same price of 4K webcams today!

Timmmmaaahh! said:
As a webcam usually goes on top of a monitor, this is the nearest topic to post in
So. I got a Logitech HD Webcam C270 back in 2013 for about €18 and figured after 9 years it was time for an upgrade. The foot has broken off so it doesn't properly stand on my monitor any longer and the image is quite poor compared to any modern selfie camera on a phone.
Boy was I surprised how messed up this market has become! THEY ARE STILL SELLING 720P WEBCAMS! And not only are they still selling poor quality webcams, they are charging big bucks for them too! I can apparently still buy the same C270 I got back in 2013 for €35 today! Looking at the cheapest 1080P version on the Logitech website, which is a C920S HD PRO, it costs €100! There are €100 smartphones with better cameras! The most expensive Logitech webcam in that list is €250 and that's far from the most expensive one out there.
I can get a pretty good deal on a Razer Kiyo X (€40), which is reviewed as one of the best. Worth it? Better alternatives?
What happened to webcams anyway? After 2 years of video meetings you'd think there would've been some progress in this area but that doesn't seem to be the case. I'd probably even get better results transforming my old OnePlus One into a webcam, no? At least that supported [email protected] BACK IN 2013 for about the same price of 4K webcams today!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm using this Webcam on top of a monitor, but also 3 others(build in into a HP Elite book, Lenovo ThinkPad, Philips 272B7 Monitor) and indeed, the built in one's of the notebooks are better(sharper), only the one from the Philips Monitor is the worst(not so sharp).
The price is good, the mounting very versatile and the mic is fine. For the price

If you don't want pay that cost and use android smartphone, you can use DroidCamX, this app uses a smartphone and wifi signal o USB cable for transfer video to your PC, I use this for stream games on YT with OBS.

Related

G-Tablet still worth it, or..

Alright, short and sweet;
I'm in the market for a Tablet - this will be my first, although I'm not new to smartphones/android - and I'd decided to get the G-Tablet.. until I read about the Motorola Xoom.
I like how clean the Xoom looks, how thin it is and how small the frame around the display is. I also like that it's a Motorola product, meaning there will probably be an abundance of spare parts on ebay in the following months should I need a digitizer or what have you. I don't like that I'll probably have to wait to root and modify - judging it based on Motorola's recent history with Android devices and how well they're locked down.
I like the hardware and hackability of the G-Tablet, and the fact that I can pick one up tomorrow at-will. Is there any reason NOT to get the G-Tablet right now?! This tablet will need to last me until around Christmas.
So, in your opinions, throw some pros and cons at me and lets decide which route I should go.. G-Tablet or Xoom (once it's out).
I think the biggest pro would be...it'll be a lot cheaper than the Xoom. Aside from a better screen, camera, and form factor...the gtablet should be up to par with the Xoom.
I'm pretty sure that the Gtablet will get honeycomb so it should keep the device fresh. I think it'll last you til next Xmas but I'm sure temptations to ditch the gtab will be abundant next year.
Yea the price-point for the xoom, I'm guessing, will be on par with the Galaxy Tab, if not slightly more, which would put it out of my price range.
Hows the display on the Gtablet? I've heard mixed reviews.. but I'd expect alot of viewsonic.. pics would be great if anyone has any.
Sent from my Evo 4G running AvaFroyo w/ MakMod using TapaTalk Pro
.mak said:
Yea the price-point for the xoom, I'm guessing, will be on par with the Galaxy Tab, if not slightly more, which would put it out of my price range.
Hows the display on the Gtablet? I've heard mixed reviews.. but I'd expect alot of viewsonic.. pics would be great if anyone has any.
Sent from my Evo 4G running AvaFroyo w/ MakMod using TapaTalk Pro
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The screen isn't so great on the gtablet, but if you are mostly using it from straight on it isn't a problem.
As for the Xoom, I think I'm going to be looking at other tablets. Viewsonic is supposed to release a newer tegra 2 tablet at the end of the first quarter, which looks design-wise more like the Xoom.
I would maybe, maybe get another motorolla phone to replace my droid x because it is something I rely on and don't modify it that much. However, I would never buy a locked down motorolla tablet. And worse yet, I've heard the locking down is only going to get worse with them. It's too bad because they make nice hardware.
