Database Users

Making the switch to xoom worth it?

So I've had the Tab (VZW) since Christmas, and for the most part I have been very happy with it, but when I got to play with the Xoom the other day I was really impressed. Anyways that got me thinking...
I bought the tab as well as the HDMI dock and cable and a folio case. Just wondering how much I could realistically get for the whole package. And if the improvements that the Xoom offers are worth it.
Anyone care to cast their opinions?
Thanks.

TBH...I'd hold out a bit yet. There are many more Honeycomb Tablets coming, and at what seems to be considerably less cost.
Many reports show Xoom owners less than satisfied. Seems there are alot of shortcomings not only with the Xoom (losing your Xoom for a week to upgrade to 4G, SD card slot inactive, overall bugginess, etc...google it) but also with the early bugginess of Honeycomb.
Would make sense to hold out for another month...and since you have already owned one of their devices, you should consider the Galaxy 10.1 or the 8.9 when they release...here's a post with some pros & cons.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=988950

Personally I can't compare a 7" device to a 10" device. Totally different use cases. If you just want an Android tablet to have around the house then the Xoom is probably the best one to get right now, but I'd hold off a little bit and see what the Samsung and LG and others are like. If I was in the market for a large format tablet then I'm liking the look of the 10.1 myself. Hopefully Samsung will enable GPU acceleration like they've done with the original Tab. Makes a difference when watching movies. Lack of sd card is a bit of a pisser though...

Agreed on the SD card...mebbe they'll show us something different on the 22nd announcement they have planned. Although, truly, only way 16gb wouldn't be enough is if I dump music or a bunch of movies onto it. The only device I have that has used more than 16gb of space is my Vibrant, I have most of my music on that. Takes up about 24gb (with external SD card).

Honestly I would hold off on any Motorola products right now. They are under MASSIVE attack from customers for various things that they found wrong with the Xoom and other newer devices and Motorola "appears" to be ignoring them.
http://www.androidincanada.ca/news/everyone-mad-at-moto/
http://www.androidcentral.com/moto-employee-confirms-locked-bootloaders-and-bad-attitude

The HTC Flyer looks very impressive. it makes me regret my laggy tab. It's UI is awesome, 1.5Ghz... but as per usual with ALL HTC's there have AWFUL battery life.. (4hrs opposed to out tabs with 7hrs)

So, Engadget say's Eee Pad is better than Xoom

I guess the IPS Screen, Keyboard Dock, and 100$ - Price was enough to warrant it being "the best honeycomb tablet to date"
http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/18/asus-eee-pad-transformer-uk-edition-review/
really Engadget?

You tell me why can't eeepad better than xoom? I bought my xoom last week, and I still love it . But I really can't deny that eeepad is better, at least its screen and hardware design. I hate the volume button, power button on my xoom.
P/s: price comparison isnt big deal for me cause I bought my new xoom 32gb wifi version only $530^^
Sent from my Dell Streak using XDA Premium App

I just read that review and must admit that it struck me as a little odd. They make more of the screen than the software quirks that they appear to be experiencing with it.
My experience with the xoom is not too bad but there are certainly some things that need to be improved. Mostly software and a honeycomb update would be good. The screen is certainly not terrible and it seems at least on a par with the iPad 2 that my wife has.

s.t.s said:
I just read that review and must admit that it struck me as a little odd. They make more of the screen than the software quirks that they appear to be experiencing with it.
My experience with the xoom is not too bad but there are certainly some things that need to be improved. Mostly software and a honeycomb update would be good. The screen is certainly not terrible and it seems at least on a par with the iPad 2 that my wife has.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I agree with you. Get software improvement is more important. I just wait for next honeycomb update, and my xoom will blow I-tampon away ^^
Sent from my Dell Streak using XDA Premium App

This thing is way to big for me! Looks giant next to the xoom. It's obviously not all about thinness and weight.

rjoudrey said:
This thing is way to big for me! Looks giant next to the xoom. It's obviously not all about thinness and weight.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well the xoom is slightly heavier, but agree on the size. The eeePad Transformer looks to be over an inch longer and wider, making it just past the 'comfort' dimensions. For example, I can grasp the xoom in portrait mode with one hand; I wouldn't be able to do that with the transformer. This means that the xoom is superior for my needs until the Samsung 8.9 tab comes out...

