Related
Hi folks,
as a long time reader I have the following question.
My old Macbook is breaking down ... and I need a new surfing and media consumption device. Which of the following would you recommend me for my purposes.
Most of the time I am:
- surfing the web (GoogleReader, Forums, News)
- watching movies (Netflix, AVIs, Youtube, Hireing)
- writing letters (most of the time in GoogleDocs)
- printing (I guess that will be the hardest).
And that with the longest battery lifetime possible, and less maintenance of keeping updates
I was thinking about the following devices.
1. Asus Transformer with Keyboard Dock.
2. Chromebook (I like the Samsung Series 5)
3. Netbook (i thought about the HP dm1 with AMD Fusion or one with Atom/Ion2)
My PROs/CONs:
1. Transformer:
+ Movies (Android Movie ... even offline viewing, Netflix soon I guess)
+ Battery (13 hours of surfing)
o maintenance (simple in android but a lot apps to update always)
- Surfing (I guess the Android Chome is a bit slower then a Full browser)
- writing letters (Does GoogleDocs work in the browser? Good office apps?)
- printing (guess not possible directly)
2. Chromebook
+ Surfing (that's what it was developed for)
+ writing letters (GoogleDocs)
+ maintenance (simple)
o battery (8 hours of surfing)
- printing (guess not possible directly)
- movies (Netflix but no offline viewing of rented movies I suppose)
3. Netbook
+ Surfing (should work fine in windows)
+ writing letters (should work fine in windows)
+ printing (no problem in windows)
- movies (Netflix but no offline viewing of rented movies I suppose)
- battery (5 hours of surfing)
- maintenance (windows updates and all that)
the transformer had many good office apps as well as one of the fastes browers I have ever used
Go for it you will like it
Take a look at the 11" Macbook Air, if price is not an issue, it's great.
Small, silent, long battery life, the 13" has even longer life too.
You can get the base 64GB SSD 11" model refurbished like new from Apple
for not much more than a Transformer + dock.
The Transformer is very much a work in progress...
SonicTab said:
Take a look at the 11" Macbook Air, if price is not an issue, it's great.
Small, silent, long battery life, the 13" has even longer life too.
You can get the base 64GB SSD 11" model refurbished like new from Apple
for not much more than a Transformer + dock.
The Transformer is very much a work in progress...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This. These new google OS are more of a toy than a computer. If price is a problem, why don't you look for a cheap used Thinkpad X200? This line is awesome, with the right battery, it lasts 6+ hours.
I went with the Transformer for my mobile needs (vs. my desktop and full-size notebook, the latter of which is getting MUCH less use lately) over these sorts of alternatives for a very simple reason: the Transformer is both a tablet and a netbook, whereas the others are netbooks only.
There are certain things, like browsing, ebook reading, multimedia, newsgroup reading, etc., basically anything that doesn't require copious amounts of text entry, that I simply find more pleasant and efficient on a tablet. The tablet can be used in more situations and positions (lying down, standing up, etc.) and the direct interaction with the touchscreen feels more natural.
Of course, anything that requires large amounts of data entry are better on a device with a physical keyboard. And that's what makes the Transformer special: use it as a tablet when that makes sense, and then when you're ready to start writing, just pop it in the dock. And, the dock also makes for a nice way to carry the device around (a little heavier but protects the screen) and serves as a nice portable charger. Heck, I even use the dock to charge my smartphone when I'm out and about. And, because it's based on a mobile processor that generates very little heat, I can even use it on my lap in bed without worrying about blocking heating vents or getting overheated--there are no vents, of course, and it runs very cool.
Overall, I'm finding that for 95% of what I do when I'm highly mobile (maybe 100%, but I'm being conservative here), the Transformer works perfectly. It's really a great hybrid device that's really pretty unique at this point.
popophobia said:
This. These new google OS are more of a toy than a computer. If price is a problem, why don't you look for a cheap used Thinkpad X200? This line is awesome, with the right battery, it lasts 6+ hours.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't agree at all that Android is a "toy," if you're including that in your analysis. I can do most of my work on the Transformer in keyboard dock. I only find myself using my desktop when I need to do video editing and such, which I don't typically do when I'm mobile anyways, and I've found myself rarely using my HP Envy 14 notebook. In fact, if the Transformer had come out in November of last year, I wouldn't have bought the Envy at all.
This thing isn't a toy by any means. I'm finding it to be a very productive tool, and the best mobile device I've ever used for most of what I need to do. Now, of course, everybody's needs are different, but from what the OP describes, the TF with keyboard doc would work very nicely.
I find myself using Google Reader very often, as well as google docs. I also have a TF with keyboard doc. Google Reader is not very functional yet (there are readers out there, Newsr, etc, but they are slow and not very convenient). Google Doc app is inadequate. Alternatives (Documents to Go) are not measure up to the web app.
The browser, while fast for a mobile device, is in no way comparable to Chrome. No mouse over function. The UI is optimized for touch, so you cannot really click on a smaller things, even with a pointer.
Also, say what you will, but the ability to see two windows at once of Windows or Mac is irreplaceable. You will miss it if you use the Transformer as your only device (replacing the laptop).