I agree. Locked down=deal breaker. If you want to go locked down why not go ipad?
The screen on the gtab is fine for my needs (but who wouldnt prefer "better").
The developer support for gtab seems top notch and it will get better by the month for at least six months to a year. With any thing too locked down what started out as better than a competiting device could easily be getting its a$$ handed to it by said device 4 months later.
I think with CES in the first week of this year you will have a number of announcements of tablets, where I expect shipments by mid-year. I for one don't want a tablet with a data plan and I believe the Motorola will ship with a cellular data modem which will drive higher cost, carrier ties, etc.
The Acer tablets look interesting, but from the pictures on the web it isn't clear if their displays are any better.
.mak said:
Alright, short and sweet;
I'm in the market for a Tablet - this will be my first, although I'm not new to smartphones/android - and I'd decided to get the G-Tablet.. until I read about the Motorola Xoom.
.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
vsc said:
I think with CES in the first week of this year you will have a number of announcements of tablets, where I expect shipments by mid-year. I for one don't want a tablet with a data plan and I believe the Motorola will ship with a cellular data modem which will drive higher cost, carrier ties, etc.
The Acer tablets look interesting, but from the pictures on the web it isn't clear if their displays are any better.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I would have to agree, part of the reason why I went with a G-Tablet was because I don't want any type of cellular support. That's why I have a cell phone with hotspot capabilities.
After seeing what the folks here have been able to do with the tablet, especially after going Vegan, this thing is simply amazing. The fact that even Viewsonic even recognizes (in a roundabout way), on their own site, the work that is being done here is "icing on the cake" for me...
It depends if you want to wait or not. Point is the CES products will be MONTHS away and almost certainly more expensive. THEN you will have to wait for a dev community to acclimate and publish software for the product.
1. Gtablet is here NOW
2. Less than $400
3. Tegra 2 (like the best of those devices will have)
4. Dev community is producing NOW
5. Easy market hack NOW. No guarantee for future products.
6. Speaking of guarantees, do you think the products being shown at CES will be as root friendly?
Agree with what others have said already about Gtab. I used my Gtab 99.9% of the time in landscape mode so viewing angle wasn't a problem for me (though in portrait mode you need to tilt a little sideway but not much to get a good viewing angle).
If you are a hobbyist (which I think you are based on the # of projects you are currently working on) and like to tweak things then Gtab is definitely worth looking at. It is so hackable and unbrickable that it's a dev heaven for Android development. I have learned a lot by playing with different ROMs on the Gtab. Dev guys like Roebeet, Rothnic, Gojimi, Clemsyn, etc., have been keeping us busy around the clock with new builds/tricks/support that I probably will still play with it around Xmas 2011
If you are lucky you might be able to snatch a refurb Gtab from Sears outlet for $279. I got mine on sales at Sears for $349 last month brand new.
Cons:
No built-in kickstand (I modified an iPad kickstand from 5Below for $5; works perfectly though)
No perfectly fit screen protector yet (I modified an iPad screen protector to fit my Gtab screen)
No rear camera (I don't miss it but not sure about you)
No multi-finger touch (two fingers only on Gtab; not sure if it's s/w or h/w limitation but I don't find it to be an issue but would like to point it out)
No built-in GPS (but works with Bluetooth GPS to grab GPS data from your phone or other bluetooth GPS devices)
Does not support smooth playback of H.264 High Profile Encoded HD Video (you will have to convert to Main Profile before watching it on Gtab)
Hard-to-find case holder for Gtab (unlike iPad where tons of them are available)
Video Conferencing app support is still not yet widely available (only Yahoo Messenger seems to work so far but image quality is not great; others like Fring & Tango have failed on Gtab but I believe it's software on the app itself)
rothnic said:
The screen isn't so great on the gtablet, but if you are mostly using it from straight on it isn't a problem.
As for the Xoom, I think I'm going to be looking at other tablets. Viewsonic is supposed to release a newer tegra 2 tablet at the end of the first quarter, which looks design-wise more like the Xoom.
I would maybe, maybe get another motorolla phone to replace my droid x because it is something I rely on and don't modify it that much. However, I would never buy a locked down motorolla tablet. And worse yet, I've heard the locking down is only going to get worse with them. It's too bad because they make nice hardware.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The screen is my only concern at this point.. I guess GPS is an issue for me since I'd want to use this thing as a giant navigation unit on occasion, but I always have my Evo around so whatever I guess..
rushless said:
It depends if you want to wait or not. Point is the CES products will be MONTHS away and almost certainly more expensive. THEN you will have to wait for a dev community to acclimate and publish software for the product.