gadgetluva said:
Well the xoom is slightly heavier, but agree on the size. The eeePad Transformer looks to be over an inch longer and wider, making it just past the 'comfort' dimensions. For example, I can grasp the xoom in portrait mode with one hand; I wouldn't be able to do that with the transformer. This means that the xoom is superior for my needs until the Samsung 8.9 tab comes out...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Actually, because the bezel is larger, it looks like it makes it easier to grasp with one hand (haven't tried it, could be wrong).
I find the Xoom slightly difficult to hold in one hand after holding it up for some time because I can't grip it in as far as I like without touching the visible screen.

pure Google experience means faster updates. No thanks ASUS

shouldn't that say "engadget says the eee pad is better than the xoom based on their wonky criteria"? I've got to say, I don't really put much stock in the engadget reviews - ever since they gave the ipad2 a 9 and the xoom a 7 or a 6 or whatever they gave it. They seem to lionize the ability to consume content and summed up their review with "Overall, what attracts us to the Transformer over the Xoom is ASUS' intelligent button and camera placement". I've never had a problem with the xoom camera, but that's just me. Of course, it makes sense when you think about their jobs - they aren't quite journalists, aren't freelancers, and are all in their 20s. When you have real work to do your criteria markedly change.
when i compare my xoom to my iphone 4 I like the xoom a lot more and frankly, that's all that really matters: what i think about it.

rmmorse81 said:
pure Google experience means faster updates. No thanks ASUS
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The Asus is a pretty pure machine - contrary to rumours and speculation you may have read, it is not "skinned" and does not have a customised UI.
The only extras are Polaris Office, a DNLA WiFi network browser/player , some widgets and a screencap function (long press on "History") - Oh, they have also got a working Card Slot.
None of the above should prevent it getting fast updates.
It's taken Motorola a few months not to get their card slot working although they do blame Google.

htc6500uk said:
The Asus is a pretty pure machine - contrary to rumours and speculation you may have read, it is not "skinned" and does not have a customised UI.
The only extras are Polaris Office, a DNLA WiFi network browser/player , some widgets and a screencap function (long press on "History") - Oh, they have also got a working Card Slot.
None of the above should prevent it getting fast updates.
It's taken Motorola a few months not to get their card slot working although they do blame Google.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Point taken. My bad

One item that is important to me that the Asus doesn't have is dual band wifi.

i recently got my wifi xoom the hardware is what sold me on it feels solid and clean I'm staying with my xoom because I feel motorola will support us

rmmorse81 said:
pure Google experience means faster updates. No thanks ASUS
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Exactly. +1000 to you good sir. This is what I keep saying a s well. As an owner of a Motorola Xoom I know I will get updates before ANY Honeycomb'd device that is skinned. It's just like the Nexus line of phones. They got Gingerbread before anyone else (and still have it until a DEV bakes it into their ROM).
Pure Google Experience FTW. Everyday of the week.

DeerChaser said:
One item that is important to me that the Asus doesn't have is dual band wifi.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is very important. How can Asus leave out such an important part of a WiFi device. Dual Band is NEEDED for a WiFi only device

kelvie said:
Actually, because the bezel is larger, it looks like it makes it easier to grasp with one hand (haven't tried it, could be wrong).
I find the Xoom slightly difficult to hold in one hand after holding it up for some time because I can't grip it in as far as I like without touching the visible screen.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry bigger is never better. At least when it comes to tablets.

i meant grasping like palming a basketball.

I think I would still go with the xoom. I am more confident in motorola's build quality than asus. Moreover, the xoom is pure google and should quickly get updates. I see the asus as more geared towards the asian market with its cheaper price, but probably worse support (at least that has been my experience with the tiawainese computer companies).
Having said that every android 3.0 device that comes out increases the install base and therefore pressure for google to release more updates for android and hopefully more tablet apps.
Sent from my SPH-D700 using XDA Premium App

Who cares about Engadget anyway? Their "reviews" are hardly reviews and only seems to be a bashing contest everything non-apple.

htc6500uk said:
The Asus is a pretty pure machine - contrary to rumours and speculation you may have read, it is not "skinned" and does not have a customised UI.
The only extras are Polaris Office, a DNLA WiFi network browser/player , some widgets and a screencap function (long press on "History") - Oh, they have also got a working Card Slot.
None of the above should prevent it getting fast updates.
It's taken Motorola a few months not to get their card slot working although they do blame Google.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Actually the Xoom has working SD card. (thanks Tiamat 1.3.1) In my experience, DLNA has been a pain, and most manufacturer software additions are pointless. that said, I haven't played with the Asus, but I would be willing to bet there is not much value added by those apps.
Im sure someone else has/will point this out, just had to say it.

