Database Users

Sorry for a potentially stupid post

I'm tablet shopping.
I have 500 bucks to spend. I don't know much about the Iconia other than the reviews being good. Are the problems I've read about honeycomb on the Xoom present here as well? Is 3.1 coming any time soon?
I don't want to buy another iPad
Dammit I thought I was in General Mods please move.

If they're OS related (aka Honeycomb's), then yes, all tablets running Honeycomb have them. Compared to Xoom though, the Iconia is sexier (my opinion), and has a working microSD card slot.
On the other hand it has other problems, e.g. the screen turns on by itself from time to time, and there is (apparently) battery drain from Cell standby (divided opinions on this one).
The thing that got me hooked though was the USB port. At the moment you can attach a keyboard or USB storage, and it works, and it seems with a 3.1 update it will be able to do even more.
Re: 3.1, I've seen a post around here somewhere from a user who contacted support about a problem with the browser, and they stated that the problem would be fixed in the 3.1 update sometime in June. Don't have any additional info.

gunnyman said:
I'm tablet shopping.
I have 500 bucks to spend. I don't know much about the Iconia other than the reviews being good. Are the problems I've read about honeycomb on the Xoom present here as well? Is 3.1 coming any time soon?
I don't want to buy another iPad
Dammit I thought I was in General Mods please move.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Buy it - you'll love it. The combination of features can't be beat. I just tried out this morning the USB mouse (there's an apk floating around this forum somewhere - I just don't remember where it is).
Also, I might point out it's quite sturdy, Gorilla glass screen and, at least for me, I have not had any sudden screen on/off behavior, no hardware issue whatsoever, and excellent battery life. I have WiFi set to turn off when the screen is off and I only lose a few % of battery overnight.
All in all, it's a lot of fun to use

adancau said:
If they're OS related (aka Honeycomb's), then yes, all tablets running Honeycomb have them. Compared to Xoom though, the Iconia is sexier (my opinion), and has a working microSD card slot.
On the other hand it has other problems, e.g. the screen turns on by itself from time to time, and there is (apparently) battery drain from Cell standby (divided opinions on this one).
The thing that got me hooked though was the USB port. At the moment you can attach a keyboard or USB storage, and it works, and it seems with a 3.1 update it will be able to do even more.
Re: 3.1, I've seen a post around here somewhere from a user who contacted support about a problem with the browser, and they stated that the problem would be fixed in the 3.1 update sometime in June. Don't have any additional info.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The xoom has a working microSD card as well via custom kernel. The Iconia is a great tablet but the lack of recovery is what ultimately led me to the xoom. The two are actually very similar. No word on 3.1 yet Gunny, the jurory is still out on what Acers support will look like, another reason I chose the xoom in the end. I enjoyed my time with the Acer. The Acer has lots of potential but it's a tough nut to crack. Even with running stock I didn't like the idea of not being able to complete recover without sending it into Acer.
Although you can kind of recovery by flashing the Chinese update.zip, I would have felt better with a stock US image. Good luck my friend.
Sent from Desire HD or Inspire 4G or whatever this thing is called via premium XDA app.

Im in the same boat. I have the iconia, and am loving it. But I think when my fourteen days comes due I'm going to bring it back, and get the galazy 10.1 and try it. Which ever I like more, I'm keeping.
Sent from my PC36100 using XDA App

I took the plunge today. So far so good.

Seagullbeagle said:
Im in the same boat. I have the iconia, and am loving it. But I think when my fourteen days comes due I'm going to bring it back, and get the galazy 10.1 and try it. Which ever I like more, I'm keeping.
Sent from my PC36100 using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Tomorrow is my 14th day.. I'm pretty sure I'm going to return it and wait for the 10.1 tab. There are some quirks that are really bothering me about the tab
Screen on and off
Laggy text input while typing.
Sometimes laggy browser.
Considerable lag w/ live wallpaper.
The battery rocks, I've already reset to stock and re-rooted. I also have the ntfs support enabled. I have an external 32gb sd which was a pain to get working. I am bothered that Acer didn't include a file manager. (I know there are plenty out there).
Just my thoughts.

