Related
The more I use my TF the more I like it. Although I understand that people with problems need to vent I want to add another positive post to the forum.
First off, I do NOT believe that there is such a thing as the "perfect tablet" (but that doesn't mean that there is not a lot of crap out there!). For some the iPad might be the best, for others the XOOM, for some the Transformer or even the Nook Color.
Now here are some of the Transformer's benefits that make it the currently best tablet for me:
The dock. This was probably the main reason for switching from the XOOM. I was looking for a case with Bluetooth keyboard for so long that the dock just came like an answer to my quest. I do a lot of typing so a physical keyboard was a must for me. The additional battery life and connectors are a HUGE plus (see more below). The keyboard is very sturdy and it is fun to type on. And of course the touch pad. Especially when browsing the web the pointer makes it indefinitely easier to click those tiny links!
ASUS's software. The widgets are minimalistic and beautiful. They add to the Honeycomb experience without forcing a manufacturer's UI upon the user. The applications that are included are well designed and work great.
Polaris Office. So far the best office suite that I have tested. This restores my faith in developers caring about productivity on tablet as compared to only entertainment and "consumption".
Connectivity. I was amazed. I have setup media sharing on my PC so I could stream videos and music to my PS3s. The first time I fired up MyNet it automatically detected my PC and the content was instantly available. No settings to alter, no messing around. Then just yesterday I connected my external HDD (NTFS) where I ripped all my movies in HD (as compared to the 640x480 res for my iPod). It also was detected and mounted automatically and the content plays flawlessly (with Mobo Player). SD card, microSD card, everything works out of the box; I remember how much trouble that was with the XOOM...
The display. Well, admittedly, an IPS screen is just great even though it might not have the most natural color reproduction or brightness. However, the viewing angles and contrast are amazing! I also like the wider bezel (compared to the XOOM) which allows for holding it in one hand without touching the actual touch screen (and I have not the biggest hands!). Sure, I have a bit of light bleed but the one on my Nook Color is worse. If I want to see it I will...
Updates. For not being a "Pure Android Experience Device" the ASUS got updates rather frequently. There seems to be a real person from ASUS support active in this forum and on other social media like facebook (in Europe at least).
Weight and Build. The TF feels nice and light when held. That it is made of plastic is unfortunate because it does feel kind of cheap but it is not too flimsy. I was apprehensive about the goldenish color but I have gotten used to it. I covered the back with carbon fiber skin though
So everyone considering to buy one of these I can only recommend it. There might be some lemons out there but you will have that with every device. If you want to wait for the newest gadgets, good luck, because as soon as you buy a high-tech device you can be sure that it's obsolete a week later...
Hope that helps some folks that were still indecisive.
I have to agree with you my experience with the transformer and dock has been wonderful. My roomate asks why I didn't just buy a net book/laptop and whenever I detach the tablet and go to work or a coffee shop it makes it worth it all. Being able to have the tablet for casual use and the dock for longer/power use is the flexibility a lot of people want. For the most part at home it's in the dock just for ease of use, battery, and I don't have to prop it up on something.
Sent from my Transformer TF101 using Tapatalk
Great post!
I would like my Transformer build quality to be a little better, but otherwise I can't complain too much after getting my dock firmware update.
It is so cool to snap the Transformer into the dock and have a netbook with an additional SD card of storage. The keyboard is pretty good, but the trackpad is amazing. I really like the feel of it. Using the trackpad doesn't feel tacked on either, Honeycomb feels like it was designed to be used with a mouse and keyboard.
I also really liked how my tablet was down to about 40% power, and when I put it in the dock it automatically started leeching energy from the dock and recharging itself. Now that is impressive! (The dock wasn't even plugged in.)
Really looking forward to Honeycomb 3.1!
bleclair said:
Great post!
I would like my Transformer build quality to be a little better, but otherwise I can't complain too much after getting my dock firmware update.
It is so cool to snap the Transformer into the dock and have a netbook with an additional SD card of storage. The keyboard is pretty good, but the trackpad is amazing. I really like the feel of it. Using the trackpad doesn't feel tacked on either, Honeycomb feels like it was designed to be used with a mouse and keyboard.
I also really liked how my tablet was down to about 40% power, and when I put it in the dock it automatically started leeching energy from the dock and recharging itself. Now that is impressive! (The dock wasn't even plugged in.)
Really looking forward to Honeycomb 3.1!