2 days left to return XOOM to BB -> Samsung 10.1

Got the XOOM wifi for my Bday. Totally enjoying the android tablet experience (also a Fascinate phone user). There are a few minor nit-picks for me with the XOOM. Seeing the Samsung 10.1 at Google IO is making me reconside my selection:
XOOM Nit Picks:
A bit Heavy (but certainly sturdy). I don't have any real need to lug this thing too far from my home office, so not really a deal breaker.
Power button on the back. I lie the XOOM flat on my desk. I need to pick it up to wake it up - many time per day. I find this oddly annoying!
Display just feels washed out to me. I have gotten away from the conservative auto-brightness to manually adjusted to better suite my taste. This is surely an UNFAIR LED vs Super Amoled comparison (like on my phone), but nonetheless, it is an issue for me.
Non-USB charging - yep, one more cable to manage. Again, this is an Android Tablet general concern, not specific to the XOOM.
So, the Samsung hits a couple topics for me: Lightweight, thinner, button on edge. But has its own set of issues for me:
Not 3.1 yet, Samsung seem terribly slow to push out upgrades (maybe really a Verizon issue on my phone?).
No HDMI/USB support. I am guessing they will provide some sort of dongle to provide these features, but ONE MORE piece to manage.
No SD Card support. I don have a big concern here, but who knows in the future?
Construction. The Google IO devices really looked/felt like cheap-plastic with that funky white back - but this may be how they get the weight spec to fall just below the iPad2. This is one of my gripes with the Fascinate phone - cheap back. I've not heard any reports of the retail config in June. Will it be like the IO devices, or return to something more like the original 10.18.9 black back.
I am totally on the fence here. Any suggestions??
Thanks,
Mark

Have you held a tab 10.1? it does not feel cheap and plasticy.

Xoom:
Available now w/3.1
802.11 a/b/g/n (as far as I know it's the only device with 5ghz wifi)
OTA updates (kies LOL)
Weight:
I typically carry mine around in some sort of folio case, or padded bag. To me, a few grams of weight is 100% negligible because of that fact... if I had any other tablet I'd stick it in a folio or case of some sort as well which surely adds to the weight. I don't know very many people that use their tablets without any form of cover/folio/case/screen film/etc. Even when I'm "around the house" I put it in a gel sleeve which adds to the weight. So... truly... is weight an issue on any of these tablets?
Screen:
I've held an ipad, an ipad2, a xoom, and an acer all together (not at once) - generally the screen on the ipads just seem better. dont know what the trickery is because its not just the fact that its an IPS screen vs a TN panel... I played with an Acer which is supposedly IPS as well and I thought it looked practically the same as my Xoom. I did get to hold it side by side with my Xoom at a tradeshow, it was a fun little tablet but it felt a little awkward to me. The button and output placement on it was better.
Peripheral placement:
Where the Xoom "sucks" the most if i may say it... is where everything plugs in. Short of the contacts for the power dock being on the bottom everything else is just wrong. You can't dock it and plug it into USB at the same time, gee thanks motorola.
My opinion:
Someone gave you a Xoom and you're out nothing. If you want a samsung tablet just wait until it comes out and sell your Xoom for $399 to someone as a deal and use that money to subsidize your samsung purchase.

I've got until tomorrow to return mine if I want. I've owned the original iPad, the Playbook and rooted a Nook Color. Currently, I have a Transformer on order and who knows if it will ever ship. Anyway, I agree with the previous poster that a little weight really is of little importance, especially when you put on a case. Also, for me, the connectivity is a concern because I use HDMI out a lot.
The Galaxy Tab looks appealing and I'm sure the screen will impress. However, I wonder if it will suffer from the light bleeding issues other such screens seem to have. I am also hesitant to jump in because of the stated concerns about Samsung not updating their products. That wouldn't be as great a concern if 3.1 wasn't such a dang improvement in performance and stability. Personally, I think the wiser course of action is to wait until the Galaxy 8.9. By then, surely 3.1 will be implemented and you will get a better form factor for carry.