All that said, I still love the transformer, but I haven't dare to bring it to class to replace the laptop yet.
I originally bought the TF to replace my hp dm1 but after using it for a week I decided to keep both. android is not polished enough fit me to replace my netbook.
Sent from my MB860 using XDA Premium App
definately the transformer and dock. Its a joy to use and it kinda makes you enjoy 'working' after using productivity apps on honeycomb. Overall a net book or a chromebook experience could never replicate the experience on the Transformer.
Regards
Proud owner of Asus Transformer, Xperia X10 Stock with JIT and optimus one overclocked running megatron.
Hmm I think I have to get hands on a TF to see how the browsing experience is.
A Motorola Atrix with Chome OS instead of the Firefox docking stuff would be perfect for me
Macbook Air was a nice idea but I think I want to stay below 500 bucks.
SonicTab said:
Take a look at the 11" Macbook Air, if price is not an issue, it's great.
Small, silent, long battery life, the 13" has even longer life too.
You can get the base 64GB SSD 11" model refurbished like new from Apple
for not much more than a Transformer + dock.
The Transformer is very much a work in progress...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't know what you consider "not much more", but it's $300 more than TF + Dock ($550).
http://store.apple.com/us/product/FC505LL/A?mco=MjEwNTg3NDQ
One major + you forgot for Chromebook and Android Tablet is instant on. That's one thing a Windows Netbook won't be able to keep up with.
I am glad I am not the only one facing this decision. I too am looking for something to use for school, but I have a MacBook for "serious" computer use, and I am considering the Transformer, simply because I am familiar with Android, but I really like the Chromebooks as well.
wynand32 said:
I went with the Transformer for my mobile needs (vs. my desktop and full-size notebook, the latter of which is getting MUCH less use lately) over these sorts of alternatives for a very simple reason: the Transformer is both a tablet and a netbook, whereas the others are netbooks only.
There are certain things, like browsing, ebook reading, multimedia, newsgroup reading, etc., basically anything that doesn't require copious amounts of text entry, that I simply find more pleasant and efficient on a tablet. The tablet can be used in more situations and positions (lying down, standing up, etc.) and the direct interaction with the touchscreen feels more natural.
Of course, anything that requires large amounts of data entry are better on a device with a physical keyboard. And that's what makes the Transformer special: use it as a tablet when that makes sense, and then when you're ready to start writing, just pop it in the dock. And, the dock also makes for a nice way to carry the device around (a little heavier but protects the screen) and serves as a nice portable charger. Heck, I even use the dock to charge my smartphone when I'm out and about. And, because it's based on a mobile processor that generates very little heat, I can even use it on my lap in bed without worrying about blocking heating vents or getting overheated--there are no vents, of course, and it runs very cool.
Overall, I'm finding that for 95% of what I do when I'm highly mobile (maybe 100%, but I'm being conservative here), the Transformer works perfectly. It's really a great hybrid device that's really pretty unique at this point.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I agree with this. I don't use my laptop much at all anymore. My wife uses it far more than me, though she uses it for work as she works from home. I just picked up the transformer prime off of craigslist with the dock for only $200, no lie. Great deal for me. Does the majority of what I would use laptop for in the evenings. If I am going go do any development (I'm a Software developer) then I'll use my desktop anyway.
I briefly considered a chrome book actually. I have a friend that has one and loves it. I like the instant on-ness of it, and it browses the web using chrome which is what I use on the desktop so all bookmarks etc would be there. I just wasn't ready to make the leap to a computer that is that limited quite yet. At least with android, I still have apps and a linux base, etc. Plus I love the touch screen aspect, and the portability of it. Just wish it supported opening apps in windows rather than everything being full screen.
buy a tablet and a netbook.
I like the tablet , but it has limited power next to a laptop or pc ,let me rephrase the power comment , it cant do what can be done on a pc ! I see it being using for many applications , however tablets sit bulky in the hand , as an embedded device for certain functions it will be a desirable device , like for schools or doctors, mechanics ,portable device functions , but it lacks in everything compared to the pc ! Im refferring to pc (macs are the same , I suppose desktops would be better) !
Dont get me wrong I like the Iconia , I just dont see it taking the place of the desktop as the crApple fan bois would like us all to believe , they couldnt come up with the the netbook , so they copied a tablet !
I almost agree with you. The iPad is a great example of a device that'll never handle true desktop productivity. That said, I just upgraded my phone to the Evo 3D and discovered it came with the capability to print to my WiFi printer from most apps that I would want/need to. I can print emails, many attachments, photos, contacts, calendars, web pages, etc.. I believe that system-wide printing will come standard in IceCreamSandwich. Android 3.1 and 2.3.3 already support keyboards and mice, and other input devices too. I'm WiFi scanning capability away from being able to use a modern tablet as a desktop replacement in my university teaching role. Some of the things a tablet can do well the old desktop couldn't do at all, so for me the tablet can be a more productive tool than my desktop was. One more generation will put quad-core processors in these tablets. That's 3 cores more than my last desktop had, and it served me fine. Android, unlike iOS, is moving close and closer to being a workhorse OS. I love it!