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Click to collapse
Good point! I forgot the touch pad. Will add it right now
Two things also impressed me about the keyboard dock that I hadn't thought of and wasn't expecting:
1. My Logitech Anywhere MX mouse works perfectly with it. Just plug the adapter into one of the dock's USB ports and it just works. For whatever reason, I didn't think it would, but I'm very happy to see that it works so well.
2. I've been using the dock to charge my Epic while away from a charger. I also hadn't thought about using the dock as a portable charger for my phone, but that works great as well.
Overall, this combo is working better than I expected, and I think my expectations were pretty high. I haven't used my HP Envy 14 notebook since I got the dock, and so I'm left wishing the TF had been available last November. Would have saved me $1000 for the Envy.
Sent from my Transformer TF101 using Tapatalk
wynand32 said:
2. I've been using the dock to charge my Epic while away from a charger. I also hadn't thought about using the dock as a portable charger for my phone, but that works great as well.
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However, I noticed you can only charge a device when the tablet is docked.
I still can't believe the dock didn't come with it's own power cord. For $150 it really, really should have.
shoehopper said:
However, I noticed you can only charge a device when the tablet is docked.
I still can't believe the dock didn't come with it's own power cord. For $150 it really, really should have.
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Click to collapse
Yes, that's true: the tablet has to be docked, but it doesn't have to be open or turned on. So, when stored for carrying it can charge.
And agreed: it would have been nice to have another charger and cable. Given the build quality of the dock and the fact that it includes a full-size battery, I don't know that $150 is enough at retail to give the gross margins they're looking for if they included an adapter and cable. And given that they're pricing the tablet at $399, I'm sure they're happy to maybe squeeze out a few bucks of additional gross margin out of the dock.
Sent from my Transformer TF101 using Tapatalk
The killer features were undoubtfully keyboard with a trackpad (I hate taking hands off the keyboard just to move focus around), and the battery life.
Also, I see this becoming an awesome combo once running desktop Linux on it is perfected. That way I can pick whether I want the battery-conserving Android or full-size productivity desktop at any given moment.
int_19h said:
The killer features were undoubtfully keyboard with a trackpad (I hate taking hands off the keyboard just to move focus around), and the battery life.
Also, I see this becoming an awesome combo once running desktop Linux on it is perfected. That way I can pick whether I want the battery-conserving Android or full-size productivity desktop at any given moment.
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Click to collapse
I have never used Linux (well, I tried to use it in the late 90s) but just to have the option is exciting! I wish to have an OS that allows for multitasking in different windows, even if it's just 2 or 3. Hopefully the Android of the future will have that!
funnycreature said:
The more I use my TF the more I like it. Although I understand that people with problems need to vent I want to add another positive post to the forum.
First off, I do NOT believe that there is such a thing as the "perfect tablet" (but that doesn't mean that there is not a lot of crap out there!). For some the iPad might be the best, for others the XOOM, for some the Transformer or even the Nook Color.
Now here are some of the Transformer's benefits that make it the currently best tablet for me:
The dock. This was probably the main reason for switching from the XOOM. I was looking for a case with Bluetooth keyboard for so long that the dock just came like an answer to my quest. I do a lot of typing so a physical keyboard was a must for me. The additional battery life and connectors are a HUGE plus (see more below). The keyboard is very sturdy and it is fun to type on. And of course the touch pad. Especially when browsing the web the pointer makes it indefinitely easier to click those tiny links!
ASUS's software. The widgets are minimalistic and beautiful. They add to the Honeycomb experience without forcing a manufacturer's UI upon the user. The applications that are included are well designed and work great.
Polaris Office. So far the best office suite that I have tested. This restores my faith in developers caring about productivity on tablet as compared to only entertainment and "consumption".
Connectivity. I was amazed. I have setup media sharing on my PC so I could stream videos and music to my PS3s. The first time I fired up MyNet it automatically detected my PC and the content was instantly available. No settings to alter, no messing around. Then just yesterday I connected my external HDD (NTFS) where I ripped all my movies in HD (as compared to the 640x480 res for my iPod). It also was detected and mounted automatically and the content plays flawlessly (with Mobo Player). SD card, microSD card, everything works out of the box; I remember how much trouble that was with the XOOM...
The display. Well, admittedly, an IPS screen is just great even though it might not have the most natural color reproduction or brightness. However, the viewing angles and contrast are amazing! I also like the wider bezel (compared to the XOOM) which allows for holding it in one hand without touching the actual touch screen (and I have not the biggest hands!). Sure, I have a bit of light bleed but the one on my Nook Color is worse. If I want to see it I will...