Hi MarkP,
I think it`s really a hard decision, every review is saying great things about the Tab 10.1, for me the mains CONS are exactly those you mentioned, lack of ports and SD Reader (to be confirmed, actually, there are rumors that the retail version will have an SD reader).
Just to correct one point, the Tab 10.1 is not AMOLED, Samsung did not mention the display technology and people is speculating that it could be a Super LCD (the qualitty is very good), but is no AMOLED for sure.
I would be very worried about the pace of updates from Samsung, specially in the case of the retail tab which is supposed to come with some sort of TouchWiz (TouchWiz in itself is a big MINUS in my opinion, I like the Google Experience).
I think in any case you will be with a nice tablet, dependes of what is more important to your specific use case.
Regards ans good luck.
Sandro

dulaney22 said:
I've got until tomorrow to return mine if I want. I've owned the original iPad, the Playbook and rooted a Nook Color. Currently, I have a Transformer on order and who knows if it will ever ship. Anyway, I agree with the previous poster that a little weight really is of little importance, especially when you put on a case. Also, for me, the connectivity is a concern because I use HDMI out a lot.
The Galaxy Tab looks appealing and I'm sure the screen will impress. However, I wonder if it will suffer from the light bleeding issues other such screens seem to have. I am also hesitant to jump in because of the stated concerns about Samsung not updating their products. That wouldn't be as great a concern if 3.1 wasn't such a dang improvement in performance and stability. Personally, I think the wiser course of action is to wait until the Galaxy 8.9. By then, surely 3.1 will be implemented and you will get a better form factor for carry.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I agree, weight is a non issue for the most part, and I also agree about waiting to see if samsung updates...I mean, I have a Samsung Vibrant and have had a Samsung Galaxy Tab, and the updates are slow to come(if they come at all.)...Don't get me wrong maybe Samsung will shape up in the future, but for now til I see it I am going to try to stay clear of Samsung Android devices.

I personally don't understand the argument of Xoom's weight. Did people become that fragile that they can't carry around a device that is less than 2 lbs?
Also, Xoom will have a superior build quality compared to Tab 10.1, this is why it is heavier. You cannot have a slim, lightweight device that will have fantastic build quality. When you make a device that lightweight, you are giving up quality.
To me, it seems Xoom will always get it's updates quicker than any other Honeycomb tablet. Don't forget, Iconia and Transformer will get it in June, even though they are already available. With Samsung having touchwiz, my guess it will get updates a few weeks if not more after Xoom. And remember I/O? Xoom was the device Google used through out their experiments. If this is any indication, Xoom will probably get more dev support in terms of hardware capabilities.

I guess I can't really add anything that numerous people here have already pointed out. My biggest disappointment with the xoom is the display. It's just not vibrant in any way. Pretty dull really, in my opinion. However, the fact that the xoom has pure honeycomb and will get updates much faster than other tablets that contain OEM bloat is the key factor in my wanting the xoom over others. And, the bootloader is open. My first and current android device is the Moto Atrix, and I really wish I waited or researched the android world more before I bought it, and go a device that didn't have a locked bootloader, or could be unlocked.
If you're really on the fence about it, just return the xoom before it's too late, wait for the Samsung to come out and go compare them side by side. Unless of course you must have a tablet to use between now and release.

holtenc said:
I guess I can't really add anything that numerous people here have already pointed out. My biggest disappointment with the xoom is the display. It's just not vibrant in any way. Pretty dull really, in my opinion. However, the fact that the xoom has pure honeycomb and will get updates much faster than other tablets that contain OEM bloat is the key factor in my wanting the xoom over others. And, the bootloader is open. My first and current android device is the Moto Atrix, and I really wish I waited or researched the android world more before I bought it, and go a device that didn't have a locked bootloader, or could be unlocked.
If you're really on the fence about it, just return the xoom before it's too late, wait for the Samsung to come out and go compare them side by side. Unless of course you must have a tablet to use between now and release.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't think the display is bad from vibrant standpoint, but I wish there was some way to change the color temperature to make it a little warmer. Frankly, I don't care much for the overly saturated colors of the Samsung or iPad.

samsung has always been slow and lazy on updates.
Sent from my Xoom using Tapatalk

i think I need to see the galaxy 10.1 display in person because the colors I have seen in all the pictures look a little too saturated to me...I think that would get annoying after a while. From a color saturation standpoint, I would prefer the xoom over the GT 10.1

Thanks everyone!
A few notes to add:
The Bday gift was to myself
Yep. The Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 display is also LED, not amoled like my Fascinate (I wish!). Probably will look very much the same as the XOOM, unless Samsung is able to config color/contrast/saturation default levels before shipping - or provide an interface for these options.
I think I may just return the XOOM, and go tablet-less until ~June 4 timeframe, then try to find a Samsung 10.1 display to do the touchy-feely stuff.
Worse case (or best case) - I buy the XOOM again, probably for a discount over the $599 I paid ($569 prices around today).
Will be only a small issue to go tabet-less for the next 20-30 days!