1. Gtablet is here NOW
2. Less than $400
3. Tegra 2 (like the best of those devices will have)
4. Dev community is producing NOW
5. Easy market hack NOW. No guarantee for future products.
6. Speaking of guarantees, do you think the products being shown at CES will be as root friendly?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
All very good points that I'd taken into account, but was hoping someone would point out to further my belief that the G-Tablet is a wise investment.
samepic said:
Agree with what others have said already about Gtab. I used my Gtab 99.9% of the time in landscape mode so viewing angle wasn't a problem for me (though in portrait mode you need to tilt a little sideway but not much to get a good viewing angle).
If you are a hobbyist (which I think you are based on the # of projects you are currently working on) and like to tweak things then Gtab is definitely worth looking at. It is so hackable and unbrickable that it's a dev heaven for Android development. I have learned a lot by playing with different ROMs on the Gtab. Dev guys like Roebeet, Rothnic, Gojimi, Clemsyn, etc., have been keeping us busy around the clock with new builds/tricks/support that I probably will still play with it around Xmas 2011
If you are lucky you might be able to snatch a refurb Gtab from Sears outlet for $279. I got mine on sales at Sears for $349 last month brand new.
Cons:
No built-in kickstand (I modified an iPad kickstand from 5Below for $5; works perfectly though)
No perfectly fit screen protector yet (I modified an iPad screen protector to fit my Gtab screen)
No rear camera (I don't miss it but not sure about you)
No multi-finger touch (two fingers only on Gtab; not sure if it's s/w or h/w limitation but I don't find it to be an issue but would like to point it out)
No built-in GPS (but works with Bluetooth GPS to grab GPS data from your phone or other bluetooth GPS devices)
Does not support smooth playback of H.264 High Profile Encoded HD Video (you will have to convert to Main Profile before watching it on Gtab)
Hard-to-find case holder for Gtab (unlike iPad where tons of them are available)
Video Conferencing app support is still not yet widely available (only Yahoo Messenger seems to work so far but image quality is not great; others like Fring & Tango have failed on Gtab but I believe it's software on the app itself)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Accessories, rear camera and multi-touch aren't a problem for me.. two-finger zoom is all I use on my devices anyway. Video conferencing is important, but only to an extent.. No GPS is problematic, but I can bluetooth my Evo in.
None of these are deal-breakers but, in the end, without video chat, without gps, with jittery playback of h.264 video and poor display quality, I'm wondering what I'll use the G-Tablet for lol
I suppose I'd be using this for media playback around the house and while traveling, same with web browsing (with Flash, and I'll tether to my Evo when away from home), Netflix when it becomes available (I'm sure there'll be a hack for that) and Google Maps.. does it support v5 Maps with 3d buildings??
As for the iPad comment earlier in the thread; I thought about it, but I like widgets and expansion way too much to go with the iPad.
samepic said:
Agree with what others have said already about Gtab. I used my Gtab 99.9% of the time in landscape mode so viewing angle wasn't a problem for me (though in portrait mode you need to tilt a little sideway but not much to get a good viewing angle).
If you are a hobbyist (which I think you are based on the # of projects you are currently working on) and like to tweak things then Gtab is definitely worth looking at. It is so hackable and unbrickable that it's a dev heaven for Android development. I have learned a lot by playing with different ROMs on the Gtab. Dev guys like Roebeet, Rothnic, Gojimi, Clemsyn, etc., have been keeping us busy around the clock with new builds/tricks/support that I probably will still play with it around Xmas 2011
If you are lucky you might be able to snatch a refurb Gtab from Sears outlet for $279. I got mine on sales at Sears for $349 last month brand new.
