Is the Galaxy 8.9 right for me? - Galaxy Tab 10.1 General

I very much like the specs of the Galaxy 8.9 and have been planning to wait for one. The more I thinking about Android vs. iOS I am starting to second guess my choice of the 8.9 vs. the iPad2.
I'm moderately technical - not a programmer and I doubt I'd ever Flash a ROM on an Android tab. I value the customization of the interface in Android over the screens of icons on the iPad2.
So, what do you think? Would you still recommend the Galaxy 8.9 for someone who honestly won't do anything beyond customizing the interface and just plans to be a casual user with a tablet?

unfortunately no one can really answer that but you. Im assuming you have tried both the android ecosystem and the ios ecosystem, so the choice comes down to what YOU as the primary user prefers. Seeing as how both systems have been around long enough for them to steal features from one and integrate into theirs the choice between them (apart from minor things) is only slight.
However, I am wondering why you are comparing the 8.9 to the ipad2's 10.1? Why not compare 10.1 to 10.1? The Galaxy Tab 10.1 is only $30 more then the 8.9 version.

As far as I know, the iPad 2 isn't even customizable unless you jailbreak it while you can still customize Android via using other apps (free or paid). Anyways, I say just wait. We only know the basic specs of the device. Who knows if anything is going to be changed from now till June.
If you need a tablet now, then get the iPad 2. Once the Galaxy Tab comes out, you can decide to sell the iPad 2 or keep it. The iPad 2 will holds its value for couple of months as long as nothing bad happens to it.

Blueman101 said:
unfortunately no one can really answer that but you. Im assuming you have tried both the android ecosystem and the ios ecosystem, so the choice comes down to what YOU as the primary user prefers. Seeing as how both systems have been around long enough for them to steal features from one and integrate into theirs the choice between them (apart from minor things) is only slight.
However, I am wondering why you are comparing the 8.9 to the ipad2's 10.1? Why not compare 10.1 to 10.1? The Galaxy Tab 10.1 is only $30 more then the 8.9 version.
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Thanks - I appreciate the insight. I agee. I feel they are pretty close and it boils down to what I will do / what each OS enables me to do. The iPad is 9.7 but after holding the Xoom, I've decided I don't want anything bigger than the iPad. My ideal scenario is the 7 inch tab running Honeycomb but I'm very certain I'd be one of those folks who brick the device while trying to Flash.

ok that makes sense, I have a few friends who prefer the smaller 8.9 to the 10.1. My advise would be to wait and feel the GalaxyTab, because the Xoom was heavy which may have accounted for you prefer a smaller size. The Galaxy tab is lighter then the iPad so it might be better.
Also, the iPad uses some made up aspect ratio making it look square almost. This could be why the size thing is another issue. Because a screen should have never been that aspect ratio, other devices that comfort to more traditional ratios (ie the Galaxy and Xoom) tend to look much larger in the X direction.
Me personally, I prefer something a bit heavier, but thats just me.

Blueman101 said:
ok that makes sense, I have a few friends who prefer the smaller 8.9 to the 10.1. My advise would be to wait and feel the GalaxyTab, because the Xoom was heavy which may have accounted for you prefer a smaller size. The Galaxy tab is lighter then the iPad so it might be better.
Also, the iPad uses some made up aspect ratio making it look square almost. This could be why the size thing is another issue. Because a screen should have never been that aspect ratio, other devices that comfort to more traditional ratios (ie the Galaxy and Xoom) tend to look much larger in the X direction.
Me personally, I prefer something a bit heavier, but thats just me.
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Click to collapse
4:3 isn't a made up aspect ratio
its basically what TV's were prior to HD widescreens and thus the "box" appearance... Some argue it's much better for web browsing and reading (which seems to be true) but movies always have to be letter boxed to fit.

4:3 is great for portrait mode. In landscape - not that much difference, you just have to put more things on the left or right, and less on the top and bottom of the screen. Movies look better on 16:10 though. Photos - depends what aspect ratio your camera has. A4 PDFs - should be OK on 16:10, maybe even better than on 4:3. I still prefer 4:3 because I love portrait mode (not so much to choose iPad though - 1024x768 is less than 1280x800 in landscape and in portrait).

FrostByte1906 said:
I very much like the specs of the Galaxy 8.9 and have been planning to wait for one. The more I thinking about Android vs. iOS I am starting to second guess my choice of the 8.9 vs. the iPad2.
I'm moderately technical - not a programmer and I doubt I'd ever Flash a ROM on an Android tab. I value the customization of the interface in Android over the screens of icons on the iPad2.
So, what do you think? Would you still recommend the Galaxy 8.9 for someone who honestly won't do anything beyond customizing the interface and just plans to be a casual user with a tablet?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, if the amount of apps are important to you, I'd go with the iPad 2. If customization is more important the Galaxy Tab is the way to go.
But really, it's up to you.

Chandelure said:
Well, if the amount of apps are important to you, I'd go with the iPad 2. If customization is more important the Galaxy Tab is the way to go.
But really, it's up to you.
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Click to collapse
Yeah - I hate to admit it but I'm not a power user. I'm mostly going to watch movies (Netflix, iTurnes), checking email, browsing the net, etc. Few apps I'd install are banking and household related. 99% sure I'd never flash a ROM or mod. I'll satisfy my Android fix with the Galaxy SII and check back when it's time to upgrade my tablet.

FrostByte1906 said:
Yeah - I hate to admit it but I'm not a power user. I'm mostly going to watch movies (Netflix, iTurnes), checking email, browsing the net, etc. Few apps I'd install are banking and household related. 99% sure I'd never flash a ROM or mod. I'll satisfy my Android fix with the Galaxy SII and check back when it's time to upgrade my tablet.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If your watching movies go with the 8.9. The screen will be sooooooo much nicer.