Updates. For not being a "Pure Android Experience Device" the ASUS got updates rather frequently. There seems to be a real person from ASUS support active in this forum and on other social media like facebook (in Europe at least).
Weight and Build. The TF feels nice and light when held. That it is made of plastic is unfortunate because it does feel kind of cheap but it is not too flimsy. I was apprehensive about the goldenish color but I have gotten used to it. I covered the back with carbon fiber skin though
So everyone considering to buy one of these I can only recommend it. There might be some lemons out there but you will have that with every device. If you want to wait for the newest gadgets, good luck, because as soon as you buy a high-tech device you can be sure that it's obsolete a week later...
Hope that helps some folks that were still indecisive.
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Click to collapse
Such positive vibes! maybe it's not as bad as some people are trying to make out
Agree with the OP on most points. People have to keep in mind that the users with bogus units are always going to be the most vocal so it makes it seem like there are more problems than happy customers.
After the latest update that fixed my dock/keyboard, I am 99% happy. I have a discernable amount of light-bleed at the bottom left that bugs me a bit when watching video/on a dark screen. If not for that, i would be at 100%.
My sleep of death issue seems to have gone away and beside the high profile x264 issue, I don't regret my purchase one bit.
the list keeps growing!
Just shamelessly bumping this thread due to plenty of whiny 'I return my Transformer for the iPad' threads...
More things that I love about the TF:
Overclock. Yep, it's done! Several kernels now available (Netarchy's Netformer, Blades' 1.6GHz MEATABALL).
Network integration. I mentioned that in the OP but I have to reiterate how great the TF works with the installed software. The past few days I was cleaning the house a lot and simply turned on my PC, turned on my TF and streamed videos and music without having to adjust anything.
USB ports. Also mentioned in the OP. I found an awesome use for them: hooked up a goose neck USB reading light and the keyboard shone even more
Did you see it? The TF101 dock laughs at it!
Sent from my Nexus S using XDA Premium App
I start to think maybe i should wait for the samsung and refuse delivery for my TF ( which should be in my house in two days ... )
From what I've seen so far, it's not nearly the same thing as the TF. First, it doesn't appear to lock in place, meaning it's meant to be carried separately and then used on a stable surface. Second, I don't see that it has the same ports. Third, it doesn't have a trackpad. Fourth, from the video I saw (and can't remember the source, or I'd link it here), it looks very lightweight and so probably doesn't have a battery.
Seems like a last-minute attempt to leverage the TF's design concept, just like the GT10.1 itself is a last-minute attempt to mimic the iPad 2. It might end up being terribly popular, however, in which case I say more power to 'em: the more Honeycomb/ICS tablets that sell, the more great software we'll see written for it.
Sent from my Transformer TF101 using Tapatalk
wynand32 said:
Seems like a last-minute attempt to leverage the TF's design concept, just like the GT10.1 itself is a last-minute attempt to mimic the iPad 2.
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Click to collapse
What are you talking about? The Galaxy Tab 10.1 keyboard dock is the same kind of dock that they made for the 7" Tab, which predates the Transformer by a lot. It's designed for a different purpose than the TF, which is designed to turn a tablet into an android laptop (think chrome book). You'd be better off comparing the TF to the awful laptop dock for the Xoom. Oh, and the 10.1 blows your cheap ass TF away.
su6oxone said:
What are you talking about? The Galaxy Tab 10.1 keyboard dock is the same kind of dock that they made for the 7" Tab, which predates the Transformer by a lot. It's designed for a different purpose than the TF, which is designed to turn a tablet into an android laptop (think chrome book). You'd be better off comparing the TF to the awful laptop dock for the Xoom. Oh, and the 10.1 blows your cheap ass TF away.
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Do not feed the troll!
You'd think he'd be busy gaffer taping his screen back in place
Sent from my Nexus S using XDA App
Tinofet said:
I start to think maybe i should wait for the samsung and refuse delivery for my TF ( which should be in my house in two days ... )
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You fail at reading comprehension.
The OP is pointing out how lame the Samsung dock is compared to the one that Asus made for the Transformer, and this is making you think you should refuse delivery of your Transformer?
Some of you will never be happy, it's like you just like to throw dirt at a device you've just bought. I'm not saying the Galaxy Tab 10.1 isn't superior to the Transformer in some ways, but this thread has nothing to do with it that.
I realize this post is old, but some people's logic, or lack thereof, just annoys me.
"What are you talking about? The Galaxy Tab 10.1 keyboard dock is the same kind of dock that they made for the 7" Tab, which predates the Transformer by a lot. It's designed for a different purpose than the TF, which is designed to turn a tablet into an android laptop (think chrome book). You'd be better off comparing the TF to the awful laptop dock for the Xoom. Oh, and the 10.1 blows your cheap ass TF away. "
this troll is a joke!!!