It really lacks the heat and noise of my gaming rig when i just want browse the web. Tablets are more in compitition with netbooks. Only fools would walk into a store thinking that this ten inch device would say rip bluerays and convert while playing rounds on tf2. Otherise cool story bro
Even the steve jobs said you will always need a truck to handle the workload and thats a anaolgy for desktop and such
Sent from my A500 using XDA Premium App
No one who doesn't actually have an agenda would claim that tablets are going to replace desktop computers, but they sure do replace netbooks and laptops for many people. Often people buy netbooks and laptops because they want to be able to read their favorite websites, stay in touch with others via e-mail and just generally to have a way of reaching information on-the-go should the need arise, and a tablet literally shines in such situations.
My laptop replaced my desktop years ago. And as of a few weeks ago, my Dell Streak 7 has replaced my laptop. Replaced as in I sold my laptop. I am a writer, I do video blogging, internet security consulting, and I'm a minister. My tablet has replaced all of my media devices except for the tv, and that even gets replaced by my tablet if I am the only one watching. The only thing I need a pc for now it to flash a new ROM onto my tablet, and rip CDs to mp3 so they can be transfered to the tablet. And to back up my tablet storage in case of failure.
I know that most people will not be going to a tablet as their only computing device any time soon, but I can assure you, it is doable, and quite enjoyable. My only agenda is having my entire digital life in my pocket. And an android tablet does that perfectly.
Sent from my awesome HoneyStreak HD7
In my opinion, the tablet market right now is starting to evolve to replace laptops/netbooks. We are still in the early stages and I won't be surprised if a few years from now, netbooks and tablets will be marketed as a single device (Windows8 has the biggest potential for this IMHO). Want to use it casually in bed? Remove it from its dock, Want to be a power user? Dock it and have a complete kb-mouse-monitor package (akin to the transformer).
I myself use my Iconia more than my netbook already. I only open up my netbook when I need to write something or do photoshop - which is more often than not a handful of times a week. It's just plain more comfortable to watch/read stuff with a tablet especially in bed.
What would be really great is a dual core atom netbook with wifi (yes, I know that's standard), AND a good gps biult-in, two usb host ports and a usb mini slave (for connection to full PC).
I'd buy that for $5 - 700, 2G ram or more, 80 - 120G SSD..
WorkingOnWise said:
My laptop replaced my desktop years ago. And as of a few weeks ago, my Dell Streak 7 has replaced my laptop. Replaced as in I sold my laptop. I am a writer, I do video blogging, internet security consulting, and I'm a minister. My tablet has replaced all of my media devices except for the tv, and that even gets replaced by my tablet if I am the only one watching. The only thing I need a pc for now it to flash a new ROM onto my tablet, and rip CDs to mp3 so they can be transfered to the tablet. And to back up my tablet storage in case of failure.
I know that most people will not be going to a tablet as their only computing device any time soon, but I can assure you, it is doable, and quite enjoyable. My only agenda is having my entire digital life in my pocket. And an android tablet does that perfectly.
Sent from my awesome HoneyStreak HD7
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You are a minister and you are running a DELL?!?!?! REPENT!!!!
Interesting conversation.
At first my Nook Color and now my Iconia have replaced my personal laptop. i have a somewhat powerful work laptop and I am not a big gamer so if I need some heavy lifting done, which is rare, I can do it on my work laptop.
The Acer is much better than my laptop for reading, watching movies, and surfing the web and it is the perfect size for commuting.
WorkingOnWise;15209560My only agenda is having my entire digital life in my pocket. And an android tablet does that perfectly. :-)
[/QUOTE said:
Sir, you have very large pockets if you're keeping an Iconia in them!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Lol! My son gets this for graduating boot camp in February, when I will get whatever the hotrod dual or quad core 7" android device is out. I like this tablet, but Dell made so many needless compromises with it, I don't see myself buying another Dell. Is that enouth repentance?
Sent from my awesome HoneyStreak HD7
still not quite there,
But I think with the power these devices will soon have. Tablets may be the next console device for gaming. Just look at the partnerships that have developed. Sony already has a phone that pretends to be a PSP. And they will soon have a tablet too. Couple years from now, I could see these tablets running console style games, maybe even a ps4 tablet that omits the stay at home console box. Dock and play, or undock and play on the go. Plus look at all the people trying to link ps3 contollers to run with their emulators. I know others have mentioned the rumors, just give it a bit of time.
As for PC replacement, I am already there. It does not replace my desktop rig for burning bluray. It DOES eliminate my laptop in every way. Web, basic games, email, video chat, can even use torrent services. The future just looks better, even if that means another brand tablet, but love iconia for right now.
For me, the Iconia is perfect as a mobile solution, since I am frequently on the train. Much more handy than a netbook or laptop for when you are actually on the move and you have lots of stuff with you, so every extra kilo is precious. Laptops are rather bulky for watching a movie on the go and even netbooks now feel quite bad in comparison (same screen size, double the weight, half the battery time).
On the other hand, I also have my gaming rig at home, where I can do my movie converting, store my music collection etc. Iconia (or the next generation of tablets) certainly can't replace all that for me. But I can easily see it chomping at the laptop share of the market.
sittin here at work... thinking... I gotta start that batch conversion when I get home... wait! I have splashtop... I can load my pc's desktop on my iconia and do my batch right now... then I can run netflix and watch something or maybe txt my wife to put the other dvd/blueray in the drive so I can start that rip from here...
although I haven't replaced my desktop at home... I certainly have eliminated the need to be there to operate it... I love my iconia!!!