If your looking for another reason to keep your Iconia, take a look at this review:
http://techcrunch.com/2011/05/03/the-five-minor-differences-between-the-motorola-xoom-and-acer-iconia-tab/
I think this review by TechCrunch really breaks down some of the more obvious differences and puts it into perspective as to why the Iconia is a better purchase.
Don't worry about Honeycomb 3.1 ... it'll be out soon enough for the Iconia and someone will ALWAYS hack the system so if your ever worried about being locked out... also give it some time.

lanisan said:
Tomorrow is my 14th day.. I'm pretty sure I'm going to return it and wait for the 10.1 tab. There are some quirks that are really bothering me about the tab
Screen on and off
Laggy text input while typing.
Sometimes laggy browser.
Considerable lag w/ live wallpaper.
The battery rocks, I've already reset to stock and re-rooted. I also have the ntfs support enabled. I have an external 32gb sd which was a pain to get working. I am bothered that Acer didn't include a file manager. (I know there are plenty out there).
Just my thoughts.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
All of the stuff you pointed out can be fixed via a software update.
The Samsung tab losses a lot of input ports to attain its thinness.
No USB, no HDMI, & who knows what else.

mr.r9 said:
All of the stuff you pointed out can be fixed via a software update.
The Samsung tab losses a lot of input ports to attain its thinness.
No USB, no HDMI, & who knows what else.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is why I chose the Iconia over the Xoom or Tab 10.1, updates can fix the laggy stuff, you cant add a usb/hdmi port(unless your a serious modder or computer engineer). Ive only had my Iconia for 3 days but so far I havent had any issues anyone else is talking about.(Screen or Wifi issue).

I think engadget also raised the possibility of the iconia having ddr3 memory, although from what I read on the Nvidia white papers, it only supports ddr2 memory.
Anyone see any breakdowns that identify the memory modules, and if they are truly different from other tabs?

Samsung 10.1 vs Transformer

Hey everyone,
I'm trying to purchase a tablet and am undecided between the transformer and samsung tab 10.1. Just wondering if anyone who has used one or both could help me out with the decision. Ill be using the tablet mostly for entertainment and for school once or twice a week. Thanks for the help!
Sent from my SGH-T959 using XDA App

The Gtab 1 or 2? If you're refering to the first gen, of course Transformer is better. As for second gen, its not released yet so anything people say is mostly opinion based on specs

I prefer the asus spec wise. All the extra standardized ports and external storage slot are why people choose android over ios, imo. Internals seem similarly matched, Sammy gets the prize for prettiest tablet. If these were laptops sammy would be an nice ultra portable and asus would be the good all-purpose.

I would get the TF for best bang for the buck. You will save 100 bucks and on top of it it has a microsd slot and hdmi port, where the Samsung 10.1 does not. If you just wants looks well then go with the 10.1. I believe that Samsung made a huge mistake not including a microsd slot.... PLS vs IPS screen,what 10% brighter then the IPS screen on the TF not worth it to me. With that extra 100 bucks you save you could get the dock.....TF for the FTW.....

I wanted a galaxy.. but I have to say the lack of SDcard slot on the thing was an absolute dealbreaker. I really couldn't be happier with my transformer at this point.. especially with 3.1 fixing the YouTube / video problems

SLG951 said:
Hey everyone,
I'm trying to purchase a tablet and am undecided between the transformer and samsung tab 10.1. Just wondering if anyone who has used one or both could help me out with the decision. Ill be using the tablet mostly for entertainment and for school once or twice a week. Thanks for the help!
Sent from my SGH-T959 using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
this may be a little off.. but no one can compare the Samsung 10.1 since its not out. ill give you my opinion about the Xoom and the 10.1 off what i know.
I have heard from people who got the special edition Samsung 10.1 version, was that it had a better screen than the Xoom. the only thing that attracts me to the Samsung 10.1 is the thinness.. but after having a transformer, the size feels just right. I want something there , not just paper thin.
To be honest, get the Transformer.. I had the Xoom for 2 weeks and straight out of the box i knew there was an issue. I tried to enjoy it, but the screen kept turning me off. I went to the motorola forums and random other people posted asking if they would fix it via a firmware update? kinda like how the Nexus 1 got tweaked. There was no solid info regarding the screen. if your looking at the screen 100% of the time it needs to look good. At Angles, the Xoom looked blurry. I always had to hold it directly at me. While my Transformer (4 days new) i can set it down and tilt my head from my PC or any angle and it looks nice, colorful and sharp.
One of the turn off was that the Samsung 10.1 tab had a 3mp camera for front while the Transformer has a 5. these are just minor things but to me, id rather have a 5mp.
IMO, The colors stand out better than the Xoom but i cant compare the Samsung 10.1 which is not out yet.. With the new firmware 3.1 , it kicks even more ass. Samsung has said it would ship with 3.1 out the door. I haven't had any screen bleeding or creaking like a few have stated. Im completely happy in my purchase. Now i want the dock (which is not something i wanted originally) but the Transformer is an excellent Tablet.
What it comes down to is features, Skins ect. The Xoom has a Barometer built in, Transformer has a GPS without a carrier (but works better at tracking you when you uses a hotspot type of device) beyond that, its a click and it shows you the map where your at... i have had problems following me ...say in a car, while im driving. I think the built in Transformer GPS is meant for not moving objects but just a quick glance of the location. If you want it actively following you, like a cell phone GPS use a hotspot from Comcast 20$ a month or create a hotspot with your cellphone.
Im not sure what the Samsung 10.1 has exclusively built in. But since i purchased the transformer, ive forgotten about the Sammy 10.1 tab.