I took a good look at the keyboard dock for the Samsung 10.1. Think keyboard dock for the iPad and you'll have it down pretty well. Same price. Same features. Same lack of the clever design integration that Asus has for the Transformer and its keyboard/battery/USB/USB/SD dock.
Shawn_230 said:
You fail at reading comprehension.
The OP is pointing out how lame the Samsung dock is compared to the one that Asus made for the Transformer, and this is making you think you should refuse delivery of your Transformer?
Some of you will never be happy, it's like you just like to throw dirt at a device you've just bought. I'm not saying the Galaxy Tab 10.1 isn't superior to the Transformer in some ways, but this thread has nothing to do with it that.
I realize this post is old, but some people's logic, or lack thereof, just annoys me.
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I agree some people are just plain stupid if you ask me. For 400 bucks screen quality and usability you can't beat the TF its the cheaper version of snapples maxiPad, when you compare honeycomb on honeycomb price and screen quality matter. NOW when you further compare to docks thereis really only one true interactive dock made to work withthe device, everything else is a sad after thought just like the maxiPads docks. No product is perfect..from the. manufacturer even almighty snapple has light leak and other issues when you rush production to meet demand crap happens. Unless you can prove otherwise the TF is thebest android tablet there is hands down
For those who want yet ANOTHER review, heres my article from my website... http://asustransform.com
It’s safe to say that the Asus Transformer has definitely been making waves in the small pool that is, Android tablets. Though Asus did disappoint many potential customers with the lack of product availability, the tablet has proven to be worth the wait and worth the effort to get your hands on one.
Having had the Transformer for roughly two weeks now (just over a week with the keyboard dock), I have gathered enough information to do a thorough review of both. Though the video review is a bit lengthy; I tried my best to touch upon every aspect of the tablet and dock.
I’ve provided a brief written summary to compliment the video review. The Asus Transformer has really changed my lifestyle (for the better) just as much as the 7″ Samsung Galaxy Tab did. But without further adieu, check out my video review below and the written summary below it.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dCMSRNchwco&feature=player_embedded
Build Quality & Design:
When I first received the Asus Transformer, I was quick to give it an “A-” score to gauge the build quality. It’s apparent today that the score was clouded by my excitement to have finally gotten the tablet in my hands. After reevaluation, I consider the build quality of the tablet to be a mid “B”-I am a student, I think in terms of letter grades! Overall the build quality of the tablet is good, but sadly not as good as my iPad 1 nor the Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1.
I do notice some “squeaking” when pressing down on the textured backing; perhaps it’s due to it being plastic rather than a metallic build. This in no way means that the tablet is cheap. On the contrary, when coupled with the optional keyboard dock, the build of the two units as a whole feels exceptional. The dock is extremely well build; we will get to the dock a little bit later. There is one flaw in the design and that is the relatively sharp edges of the tab. This makes typing with keyboard apps such as Thumb Keyboard a little bit difficult and slightly painful after prolonged use. It’s common to develop marks on your hands from holding it for too long because of this issue.
Sound:
The speakers on the Transformer are average at best. While music does sound a bit muffled, the annoying “popping” sound takes the cake. This popping & crackling sound happens frequently and it usually occurs when getting a notification after leaving the tablet idling for a while. Hopefully this will be addressed in the update that is promised in June. On the flip side, the audio output via headphones or using the HDMI out feature do not disappoint. Music sounds crisp and lively; this shouldn’t disappoint any serious audiophiles.
Camera:
The front facing 1.2 MP camera is enough to have a decent video conversation. I video chat using Google Talk very frequently and the quality is very good for such a low resolution camera. The rear 5 MP camera takes great photos and shoots decent 720p video. This in no way will replace your standalone digital camera or flip cam but it’s there if you need it.
Screen Quality:
If you have seen other reviews about the Transformer, they usually have one thing in common; they all rave about the screen. While I do agree that the screen is gorgeous and nice to look at, I feel as if the screen is not as sensitive as it could be. I usually have to tap an icon twice or sometimes three time just to get it to register. I am not sure if it has to do with me tapping the icon rather than pressing it (different surface areas) but either way, it’s a bit annoying. It seems to be better with the latest update but here’s hoping for a permanent fix in the upcoming update.