Tablets aren't replacing desktops anytime soon for people on these forums.
But, think of this - what about the mom's, grandmoms and others who just want to check email and browse the web? Why would they NEED anything more than a tablet?
My wife uses a tablet almost exclusively now. Only when she needs to print something does she go to the desktop, and that's very rare (school forms, etc.) And if they can ever get printing built into Android it would go a long way towards doing away with need for a desktop for a lot of people.
At least half of my employees could easily replace their home PC with a 10" tablet and be better off for it.
Of course the people on these forums are more the desktop PC experts and techies and we will never be able to do away with our desktops.
For work, we're investigating replacing some employee laptops with Honeycomb tablets and a special app we are writing. It would provide better mobility for those specific job functions than a laptop ever could, and allow us to better control the devices, spend less on them, and ensure the data security better. Because most of our desktops are used for massive data entry, a tablet doesn't make sense there, but a tablet with a docking station, HDMI screen and keyboard might make sense in the future for some employees...
If only Google would put out a real tablet Docs app...
great conversation
I have been a avid computer user since the late 1980's and holding this a500 in my hands still amazes me after nearly a month owning it.
The only reason I find myself sitting at my IBM desktop machine is when I need to pull some files from a DVD/CD or need to print something, or have spare time for some gaming.
This thing has replaced 90%+ of what I use a desktop for - and just think - the tablet market has barely gotten started. Imagine what these will be like in ten years
On a side note; no chance 3.1 can use a USB based external dvd-rom drive, is there?
hi. i finished school with good grades so my dad told me he will buy me what i want (but not ANYTHING like 1000$ or something)
anyway, i told him i wanted a galaxy tab 10.1
i waited until it arrived then i was going to go and buy it then my bro told me "Do you really need it?"
so i head to the store and before buying it i remembered what he said and i headed home without buying it.
it have been days and i am over my head thinking and especially that i can buy anything else" i need" (but idk what i really need) and that my dad offered me to deposit in my bank account the same price of the tab in case i did not buy it.
here is why i want it: games, web browing , chatting.
do i really need it ?
If you don't have smartphone it will be a whole new world for you and you will love it. Now if you are a techie with a lot of gadgets its simply going to be an accessory, a very convenient one still. then comes all the in depth customizing. It could most likely eliminate the use of others if you can find its use. At the same price you can get a good laptop or even a better super phone. Its all up to your standards of living, if you can use such a product productivly and willing to put the time into getting to understand the product, standard ergonomics.
Sent from my A500 using XDA Premium App
i had samsung 7, and now 10.1. For myself i would buy it again. But it wont answer your question.
Read following feature list. If you will use following features regularry, its for you.
- reader : comfortable way to read books ( write anot.) you can keep thpusands of books with variouse format
- light weight : important, if you travel often
-good access to internet, mail, exchange
- remote access over vpn to remote desktop etc
For me, it is useless to have netbook. I have also laptop, but heavy i7 proc, 16Gssd. Its hardly portable, but i run on it network simulation.
Personaly if i would be fresh graduate, i would wait. This market is really new.
I love my Tab but if you don't have a computer or a laptop I would get as lightweight of a laptop that you can afford. A 14 inch screen around one inch thick would be a great portable sized one, I have an HP that size and it is great.
But if you do have a computer/laptop already then the Tab would an awesome addition, but it is really a toy IMO.
Love my tab
I love my Tab. I never bought into the smartphone craze, mostly due to the price of data plans, the Tab allows me into the world of smartphones, just on wifi instead. Between Netflix,games, browsing on the net, reading Game of Thrones on the kindle app, RSS readers I have not used my computer nor my PlayStation all summer long. With all the customization I am very happy with my decision, save for no love from an actual Netflix app or HBO GO.
I say yes and here is way. Tablets are changing the consumption of media, and they do everything from web browsing, email, IM chat, video calls, movies, tv shows, games, media storage, news, books, and on and on. My gtab is playing second fiddle to my iPad right now but it is a really nice convenient way to be connected.
You say you don't really know what you need...so it sounds like there's really nothing you need. I suggest you do buy it! It's pretty sweet! You could use it for many things on a daily basis. You said you finished school, I don't know if you're going back or not, but you can also use it to take notes in class instead of wasting paper.
If you buy it you have 14 days to return it without a problem. If you buy it at a Best Buy they won't even charge you for a restocking fee so give it a try!
While it is definitely true that no one NEEDS a tablet I have found it to be a fantastic device and worth every penny. I was always an apple person and was super excited about the ipad until I discovered it was basically a big phone. So I waited for something more approaching a computer to come along and finally decided on the tab.
Pros
1. Super light weight: makes my netbook seem like a brick. This is majorly useful for heading out of the house and for holding while lounging around or whatever.
2. Fast for email and web browsing.
3. Emulators - plays snes and genesis games... what more do you want.
4. Touchscreen - with keyboards designed for honeycomb e.g. thumbkeyboard it is surprisingly easy to type. Browsing etc feels great.