Related

Tab 8.9 vs Tab 10.1

I couldn't find any posts that went into detail regarding the differences between the 8.9 and the 10.1.
Am I right in thinking the only difference between the two are the screen size? Obviously, this brings the following implicit differences:
8.9 is lighter
8.9 is smaller (although thickness is the same)
8.9 has a higher pixel density (because screen resolutions are the same).
8.9 being lighter and smaller means it is more portable
8.9 is probably cheaper (this is my guess)
The on-board memory options for both may be different (e.g. the 8.9 may not come in a 64GB option where as the 10.1 may eventually have this option).
Apart from availability of the 10.1 will be sooner than the 8.9, I'm not sure what the benefit is for me to get the 10.1.
I'd be interested to hear other people's thoughts?
Size matters (insert joke). Everything else will likely remain the same. get 8.9 if you want something a little more portable, or if you have small hands..
If you want something truly diffrent, wait for the second gen 7" rumored to run Exynos.
You are pretty much correct with all that, but if you are in North America, you're most likely to have 10.1 with Vanilla honeycomb, and also that when 8.9 launches - it will be pre installed with touchWiz, Apparently where I live - both 10.1 and 8.9 will be with touch wiz preinstalled !
$.02: 10.1 vs. 8.9 (vs. 7)
jackie_jagger said:
You are pretty much correct with all that, but if you are in North America, you're most likely to have 10.1 with Vanilla honeycomb, and also that when 8.9 launches - it will be pre installed with touchWiz, Apparently where I live - both 10.1 and 8.9 will be with touch wiz preinstalled !
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes - And owning a 10.1 I have to say, having a "vanilla" OS is the way to go. Very clean and simple. Honestly, I when I first saw the 10.1, I thought it was a little small lol; the idea of (that much) less screen real-estate doesn't seem fathomable =) [the lack of TouchWiz was a big selling point for me]
Unless you can do without the extra screen size, I'd go with a 10.1 -if you really don't care about screen size, follow the other gentleman's advice and with the new 7" when it comes out.
Isn't the 8.9 supposed to come out with a thicker screen that's less bright? That was the rumor a few weeks ago. Apparently the manufacturers are having a hard time with the 8.9 screen size and might have to use a thicker, heavier screen.
It's not clear how Samsung plans on handling this. They are having trouble with the yields for the screens on the 8.9, which would seem to indicate that some tablets will get the same screen as the 10.1 while others will get the thicker, less bright screens. It will probably vary by market.
I decided to get a 10.1 after the issues with the 8.9 screens were reported. I could deal with a thicker tablet - after all, the screens themselves are 40% thicker - but how much of the thickness of the total tablet is the actual screen? I would imagine even with the "lesser" screen the 8.9 would come in at under 10mm easily, so no big deal to me. But the 40% reduction is brightness is a big deal to me. That would take it's impact on the battery life, so thanks but no thanks!
WiFi antennas and heat?
I read some where that the 8.9 has only 1 WiFi antenna vs the 10.1 that supposedly has 2...
Don't if that's true and if we will notice much a difference (I suppose we will).
The other thing that would only be speculation on my part, is that maybe the 8.9 could run a little hotter by having less space to dissipate heat?
Any ideas about this?
I'm happy with my screen size. Neitherone is all that portable to be walking around town on a regular basis.
I'd rather have more screen realestate since I'm mostly using it primarily at home.
7" is the way to go for portability, in my opinion.
Sent from my GT-P7510 using Tapatalk
By the time the 8.9 is released, newer and better tablets will be up for preorder.
ericc191 said:
By the time the 8.9 is released, newer and better tablets will be up for preorder.
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Click to collapse
And when those newer, and better tablets get released, there'll be even newer, better tablets up for preorder! It never ends!
frychiko said:
And when those newer, and better tablets get released, there'll be even newer, better tablets up for preorder! It never ends!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I agree, but we're very close right now. Tegra2 has been around for quite awhile, remember?
frychiko said:
And when those newer, and better tablets get released, there'll be even newer, better tablets up for preorder! It never ends!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think he has a point. Samsung is taking a long time to get the 8.9 out. I'm sure they're not pleased about this either, however if they take too much longer, then the 8.9 will be competing against the first crop of quad-core Kal-El powered tablets, not to mention the other faster dual core solutions. I don't have any performance issues with the Tegra 2 in my day to day use, but the fact remains that it's not exactly a screamer. The Galaxy Tab 10.1 (and presumably the 8.9) compares favorably when the competition is pretty much just comprised of other Tegra 2 equipped devices, however things won't be so pretty when the competition is leaving the Galaxy Tab in the dust.
However, who knows what the first Kal-El tablets will look like - they may be shoddy and rushed to market for the Holiday season. I just wish Samsung had used something other than the Tegra 2.
armondob said:
Yes - And owning a 10.1 I have to say, having a "vanilla" OS is the way to go. Very clean and simple.
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Click to collapse
I disagree. Vanilla OS means no DLNA support, no various video codec support. I want TW for nothing but DLNA (AllShare) and various video codecs that my current Samsung Galaxy S phone already supports, including DIVX. Not to mention the email client (with exchange support) Samsung was able to pack into the Galaxy S phones is 1000% better than Google ever shipped.
The 8.9 tab doesn't fit your pocket, so the argument of portability is relative.
Frankie_R said:
The 8.9 tab doesn't fit your pocket, so the argument of portability is relative.
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Click to collapse
The size of pockets is also relative. It sure does fit in that guy's suit pocket when Samsung Demoed 8.9 in CTIA.
foxbat121 said:
The size of pockets is also relative. It sure does fit in that guy's suit pocket when Samsung Demoed 8.9 in CTIA.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That must have been a custom made suit, because the pockets on my suit are not that wide.
Sent from my GT-P7510 using Tapatalk

Galaxy Tab 10.1 or 8.9?