Thanks for the input everyone. Ya the biggest fear I had was not enough ports, especially the hdmi. The transformer is looking like a better pick to me. Just making sure that cloud based storage and remote desktop is standard on all of them right?
Sent from my SGH-T959 using XDA App

SLG951 said:
Thanks for the input everyone. Ya the biggest fear I had was not enough ports, especially the hdmi. The transformer is looking like a better pick to me. Just making sure that cloud based storage and remote desktop is standard on all of them right?
Sent from my SGH-T959 using XDA App
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Click to collapse
the remote desktop is kind of a joke, the reason being that you have to be on the same network as the computer youre linking to. mightbas well use the computer itself if youre that close! but this can always be replaced with other apps readily available in the market. i heard PhoneMyPC was a good alternative, only $15. as for the unlimited storage, its free for a year starting from when you sign up.

coasterman927 said:
the remote desktop is kind of a joke, the reason being that you have to be on the same network as the computer youre linking to. mightbas well use the computer itself if youre that close! but this can always be replaced with other apps readily available in the market. i heard PhoneMyPC was a good alternative, only $15. as for the unlimited storage, its free for a year starting from when you sign up.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You do not have to be on the same network. Please don't spread false information.
Sent from my CM7 Supersonic

The screen on the TF is imho, very good but not great. With all the hype, a more objective review is required. I find the red a bit too brown and the black levels weak. You can see this if you use the attached color chart from this review's video: http://www.notebookcheck.net/Review-Asus-Transformer-Eee-Pad-TF101-vs-Acer-Iconia-A500-vs-Motorola-Xoom-vs-Apple-iPad-2.53242.0.html . I suspect the samsung will have a better screen since they want to showcase their new PLS screen technology.
Note: the attached file size was limited to a 96k upload limit so it is better to download it yourself.

I had been going back and forth for over a month on if I wanted the Transformer or Galaxy Tab 10.1.
I purchased a Transformer a month ago when it first game out and like it, but was also bothered by some small issues. And I kinda think it's a little ugly. I ended up returning it and waiting on the Galaxy Tab 10.1
At the time I thought the Galaxy Tab 10.1 would have a micro SD slot (it was shown having one at CTIA). But now it seems the Wifi model doesn't have a micro SD slot. And one thing I learned from my 16GB iPad 1 experience is 16GB and no micro SD slot are a bad combination. So if I was going to by a Galaxy Tab 10.1, I'd have to spend at least $600 on the 32GB model.
I love the look of the Galaxy Tab 10.1, I love how thin and light it is. I love the PLS display. At least I love all that third hand from what I've seen of it so far. But the price difference for me is now $200, since I could get a 16GB Transformer and use a 16GB micro SD card I already own to get 32GB, versus having to buy a 32GB Galaxy Tab 10.1.
Yesterday I canceled my pre-order for the Galaxy Tab 10.1 and today I went to the store and bought the Transformer again. It's not perfect, but it's pretty dang good and better than anything else available now and apparently in the near future.
I love that it has micro SD, mini HDMI, micro USB, an IPS display, and is still pretty light compared to the other Honeycomb tablets out now.
I'll learn to live with the crappy speakers, goofy wide with rough edges, and ugly color. For only $400 though, it's also pretty amazing deal. And if I can ever find a keyboard dock, that'll just make it even sweeter as an Android netbook.
I really wanted to love the Galaxy Tab 10.1. If it wasn't for the lack of a micro SD slot, I would still be waiting for that instead. That is just one thing I really don't want to sacrifice. Samsung really is copying Apple a little too much these days.

coasterman927 said:
the remote desktop is kind of a joke, the reason being that you have to be on the same network as the computer youre linking to. mightbas well use the computer itself if youre that close! but this can always be replaced with other apps readily available in the market.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Huh? Port forwarding! btw Splashtop is much better then logmein and its free with the purchase of TF. RD is a must for me casue I have my server which has no keyboard mouse, or monitor, having the ability to access it from the TF is much more easier then use my notebook.