Cons:
No built-in kickstand (I modified an iPad kickstand from 5Below for $5; works perfectly though)
No perfectly fit screen protector yet (I modified an iPad screen protector to fit my Gtab screen)
No rear camera (I don't miss it but not sure about you)
No multi-finger touch (two fingers only on Gtab; not sure if it's s/w or h/w limitation but I don't find it to be an issue but would like to point it out)
No built-in GPS (but works with Bluetooth GPS to grab GPS data from your phone or other bluetooth GPS devices)
Does not support smooth playback of H.264 High Profile Encoded HD Video (you will have to convert to Main Profile before watching it on Gtab)
Hard-to-find case holder for Gtab (unlike iPad where tons of them are available)
Video Conferencing app support is still not yet widely available (only Yahoo Messenger seems to work so far but image quality is not great; others like Fring & Tango have failed on Gtab but I believe it's software on the app itself)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
kindle dx cases fit the gtab nicely
Gentlemen:
Lots of good thoughts and ideas -- but I have one that hasn't been mentioned.
Simply put, I'm not rich but if something really better comes out I'll go buy one!!!
I bought two G-Tabs for the fun of playing on the bleeding edge and for personal use. I already have more than justified what I spent with what I have done already!!! I'm even. And I still have a lot more playing to do.
I have accepted the fact that Viewsonic accomplished what they intended in getting a tablet with good hardware and "open" software on the market early. Did they miss the mark on the software -- we may never know except for what we have found in using the tablet.
But they have responded and the devs have catered to us and so far as I can see it we all are having a blast.
I saw a report that an estimated 80 tablet devices will be announced at CES!!!
Got to be something worth playing with in there. But most them are months away. When they are really available we'll see.....
For now, here's to a Happy New Year and lots of fun until it's time to do it again!!!!
Rev
I had mine for almost two weeks and just returned mine to Office Depot. Some of my reasoning is that while it's fast, it feels cheap and the display quality just kills me. Also the Samsung Galaxy Tab just dropped to $500 with no contract from Verizon. CES is just around the corner and I have a feeling that there's going to be a slew of tablets from different vendors. Best buy already has 3 different android tablets in the store since the Fall.
I did enjoy the aspect of it being easy to flash and VEGAn is great, but the lack of being able to run Google Location Services and VOIP kinda also killed it for me. Then the few reports of the power port being knocked loose, made me decide to return it.
After days of researching and some great replies here, I'm positive I'm going to hold off for CES to pass and see what's being offered.
I've decided I need GPS built-in and a better display, and an aluminum body wouldn't hurt either! (but it's unlikely..).
I may grab an iPad used and lowball someone, just to hold me over until CES passes and the new tablets hit stores.. by then Netflix may have the Android app out, and I'll have had a few solid months using it on the iPad.
If I get an iPad for now, I'll also grab the Desktop Connect software so can mess with my laptop through the ipad.
This should hold me over for now, thanks guys!
I just wanted to add my 0.02 for anyone else contemplating the gTab. My wife and I got an iPad this weekend from my Mom for christmas, and since we weren't really looking for a tablet, I hate itunes, I already have a droid x, and I didn't like that she spent so much money, we decided to return the ipad and get an android tablet. Since I only had a day to figure out what we wanted - if anything- I did some frantic searches on the droid x which lead me here. I read about all the issues, the ROMs, and the hardware and decided for the money the Gtab was the way to go. I also thought the screen wouldn't bother me much.
First experience with the Gtab is like everyone else's. Its total crap from the oem. I was reluctant to even let my wife touch it before I modded it. Lucky she doesn't have very high expectations, but she kept asking why everything kept "Force closing" lol.
This is my first time rooting any android device (I've rooted a few linksys routers though) but it was super easy (once I realized the + vol button was the OTHER one). My Gtab is now running VEGAn beta 5 and so far is fantastic. It runs better than my droid x and the only bummer is the missing market stuff. Seems anything GPS related is missing and I'm sure other stuff. I have the droid x paired with the Gtab for GPS and I was hoping the GTab could be my new Giant plotter in my boat but I couldn't find my Navionics software in the market to install. Will have to look into finding a way to install it.
But the real biggest let down surprised me. The screen. I thought it wouldn't matter much to me, but 99% of the time I find myself laying it flat on a desk or my lap in landscape mode and that is the worst possible viewing angle for this device. Quite annoying, but I would still buy (I guess I should say "trade an iPad for") the Gtab again.
The main use will be office productivity for my wife at home/travelling and email/facebook stuff also. I expect it to work well for that.