Hi guys, I was wondering which screen size is optimal for the GT - the 10.1 or 8.9?
I intend to use my tablet for content creation (docs etc) as much as content consumption. So would the extra 1.2 screen real estate make much of a difference?
Which one do you personally prefer and what are the reasons (easier to hold, more portable etc)? Thanks
dpakrr said:
Hi guys, I was wondering which screen size is optimal for the GT - the 10.1 or 8.9?
I intend to use my tablet for content creation (docs etc) as much as content consumption. So would the extra 1.2 screen real estate make much of a difference?
Which one do you personally prefer and what are the reasons (easier to hold, more portable etc)? Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The portability isnt much different since neither can fit in your pocket.
I like the bigger screen, its a more optimal tablet size in my opinion. (It's been said by others to be the "perfect size for a tablet")
The dev work for the 10.1 is MUCH greater (ROMs, Apps, Support).
I haven't had a play around with a 8.9 but 10.1 will be much cheaper. And I read tons of uni research fairly easily on my 10.1
But then the 8.9 might have voice/dialer features. I much prefer 10.1 screen to the sony tablets smaller screen.
After seeing the 8.9 at Best Buy, I purchased the 10.1.
1.2" might seem negligible but IMO you'd enjoy more on the bigger screen (aside from the theoretically better screen quality of the 8.9).
lol i had two tabs open, one with the 10.1 16gb wifi model and one with the 8.9 3g 16gb model. you guys convinced me to go for the 10.1 (plus the fact that its 200 bucks cheaper here lol). bought it, cant wait to receive it now. thanks!
dpakrr said:
lol i had two tabs open, one with the 10.1 16gb wifi model and one with the 8.9 3g 16gb model. you guys convinced me to go for the 10.1 (plus the fact that its 200 bucks cheaper here lol). bought it, cant wait to receive it now. thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sure thing bro.
Bluemotion said:
I haven't had a play around with a 8.9 but 10.1 will be much cheaper. And I read tons of uni research fairly easily on my 10.1
But then the 8.9 might have voice/dialer features. I much prefer 10.1 screen to the sony tablets smaller screen.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The 8.9 is actually cheaper, but not by much. As for the dialer, that remains to be seen. Video and articles from May said it was going to have a dialer but people that just bought them say it's either not present or inactive. Other than screen size and location of the speakers, the internals are the same between the two. I played with a 8.9 and own a 10.1. I liked the feel of the 8.9 but I like the bigger screen on the 10.1 as I use it a lot for video, surfing, and reading. I've been waiting for a 10.1 3G from the UK for over a month. They're receiving stock on Monday and it'll ship out the same day. All the 32GB & 64GB 3G's have been pushed back for over a month in the UK and units are just now being received from Samsung. They'll have the latest firmware. It'll be intersting to see if any updates were made that impact the dialer (or anything else for that matter).
BarryH_GEG said:
The 8.9 is actually cheaper, but not by much. As for the dialer, that remains to be seen. Video and articles from May said it was going to have a dialer but people that just bought them say it's either not present or inactive. Other than screen size and location of the speakers, the internals are the same between the two. I played with a 8.9 and own a 10.1. I liked the feel of the 8.9 but I like the bigger screen on the 10.1 as I use it a lot for video, surfing, and reading. I've been waiting for a 10.1 3G from the UK for over a month. They're receiving stock on Monday and it'll ship out the same day. All the 32GB & 64GB 3G's have been pushed back for over a month in the UK and units are just now being received from Samsung. They'll have the latest firmware. It'll be intersting to see if any updates were made that impact the dialer (or anything else for that matter).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oh I thought it would sellat a higher price. I think I read somewhere there was going to be a ridiculous markup especially for the UK (me). Regarding dialer update, I tend not to hold my breathe for manufacturer updates. But i would not mind being pleasantly surprised.
I've had my 8.9 since Wednesday and I must say I am enjoying it better than I thought I would. Had the 10.1 Toshiba Thrive and returned it after a few days. Browser seemed alot slower on it and had a tendency to "hiccup" when scrolling. The textured back of the Thrive I feel in love with due to its easy grip, however after holding the device for an extended period because if its size began to feel very heavy and brick like. My Samsung Galaxy Tab 8.9 feels great, not to mention its easier for me to type than on a 10.1 screen. The additional 1.2 of real estate may not seem alot however for me anyhow it makes all the difference when typing.
Sent from my GT-P7310 using xda premium
I actually replaced my 10.1 for 8.9, i like the 8.9 size, easier to hold in bed and on sofa and i think easier to type on with two thumps.... Portability was the main reason....
Same here, I like the feel of the 8.9, can hold with one hand and not tire. I also own the Acer 10.1 and compared to size, 8.9 is great.
Sent from my HTC Flyer P512 using xda premium
hello!!
I just bought the 8.9 and I am delighted to 10.1 and me too much (the taste and color) I do not regret my choice at all
i just got rid of the 10.1 to replace it with 8.9 but i'm going to wait for the 7.7 instead
I just got an 8.9 Friday. I held it at Best Buy and fell in love. I didn't need it at all since it became my 6th tablet (I have a problem, I know.); but I was so floored by holding it, I could not resist. I think how special this form factor is somewhat lost on people who don't own 10 inch tablets. I was completely dismissive of this product from looking at pictures and seeing it was not much smaller than the 10.1, but then I held it. The first thing that came to mind was Jobs' comment that the reduction in weight and thickness made the iPad 2 a categorically different experience from the original. I have an original iPad and have held many iPad 2's and never felt that way about them. I feel that way about the 8.9 in comparison to the other tablets I have.