dazz87 said:
Huh? Port forwarding! btw Splashtop is much better then logmein and its free with the purchase of TF. RD is a must for me casue I have my server which has no keyboard mouse, or monitor, having the ability to access it from the TF is much more easier then use my notebook.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'll add that there's a version of Splashtop coming that will support connecting to any device via a Gmail account. The desktop version has already been updated to support that, and so all we need is an update to the Android version. Then, you'll be able to connect to any machine over the Internet without fussing about with port forwarding that the like.
I remember Asus stating that support for the feature will be coming over the summer, and so we don't have long to wait. And I'm very impressed with how well the solution performs over wifi--I use it to watch TV via Windows Media Center on my desktop while my wife watches something else on the TV in the bedroom. It's as good as being at the desktop.

coasterman927 said:
the remote desktop is kind of a joke, the reason being that you have to be on the same network as the computer youre linking to. mightbas well use the computer itself if youre that close! but this can always be replaced with other apps readily available in the market. i heard PhoneMyPC was a good alternative, only $15. as for the unlimited storage, its free for a year starting from when you sign up.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I enjoy remoting my pc which is on the second floor while I'm having a meeting on the 4th floor. you'll be the joke when you keep giving bad example.

I was in the same boat. But I saw it on amazon and just bought the ASUS. Done and done.

Nuke please.. it duped.

You can go either way if the lack of the SD has no impact to you.
On the other hand, there is the support side of it, which was the major decision factor for me.
20,000 people on a Samsung Pad is good, and there may be some good XDA support.
200,000+ people on the Asus EEE Transformer with custom kernels and fixes before asus can even think about addressing them is the biggest factor when it comes to android based devices.
Its the same reason I was on the moment, and same for the Epic 4G. Tons of people, tons of community support, so anything that might be broken has an incredible chance of being actually addressed as people will take it into their own hands.
Plus the factor that Developers will support and ensure their software works on the devices with pure numbers.
Oh, and on the Splashtop chatter. Take a look at your running services, its already there "Splashtop Remote". Just be nice to be able to use it, or has someone figured out how we can use it already?

Anonnie said:
Oh, and on the Splashtop chatter. Take a look at your running services, its already there "Splashtop Remote". Just be nice to be able to use it, or has someone figured out how we can use it already?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My cloud app >[a bunch of next buttons]> my desktop and that runs splashtop for you

I had the same difficulty, though I was under the assumption that the Samsung had miniHDMI / MicroSD / USB ports. Of course I choose the transformer in the end because the extra battery / keyboard option is a nice addon though I don't plan on to buy but if i ever wanted more battery I'd know how to get it xD. The other thing that help me decide was that I personally believe ASUS has a better support staff for computing than Samsung, personal experience.

I walked into a Best Buy today and was looking for a TF, which of course they did not have. they had an Acer Iconia, so I went to go check it out. It was really heavy, and was wondering if the TF is similar in weight. Looking back, it might have been something attached to the Iconia that might've made it heavy, but I am not so sure. Also, all internals for Iconia/TF/Tab are all the same so they will perform similarly if used the same way, correct?

Iconia vs transformer

I'm torn right now any thoughts? I like full usb of iconia and the screen of the transformer. The plastic case on the asus worries me but I hear its fine and sturdy...
Thanks
Sent from my Dell Streak using XDA App

There's a couple-page thread comparing the two a page back in the forum
In general, ASUS has slightly better screen (but possibly a higher incidence of light bleed from backlight), better accessories, faster updates and an unlocked bootloader, while Acer has the on-board USB host (ASUS requires the dock), LED flash for rear camera, better sound (incl. Dolby) and better build quality.
It's amazing how post-purchase critical the USB host has become to me, causing a serious /boggle when I saw that the otherwise /drool Samsung Galaxy 10.1 has no USB host port (along with no memory card) ... had to give up something for the smaller size but I think those're going to be painful differentiators

Vereynn said:
... when I saw that the otherwise /drool Samsung Galaxy 10.1 has no USB host port (along with no memory card) ...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
To me, the reported lack of a memory card on the Samsung is the larger issue (though I have used the Acer USB port to connect a keyboard and a flash drive). I wouldn't buy a tablet without a memory card slot.

yeah, the presence of a full-size SD card slot (vs micro) plus TWO USB slots on the upcoming Toshiba is making me feel better about their pricing.