I was at Best Buy today and almost bit the bullet on an iPad 16GB WiFi, but decided to head to sears and see the G-Tablet on display.. turned out the genius working the counter mistook the cardboard cutout for a real G-Tablet! LOL
Anyway, I decided, regardless of the horrid return policy (30 days, 15% restocking fee unless defective) that I'd take a gTab home with me and give it a shot.
I'm liking it so far, the screen is horrible but I'll adjust. Clockworkmod install was very straightforward, as was installing zPad 3.0 and getting some apps installed (all expected..).
Only time will tell if I regret my purchase.. but if I can get hulu working and some sort of a remote desktop / vnc to control my laptop without loads of lag, I'll be a happy camper.
While I'm on the subject, is there an app similar to AirStream for the iPad? It's VERY fluid and works almost as if you're using Windows (or OSX) from the iPad.. PhoneMyPC is laggy and choppy, LogMeIn is as well.. any others I might try?
The iPad is awful, except the screen
I actually bought an iPad at Worst Buy last week - I just had to test it out. The screen is really very nice and comic viewing is PERFECT on it.
However.....
- No Flash (knew that going in)
- No USB (knew that going in)
- One speaker. That one I didn't expect.
- Mediocre video support. You have to buy an app to get XVID support, and it didn't even work 100% of the time. The GTab might choke on high profile x264's, but it shines on XVID's.
- Mediocre audio support. No WMA, no Vorbis, no FLAC. Nuff said.
- SMB access requires a paid app, and even so it only supported native extensions.
- No drag and drop, and the sharing feature is spotty at best. I would push over a CBR file to Stanza, and 50% of the time the transfer would flat out fail. And I was doing this on a Mac.
The last bullet was the one that "broke the camel's back". I can dump all my CBR's on a NAS device and read them on the GTab (with VEGan b5.1) with no problem. On an iPad, it's a chore to just add a handful of comics. Basically, the device was not designed for me, it was designed for someone who stays within Apple's walled garden and is willing to pay pay pay for all their content (even if they already own it, but it's not supported).
roebeet said:
I actually bought an iPad at Worst Buy last week - I just had to test it out. The screen is really very nice and comic viewing is PERFECT on it.
However.....
- No Flash (knew that going in)
- No USB (knew that going in)
- One speaker. That one I didn't expect.
- Mediocre video support. You have to buy an app to get XVID support, and it didn't even work 100% of the time. The GTab might choke on high profile x264's, but it shines on XVID's.
- Mediocre audio support. No WMA, no Vorbis, no FLAC. Nuff said.
- SMB access requires a paid app, and even so it only supported native extensions.
- No drag and drop, and the sharing feature is spotty at best. I would push over a CBR file to Stanza, and 50% of the time the transfer would flat out fail. And I was doing this on a Mac.
The last bullet was the one that "broke the camel's back". I can dump all my CBR's on a NAS device and read them on the GTab (with VEGan b5.1) with no problem. On an iPad, it's a chore to just add a handful of comics. Basically, the device was not designed for me, it was designed for someone who stays within Apple's walled garden and is willing to pay pay pay for all their content (even if they already own it, but it's not supported).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yep. It's why I never even bothered to look at an iPad when they came out even though I had wanted a tablet ala Newton Messagepad 2100 for YEARS!
h.264 HP: I still think that it's just a driver problem, and all Tegra 2s currently have the same problem. nVidia is still claiming full h.264 and I doubt that they'd continue on with that if the hw wasn't capable... so it's a wait for nVidia to fix thing, or admit that they have a hw bug that they can't workaround w/sw...
My only thing with the gTab was that I wished that the camera was higher res... it's not really extra horrible, but it's not awesome either... just kind of meh...
Still using my gTab mainly for web browsing, occasional video, and I have used it to read in portrait mode before in the past although in that function it's been retired since I picked up a NC last week... but I can see situations where I might revert to it if the NC battery is almost dead and I need something backlit to read on... that said in portrait orientation as a reader it just wasn't comfortable to hold to begin with... NC much better for that...
NC screen: yeah better viewing angles, but turns out not to be very selling to me. OTOH the pixel density is VERY nice, unfortunately B&N QA sucks. (My first NC had a defective USB port, and I had a b!tch of a time getting the yahoos in the store to exchange it, so they have a sh!tty cs experience as well... as in if anything goes defective on #2 in the next week it's going back for cash because of their horrid cs.)