Looks like the GTab 10.1 i/o devices are suffering from a bit of backlight bleed themselves.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=13959199#post13959199
https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/qVS8KhM_rtXC555bw011jg
Good luck being able to rip open 10 of them on launch day to find a good one. Sometimes the quality control (or lack thereof) just baffles me.

^something like that I completely allowed on my $200 nook color. But when you double-plus the price, my tolerance grows quite thin and I expect the hardware to be as close to perfect as possible. Meaning: no back-light bleed.

Why not return, then repurchase at a different merchant to re extend your return time so you can wait for the Samsung to come out and be able to make a more informed decision? Once you sign into Google with the newly purchased xoom, virtually everything but your movies music and photos will be loaded back onto it.
You probably shouldn't do this, I only did something like this one time when i had a wedding shoot and really needed the money but had just sold my Sony nex. I went to Walmart and bought a dslr camera and returned it after the shoot. I'm sure if lots of people do this, it could **** with the merchants and Motorola. But, you know, its all well within your rights, just frowned upon. Your call.
Sent from my Xoom using XDA App

Xoom is not the best, but enough to make me satisfied. The problem is Honeycomb itself (lag, missing apps..) not the xoom hardware.

tritran18518 said:
Xoom is not the best, but enough to make me satisfied. The problem is Honeycomb itself (lag, missing apps..) not the xoom hardware.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Are you still having lag issues even after 3.1? Are you able to surf the net and listen to mp3 without any issues? I have a TF and I dont know if its worth waiting for 3.1 in June. My return date for my TF is at the end of May. I heard good things about 3.1. Listening to my music and surfing is one of the thing I do the most, and on 3.0 using either playerpro or PowerAMP cause so much lag that it will lock up the browser or the player. With PlayerPro it will actually stutter during playback

I was planning on waiting for the 10.1 but started having doubts when I heard about the lack of SD card, then in a moment of doubt I found a xoom on ebay for $405, I definitively think its worth it fr $405.

tritran18518 said:
Xoom is not the best, but enough to make me satisfied. The problem is Honeycomb itself (lag, missing apps..) not the xoom hardware.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Are you not on 3.1?

erzhik said:
I personally don't understand the argument of Xoom's weight. Did people become that fragile that they can't carry around a device that is less than 2 lbs?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
no ****. you gotta laugh when someone complains how tablet x is soooo much heavier than tablet y... and the difference is only 100 grams!

[Q] Galaxy 10.1/Tranformer/Xoom?! Which one?

Hi all, trying to decide which tablet to get. Hoping to get some honest unbiased opinions. I am coming from an IPad 1 which i loved. Also, I have the $100.00 off staples coupon, however I can NOT get the Asus at 100 off. Everywhere I checked in my area would not honor the coupon because Staples does not have it in stock, I can only get the xoom or Samsung 100.00 off. SO I know most of the pros and cons of each but most reviews that favor the Asus like it because of the price cut. I am going into this with all 3 the same price (only difference being I can get a 32gb xoom at the price of the 16gb asus and samsung)
ASUS 16gb - 399.99
What I like about the ASUS:
Screen I read is the best.
Mini HDMI
SD Card
Lots of mod potential
CONS:
heavier
proprietary cable that i can not find for sale anywhere
large frame.
less than quality build
I dont care about the dock, probably wont buy it.
XOOM - 32gb - 399.99
What I like about the XOOM
largest capacity
Updates first
quality build
SD card slot
HDMI out
no proprietary cable
lots of accessories
CONS:
not the best screen
heaviest
seems to be a little slower than the others (not as responsive)
not a lot of mods available
Galaxy Tab - 399.99 16gb
Pros:
light
quality build
smaller frame
optional keyboard if I want
nice screen
fast/responsive
good mod community
CONS:
proprietary cable
no SD Card slot (huge)
no HDMI out
So with all that said, any opinions/suggestions would really help. Like I said I have the 100.00 coupon and I hate to not use it. So with it I can get all 3 for 399.99 BUT if I choose the Samsung, I would probably pay the 499.99 for the 32 gig (using the 100.00 off) since it has no SD card slot which REALLY SUX. Id be using the tab for movie watching a lot, lots of web browsing, and some EBOOK/PDF mag reading mainly with light gaming and light music listening.
I REALLY need some help.