My recommendation to anyone thinking about this product is to go hold one for at least 15-30 minutes. Change orientation a few times. Type on the keyboard in portrait orientation. If you plan on using your tablet on a surface with a keyboard case or dock, then get the 10.1. If you plan on holding the tablet on the couch or in bed, get the 8.9. It disappoints me that so many bloggers/journalists are treating tablets like flat screen TVs in price/size discussions but don't go into the nuanced discussion that even exists when choosing a TV size (room size, viewing distance, wall mount vs stand).
We'll see what the 7.7 brings to the discussion, but right now 8.9 is my favorite for holding. I use my original 7 as my phone so I don't really consider it part of the tablet discussion and the Galaxy Note seems better suited for phone duty. I don't think 7 is a compelling consumption or creation size unless you have the need to always have the device on your person.
Thumbs Up For A Great Review...
RuzaRoos said:
I just got an 8.9 Friday. I held it at Best Buy and fell in love. I didn't need it at all since it became my 6th tablet (I have a problem, I know.); but I was so floored by holding it, I could not resist. I think how special this form factor is somewhat lost on people who don't own 10 inch tablets. I was completely dismissive of this product from looking at pictures and seeing it was not much smaller than the 10.1, but then I held it. The first thing that came to mind was Jobs' comment that the reduction in weight and thickness made the iPad 2 a categorically different experience from the original. I have an original iPad and have held many iPad 2's and never felt that way about them. I feel that way about the 8.9 in comparison to the other tablets I have.
My recommendation to anyone thinking about this product is to go hold one for at least 15-30 minutes. Change orientation a few times. Type on the keyboard in portrait orientation. If you plan on using your tablet on a surface with a keyboard case or dock, then get the 10.1. If you plan on holding the tablet on the couch or in bed, get the 8.9. It disappoints me that so many bloggers/journalists are treating tablets like flat screen TVs in price/size discussions but don't go into the nuanced discussion that even exists when choosing a TV size (room size, viewing distance, wall mount vs stand).
We'll see what the 7.7 brings to the discussion, but right now 8.9 is my favorite for holding. I use my original 7 as my phone so I don't really consider it part of the tablet discussion and the Galaxy Note seems better suited for phone duty. I don't think 7 is a compelling consumption or creation size unless you have the need to always have the device on your person.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I feel the exact same way. Thanks for the great review of this device. I fell in love with mine the moment I held it. It just feels right in the hands. With my Toshiba Thrive 10.1 (which I promptly returned to Best Buy), it got tiresome after a little while of holding it. The 8.9 is an awesome tablet as-is, but I know as soon as we get a dedicated forum and some of the most awesomeness and dedicated devs to take their time and crank out some of the hottest ROMS this Tab will become even better.
And you hit it dead on with the similarities to flat screens I myself have noticed how some have compared tablets to TVs. There's just no comparison because I sure as heck aint gonna hold my 42" flat screen in my hand and compare it to a tab...LOL.
I purchased the 10.1 too, but I sometimes feel it was heavy.
Tivo7 said:
The portability isnt much different since neither can fit in your pocket.
I like the bigger screen, its a more optimal tablet size in my opinion. (It's been said by others to be the "perfect size for a tablet")
The dev work for the 10.1 is MUCH greater (ROMs, Apps, Support).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Have you not seen my custom pockets that can fit anything up to 32" ?
Sent from my Cyanogen-filled G2x or my GTab 10.1 now "In Paris"
Since I like to get more for my money (about $64 an inch) I chose the 10.1.
All jokes aside, I want the biggest screen I can get. It doesn't make any sense that smartphones are making screens bigger yet we want our tablet screens to get smaller. The 7.7 Tab just sounds ridiculous when compared to getting the GTab 10.1.
MODS - sorry for double posting, thought I was on the same post.
Sent from my Cyanogen-filled G2x or my GTab 10.1 now "In Paris"
Having had time using both, I ultimately went for the 8.9 3G. I can confirm for sure that does NOT have a GSM dialer (present inside root, but not active to the user). That said, it's not that big of an issue for me. Pairing up GroveIP with my Google voice works just fine for the odd tablet based phone call. Besides that, the 8.9 teamed up with my trusty SGS2 makes for a pretty fearsome combo on-the-go.
As for th 8.9 itself, it just feels better to hold in my opinion. It has a much more solid construction and premium feel. Browsing the web in portrait is such a joy, especially when thumb-typing is made just that little bit easier. Speaking of which, this whole post was typed up on my 8.9
The rubberized back of the 8.9 is awesome btw.
I will admitted that I was very tempted to wait for the 7.7 and/or the Note, but for now, I'm very happy with my 8.9/SGS2 duo.
Jade Eyed Wolf said:
The rubberized back of the 8.9 is awesome btw.
I will admitted that I was very tempted to wait for the 7.7 and/or the Note, but for now, I'm very happy with my 8.9/SGS2 duo.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My galaxy tab 10.1 from Egypt has black rubbrized back also . and you are right it is much more better than the shiny cheap white back
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7+ vs 8.9 pros and cons