Just for what it's worth, take a look at last year's CES and the one before it and see how many products seen there actually hit the market, and of the ones that did, how many were there that actually made it out in the first 2 quarters?
Any tablet at CES that magically passes those 2 barriers will be so proud of itself, it's going to slap a pricetag of $700+ on itself. History repeats itself, CES is all hype specifically to try and rally you into thinking $700 is a great deal.
I would strongly suggest the $350 gtab for this reason hands down, besides, the $700 one if it even does materialize before Q3, will be sporting an approximation of the hardware of the gtab so we will get all their softwares anyway..
See I don't know about that. I think that carriers and manufacturers learned from the massively overpriced galaxy tab. Over $500 is asking a lot of the average consumer, and my guess would be that a majority off these will be around or below that price. For example the notion ink with the lcd is sub 500, and there are plenty more coming out half as nice looking.
Sent from my T-Mobile G2 using XDA App

Screen quality

Can anyone tell me how the screen looks when compared to a nook color? I am looking for a good tablet that can handle school books and isn't too hard on the eyes. I know the nook screen is great but would like a larger screen than 7". Thanks!
Sent from my Nexus One using XDA App
For me the screen was what killed this device for me. The viewing angles are pretty bad, no way you can set this flat on a table or desk and not hover directly above it to read what's on the screen. Straight on everything looked pretty good, but there will very soon be lots of Android tablets that will have better screens on the market. If you're just looking for something to get you through till then the gtab is a good bet, otherwise I would wait on the next wave of them to hit.
Yeah, the screen isn't all that great. I just played around with a friend's ipad last night and the screen is way better. I've heard the nook is pretty good too, but haven't seen it in person.
Having said that, I can easily do just about anything I want to. I watch comics on it in portrait and I'm used to it. In two years I'll think its archaic, but what tech isn't like that? I think for the next 6-18m the best you are going to do to get a better product with a better screen is to spend $500-800 on one. I wasn't willing to spend that much. I spend $350 and was happy.
I've also spent a few minutes on the phone with a friend figuring out how to do things on the ipad that are easy on the gtab. So it really just depends on what you want it to do, and what media you want it for.
Nook is very nice. Gtab not so much. But remember the internals blow the Nook away.
Sent from my T-Mobile G2 using XDA App
The price point was the prime consideration for me. Technology evolves too quickly for me to justify spending a large sum of money. This tablet for circa $400 and no monthly 3G data plan was a better purchase for me than an Apple or Samsung at roughly twice the price, especially considering the probability of something significantly enhanced showing up in a year. The combination of Viewsonic support and the developers' efforts and users willing to participate in Q&A in this forum is superb. The view angle isn't an issue for my wife and me; we watched some movies while on a 4k mile roundtrip train trip, and easily used WiFi at train stations and stopovers. I bought this in the end of November, and no regrets.
Tom
Maybe my video can help you make a decision? I'm obviously only one opinion, so I'd say watch my video and a bunch of others on Youtube before you make a decision. Also, if it's possible, hit up a local Office Depot or Sears or something, someone around you may have a demo of one. Happy shopping!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DO1XyVK6cms
Call sears before you go. Most of the stores around here have a cardboard mockup on display. You can't see the real thing. If you want a pnp no brainer tab with a pretty screen, you don't want G tab. If you want to play this is great.
Depending on your needs, the limited viewing angle may be either a feature or a bug. Last week, my boss had the middle seat on an airline flight. The guys sitting on either side of him were both working with tablets. He couldn't tell what the guy on his right was doing because his screen had a lousy peripheral viewing. He said he spent a very informative flight reading the presentations on the tablet of the guy on his left whose screen was highly readable from where he was sitting. Go figure....
Porsche or VW
PORSCHE 911turbo with so so paint job
Or
VW with perfect paint and a good stereo
I know my choice even with some tinkering...
Try looking at most laptops and netbooks with the display tilted back or worse yet hold it in "portrait mode"
This tablet is at least $700 less with no contracts. 24m x $30+150
G tablet is off the chart fast.
Nook may be ok. But g tablet looks future proof for at least 1 generation. So nook + 1 more device.
Plus I really like the kindle app on a 10.1 screen.
n2thecloud said:
PORSCHE 911turbo with so so paint job
Or
VW with perfect paint and a good stereo
I know my choice even with some tinkering...