Build Quality is a BIG factor
Personally I think you will be less than impressed with the build quality of the Asus. True, the screen is the best, but I have held one for extended periods of time and compared to the Xoom, it is really poorly made. The feel of the plastic and poor quality made me frustrated while using the device for 15 minutes. It would really bug me if I paid good money for one and had to hold the cheap feeling device every time.
The Galaxy is a nice device with a decent UI built on top of HC 3.1. The screen was a bit too washed out and saturated for me. I think the Xoom has a softer, more true color balance. The proprietary cables and lack of expansion slot is why I would not migrate to Samsung. Needing an additional dongle cable for I/O kind of stinks.
Here is a review I wrote for the Xoom and compared it in some areas to Asus, Acer, Toshiba and Samsung.
As with any purchase it boils down to preference, price and personal taste. I went from an Acer to the Xoom because of the build quality, Out of the Box support, accessory support, and OS support. The hardware and software integration had less problems on the Xoom than the Acer. Toshiba is experiencing big issues in this area as well. Screens not waking up and other issues with the OS and hardware are problems.
Also keep in mind the Xoom integrates with your PC for file transfers. Other HC devices do not integrate as easily. The Toshiba and Acer can not see their internal storage when attached to a PC. There is no way to easily transfer fies from a PC, Mac or Linux. With the Xoom it is seen as a removable drive.
Also, waiting for Samsung or Asus to release their approved updates could be frustrating if you want the latest and greatest from google. Acer is just now getting the 3.1 update to their devices because of the manufacturer UI integration. The Xoom is the cleanest HC OS with no UI laid over the stock ROM from Google.
Happy hunting.

Xoom charges the fastest. That matters to me.

I had the Xoom, returned it for the Transformer, then returned the Transformer for the Galaxy tab 10.1. I will be keeping the 10.1 and love it.
The Xoom screen is TERRIBLE and it's way too heavy. And up until recently the Xoom was the most expensive tablet on the market, despite having the worst features.
The Transformer was just a big POS. Software was extremely slow on laggy, build quality was abysmal.
I have no need for microSD or HDMI so that was no big deal for me. what I wanted was a light tablet with a wonderful screen and high build quality. The Galaxy tab 10.1 is the only one that gives me that.
What the Xoom has going for it is that it is the first to get Honeycomb updates, and it's built like a tank (in a good way, meaning it's sturdy).
I would use the $100 Staples coupon and get the Galaxy Tab 10.1. Thankfully it is still shipping without Touchwiz, since I don't like how Touchwiz tries to make Honeycomb look like iOS (seriously Samsung, get off of Apple's nuts already, it's embarrassing).

I'm in the same boat as you kinda. Looking at which tablet I will be buying.
Unfortunately, as of yet there is not one that I say I want and has everything I want. Xoom and Galaxy Tab 10.1 come closest, but then again - screen quality on Xoom seems to be poor whilst on the Galaxy there is no micro SD expansion possibility (which is a must in my eyes).
Will probably go for a Xoom - just need to convince myself a bit more and hope I'm not disappointed with the screen.

screwhead89 said:
I'm in the same boat as you kinda. Looking at which tablet I will be buying.
Unfortunately, as of yet there is not one that I say I want and has everything I want. Xoom and Galaxy Tab 10.1 come closest, but then again - screen quality on Xoom seems to be poor whilst on the Galaxy there is no micro SD expansion possibility (which is a must in my eyes).
Will probably go for a Xoom - just need to convince myself a bit more and hope I'm not disappointed with the screen.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is driving me crazy...I'm a painter and use the Xoom as my mobile portfolio. I have compared the photos on the Xoom screen to the photos on my pc and the actual artwork, and the colors are extremely close to true life. I know that humans are attracted to over-saturated colors, but that would be a big problem for me.
I have no noticable issues with ghosting. I'm extremely satisfied with the Xoom screen. It works for me but YMMV.
.

yeah. xoom is the best overall. maybe not hands down or overwhelmingly. but the best nonetheless.
Sent from my Xoom using Tapatalk

Unless you're directly comparing the xoom screen right next to another device, you won't notice a thing.