I recently sold my Transformer + Dock and got an Acer Iconia A500, mainly because of the build quality and the fact that the dock just wasn't for me. Anyways, received my Iconia A500 today and damn, I love it, its just way better for my needs (mostly for games) I love how it has the haptic(force feedback) its great for games, how come no one mentioned the Acer has this while the Asus does not? Speakers on the Acer is also light years ahead of the Asus. Great tablet, I just hope they unlock the bootloader.

eviltuna said:
I recently sold my Transformer + Dock and got an Acer Iconia A500, mainly because of the build quality and the fact that the dock just wasn't for me. Anyways, received my Iconia A500 today and damn, I love it, its just way better for my needs (mostly for games) I love how it has the haptic(force feedback) its great for games, how come no one mentioned the Acer has this while the Asus does not? Speakers on the Acer is also light years ahead of the Asus. Great tablet, I just hope they unlock the bootloader.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well now I'm even MORE happy with my purchase. I wasn't aware that the Asus had no haptic feedback.

Thanks guys I'm going 2 be picking an acer up tomorrow hopefully, any suggestions for the first things I should do to make the tablet run its best?
Sent from my Dell Streak using XDA App

Ehmmm full battery charge?
Sent from my HTC Desire using XDA App

garbagecanman said:
Thanks guys I'm going 2 be picking an acer up tomorrow hopefully, any suggestions for the first things I should do to make the tablet run its best?
Sent from my Dell Streak using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, do a full battery charge when you get it, before use, allow about 4 hours 'til the light goes off, then another 1/2 hour.
Use the tablet, let the battery go down to about 10% or so, then full charge + 1/2 hour again.
You should be right for a good 5-8 hours use now.

still not sure if i want it - why did you buy?

i am still not sure i want to by the Acer,,, or the Asus..
be honest with me.. why did YOU buy the Acer.
it doesnt have to be Asus vs Acer. it can just be why you got the Acer.
was it the usb port?, the expandable memory? price? (target has them for $399 so i am really tempted.)
so what pushed you over the edge to buy the Iconia ?
i also am still not sure if it cna see dSLR cameras on the USB port to read the images off the cameras memory card so if someone says it works for their dSLR then thats a huge game changer for me.
i own an ipad and its really really a tough choice given the app and game availability on the ipad, but i am an android phone user so i am very familiar with Android.

USB Full
All the features, mainly usb

To be honest, it was down to the Acer or the ASUS for me although I did like the fact the hardware was working at launch (SD slot, USB etc).
While everyone seems to be complaining on the Acer ROM update schedule, or lack thereof, I am happily running a custom ROM (of which there are several now) which is now at 3.2
What drove me to the Acer was it was available when I decided to buy. Otherwise, it would have been a hard choice. But, I think after actually looking and holding the ASUS I would have picked the Acer.
I use it primarily for business (sales) showing customers products by using well bookmarked PDF files, email (I moved my domain over to Google Apps for business and quick lookups while I am on the road (WiFi tether to my HTC phone) so I don't need a seperate data plan.
No complaints.

do either of you own or owned an ipad to give me your thought comparisons outside of the obvious massive App lead that the ipad has?

I got it for free... kinda... I traded some work for it.
I needed an upgrade from the Archos 101 which was only about three weeks old at the time I saw the upcoming Acer. Preordered it from BB.
I still would have gotten the Acer if Asus TF was available. I need the USB. Period. And I don't care about the TF dock feature.

Well I just plugged my Canon Power Shot A1100 IS in and the Aconia recognized it right away and the pictures showed up right away.
I haven't tried my Nikon or Canon DSLR yet but no reason why they shouldn't work as well on jpg files.
I bought it because of the USB slot, expandable memory, HDMI and the price.

Bought mine for simple reasons
I did the stupid thing and did not bother to do any homework before going out and buying my first tablet (apple I pad 2) - returned to the store the next day. Had no idea it had no native flash support (the "solution" was to use Skyfire for crummy flash support).
Went home, did my homework - when it came down to simple price/vs features the Acer Iconia seemed like the best choice - microSd, full size USB port (awesome for me - it works with a USB hub also, I have lots of USB devices).
Not sure we can claim apple has much if any "app lead" over android tablets - and once you consider how many apps are written for the Android phone but run great under Honeycomb as well. Don't feel much of an app shortage here, the Droid market is freaking huge.
All in all, very happy with my purchase.