Dock:
Even with the flaws that I’ve mentioned with this tablet, it redeems itself when coupled with the keyboard dock. The seamless integration of the the tablet with the keyboard is truly nothing less than brilliant engineering. Asus really took the time to get this right! The two 2 full-sized USB ports provide great functionality. I can even use it to charge my HTC Thunderbolt via the USB cable. Sure it charges it up slowly, but the point is that it charges it! It also detects portable hard drives as well as thumb drives. I have even connected a USB mouse to it and it all works well. It comes with a SD card reader which provides with yet another way of expanding the memory. While docked, the Transformer actually gets charged by the dock’s build in battery so you will never run out of battery; just another reason why the dock is worth the $150 price tag. Typing long papers or reviews such as this one is comfortable. The keyboard is spacious and the trackpad is a good size. There is no distinction between my Apple bluetooth keyboard and the Transformer’s; it’s just that good!
Overall:
The Asus Transformer is fantastic tablet which truly obliterates any competitor that attempts to mimic its functionality; such as the Samsung 10.1 keyboard. For $400 it holds it’s own as a great tablet for those on a budget. It may not be as light as the Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 but with features such as HDMI out, a microSD card slot, the dock, and a lower price tag, its obvious who the clear winner is. I highly recommend checking out the Asus EEE Pad Transformer for yourselves. You will not be disappointed.
Sent from my Transformer TF101 using Tapatalk
http://asustransform.com
http://asustransform.com/forum
Good review , Quite informative
yzman321 said:
Good review , Quite informative
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Would be even better without the html entities.
gadgetfann said:
Would be even better without the html entities.
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Wow that was really lame of me...I'm sorry. Fixed :-!
Sent from my Transformer TF101 using Tapatalk
ayman07 said:
Wow that was really lame of me...I'm sorry. Fixed :-!
Sent from my Transformer TF101 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Great review,
I agree with you on the screen sensitivity,
I felt like I had to press things twice sometimes to get things to register when I first got it.
However, after using it for about a month, I don't have that problem anymore,
Not sure ifi jjust got used to it or its part of the break in process, give it more time and see if you still feel that way
The screen sensitivity thing and some lag are my only big complaints. I'm a bit widget happy, which probably accounts for the lag.
I'm hoping both will be taken care of in 3.1.
As for multitouch zooming with the trackpad: this is possible and has been shown off on a few demo firmwares. we're not sure if ASUS will ship this in a future update, but it was probably removed due to patent laws. I'm sure someone in the community will get it working eventually.
@andyxover ya i am the same way, i got use it but according to a site that i read (who got the build early) this is better in 3.1.
@CoolWaters ya that could be the reason but seriously, i think with a Tegra 2 u should be able to put on as many widgets as you want and not notice a significant decrease in performance.
@Gary13579 i have no doubt in my mind that if its possible, someone here will make it a reality. but dont many laptops have this feature already (besides Apple)? cuz if they do, then there shouldnt be any legal issues...lets hope for that!
Hello, TF'ers. I'am asking a simple question for those who love their Transformers but for some reason is lusting after one of the other tablet's. Please list the tablet you wish you could have and why.
Thanks.
I have my TF101 and I'm happily satisfied with my purchase.
I love this thing. Nothing else comes close.
Sent from my awesome Asus Transformer using XDA's premium app.
Love mt TF but I always wonder if I would love the Acer Iconia A500 better.
I have had every tablet out, and the iconia was ok, the screen is not as good as the TF, but at least the browser does not crash as much, no lag while trying to type, and the usb...
I am looking at the thrive... if I know what kinda of glass it will have I would order one.
More than happy with my TF'er. Tried the Zoom, tried the Ipad2 but neither come close. I'm mildly interested in the GT 10.2 to see what the fuss is about but the lack of SD card immediately puts a dampener on it.
Thremix said:
I have had every tablet out, and the iconia was ok, the screen is not as good as the TF, but at least the browser does not crash as much, no lag while trying to type, and the usb...
I am looking at the thrive... if I know what kinda of glass it will have I would order one.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have 0 lag and havent had the browser crash once. I have 2 usb's slots and both SD and MiniSD card slots. I use a wireless mouse and BT headset nd get over 24 hours of battery life on hard use. Hwat else could you ask for?
Sent from my awesome Asus Transformer using XDA's premium app.
As a launch-day Pre purchaser who converted to Android in January of this year, I have to admit that I'm intrigued by the TouchPad. webOS really is SOOOO much better in terms of multitasking that I'd love to have it on a tablet.