EvoXOhio said:
I had the Xoom, returned it for the Transformer, then returned the Transformer for the Galaxy tab 10.1. I will be keeping the 10.1 and love it.
The Xoom screen is TERRIBLE and it's way too heavy. And up until recently the Xoom was the most expensive tablet on the market, despite having the worst features.
The Transformer was just a big POS. Software was extremely slow on laggy, build quality was abysmal.
I have no need for microSD or HDMI so that was no big deal for me. what I wanted was a light tablet with a wonderful screen and high build quality. The Galaxy tab 10.1 is the only one that gives me that.
What the Xoom has going for it is that it is the first to get Honeycomb updates, and it's built like a tank (in a good way, meaning it's sturdy).
I would use the $100 Staples coupon and get the Galaxy Tab 10.1. Thankfully it is still shipping without Touchwiz, since I don't like how Touchwiz tries to make Honeycomb look like iOS (seriously Samsung, get off of Apple's nuts already, it's embarrassing).
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Xoom has the worst features? Just because you don't use HDMI or microSD (that will probably change) doesn't mean you can ignore those features. The only downside I can see is that it doesn't have an IPS display - but even that isn't a big deal. When you aren't in a showroom, those IPS displays (like on my brother's iPad 2) are blinding. It may have taken a while to reach its potential, but the Xoom is still the best Android tablet you can buy.

Thx for the responses, although I'm still just as confused as before lol!

The ones you have listed basically have the same specs all around the board, it really comes down to built quality and the extra features. While the Transformer has some cool add-ons, they're expensive as Hell. When it comes to build quality I give the edge to the Xoom. Some people complain that it weighs...all of 1.6 pounds, I actually prefer for something I might be holding to have a little bit of weight, otherwise I may forget I'm holding it and drop it. The Xoom also has the best cameras, if that makes any difference, and has the most accessories. I really wanted to get the Tab 10.1, but when I found out it has (or will have) a stupid dongle like the iPad, then I decided against it. It's just something else to lose or break, and is completely unnecessary, but that's just the way that Samsung tends to do things.

brandogg said:
The ones you have listed basically have the same specs all around the board, it really comes down to built quality and the extra features. While the Transformer has some cool add-ons, they're expensive as Hell. When it comes to build quality I give the edge to the Xoom. Some people complain that it weighs...all of 1.6 pounds, I actually prefer for something I might be holding to have a little bit of weight, otherwise I may forget I'm holding it and drop it. The Xoom also has the best cameras, if that makes any difference, and has the most accessories. I really wanted to get the Tab 10.1, but when I found out it has (or will have) a stupid dongle like the iPad, then I decided against it. It's just something else to lose or break, and is completely unnecessary, but that's just the way that Samsung tends to do things.
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One more thing that just struck me on my way to work...the Xoom is a serious device for getting things done. I never use my laptop in the field anymore; the Xoom does it all. I don't know how the other tabs stack up when it comes to serious work but it's a consideration for me.

I have gone thru 3 ipads -- 2 ipad 1 (wifi then 3g) and an ipa2 3g, Galaxy Tab (7"), and the Evo View 4G (7"), as well my Xoom. I decided against keeping the ipads mostly because they're really just oversized iphones (which I already use) and I was looking for more. I love the smaller form factor of the 7" devices but ended up more convinced of the Honeycomb than the earlier Android OS. I've compared the Xoom display to virtually all the others now being offered including HP's new Touchpad. It's pretty subjective IMHO -- yes, the GTab 10.1 more highly saturated colors give a first impression of "better" colors, but having used the Xoom daily since it first arrived in Feb, I can honestly say none of the other displays was good enough to convince me to give up the Xoom. It's a workhorse and seems to remain ahead of the others because XDA-Developers continually offers advancements that Moto and Verizon haven't even thought about yet.