I bought mine largely due to the full-sized USB port as I'm an avid retrogamer, so getting to play emulators with the actual controllers (I have USB adapters for them) on my tablet was pretty much a childhood fantasy come true ^_^.
Anyway, that and I really love the metal casing... it just feels solid and sturdy, not large or bulky at all even though it's the heaviest tab of the bunch. I'm sure in some instances, like holding it up over your head in bed or something, you'd notice the weight, but really, there are no heavy or bulky tablets in this category at all, only those that are impressively small like the Galaxy Tab 10.1.
I will note that Acer is so far the worst at getting updates out, but the community here seems pretty devoted, not to mention there's a ton of cross-developer action as the Tegra 2that all of these share means much of the software can just be transplanted from one brand to another. So, if you're going to root and run roms, software becomes a bit less of a concern. As far as the hardware goes, I love it myself.

It was a choice between the Acer and Asus for me. I got the Acer because I was impatient, but I ended up not returning it because after using it I couldn't see myself getting by with no usb and no flash. I considered the new Galaxy Tab as well but for the same reason I decided not to wait.
If I DID end up waiting, I'm sure I'd have decided to wait for a Kal-El based tablet. At some point in the 'waiting for better to come' game, you have to take a step or you'll never buy a product. I use the tablet daily, even my wife uses it now and so it's proven it's value to me.
I use the flash for extremely stupid things, but tbh to each his own, right? One of these things is to sneak into bed at night. By the time I go to bed sometimes my wife is already sleeping and she's a very light sleeper. Flicking a light on to see where I'm going would surely wake her up and it's sometimes difficult to navigate around the bed (without smacking off a big or little toe). I thought, "can I live without the flash? Sure!" But it would be an inconvenience, especially if I do ever find myself in a slightly more important scenario where I need it and don't have (for taking a pic in low light, for eg).
The USB is a must as I travel a lot and the big reason for getting the tablet beyond using it in my home is so I can travel light (without having to use my laptop). With the usb I can plug flash drives or hard drives in and watch my tv series and movies or use it to juice my phone if I strain it chatting too long or whatever.
Other than that, I didn't like the feel of the Transformer and I didn't want to depend on getting/using the keyboard part to have usb functionality. I had been keeping up with all the pics of the light bleed and saw it first hand. Who wants to worry about getting a tablet with light bleed at a time when they weren't in very many stores? That would have meant back and forth shipping. Not my thing.
The Acer is fully usable as-is, with the Asus and Samsung you MUST buy accessories for them to get a usb port.
I also considered resale value, like any tech head . If I am to resell my Acer A500 right now, I'm going to get ~$400 for it (not everyone knows about the sale price of 350 at certain stores). In a few months, I will lose another $50 to depreciation...as by then I'm sure the price will further fall to something more attractive to fringe and impulse buyers.
The Samsung with added accessories to make it function similarly to the Acer is already in the $550 region, but it will depreciate exactly the same as the Acer, unfortunately. Same with the Asus.
So after you buy the accessories to get USB (if you need it), you still end up selling the other tabs (with accessories) for approximately the same price as the Acer, as resale value for accessories is little to nothing and you can very rarely if at all sell them on their own. (This is based on the many, many times I've seen people reselling their tablets with accessories like docks and cases for way, way less than what they got it for).
In essence, you lose more money with the other tablets IF you need* to accessorize them. *(to play catch up to the A500, like buy the keyboard section for Asus or buy the proprietary addon for the Samsung to get USB)

I replied before reading the whole thread and missed the inquiries into the Apple side of things <insert evil grin>... imma hate me some on Apple, hoo wee. Android is slowly doing to Apple in the mobile market what Microsoft did to Apple in the computer market. What's amazing is that everyone always said Microsoft beat Apple because of developer support, because Windows had all the software, all the games. Now, we've seen the exact opposite, Apple with all of the software goodies and their competitor standing out alone on their OS alone... but what happened this time? Android is proving once and for all that Apple's walled-garden approach, their almost communistic approach to electronics just isn't going to appeal to the masses once they are exposed to the idea of choice, something Android offers in spades. We all want to do whatever we want with our devices... they are OUR devices after all, not Apple's or Samsung's or HTC's or Google's. Apple has made it clear that they intend to impose strict control over their hardware and software, whereas Google has opened the door wide and invited everyone in with a gentle wave. I, for one, after having had (and at the time loved) an iPhone for 2 years, will NEVER buy a single Apple product again.