[snip]
Like buying a core i7 computer running windows xp
montyhp
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

New 7" Tablet from china

First Tablet witch ICS
With new processor and GPU. and its cost only $99
http://www.ainovo.com/
The Novo7 operates on a 1GHz MIPS-based XBurst CPU and comes incorporated with the Vivante GC860 GPU that is responsible for offering 3D graphics. Boasting of Google CTS certification, it is equipped with a 7-inch capacitive multi-touchscreen display. This slab is capable of lending support to connectivity options such as Wi-Fi 802.11b/g/n, USB 2.0, HDMI 1.3 and microSD.
Not bad for 99 bucks, might buy one
Mhh i might give it a try. Decent h/w for a nice price... <3
I am interested as well, but I may wait to see what kind of development it gets before buying....
its all sold out when i tried to buy one.
I can't wait to get my hands on one. I would buy more for my relatives if it work w/o any lag & i hope some devs get their hands on some too.
Guess I was right on time. Ordered one 2 days back. Said it will take 2 weeks before they'll start shipping. They hope it will reach me before christmas.
Screen sucks from what I've read (crappy resolution) but if I look at novo7 reviews with gingerbread on it on youtube, device looks fast and everything works.
I'll only be using it on the go and while i'm in the library studying so its perfect for me, webbrowsing and games.
And it has a microsd card slot. Perfect when I take pictures with my camera and put it in if I'm somewhere even though the resolution is not that great.
My employer is selling $99 tablets with Gingerbread, and possibly 800Mhz processors...the only saving grace is their capacitive screens.
Next up, $200 outdated resistive-screened Coby, 800Mhz, no GPU. Better? $250 Coby, 1Ghz no GPU and a VGA webcam...rejoice.
This tablet is like a bolt out of the blue for awesomeness. Thank you XDA.
Sent from my Wildfire S
Lets hope lots of devs will be able to get their hands on them. I think I'm going to wait until the 8" or 10" to come out before getting one. But, I'll probably buy my two nieces one each so they won't be fighting over one.
I finally received mine today Time to unpack it
How to i get support if i buy this tablet. will i get support from india?
I'd like to know more about this tablet. For all of you who have it: Is it worth the buy?
Ok don't be angry . I'm gonna sell it, I just had a quick look at the device to see if everything worked before selling it.
I looked round the internet and found out that the tablet is basically a regular Novo 7 tablet only with android 4.0 installed.
Then I read that the sourcecode for the regular gingerbread Novo 7 tablets has been released and they're expecting a 4.0 update.
Having paid 120 euros incl. shipping for the device and seeing that I can get the regular gingerbread Novo 7 for way cheaper, I decided to sell the device and will wait and see what the future brings.
Untill then guess its back using my HP Touchpad.
What I noticed in the 1 minute I used the device. Fast opening video and photos. Screen resolution is indeed low but actually looks better then I expected. I could see details in the photos and they looked good.
The Device itself felt great. Perfect size, not heavy. The white back looks awesome.
It actually doesnt look/feel cheap at all.
I guess overall the device is really awesome, only downside is the screen but if you can live with a normal screen instead of a supersharp screen then you should definitely get one.
So, my new Novo 7 Paladin arrived at my door about an hour ago. I live in Shanghai, so I ordered online yesterday & it arrived today.
Price was 499 RMB (or around $79 USD ), and seller paid shipping charges. Pretty amazing deal. Many sellers at that price online in China...check this link here...
I've spent maybe 30 minutes or so playing with it...
- It came with Android 4.0 installed as advertised. This is my first exposure to the new OS, so I'm still getting used to it.
- The device came with a bunch of Chinese apps & several games preloaded (a bunch of which I've already uninstalled).
- Wi-Fi fired right up & was online in moments...no problems
- It seems like a simple, solid device...not flashy by any means, but I'm not sure what more you could expect at this price point.
- I haven't tried any movies or music yet...I'm charging it up right now & will play with it more later.

Best Android Tablet under $200?

Hi everyone,
Looking for best tablet under $200. I guess that price falls under the chinese versions? I don't mind as long as it's proven to work. ***Really not sure why tablets are $600 or so while tablets and laptops are much cheaper (speak of price gouging).