5. Always on and ready to go (though mac laptops / chrome are simillar)
Cons
1.for writing it is still not quite able to give a good experience (though that should be obvious) it struggles with large documents and Google docs is badly implemented. For instance I was reading a manuscript on here marking places that needed editting using polaris office (included free). It worked nice as a reader but did not inform me that it failed to save the last 20 of my 60+ bookmarks.
2. More bugs and lag than on a fully fledged computer, but not too bad.
3. Not post-pc enough to justify purchase over desktop or laptop depending on what you already have - in terms of what you can do, the tablet is no replacement for either. But if you have them already you will find you use them far less.
My suggestion (as a GTab 10.1 Owner) is... don't buy a Galaxy Tab 10.1
Get a Nook Color... root it, overclock it... etc... you'll learn much more this way and you'll save several hundred dollars
... or get the original galaxy tab 7, which you can find for less than 200 dollars on craigslist.
and maybe get an ipod touch with your extra cash and have the best of both worlds. I dunno, up to you.
Either way, at this point 500 is too much to pay.
I'm disappointed there is no official netflix app, no official google voice support... lack of quality tablet apps, and I'm worried about Samsung supporting the device once the next version comes out.
Consumption v. Production
Nice contrast between pros and cons. About the question, really depends on what you plan on using it for. I think the tab is more often used for information consumption versus production. I use it for work as a sales rep to view email and work files quickly and easily. I tether it through my HTC Inspire and almost always have it connected. Again, more for information consumption versus production. However, I know there is a docking keyboard I may get down the road, and not carry my laptop anymore! And, its cool to pull up videos/pics/industry news on the spot to show clients without the hassle of booting up a laptop...
Jake-CT said:
While it is definitely true that no one NEEDS a tablet I have found it to be a fantastic device and worth every penny. I was always an apple person and was super excited about the ipad until I discovered it was basically a big phone. So I waited for something more approaching a computer to come along and finally decided on the tab.
Pros
1. Super light weight: makes my netbook seem like a brick. This is majorly useful for heading out of the house and for holding while lounging around or whatever.
2. Fast for email and web browsing.
3. Emulators - plays snes and genesis games... what more do you want.
4. Touchscreen - with keyboards designed for honeycomb e.g. thumbkeyboard it is surprisingly easy to type. Browsing etc feels great.
5. Always on and ready to go (though mac laptops / chrome are simillar)
Cons
1.for writing it is still not quite able to give a good experience (though that should be obvious) it struggles with large documents and Google docs is badly implemented. For instance I was reading a manuscript on here marking places that needed editting using polaris office (included free). It worked nice as a reader but did not inform me that it failed to save the last 20 of my 60+ bookmarks.
2. More bugs and lag than on a fully fledged computer, but not too bad.
3. Not post-pc enough to justify purchase over desktop or laptop depending on what you already have - in terms of what you can do, the tablet is no replacement for either. But if you have them already you will find you use them far less.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
*Bump*
so should i get a laptop/ computer or a tab ?
No. You NEED a computer if youre attending another type of schooling. I'd get a tablet later because having a computer has more uses especially for school, where a tab(especially a HoneyComb one) is for play and mobility(or as I call lazyness).
When I had my iPad, I used it for internet because I was lazy to get my laptop out. Went back and returned it (I'm 16, so I have to be allowed to return regardless, within the return period, this case being 3 months ), thought I wanted an iPad 2, bought a laptop, and don't regret it.
Laptops last much longer if you buy the ones $600-$900(they are mainly above average these days).
In short, GET A LAPTOP, THEN A TAP YOU REALLY WANT LATER, like a quad core one hahah.
Sent from my LG-P999 using XDA App
hnakhi said:
*Bump*
so should i get a laptop/ computer or a tab ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have all 3. This is order of how much I use each device.
Laptop > Netbook > Tab 10.1
Laptop is still the best for overall productivity.
I like my tablet, but there is no way it could be my only device.
Sent from my GT-P7510 using Tapatalk
For games, get an iPad.
Big MMORPGS, got a Laptop.
Web browsing, a 15-17 inch laptop.
If you want it to be portable, iPad/XOOM, Tab 10.1 is too thin and easy to snap, also doesn't take a memory card, XOOM does.
Chatting, all will work.
If you don't have a dual core phone, get a laptop, but get a good one, my Toshiba Satallite for $600, dual core at 2.3 ghz I believe, 4 Gb of ram, 640(really 500)gb hard drive, etc. I don't regret picking my laptop over the iPad 2. Yes, I've had iphone 3g since launch, the 3gs, then 4 until February, had android since(like 5 android phones, all getting better).
I have a strong feeling you will be happy with a computer over a tablet. If not, you got 15-30 days to return But you will want a tablet. go play with a tab at bestbuy, not a game, just see what it can do, the speeds it does. My dads employee lent him a 10.1, I played with it for about 10 minutes, then got bored. Go try it out, tabs are limited, not computers.
If none of that made sense, I explained why to get a laptop.
To answer your Original Post(no, I'm not lazy, I wont us OP), GET A LAPTOP FIRST, THEN A TABLET LATER.