entropy.of.avarice said:
I did the stupid thing and did not bother to do any homework before going out and buying my first tablet (apple I pad 2) - returned to the store the next day. Had no idea it had no native flash support (the "solution" was to use Skyfire for crummy flash support).
Went home, did my homework - when it came down to simple price/vs features the Acer Iconia seemed like the best choice - microSd, full size USB port (awesome for me - it works with a USB hub also, I have lots of USB devices).
Not sure we can claim apple has much if any "app lead" over android tablets - and once you consider how many apps are written for the Android phone but run great under Honeycomb as well. Don't feel much of an app shortage here, the Droid market is freaking huge.
All in all, very happy with my purchase.
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I'm not a huge Apple fan at all but in their defense they do have a huge "app lead" and it's not necessarily the number or amt. (though it certainly does have that as well) it's the popularity of the device. The iPad has had hulu and netflix forever and Android is just getting it now. It's not a huge deal but the fact is, apps will almost always hit IOS first, and that IS saying something.
I agree with you though, I don't feel a shortage. I have every app I need (and many I don't, lol) so I'm not worried. With Hulu and Netflix now on 2.2/2.3 and heading soon to 3.1 I can safely say I'm completely happy with my purchase as well.

v_lestat said:
do either of you own or owned an ipad to give me your thought comparisons outside of the obvious massive App lead that the ipad has?
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I don't, my daughter and son-in-law do (Ipad 1 & 2). I had enough time to use theirs but to each his own they say.
I like being able to read/write office files (Polaris) and maybe you can do that in the App Store?? I also don't like needing to use iTunes for everything (and maybe you don't?).
Like I said, no regrets on my part.

If I was going to be torn between devices it wouldn't be between the Acer and the Asus it would be between the Acer and the Toshiba Thrive.
I have the ipad2 32gb 3g Verizon. Stood in line on March 11. It's nice I play w/ it occasionally. I really like my Acer a500 though. It does more than the ipad can. Imo the Acer is a better machine.
I have the Nikon d3100 dslr. Both tablets will display the jpegs. I pop out the SD card and use a card reader, in the Acer, or the adapter, in the Apple, to access the pictures.
Also, starting tomorrow, the Acer is $350 at Target ($399-50gc).

Like most people, full size USB. All Android tablets are pretty much the same... this had full size USB so easy choice.
However, if I had to make a choice now, it'd be a bit harder cos the Tosh Thrive has it as well but that looks massive! But you can get it in pretty colours.. oooh!
edit: Oh, I also see it has a full size hdmi! I've already broken 2 micro-hdmi cables on the Acer cos all u need to do is put a tiny bit of pressure on the cable and the end snaps off!

For me it was all about the SD expandability, if I had known about the Toshiba Thrive, I probabbaly would have waited. It's not all about micro-weight and thickness with me. Acer tab has micro SD up to 32 G, Toshiba has full SD up to 128 G I believe.
Sent from my A500 using XDA Premium App

has anyone compare this acer iconia a500 to the viewsonic gtab, which have similar hardware. only difference is the older android 2.2. it has usb and hdmi and etc... i am debating between the two. also gtab aonly cost 260 buck at amazon

As far as the gTablet goes, the software isn't a concern since roms for all of these Tegra 2 devices are becoming plentiful and easy to install, so finding 3.0 or 3.1 on the gTablet is likely a piece of cake. Now, as far as the SCREEN goes ...
The aspect ratio on the gTablet is just off... everything is squished just a little, so round things are slightly ovular, squares are slightly rectangular... I got a Pocket eDGe off of woot a while back and it was the exact same way. The screen on the gTablet is also off-center with that thick-ass bezel along the bottom. Personally, I originally wanted a gTablet until I saw that screen, but if you can live with it and wanna run a custom rom, it's the cheapest way to get a Tegra 2 tablet, and it even has a full-size USB port on there, which was one of the reasons I'd originally considered it. As for how it feels in the hand, I played with one and it feels like a cheap Xoom... similar thickness and feel to the edges, but obviously a lower (though acceptable) build quality. I still think the way my Acer feels in my hands is the best of all those I've tried, including the Xoom and Galaxy Tab 10.1 (oh but the GTab 10 is f-ing sexy... my bf has that one). If you can afford the Acer, I'd still say go for that one, but if money is your primary concern and you're not bothered by the screen, go for it. Just remember, the screen's resolution is slightly lower (1024x600 vs 1280x800 on the rest), and there's only 512MB RAM in there vs the 1GB the others have... also only a front facing cam, none on the back, but I never take pics with my tablet anyway... that's what my phone is for. Otherwise, it's Tegra 2 all the way... it's definitely worth what they're going for these days, but so is the Acer even though it costs more.

Torisen said:
For me it was all about the SD expandability, if I had known about the Toshiba Thrive, I probabbaly would have waited. It's not all about micro-weight and thickness with me. Acer tab has micro SD up to 32 G, Toshiba has full SD up to 128 G I believe.
Sent from my A500 using XDA Premium App
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I'm right there with you. I'm still within my return window, so I'm seriously considering returning the a500 and getting the thrive when it comes in august. I've always been a toshiba fan.
My only concern is will the toshiba be locked down and unrootable.