I had the Galaxy Tab 7" and got the Xoom when it came out. The Tab is more refined than the Xoom but I am pretty sure that's because the Tab is running 2.2 and not Gingerbread. Once the update for the Xoom hits mine I'm sure I'll like it much more than I currently do with the missing SD card and 4g.

goinovr said:
I had the Galaxy Tab 7" and got the Xoom when it came out. The Tab is more refined than the Xoom but I am pretty sure that's because the Tab is running 2.2 and not Gingerbread. Once the update for the Xoom hits mine I'm sure I'll like it much more than I currently do with the missing SD card and 4g.
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If you're rooted (and I sure recommend it) why not try the Tiamat 2.0 Manta Ray in the Xoom development section. It is really super - updates to HC 3.2 with additional features the stock OS won't have. I've had SD card access since early in my Xoom's life thanks to these XDA developers and virtually all my gripes have been addressed. This is a great tablet once the OS is where it needs to be.

My New Xoom 3/4g

I bought the Xoom when it first came out. I was one of the lucky ones that got a 25% off promotion. Since then I have bought and sold an iPad 2, bought and returned a Toshiba, Asus, and Acer tablet. All the while keeping the Xoom. I bought a New iPad and have an Archos 80G as an Android backup.
Now that my Xoom has been updated to ICS I can say the Xoom has been and is still my favorite tablet. Other than the display, which is good, the Xoom is on par with the New iPad.
When the Xoom first came out there wasn't much software available. The Android tablet software has grown greatly. Although the IOS has more software, there isn't much that I need or want beyond the 80 or so apps I have on my Xoom.
The improvements provided by ICS make the Xoom a more enjoyable and reliable tablet that has the feel of quality throughout.
Congrats Motorola!

1215kids said:
I bought the Xoom when it first came out. I was one of the lucky ones that got a 25% off promotion. Since then I have bought and sold an iPad 2, bought and returned a Toshiba, Asus, and Acer tablet. All the while keeping the Xoom. I bought a New iPad and have an Archos 80G as an Android backup.
Now that my Xoom has been updated to ICS I can say the Xoom has been and is still my favorite tablet. Other than the display, which is good, the Xoom is on par with the New iPad.
When the Xoom first came out there wasn't much software available. The Android tablet software has grown greatly. Although the IOS has more software, there isn't much that I need or want beyond the 80 or so apps I have on my Xoom.
The improvements provided by ICS make the Xoom a more enjoyable and reliable tablet that has the feel of quality throughout.
Congrats Motorola!
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It's so nice to get your take on it. This is a really fine tablet, and I wholeheartedly agree, it is so much better than when it was first released. It has always been extremely well built, but the improvements in the OS, the available apps, and custom ROMS, kernels, recoveries, modifications and goodies developed for it have made this tab absolutely stellar!

I too have an Ipad, and I always ALWAYS pick my Xoom up before the ipad.
Hands down, browsing,emailing,watching
16:9>*****
Apple fanboys still swear that 4:3 is a better format, how they can say that, I have no clue..
I agree 16:9 takes some time to get used to, but once you do, portrait mode browsing is a FREAKING DREAM!!!
When I first got my Xoom with honey comb, the Ipad was slightly better performance wise (Ipad 1 by the way)
But the little lag didn't bother me..
The day I got ICS installed I couldn't believe the difference, the xoom was screaming fast, lag was non existence.. I still swear the Xoom is at the top of the list of tablets, with my T-mobile HSPA+42 (15 down-3 up average, 23 down max) I can tether to my xoom anywhere and have a mini computer with me at all times.
I also LOVE the build of the Xoom, Motorola swung for the fences with this and hit a homerun, no other tablet IMO has the quality feel to it, it's heavy, gorilla glass, great feel.
I don't have any complaints really about this tablet, but I agree, the colors aren't as vivid as the Ipad, but unless I'm comparing side by side you would never know.
In closing I just recently put EOS 2.0 on my xoom and overclocked it to 1.4 (can go all the way to 1.7) and my quadrant scores 3x have been 3900-4100
top of the list

I also own an ipad, latest version. The screen is absolutely the best, battery life is very good, the browser is still faster bring up pages than the Xoom on ICS. Unfortunately, without a file manager I find iOS really lacking. Maybe the average user for reading, browsing and movies doesn't need it, I do.
At first my ipad3 replaced my Xoom completely. Then, after trying to find where I put files related to a job site, I started carrying my Xoom at work and ipad at home. Now, I rarely pickup the ipad. I rather use the ipad as I find the screen is that good and I will pick it up if I know I'm going to be reading/browsing for an extended period but the Xoom is really my go to device.
Maybe google will make a hi-resolution screen tablet. Or, maybe iOS 6 will surprise us next week with a file manager.