But seriously, he might be right. Do you really want a tab? Go play with one first then tell me what you think.
Sent from my LG-P999 using XDA App
matistight said:
No. You NEED a computer if youre attending another type of schooling. I'd get a tablet later because having a computer has more uses especially for school, where a tab(especially a HoneyComb one) is for play and mobility(or as I call lazyness).
In short, GET A LAPTOP, THEN A TAP YOU REALLY WANT LATER, like a quad core one hahah.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is the best advice in your case. Unless you already have a nice laptop, get yourself a MacBook Pro, because you'll need it for any school related and/or creative projects you will embark on in the future. Throw Parallels, then Windows, and any games you can think of on it, and you'll be set for a while. MBP may be approaching your dads budget, and I feel for him, but a 13" at Macmall/Microcenter with $50 8GB ram upgrade from NewEgg is the route I'd want my smart, savvy son to take.
If your laptop shreds already, tell dad to find you a $99 HP Touchpad, and spend the rest on an educational father/son trip to Vegas. ;D
Sent from my GT-P7510 using Tapatalk
matistight said:
If you want it to be portable, iPad/XOOM, Tab 10.1 is too thin and easy to snap, also doesn't take a memory card, XOOM does.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
WTF? That's a reason for NOT buying a Tab? Because it'll be more likely to break by putting massive force on either side?
I'd also like to see a survey of how many Xoom or Transformer or Iconia users actually, you know, swap SD cards on a regular basis.
I have a laptop (a gaming one at that)
A tab 10.1
and an HTC evo...
I use my laptop quite a bit 4-10 hrs a day
phone about 2-5hrs a day
tab 10.1 >2 hrs a day
so in the end was it worth the 499.99 no, am i glad i bought it yes.
im the kind of person who always has to get something when i see it that looks cool...
I do love how fast and easy it is to surf web and stream music. once i get the logitech Zagg bt keyboard case will i use it for school, yes. I would much rather carry that around than a 17" laptop...
The tab is very convenient when in bed and doing some last minute XDA reading (lol i love this site) or when playing a game on my laptop, to be able to look up something w/o having to ALT+TAB is wonderful... idk about some people but i think its pretty snappy when it comes to browsing the web (w/ dolphin browser)...
start with a laptop or a MBP (they are nice but im still a M$ person) if you go with a Windows machine check out HP's website they always have great GREAT deals on high performance laptops (HP makes very nice laptops and you would be wrong to think any less IMO)
(tons of free upgrades and i think they still have the deal going on where you buy a laptop and get a free 4Gb Xbox)
I love my Tab... only downfall for me is the homescreen/launcher (TW) is pretty laggy... esp when moving apps or creating shortcuts
hope this helps...
OK, I found an article on Engadget and that might answer most of the questions you are looking for. And then you can decide for yourself whether you need tablet or a netbook or notebook, etc.
http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/21/editorial-tablets-arent-the-third-device-id-hoped-for-fr/
Sent from my GT-P7510 using XDA Premium App
Here's what I'll tell you,
Tablets are a great internet viewing device and fun to pay games on, but they are more of a filler between a phone and a laptop. If you do not have a laptop or your own computer I would suggest the computer.
At this point in time, if I were you, I would get an HP TouchPad for $99 (if you can find one) and play around with it. If you like it then good, if you don't you can sell it on ebay for most likely more than you paid or keep it because it is only $99. Then you have the rest of your money to get a laptop or Galaxy Tab if you find the need for them.
krips2003 said:
OK, I found an article on Engadget and that might answer most of the questions you are looking for. And then you can decide for yourself whether you need tablet or a netbook or notebook, etc.
http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/21/editorial-tablets-arent-the-third-device-id-hoped-for-fr/
Sent from my GT-P7510 using XDA Premium App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The writer seems to be someone that hates tablets as a whole.
Sent from my GT-P7510 using Tapatalk
I've had the transformer for 3 months.
It does some things great but it is neither a tool or a laptop replacement. The tablet effect may be real at the moment but it will pass.
I love this tablet for movies and email and calendar on the road. And for battery life.
That's where my love ends
It is slow. The browser is deadly slow and buggy as ****. How does a Google product have such a **** browser?
It is not useful as a tool.
Letters, documents spreadsheets... can be done but not effectively.
It is a fun toy and nice to have on the road. But I still need me macbook for anything work related. So now I just have one more thing in my travel bag. Not the direction I want to go.
And worthy of note, of all my computers and devices, I like my full desktop with dual monitors and 6core Intel CPU best. The desktop isn't dead yet either.
Ty.
I use it as a terminal into my computer. So when I go to a meeting or travel I can access my computer with remote desktop.
Do you have the docking? And did you try other browsers?
Because with docking and with opera mobile i do not reckognize any of your points.
I never buy my TF in order to replace my Ubuntu laptop or my desktop computer.
I have it for the battery life, the GPS, the portability, to do emails, downloads, games and surfing lazy in my salon listening TV at same time, copying my camera movies or pictures in holidays, etc ...
I'm doing that before with a net book, but now I have also a Tablet and this is so Geek
The TF is somewhere between my HTC Desire and my Laptop !
I like also to see Honeycomb and the market growing with butty full applications.