Hey everyone,
I am on the fence with these two excellent machines.
I've had 10.1 tablets in the past including the iPads, but found them too be a bit cumbersome.
What's your guys' take on:
Display quality between the two?
Exynos vs Tegra?
Keeping in mind that the tablets will be used for:
pdf manipulation
music
light video use
web
email
Thanks in advance
petesavva said:
Hey everyone,
I am on the fence with these two excellent machines.
I've had 10.1 tablets in the past including the iPads, but found them too be a bit cumbersome.
What's your guys' take on:
Display quality between the two?
Exynos vs Tegra?
Keeping in mind that the tablets will be used for:
pdf manipulation
music
light video use
web
email
Thanks in advance
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This...has been repeatedly discussed so I'll be brief. Tegra has a weird lag when in landscape (8.9 issue), Exynos does not. Display quality, if you googled the 8.9 and 7 specifications you would notice the 8.9 has more resolution than the 7 model. Today's tablets are very capable and fast for those functions you listed.
...
thanks for the reply.
i've been researching the last few days, but after a while it all starts to look the same, that's why i asked....
In terms of raw power, any dual cor eprocessor will handle the BASIC tasks you are looking to do
In terms of Phones Exynos looks faster but i don't know how that compares to tablets
For gaming, Tablet games are more often then not optimized for the Tegra 2 platform, TegraZone games make the most out of the processor and they looks phenominal. I don't know how well Exynos does gaming on a tablet
8.9 has a higher resolution which makes videos much easier. Also the speakers on the 8.9 are really good fo a tablet. I am not picky on audio but i use it when i play Oblivion and it overpowers the tv half the time
I think the larger screen is beneficial for internet browsing. I would definitely try them both out for usability i.e. screen size and weight to see if the $70 price difference is worth going for the larger one. Personally the 8.9's size of a hardback book is perfect.
petesavva said:
thanks for the reply.
i've been researching the last few days, but after a while it all starts to look the same, that's why i asked....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The 7+ has a MicroSD slot, whereas the 8.9 does not. Besides that, it is the same beast in a different shell size. In the end it is up to you. Consider the screen resolution, portability and the size and possibly the MicroSD slot in your case. For me and my small hands 8.9 is the perfect balance, but for bigger hands, some may prefer the 10.1 for example.
...
Thanks for all the replies.
I just came back from BB. Played with both machines and I have to say that the 8.9 fits my bill better.
The 7+ is great too, but it was just too small.
Thanks again!!!
I've had both.. the old 7 and the new 8.9 and I definitely like the little larger screen.. I would say the only physical improvement I could see for the 8.9 would be a little different aspect ratio.. towards the ipad.
I have the original GT7 and I just got the 8.9. While I do like the new GT, I really wish that the 7.7 was out - that sounds like the perfect tablet for my needs...
8.9
8.9 it is! i've been playing with both 7+ and 8.9 and really like the larger one.
I wonder when ICS will come for it....
Thanks for all the replies
I'm trying them both out myself. I guess the 7in. form works for some, what with the new Fire getting the press (this is far superior to that not surprisingly!), but with this resolution it just doesn't fit my needs between a tablet and phone. I kept reading in reviews how much faster than the other tabs it was but really what I'm noticing is the increased heat you feel when its zipping along. The remote software is legitimately cool though, easy to set up, nicely designed and a pleasure to use.
The 8.9 is a definite keeper. Especially with the new Overcome kernel. It's the most beautiful android tablet I've ever used, even more comfortable and light than the iPad. I can't believe how nice the design is, I really hope the 8.9 form factor sticks with Samsung.
One important point though: Tegra 2 absolutely blows at playing HD video unless transcoded properly. This is a huge flaw with most Honeycomb tablets IMO. The 7 Plus eats any video you throw at it since it doesn't have that mediocre processor.
Can I use peel remote software from gtab 7 plus on gtab 8.9?where can I get it?
Sent from my GT-I9000 using Tapatalk
No, as 8.9 does not have an IR port.
I've had a 7" inch HTC Flyer myself, I found it too small ( that and the screen sucks as does HTC support, but that's another discussion I guess)
I have the 8.9 now, and I love it (especially for reading, and annotating docs)
I was stuck trying to decide between the two.. I love a 7" form factor.. but I was disappointed with the 1024x600 resolution on the 7".. Loved the pixel density and ability to fit a lot more content on the 8.9".. but the 4210 Exynos SOC inside the 7 plus is night and day clock for clock against the Tegra2.
I ended up with the 7 Plus .. Best Buy has a return policy until mid-Jan (holiday return policy) so if I change my mind or some other Tablet meets my needs better I can always exchange.
The 7 Plus' hardware will provide more future proofing than Tegra2 in the long run. The Galaxy Tab 7.7 hits a home run in all aspects.. An even faster clocked 4210 at 1.4ghz.. The higher resolution 1280x800, and more pixel density due to the 7.7 screen size over a 8.9".. Not to mention the even more battery efficient Super AMOLED+ display. Otherwise, you also get a LIGHTER tablet and BIGGER battery capacity in the 7.7.
I'll definately be upgrading to it when it comes out. For now, the 7+ remains the fastest OUT-OF-THE-BOX Honeycomb tablet in existence.
Even overclocked Tegra2's can barely keep up with a 1.2ghz 4210.
I just wish there was development going on for the 7+. It's nearly non-existent because the 7+ is a stepping stone to bigger and better things (Tegra3 and faster Exynos) ... that said, a lot of people are just holding out for the next generation of tablets.
...
any news on the 7.7? i thought samsung was supposed to have a press release on the 7.7 today...
petesavva said:
any news on the 7.7? i thought samsung was supposed to have a press release on the 7.7 today...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's out overseas.. but not in the U.S. yet... unfortunately =( I want to get my hands on one.
...
europe or asia?
not that it's worth it with the exchange rate nowadays....
petesavva said:
europe or asia?
not that it's worth it with the exchange rate nowadays....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Europe for sure.. not sure about the rest... There's a lot of English blokes talking about their 7.7 here and there.