However, there are three things that temper this notion. First, webOS does not and likely will not have the apps that I need for quite some time. The TouchPad won't even have Office document editing out the door, which is simply ridiculous. I can't believe that Samsung can completely redesign their tablet and release it in a few months, while HP can't get a single freaking app written that's absolutely vital to their product's success. Really, webOS made me promise myself never to buy something for a feature that's "coming soon."
Second, until a tablet has a keyboard dock as functional as the Transformer's, I'd have a hard time switching over. There's simply no better device for straight writing (i.e., just laying words down on the page) on the go. If HP releases a similar hybrid device someday, I'll think about it (assuming the apps are there), but Transformer is just a great all-around mobile device.
Third, while webOS is a nice OS in many ways, I'm disappointed that HP didn't design it to make better use of a tablet's screen size. Ultimately, webOS 3.X is just a blown-up version of the smartphone OS, with the same number of cards showing, only bigger. They could have done so much more with it. I really like how Honeycomb's screens can provide so much useful information at a glance. I often just turn my TF on, check to see if I have any emails, upcoming appointments, what the weather's like, etc., etc., and then just turn it back off. It's like a dashboard for my life, and so far no other tablet OS comes close in this respect.
wynand32 said:
...........It's like a dashboard for my life.........
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Thats how I would describe it to the "T". You should sent that to Asus for branding...lmao
Sent from my awesome Asus Transformer using XDA's premium app.
Love my Transformer... But wish I have an iPad only due to the vast number of case options available. However I'm looking forward to receiving my multi-angle rooCase.
I don't undestand why you would want any other tablet (at least any other android tablet)
The TF offers everything all the other android tablets offer PLUS MORE... Anything else would just be a downgrade.
the only thing I'm lusting for currently is a fully functional Netflix app. I really love to watch movies quietly at night and currently have to switch over to my Nook Color to do this. TF is awesome, working Netflix would make it total perfection for my needs.
Digiguest said:
Love mt TF but I always wonder if I would love the Acer Iconia A500 better.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The Transformer is better than the iconia. I had one, the screen on it sucks and it weighs a lot more. The only things it has over the transformer are the aluminum body (I actually prefer the transformer's body but most like aluminum that I've talked to) and the speakers have more bass. IMO the transformer wins hands down.
Sent from my Thunderbolt using XDA App
ClevelandWheeler said:
I have 0 lag and havent had the browser crash once.
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Bollocks
10char
ClevelandWheeler said:
get over 24 hours of battery life on hard use. Hwat else could you ask for?
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Did you do something special to your batteries?
I wish it had normal browser like Chrome with extensions and such. I wish it had mouse hover capabilities.
I have a XFormer, but would love a Xoom, but only to see the benefit of Internal 3G.
Badwolve1
Yep the grass always seems greener on the other side. I'm lucky enough to be able to try them all out. I've got the Asus Iconia, the Transformer, and iPad 2 already, and the Galaxy 10.2 is in the mail. Starting to get a better profile of how I use them. Want to copy your camera photos to the tablet? Something with an SD slot will make you happier. Have movies on an external USB hard drive? Having a standard USB port will make you giddy if you want a movie off that drive to watch on your tablet. These emotional highs are momentary moments though, and 99% of the time I'm just playing games, reading email, checking the web, facebook, youtube. Every tablet does these fine, and during that time I appreciate the lighter ones. They all have a way to add a keyboard to them. Bluetooth is easy, especially once you've paired a keyboard. Apple and Samsung have $69 keyboard docks for their thin tablet dock ports. You pay more to get the Transformer's keyboard dock, but you get a far better integrated and multi-functional add-on for your money. Hooking up to these is an inconvenience of varying degrees. You are not likely to have the iPad or Galaxy keyboard docks with you when you leave the house, so they suck. Good bluetooth keyboards are always wider than these tablets are, and as such less likely to fit in the same case with your tablet. If you've got a case for your Transformer, it is likely for netbooks and will hold both the tablet and keyboard together. So if you prefer a physical keyboard to an onscreen one, the Transformer is clearly the standout choice. You have to weigh that importance though, as that keyboard dock doubles the total weight you'll be carrying.
I've been working on a showdown between these tablets for my blog. Easy enough to ding this one and promote another for a slot or port or not. Not sure the small time these features come into play will aggravate a user enough to choose ports over weight/looks though. Money obviously play a role, as the difference between the Asus and a full set of features with its dock and an iPad with all the same features via add-ons is huge. It help that the Asus starts out $100 under the iPad. Samsung is certainly brave going head-on with Apple, I'll give them that. They must be thinking that iPad buyers didn't mind no MicroSD or USB ports, and millions were sold, so microSD and USB ports don't really matter. They might be right. Time will tell if they sell more Android Honeycomb tablets than Asus. I can't see them ever catching up to iPad sales though, with nothing to add value to iPad prices. Pay that much and you might as well get an iPad. JMHO.