This is my new precious and I enjoy it so much
Regards.
PS: Try Dolphin Browser HD, is not to bad and faster.
I wouldn't say it's not useful...just not exactly a laptop replacement.
I do use it for documents, emails, games, and such...the same thing I use my laptop for...the only difference is that the TF allows me to do all that at the coffee shop with my feet up on the hearth, eating a scone...
It is what it is...
I would say that you picked the Transformer up for all the wrong reasons. You have a Macbook yet you're looking for something portable for work. That doesnt' really make sense to me. You're probably not the best use case for this device.
This thing is for people who like the price point and portability of a netbook, but enjoy the tablet form factor for general or on-the-go use. This doesn't seem to be you and I wouldn't call Android tablets "not useful" when you're basically looking for a full laptop replacement - which this is not.
Edit: Re-read, you have a Macbook, didn't specifically say an Air, but maybe one would be better suited for your needs? It's light, has a full OS and is about as portable as laptops can be.
Having the TF now means that I can leave my laptop in the office for the week & only carry my TF to & from home each evening for email, browsing & other work related things.
On the train I watch a TV show or listen to music on the TF & when home I use kindle to read books in bed.
It isn't a laptop or even a netbook, as someone else said, it is what it is, you just have to find out how to fit it into your life.
Honestly, I love when people come in to a device specific forum and complain about how they don't use/need it. Personally, I found that using wireless tether and tablet keeps it with me and in use everywhere i go.
Huh, for me I've essentially replaced my Work windows laptop with my Transformer.
I use a Combo of the stock browser and Dolphin for Pad for web browsing (stock set to tablet, Dolphin set to desktop). I randomly will have a site act funky, but never been a show stopper.
I picked up a bluetooth keyboard that works great for longer emails and document creation via Polaris Office. None of the Android Office suites are MS Office replacements yet, but Polaris suites my needs.
I have VPN Connections working to connect to my corp network when needed.
2X Client is an amazing RDP client for connecting to boxes on my home network or on the corp network when VPN'd in.
The only thing I have an issue with is printing support for Emails/websites/documents when needed. I can print pictures to my HP via their iPrint app. I haven't researched printing solutions that much yet (open to any good suggestions).
Since I got my Transformer in June, the only time I've gotten my laptop out at home was to run a specific app that is Windows only for my golf league and to print those reports. I inquired with the developers about an Android port, but they said it wasn't on their timeline.
I disagree,
Its not useful to you maybe, but to me its exactly what I bought it to be.
I have read more books on my TF in the past 3 months than I have read in the 2 years before that.
I can browse my PC network from any room in the house, view any pictures, listen to any music and watch every video format I have, wherever, whenever.
I can browse the web conveniently, quickly and almost perfectly on my WiFi connection or using 3G from my Desire.
I can waste a few minutes playing a game, or reading a comic.
I can show off my artwork to customers or friends via the gallery.
I can sketch an idea or write a note, even draw some artwork.
I can see whats on TV next or even watch that thing I missed the night before on catchup.
It's not a PC or laptop replacement, its not meant to be, its the thing you use when you don't have time to boot up your PC, or when you don't want to carry that laptop, or know that you will need more than 3 hours of battery life.
its Amazing....
My TF with the dock now fits neatly between my Evo and my Mac Mini in terms of functionality. My portable computing needs are not that taxing, so the Macbook Pro I had was overkill. Sold it last month and now my TF is my portable. I miss some things about the MBP, namely OS X, but I'm getting used to it.
My TF fits perfect for what i need. Reading news feeds, books, PDF's/documents, emails, taking notes with my stylus, and a quick check of the internet with the browser.
Any heavy usage i rely on my chromebook or work laptop and any heavy reading done with my nook color since it's lighter.
Hungry troll is hungry....
I sure wouldnt lug my desktop out to the back yard for some hammock surfing, nor would I use a laptop for extended reading. I see tablets an extension of my current setup, not as a replacement for anything.
If you don't see a use for tablets, why get one? Personally, aside from nitpicking, I couldn't be more happy about my Transformer. I simply love the little thing.
It's definitely not as effective for some pretty important work related things (ie. I had a lot of trouble making fine details on my presentation slides, but I just decided to do the tiny things on my laptop instead). Of course, I don't expect it to be a desktop/laptop replacement. It's a netbook (and tablet of course), and it's meant to be ultra portable. I love it.
For all of my the things I used to used my netbook for (email, web surfing, basic photo editing, games, movies, books, etc.) the Transformer is more than enough. Anything beyond that I use my desktop. The only thing that I wish would happen is a decent screenwriting application (Celtx hopefully). Opera mobile has no lag for me though the stock browser is pretty slow as you say. I don't think the TF was ever pitched as a netbook replacement. The dock inclusion is mainly aimed for those who want a tablet form factor (touchscreen, thin, high resolution screen) with the occasional benefit of faster input through a keyboard (it also serves as an extended battery and stand).
Sent from my Transformer TF101 using xda premium
the TF is my new laptop. I have my desktop forgaming etc..
The TF does everything else.. this was one of the best buys i have ever made.
what an utterly pointless thread ..... wheres this Iron Fist ????