Perception: Why the review dings over the price of the 2014?

A standard point of ding in the reviews is the price, yet as example the 32GB version is the same price as the 32GB iPad and the 2014 has a micro sd slot and no proprietary connection. Build seems good and the display is at a minimum, as good as my iPad 4.
Seems the app ecosystem of the iPad gets treated as part of the package, so the price is given more slack than Android. JMO.
Simply put, you do not normally see Apple getting dinged on price in reviews. Seems a bias there. I agree it seems $50 too high for each model (ditto for iPads too), but would not ding it in a review for that.
There's a bias in tech reviews that things have to "catch up" to the iPhone or iPad. Any possible knocks on it will get brought out and highlighted.
I agree with your points, and that's ignoring the stylus that no other tablets have that turn it into a damn powerful art device. Of course I'd like it if it were a little cheaper but hey.
Sent from my SCH-I535 using Tapatalk
Theres probably an implicit bias that androids should be cheaper than iphones
Why is iPad so much
Samsung is $50 more when you compare base models but here is a list of what you get that Apple does not have.........
1 - A 16:9 screen not an out dated 4:3 design
2 - Wacom digitizer with S-Pen
3 - Dual screen or more and true multi-tasking.
4 - Micro SD storage up to 64GB
Maybe what should be said about the iPad is why is it only $50 less than a Samsung Galaxy Note10.1 when it's feature are more in line with the $399 nexus 10. or the $394 Kindle Fire HDX 8.9.
.
kkretch said:
Samsung is $50 more when you compare base models but here is a list of what you get that Apple does not have.........
1 - A 16:9 screen not an out dated 4:3 design
2 - Wacom digitizer with S-Pen
3 - Dual screen or more and true multi-tasking.
4 - Micro SD storage up to 64GB
Maybe what should be said about the iPad is why is it only $50 less than a Samsung Galaxy Note10.1 when it's feature are more in line with the $399 nexus 10. or the $394 Kindle Fire HDX 8.9.
.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
LOL. I still in my brain make them equal and null the $50. Yep, they are not the same price, hence the ding (the Apple/Nexus centric reviewers do not see value in the sd slot). Most tablet users probably would not use the pen function much, based on current install base without the function. Most just see the premium price and not the extra stuff they may not use.
I love my 128GB iPad 4 Wifi to bits, for browsing and its high quality App standard. But, having seen (and in some cases owned) a great deal of poor Android tablets this new Note 10.1 I would value at least as high as the iPad. Many Apps are still poor, browsing is less fun, but having seen the drawing capabilities, its light weight and compact size (given the large screen), its superb movie playing capability (from sd !!!) and zero lag in everyday use easily makes up for it. The people I have shown it to (and handled it for a bit) were all highly impressed. It cost me 599 euro, which I consider a steal for what it offers.
rushless said:
LOL. I still in my brain make them equal and null the $50. Yep, they are not the same price, hence the ding (the Apple/Nexus centric reviewers do not see value in the sd slot). Most tablet users probably would not use the pen function much, based on current install base without the function. Most just see the premium price and not the extra stuff they may not use.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think you nailed it here. People are overlooking the extra stuff and then complaining about the price. Yeah, it's true that most users don't care about the pen or the SD slot, but then that just means this isn't a product for them, not that it's overpriced.
Ettepetje said:
I love my 128GB iPad 4 Wifi to bits, for browsing and its high quality App standard. But, having seen (and in some cases owned) a great deal of poor Android tablets this new Note 10.1 I would value at least as high as the iPad. Many Apps are still poor, browsing is less fun, but having seen the drawing capabilities, its light weight and compact size (given the large screen), its superb movie playing capability (from sd !!!) and zero lag in everyday use easily makes up for it. The people I have shown it to (and handled it for a bit) were all highly impressed. It cost me 599 euro, which I consider a steal for what it offers.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have the iPad 4 128gb as well, plus an Excite 7.7 32gb, TF300 (gave to wife) and Nook HD+ 32gb. I find I use my Nook HD+ more than the others due to form factor and the sweet display with Android. I was thinking of selling the Excite and HD+ and get the 2014, but will wait until the lag issues are resolved. I have lag issues with the HD+, but works great for everything except a very few resource heavy 3D games. Plus it costs $470 less than the 2014. Unless the lag mostly goes, I see no reason to change right now.
Right now, I use the HD+ and the iPad 4 and the Excite 7.7 is collecting dust. Toshiba IMO sucks for support, so will not get another product from them. Out of principle.
Added:
Perhaps the layered function of the S-Pen causes gpu bottleneck issue due to the display. Any way to turn off the S-pen function to mitigate lag (assuming that is the issue)?
rushless said:
I have the iPad 4 128gb as well, plus an Excite 7.7 32gb, TF300 (gave to wife) and Nook HD+ 32gb. I find I use my Nook HD+ more than the others due to form factor and the sweet display with Android. I was thinking of selling the Excite and HD+ and get the 2014, but will wait until the lag issues are resolved. I have lag issues with the HD+, but works great for everything except a very few resource heavy 3D games. Plus it costs $470 less than the 2014. Unless the lag mostly goes, I see no reason to change right now.
Right now, I use the HD+ and the iPad 4 and the Excite 7.7 is collecting dust. Toshiba IMO sucks for support, so will not get another product from them. Out of principle.
Added:
Perhaps the layered function of the S-Pen causes gpu bottleneck issue due to the display. Any way to turn off the S-pen function to mitigate lag (assuming that is the issue)?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can turn it off but that isn't the issue, it's Software optimization. it doesn't lag for me at all
Sent from my SM-P600 using Tapatalk 4
rushless said:
I have the iPad 4 128gb as well, plus an Excite 7.7 32gb, TF300 (gave to wife) and Nook HD+ 32gb. I find I use my Nook HD+ more than the others due to form factor and the sweet display with Android. I was thinking of selling the Excite and HD+ and get the 2014, but will wait until the lag issues are resolved. I have lag issues with the HD+, but works great for everything except a very few resource heavy 3D games. Plus it costs $470 less than the 2014. Unless the lag mostly goes, I see no reason to change right now.
Right now, I use the HD+ and the iPad 4 and the Excite 7.7 is collecting dust. Toshiba IMO sucks for support, so will not get another product from them. Out of principle.
Added:
Perhaps the layered funtion of the S-Pen causes gpu bottleneck issue due to the display. Any way to turn off the S-pen function to mitigate lag (assuming that is the issue)?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I truly have -zero- lag, so I am a bit amazed at how much coverage the issue gets. I am pretty sure there are no hardware differences to cause it, but besides maybe some extra/different provider dependent bloatware I suspect most of these people are just doing other stuff on it. Drawing on the 2014 Note 10.1 is working great, no S-pen problems there, the original launcher seemed fine but I exchanged it quickly to Apex. The internet browsers work a bit clunky compared to the iPad, for which I blame these browsers themselves (not the Note 10.1), I never use these "S note" features really so maybe the lag is somewhere there (??). The standard videoplayer is fine, but is short on audio format (=dts) support, so I'm using MX Player together with its downloadable NeoN-driver which is wonderful. In Settings I put the Screen mode on "Movie mode", got rid of all kinds of crap like Reading Mode, auto-brightness, etc. and enjoy awesome Live Wallpapers like awe-inspiring Ocean HD (with shark pack), Paperland, Paris winter, Star in the Sky and various others. Besides the overal Android App quality (and lack of 128GB, or more, micro-sd) I couldn't be happier with what I expect from it.
I would try it at a store and see for yourself.
i've been to two samsung stores and both samsung reps had no idea that the s pen is a pressure sensitive device. they gotta just be regular ass best buy guys with different shirts.
Will test one at Best Buy.
Ettepetje said:
I truly have -zero- lag, so I am a bit amazed at how much coverage the issue gets. I am pretty sure there are no hardware differences to cause it, but besides maybe some extra/different provider dependent bloatware I suspect most of these people are just doing other stuff on it. Drawing on the 2014 Note 10.1 is working great, no S-pen problems there, the original launcher seemed fine but I exchanged it quickly to Apex. The internet browsers work a bit clunky compared to the iPad, for which I blame these browsers themselves (not the Note 10.1), I never use these "S note" features really so maybe the lag is somewhere there (??). The standard videoplayer is fine, but is short on audio format (=dts) support, so I'm using MX Player together with its downloadable NeoN-driver which is wonderful. In Settings I put the Screen mode on "Movie mode", got rid of all kinds of crap like Reading Mode, auto-brightness, etc. and enjoy awesome Live Wallpapers like awe-inspiring Ocean HD (with shark pack), Paperland, Paris winter, Star in the Sky and various others. Besides the overal Android App quality (and lack of 128GB, or more, micro-sd) I couldn't be happier with what I expect from it.
I would try it at a store and see for yourself.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think the pen is the biggest issue. I listened to the android police broadcast and the guy who reviewed it was really harsh and at the same time was saying that if you need a pen, this is the best device available. If you are used to the ipad's usage flow and don't use the pen, the advantages are harder to discern. Android has a big learning curve and most of Samsung's native apps have a lot of bloat. The best note-taking app is Lecture Notes and is a very dense program with a big learning curve. If you don't know how to check XDA's thread on the app and ask the developer questions; it can be a very difficult program to pick up.
Part of the appeal of tablets is that they are pickup and use devices and the Note is not quite that type of device.
kkretch said:
Samsung is $50 more when you compare base models but here is a list of what you get that Apple does not have.........
1 - A 16:9 screen not an out dated 4:3 design
2 - Wacom digitizer with S-Pen
3 - Dual screen or more and true multi-tasking.
4 - Micro SD storage up to 64GB
Maybe what should be said about the iPad is why is it only $50 less than a Samsung Galaxy Note10.1 when it's feature are more in line with the $399 nexus 10. or the $394 Kindle Fire HDX 8.9.
.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The aspect ratio is actually 16:10. A 4:3 is actually not as much of a draw back at this size. For productivity uses, a shape that more closely mimics the dimensions of paper is superior.
I agree with all the rest of your points though. I still think $550 is too much though because of the weaker app market for android tablets and the poorer-quality materials used. The Note 10.1 is still made of cheap plastic and the Ipad is brushed aluminum and sturdy gorilla glass.
The ipad costs more because it was first to market and has brand name loyalty. It's also more stable and easier to use than most android tablets too. While the advantages of the iphone have diminished greatly over time due to the fact that android phones do a LOT of things better (especially with the larger-sized screens and the widgets); these advantages haven't translated as much on the tablet side of things. The GPU, CPU on the ipad has been faster for the most part and the battery life stellar whereas 10" android tablets have been really hit or miss. The 3 best 10" tablets were the transformer infinity, note 10.1, and Nexus 10 and all had their own issues last year (the note with its already dated display).
The Note 10.1 2014 I think is the first 10" tablet to take the fight to the ipad on even or better terms. Of course, the poor reviews and price aren't helping. They really should've left the base model at $499. I'm sure the bill of materials of the Note 10.1 2014 must be the same as last year (around $200). The SOC is used by their Note 3 and S4 international variants. I don't know how much it costs for a good 2560x1600 screen with a wacom digitizer of the same resolution. Probably a lot more since last year they didn't bother to go higher than 720p. Also the 10" tablet market is shrinking due to the nexus 7. Maybe they want to milk early adopters as much as possible because they don't know if they'll get any return.
I really hope 10" tabs don't fall by the wayside. I cannot stand 7" tabs. If you have a 4-5" phone and a 14-15" laptop, why wouldn't you want a 10" tab? A 7" tab is what I'd recommend to someone with a dumbphone. It's just too close to a phone size that having one would basically just be using my S3 with a bigger screen. At least on a full-size tab the user flow is different and you can ACTUALLY take advantage of the extra screen size.
ChrisNee1988 said:
Theres probably an implicit bias that androids should be cheaper than iphones
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This. Its been accepted that Apple products will always be pricey and why their users feel like they have their own society.
That's not a bash as I've learned to accept their ways and live among them. All the while knowing I have a superior product...
rushless said:
LOL. I still in my brain make them equal and null the $50. Yep, they are not the same price, hence the ding (the Apple/Nexus centric reviewers do not see value in the sd slot). Most tablet users probably would not use the pen function much, based on current install base without the function. Most just see the premium price and not the extra stuff they may not use.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hence the issue for most reviews. The reason for the Note 10.1 IS the S Pen. If you have no use for an active stylus, this is a rather expensive tablet. The S Pen is why people buy it. I cannot imagine taking scientific / med notes w/o an active stylus, I need to be able to hand draw notes and equations.
Diogenes5 said:
Part of the appeal of tablets is that they are pickup and use devices and the Note is not quite that type of device.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The 2014 is a joy to grab and hold (apart from portrait mode, where a right-handed person will press buttons by accident), also within the limits of drawing, movie watching and the few good Apps Android has this is a hell of a device !!!
wingdo said:
Hence the issue for most reviews. The reason for the Note 10.1 IS the S Pen. If you have no use for an active stylus, this is a rather expensive tablet. The S Pen is why people buy it. I cannot imagine taking scientific / med notes w/o an active stylus, I need to be able to hand draw notes and equations.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nope, the screen and speed are its main attraction, closely followed by the S-pen (for those that use it).
Most of the garbage that is poured here on the forum (and in the reviews) about the Note 10.1 and its lag comes down to the poor state of Android, with its lousy internet browsers (compared to iPad) etc. etc. If you use this device for what it is great at I see its rating close to a 10 out of 10.
If you put an HD-version of Tinker Bell: Secret of the Wings and Monster University on the SD, play those through MX Player (with NeoN-driver) and show it to a 6 year old, or anybody really, they will very much want to hold / own it. It is pure eye candy, plain and simple. Its stereo speakers help somewhat.
The main market for a stylus I see as children and drawing enthousiasts and professionals, all of which the 2014 Note 10.1 covers. For business use and note taking the stylus imo is reasonable at best, though Samsung is pushing this hardest (as it is a big market).
ChrisNee1988 said:
Theres probably an implicit bias that androids should be cheaper than iphones
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The main reason why Android gained any ground is because they were the cheaper option. Poor build quality phones with a very laggy os in the early days.
Samsung still make poor quality phones/tablets but want to be like Apple with pricing. Even with 10gb ram and 1500gb memory this Note should be cheaper because it is a Samsung mobile device.
Ukbondraider said:
The main reason why Android gained any ground is because they were the cheaper option. Poor build quality phones with a very laggy os in the early days.
Samsung still make poor quality phones/tablets but want to be like Apple with pricing. Even with 10gb ram and 1500gb memory this Note should be cheaper because it is a Samsung mobile device.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Lol. Thanks for the laugh.
Ukbondraider said:
The main reason why Android gained any ground is because they were the cheaper option. Poor build quality phones with a very laggy os in the early days.
Samsung still make poor quality phones/tablets but want to be like Apple with pricing. Even with 10gb ram and 1500gb memory this Note should be cheaper because it is a Samsung mobile device.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Why then are you spending your time in a poor quality tablet forum?