I am a very happy Transformer owner, everything else (at the moment) on the market, even the ipad 2, would be downgrading.
I love my ASUS transformer too.
However, if I had to pick another table between xoom or samsung galaxy v2 10.1 or iPad.
I would get the Samsung Galaxy 10.1, I checked it out at Best Buy yesterday and it was pretty nice. No lag at all either and it was very responsive.
Sometimes my transformer feels unresponsive, and it lags but it could be due to my tons of widgets on the home screen.
However if Samsung did have a keyboard dock like transformer, I would hop on it however I heard their updates were lacking and slow to be released.
Though I like how its lighter, thinner the transformer, and looks a bit nicer. Also I enjoyed the PLS screen as it also had more VIBRANT colors then the transformer.
I've seen several reviews comparing the transformer to the ipad 2. And they would say "since it's not fair to include the keyboard dock in the review because the ipad 2 doesn't have one..."
But the thing that makes the transformer unique IS the keyboard dock.
It's like saying "today we are comparing 2 students, but since one student got a D and the other got an A, it's not fair to compare grades, so let's look at looks..."
Or here's a better one. Let's do a comparison between a bike and a car. But since the bike doesn't have an engine, let's not mention the fact that the car can go a lot faster than the bike.
I say the reviews should fully consider the keyboard dock option that comes with the TF and compare that with a non-option for the ipad 2.
goodintentions said:
I've seen several reviews comparing the transformer to the ipad 2. And they would say "since it's not fair to include the keyboard dock in the review because the ipad 2 doesn't have one..."
But the thing that makes the transformer unique IS the keyboard dock.
It's like saying "today we are comparing 2 students, but since one student got a D and the other got an A, it's not fair to compare grades, so let's look at looks..."
Or here's a better one. Let's do a comparison between a bike and a car. But since the bike doesn't have an engine, let's not mention the fact that the car can go a lot faster than the bike.
I say the reviews should fully consider the keyboard dock option that comes with the TF and compare that with a non-option for the ipad 2.
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Stop hating iPad lol. Anyway, the reason I buy TF is because of dock too.
It could be that it is technically an 'extra'. With that being said I do agree that it is what makes the Transformer a Transformer.
Why are giving the troll yet another thread to spin his pointless "You are iPad haters and I'm fair because I have a TF" arguments
Please understand this isn't just about the ipad alone, although the ipad does come up quite a bit. But my point holds true with other android tablets as well.
The TF exists solely because they designed from the ground up a keyboard dock that adds extra functionalities and productivity. The dock is not an extra. Just where I live is not an extra. It defines part of who I am. You can't review the transformer while ignoring the keyboard dock option.
Take the xoom, for example. Can anyone seriously say the bluetooth keyboard was designed along side with the xoom? That's an extra. The TF keyboard dock is not an extra. It came into existence as part of the TF.
Reviewers are biased and think that every tablet out there is trying to kill the iPad, so they review everything in terms of how well they think it could replace the iPad. They choose to look at the Transformer by itself as a tablet because that's the only way it can compare to the iPad, as once you add the dock it becomes a completely different device and they lose their basis for comparison.
But really, there is no replacement for the iPad. The iPad doesn't replace any existing hardware and can't interface with standard peripherals without a myriad of expensive adapters, meanwhile Apple touts it as a revolutionary device. Nothing can top that amount of pretentiousness, so Asus didn't even bother trying.
Device reviews should be for the device only. Could you imagine if all the 1000+ iPad accessories were allowed in an iPad review? No other device would have a chance to compete!
EP2008 said:
Device reviews should be for the device only. Could you imagine if all the 1000+ iPad accessories were allowed in an iPad review? No other device would have a chance to compete!
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If anything that plugs into the device is to be considered an accessorie, I would argue that a device with standard ports would still have the iPad beat in terms of the number of accessories.
Also, the transformer concept is a tablet with a detacheable keyboard and not really a tablet with an optional keyboard, even though you can purchase the tablet alone. So both devices are clearly aimed at different makets (or actually different perceptions of the same market).
As such, it is fair to compare other stand alone tablets to the transformer without the dock, but it is not fair not to mention what the dock brings to the transformer (good or bad).
EP2008 said:
Device reviews should be for the device only. Could you imagine if all the 1000+ iPad accessories were allowed in an iPad review? No other device would have a chance to compete!