So, please give me your experience with cheaper tablets. I have seen many of them on places like dhgate.com but really it's way too many of them so I can't decide which has a good reputation or not.
Thanks
Amazon kindle fire
Sent from my Inspire using xda premium
For now, I have to give a nod to the 10" screen Lepan which has been running for $199. at Walmart The issue with this unit is only 512 of ram and Android 2.2. I use it as my portable web access in the house that also has its own built in GPS, so I use it out in the field as my Nav unit. Not a bad unit and it will run like 6 hours of video, if I remember correctly is has a 6000 mah battery. Like I said I use it for the web and for games for my 5 year old. But it all depends on what you want to use the tablet for.
Depends on the size you're looking for. For the 7" platform, I'd personally wait for the Google branded pad to come out. Rumor has it, it'll be an nvidia tegra3 running the latest AndroidOS with common tablet specs, for $199.
Reason I'd hesitate to get a kindle fire is the lack of external sd slot.
Thanks for the input guys.
Sorry, I forgot some main points:
1- It must run Android (One of the latest ones - upgradeable to ICS and Rooting capability is a bonus)
2- It would be really really great if it has at least a front facing camera (front and back would be just perfect).
***Can't wait for Google Pad as I have to buy now.
Thanks
I say you should try the viewsonic g tablet. Not the best screen but when rooted its worth it. you can find then on ebay or craigslist for $150-$200.
Sent from my Xoom using xda premium
Both Viewsonic G Tablet and Le Pan II seems to be great options. But let's focus on cons:
Le Pan II: Apparently has wifi issues (That is no cool). Not rootable yet?!
gTablet: Missing GPS and G-Sensor. Has only 512 MB RAM and runs Android 2.2. Missing Microphone.
But, I am already leaning towards gTablet despite all missing parts. I am hoping I can add a USB microphone to it? (that is also my requirement.)
P.S. I can't seem to find any Le Pan II on the market. Everyone is out. Is it a hot item or was taken off-shelf due to Wifi issues?
Thanks again
Best Android tablet under $200
If you want a 7 inch that will be upgraded to ICS, and has GPS and camera, check out the Lenovo A1. It can be had well under $200

B&h lists LG 360 Cam FOR $199, 360 VR for $199

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1236278-REG/lg_lgr105_ausats_360_cam_spherical_camera.html
Also 360 VR for $199 too.
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1236279-REG/lg_lgr100_ausats_360_vr_smartphone_headset.html
Any news on the dac add on from bang and Olufsen?
If it wasnt for how bad the reviews are for the 360 vr I would be tempted to order it. Especially with how much I dislike the gear vr I ahve sitting here next to me.
Woah 199 for the VR? It got horrid reviews.
B&H Photo also has bundles with the G5 and both the 360 VR & 360 Cam for $799.99 - pretty good deal if you want them both.
And I saw the 360 VR did get mixed reviews, but I really think the lightness and lack of clunkiness (ie not having to dock your phone in the headset) are what can make the difference. To me, the mobile VR solutions shouldn't be trying to compete with Oculus Rift yet - I think trading off some immersiveness/quality might be worth it at this point for the lighter frame and greater ease of mobility. This isn't a headset for playing deeply immersive computer games - it's for carrying around with you and enjoying a little VR on the go wherever you are.
That said, I am hoping to be able to try one out somewhere before I think about ordering.
~Troop
if you own the US version of the G5, the B&O module is not compatible with your device. it's terrible news...
I'm using the LGR105 and it's not too bad. Realize it has limitations. The app, however, is horrible. The 20 minute video is 2.5 Gigs and you must transfer it through the app to get a useable video. But the app won't transfer the video because it can't fit 2.5 Gigs into 7.5 Gigs of available space on the phone. I also have 8 Gigs free on my SD card. The developers don't want to be bothered. First they said "Download the new version, we fixed that problem" which obviously they didn't, as I'm running the new version. Then they said that it's my problem. Totally useless. What good is a camera when you can't view the pictures you've taken?
I have the VR and it fit's better and is lighter then a cardboard with a phone inside.
The screen is not very good, I can count the pixels... and the phone drains fast and gets very hot using it.
I only tried it the day I got it for free with my secondhand phone, you need to install LG friends and all kind of LG 3d specific apps and from what I know it only works with those apps..
Nice try LG, but it's a waste of money..

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