Galaxy Note Pro 12.2

Just read this article. When do you expect the Galaxy Note Pro 12.2 be available on sale? I am considering to buy the Galaxy 10.1 2014 this month but if the Pro will be available in two months, perhaps I should wait.
http://www.thenewstribe.com/2013/12/23/samsung-galaxy-note-pro-leaks-in-new-image/
I am looking forward to this tablet as well will buy it as soon as it is out and then decide which note I will keep
Sent from my SM-P600 using XDA Premium HD app
As much as they sell the 10.1 for I'm thinking the 12.2 will cost more than any android tablet should ever sell for.
Sent from my HTC One using Tapatalk
I'm sure it will be gorgeous, but at 12.2" aren't we moving into laptop territory? I think if I'm going to carry around something that big, it might has well have a real keyboard of sorts, like a 11" macbook air.
I thought I would want this, but using the 10.1 2014 edition, I can't possibly have anything else. It's the perfect size.
Yeah, you also have to wonder what the battery life will be like. I don't think I would gain anything from a 12" tablet that isn't running Windows. Also, it better have some kind of quick charge going on. Charge time on the 2014 is brutal.
Steve
From the info posted on the web, it seems that while the battery is larger (for the larger display), the CPU and RAM are the same as the 10.1 2014. Could this mean there might be more lag? Why doesn't Samsung allow us to change the battery like the Note 1-3?
While samsung don't make 4:3 ratio tablet at all, 12.2 or 13.3 tablet may be better.
We can see full page in landscape mode without scrolling.
hajime_android said:
From the info posted on the web, it seems that while the battery is larger (for the larger display), the CPU and RAM are the same as the 10.1 2014. Could this mean there might be more lag? Why doesn't Samsung allow us to change the battery like the Note 1-3?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Screen size is larger but resolution is the same so it wouldn't make a difference as far as lag is concerned, that's only rumoured spec anyhow.
Theres going to be four new tablets from samsung all rumoured to be out before March at the latest, with the 12.2 being one of the first released.
In that case, perhaps I should hold the purchase for the Galaxy Note 10.1 2014 and upgrade my Note 2 to Note 3.
Johny Jackson said:
While samsung don't make 4:3 ratio tablet at all, 12.2 or 13.3 tablet may be better.
We can see full page in landscape mode without scrolling.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Good point. I'd rather see a 4:3 10" Android-powered tablet than a 12.2 or a 12.3 that is 16:10 or (eww) 16:9. It is frustrating that the only decent 4:3 tablet is the iPad (although HP did just come out with the HP Slate Pro 8, but the specs on that are pretty weak).
So if they Samsung is releasing a 12.2'' Note , the prices for Note 10.1 might come down aswell, if so i will just return mine and wait. _P
Anicane said:
So if they Samsung is releasing a 12.2'' Note , the prices for Note 10.1 might come down aswell, if so i will just return mine and wait. _P
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Highly doubtful. More likely is the price of the 12.2 will be noticeably higher. I use my 10.1 for entertainment when traveling and to get light productivity work done so I don't have to schlep my notebook with me all the time. At least to me, 12.2" is just way too big and defeats the portability benefit of a tablet. You've got to give Samsung credit though for leaving no niche unexploited.
BarryH_GEG said:
Highly doubtful. More likely is the price of the 12.2 will be noticeably higher. I use my 10.1 for entertainment when traveling and to get light productivity work done so I don't have to schlep my notebook with me all the time. At least to me, 12.2" is just way too big and defeats the portability benefit of a tablet. You've got to give Samsung credit though for leaving no niche unexploited.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I agree, it'll most likely be more expensive, might as well buy a laptop or surface pro and be more productive.
I want one of these just because it's bigger, but there are just too many drawbacks. With the increase in screen size (which is substantial), there is a significant increase in weight and price with a drop in ppi
It's rumored to be 750g, which is actually only 3 oz heavier than an iPad 4, which actually isn't that bad considering the size.
I use my Note 10.1 while travelling. I take notes at clients sites, and I use t for reading and gaming in the airports. Even the 10" can get a little heavy for holding when reading, so I don't think I would want the additional weight of a larger tablet. For travellers weight is the enemy. I like a decent sized screen, but I have to balance that with weight.
A couple months ago I would have also gravitated toward the 12 - inch tablet. However, seeing the lower sales numbers for this device, due to the high price and how it has suppressed the development of custom ROMs, I have changed my perspective.
Thanks to Scott for Clean ROM, and finally breaking the log jam.
I cannot imagine the weight difference being noticeable in the long run, if you get the big dog.
Sent from my SM-P600 using Tapatalk 4
What's funny is the 7-8" crowd thinks we're all nuts for having a 10" tablet. Different strokes.
scrabbles said:
I'm sure it will be gorgeous, but at 12.2" aren't we moving into laptop territory? I think if I'm going to carry around something that big, it might has well have a real keyboard of sorts, like a 11" macbook air.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My exact thoughts.
Sent from my freekin huge Note 10.1 ?
I own the Nexus 10 (same screen size and resolution of SGN 10.1 2014) and an HP TM2 12.2 hybrid tablet/notebook. The HP can be used either as a tablet with pen or by rotating the screen it can be used as a touch notebook. Comparing the 10.1" screen to the 12.2" screen; the 12.2" is significantly larger. I use my tablet for web browsing and while the 10.1" does a nice job, the 12.2 is much less fatiguing to use. You wouldn't realize this unless you could switch from one to the other and directly compare them. But since the Nexus 10 is much more convenient to handle, it is my go to tablet right now.
I'm definitely going to pickup the PRO when it is introduced and compare it directly to the Nexus 10 for daily use. I will either go with the PRO or the SGN 10.1 2014. Because of the pretty drastic difference in size, I think it will not take long to develop a clear preference in actual use. The PRO may be to big ... or maybe not.
Many people felt the SG Note was too big to be used as a phone, but I have really enjoyed my Note 2 and now my Note 3. When I switch to smaller phones they seem seriously inconvenient to use.

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