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Click to collapse
I've already explained this. The keyboard dock was designed alongside the transformer. Without the existence of the keyboard dock, the TF has no reason to exist.
The ipad would still exist as an ipad if none of hte accessories exist. Because they don't define the ipad. Same with the xoom. None of the other devices are defined by their accessories. But the TF is defined by the keyboard dock otherwise it wouldn't be a TF.
Take a look at the convertible versus regular car. Can you imagine a car reviewer saying "well, since it's not fair to compare the convertible top since a regular car doesn't have one, we'll just ignore the fact that this convertible has a convertible top..."? Would you say that the convertible top is just any other car accessory? Hell no. The convertible part was designed along side with the car so it's not just any other car accessory.
Rackers said:
It could be that it is technically an 'extra'. With that being said I do agree that it is what makes the Transformer a Transformer.
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Nope. Asus also packages a 16GB transformer and dock into the same box. Sold for C$499.99.
Remains cheaper by around C$20 than the cheapest iPad2.
goodintentions said:
The ipad would still exist as an ipad if none of hte accessories exist. Because they don't define the ipad. Same with the xoom. None of the other devices are defined by their accessories. But the TF is defined by the keyboard dock otherwise it wouldn't be a TF.
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Wait a sec, the transformer dock was marketed in a way which makes people believe they need it. Apple has a fantastic Bluetooth keyboard which works wight the iPad... I suppose if they put a marketing spin on it, Apple could convince you that their keyboard is needed to "transform" the iPad into a netbook. Of course the tf dock offers a few extra features, but those features can be had with accessories on other devices. It's all a matter of how important we perceive the accessory to be.
So, in reviewing the transformer, the dock should be mentioned, but it should not be used to compare with other tablets unless you allow the same accessories to be compared. Some would argue that an iPad with Bluetooth accessories beats the transformer with dock... All a matter of perception.
in my opinion, Transformer should be treated as one package including dock, where the name suggest. It is exist to serve purpose as hybrid tablet/netbook. However, there is option where user can choose to use Transfomer just as tablet only. So, in any review, I strongly believe they have to compare the transformer(tablet+dock) as one product against other tablets.
I thin the difference from it being an accessory and it being designed in parallel is obscured by people who only view a tablet as a recreational device. Of course, how could you be surprised that people who are paid byApple to say nothing but praisesare trying to ignore the main difference between a recreational deviceand a productive device? They dont want you tobe able to distinguishbetweenthe devices because theywant a clear path!
Sorry for nonspaces and typos, i normallyuse the dock but im charging it while roaming my house withthe tablet.
goodintentions said:
I've seen several reviews comparing the transformer to the ipad 2. And they would say "since it's not fair to include the keyboard dock in the review because the ipad 2 doesn't have one..."
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That, for me, is enough to confirm the review is biased and has been written to match the reviewer's preconceptions of which is the better product.
It's not a review, it's an Apple advertisement, and I'd have stopped reading at that point.
Since the asus chick has a pair of nice fake boobs, it's unfair to compare it to the flat chested apple chick. Let's just compare other stuffs.
To me, that nice fake boobs is a major selling point!
I don't know about everyone else...but the only time my TF isn't attached to the dock is when the dock is charging and I'm using it. Otherwise, they're inseparable.
myamex said:
Since the asus chick has a pair of nice fake boobs, it's unfair to compare it to the flat chested apple chick. Let's just compare other stuffs.
To me, that nice fake boobs is a major selling point!
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HA HA HA awesome
Sent from my GT540RR using XDA App
reviewing the asus TF without the dock is like reviewing a car without mentioning its tyres...
not sure why you guys care..you already have the TF, so why do you need reviews? surely you don't need other people to validate what you think of the TF?
it's not our job to sell TFs, it's asus'...that is unless you own asus stock, in which case, i don't think this is the forum for that.
sorry for being the wet blanket, but this seems a wee bit the polar-opposite of those "i hate asus/tf threads", which everyone seems to hate...
Sent from my Transformer TF101 using Tapatalk
goodintentions said:
I've seen several reviews comparing the transformer to the ipad 2. And they would say "since it's not fair to include the keyboard dock in the review because the ipad 2 doesn't have one..."
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Because they know the outcome they want at the end of the review before they start, so they change the review critera to suit.
Clearly including the dock would make the Transformer the ipad2 killer, and nobody wants to upset Apple, so exclude the dock from the review and call it a draw, Apple happy, and their advertising cheques still drop on the doormat.