Mainly because of Android (aka not an oversize iPod) and the USB slot.
Would have gone for another if it was thinner. Now with the acer case on it's darn fat and heavy. If you don't really care about the USB go for samsung 8.9. I'm still torn between the two.

Target plus $50 gift card
Sent from my HTC Glacier using XDA App

What should I get this A500 or transformer?

I have got some bestbuy giftcards and now I want a honeycomb tab that is $399 so which of the two would you get or would you have picked the transformer over your Acer?
Thanks guys
I think ill get the a500 because I like the Cam and flash
Sent from my LG-P925 using Tapatalk

It boiled down to the USB port for me. I knew I wouldn't buy the Asus dock, so for me the Transformer didn't cut it. It's ultimately personal preference, as I think they're both great value compared to the competition.

I love the weight of the a500, its solid construction. The full usb did it for me also. But it is a fully loaded Hog. Love it, Went to best buy and felt up all of there tabs. Good luck with your choice, they all work really good. My choice goes to the a500 and soon the a100.
I have had excelent service and proformance from acer products over the years.

Here is my story. I knew nothing of Android tablet. First I drove to 5 different stores, but all out of HP TouchPad. Then I got:
1. Acer Iconia A100: Promptly returned it even with my lack of experience: poor screen, horrid WiFi signal (couldn't detect my router 35-40ft away).
2. Asus Transformer: Excellent device, liked everything about it. Then I found out about the Toshiba Thrive with full size USB, full size SD (+ SDXC support), full size HDMI. Returned Asus.
3. Toshiba Thrive: Excellent device, liked everything about it, good screen quality despite not IPS. Poor camera quality, no LED Flash, so far slower community development than other tablets.
4. Acer A500: Poked about this forum and found out how advance the commnunity development of the Acer A500 is. And the fact it has all the necessary ports including full USB and nicer looking than the Thrive. Sold. Much better WiFi signal than A100, on par with the Asus. It looks like I'm settled with this one.
Personally I would get the A500 over Transformer, due to its full size USB, which open up lots of features, such as connecting mouse, keyboard, game controller, flash drives, 3G dongles(?). I prefer the Acer microHDMI over the Asus miniHDMI, since my phone also uses micro. They both have good WiFi detection and same weight. The performance are basically the same. The Asus has a nicer IPS screen. I can't confirm it, but base on reviews, the Asus will have longer battery life.

Personally, I can never understand these questions, which have been asked ad nausium... You are asking in the A500 forum....we have A500's!!! We chose A500's. We did not chose transformers. It's like asking transformer owners which they would choose, in the transformer forum. Sheeesh. Sorry....just sick of the question.

i actually enjoyed reading the opinions because up until two days ago i was going to buy the transformer....or wait for the tf2, but decided on the Acer Iconia A500 because i can plug in any standard usb device without a dock. That and because i know they are all essentially the same device with minor differences.

Thanks alot for the replies peeps I actually choose the thrive because of the ports on it I travel alot and it was basicly free, because I had buy back on the Droid incredible so thanks I really wanted the a500 but best buy was sold out . Good thing I never looked into the thrive. Plus I was already running late for a flight so thanks alot guys! And to the guy with a stick up his bum yea I asked in this forum because I figured I might get a person that had the a500 and wish or bought something else.
The thrive all in all is a great choice for me as it has up to 130gb SD slot, HDMI not micro, mini USB, and standard USB, yes its a big tab but the rubber grin is really important for me lol sweaty hands and giving its as heavy as first Gen ipad I like that I don't want to break my new toy. And please I'm not saying this to be mean or anything I just wanted to share my thought since you all were nice -1 to share yours!
Thank you again,
Brett
PS sorry for horrid grammar and all I have my 11month old on my lap
Sent from my AT100 using Tapatalk

dincdoes.me said:
the guy with a stick up his bum
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Oh brother.
The fact is, if you had just done a little searching, you would have found many threads giving the exact "advise" you were looking for.

TFordham said:
Oh brother.
The fact is, if you had just done a little searching, you would have found many threads giving the exact "advise" you were looking for.
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Please stop. Your post was decidedly negative. You contributed nothing other than to say "omg you suck for asking a question". If you dont like something you should just move on. I sometimes suck at it myself.

If you plan on doing alot of video chatting with the tablet, the A500 is kind of a pain because the FFC is off to the side. You have to hold the tablet at an ackward angle for the other person to have a good view of you.
The Transformer seems to have its FFC in a much better place - almost dead in the middle.