IMHO, the thing that will make or break the 'usefulness' of a tablet is the software. And of course, everyone's needs will be different.
If you've got to do serious work on it, yeah, you're gonna be better with a full-on laptop. Period.
Myself, I don't need the horsepower of a full laptop, but I do find that the browser on the tablet is pretty slow. Some apps could use a lot of improvement (for instance, I use Polaris Office to interface with Google Docs, but I hate the little return carriage icon it puts after every line in the editor...)
I'm going to hang on to mine because it is useful to me, and as software improves, it will get even more useful.
Its good for books and magazines.
Listening to audio any format
watching movies in SD format only, any higher and experience lag and desync audio
games are enjoyable
internet browsing is ok would be alot better if websites considered ppl touching a screen rather then using a mouse.
some apps beat the website but not many
OP, cry me a river. You don't have anyone to blame other than yourself about the fact that you purchased a device you didn't have the need for.
I've got a gaming desktop with dual 24 inch IPS screens setup; a 15 inch windows/ubuntu Asus laptop; an old iBook acting as a home server; a Galaxy S 4 inch Android smartphone; and an iPod Touch 4th generation (solely for work related testing purposes).
In addition, I was pretty skeptical about the tablets as a device class as a whole before.
Know what? The TF did actually fit me so damn well that I can't imagine not having it now. I had never imagined I'd have those situations and use cases before I actually started using it.
Hey guys, I wanted to get your guys' opinions since i havent gotten a chance to get my hands on a nexus 7 yet. I am a Graduate Assisstant at my college and i graduate in december. With my GA position i was given a laptop to use, well I was wondering what you guys think about using a Nexus 7 as a replacement for a laptop when i graduate since i have to return my laptop. I do have a desktop that runs linux, so for any real computing power i can use that, but for laying in bed, browsing the web, email, watchign youtube, hulu, and other streaming sites as well as visiting lots of forums, do you think the nexus 7 is suitable as a daily device for that? thanks
ontoptherock said:
Hey guys, I wanted to get your guys' opinions since i havent gotten a chance to get my hands on a nexus 7 yet. I am a Graduate Assisstant at my college and i graduate in december. With my GA position i was given a laptop to use, well I was wondering what you guys think about using a Nexus 7 as a replacement for a laptop when i graduate since i have to return my laptop. I do have a desktop that runs linux, so for any real computing power i can use that, but for laying in bed, browsing the web, email, watchign youtube, hulu, and other streaming sites as well as visiting lots of forums, do you think the nexus 7 is suitable as a daily device for that? thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Since you already have a desktop I would say replacing the laptop with a Nexus 7 would be fine.
Agreed for those, but no tablet is a replacement for a laptop.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using xda app-developers app
Agreed, there are nice office suites in the play store for any document you need, lots of power and it just runs great. Also to, it has NFC built in for beaming files and paying for stuff w/Google wallet.
Sent from my De-Sensed HTC Vivid using xda premium
I'll eventually get a laptop but right now just dont have the money to get one that would be suitable or what i would want spec wise. So i figure with the low cost of the nexus i would use that in the meantime
I am a grad student and school teacher. I bought a tab to replace my laptop because I didn't need everything the laptop could do. My wife has a desktop, so I use that for doing any heavy tasks. I use my n7 with a bluetooth keyboard when in grad class and as a notebook for recording nots and ideas when working g with students.
I originally had a 10 inch tab, but that was too big. Love the n7,and I do not feel like a need a laptop.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk 2
For what you said you'd use the tablet for I'd say yes but get the 32gb version cause you never know when you'd need the extra space
I bought my n7 to compliment my atom netbook for my university course. One Bluetooth keyboard and an otg cable and I haven't even turned my netbook on in over 3 months. Office apps are good enough for editing and some changes to PowerPoint presentations etc.
Half of the time now I don't even take a bag to Uni, my n7 in my pocket and I am good.
I have 3 computers at home (wife and kids use them) I find most of my browsing, YouTube etc. Is being done on the n7. My comps I use only for mmo gaming and large projects.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk 2
Tablet is nice but it will never replace a PC/laptop for me. If I'm home alone, I am still always on my desktop. I'd rather sit at my desk with a sound system to listen to Pandora than being alone on the couch with ear buds. There are still many times I need to use my PC because a page won't display correctly or is difficult to use.
While I love my N7, it's still for casual use. It will never replace a PC for me unless I have no choice.
For sitting on the couch or in bed, a tablet will probably be good enough you.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using xda app-developers app
Honestly if I had a hard keyboard for my nexus 7, I wouldn't really ever use my laptop. Jellybean is a pretty good operating system getting better everyday, serves as a pretty good windows replacement.
I use my tablet for most things but still can't completely replace my laptop yet.
-Brought to you by Marino's Nexus 7-
deleted
I use my nexus for internet now more then my desktop, laptop, EP121 combined. Only thing it hasn't taken over yet is my pen and paper character sheet duties. So yeah for what you listed it will do fine.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using XDA Premium HD app
I've got a Nexus 7 to replace my Asus EEPC 701 as my travel partner .
My major task for my travel partner is look for a map , get some simple translation , upload picture from my DSLR to my facebook account .
And now , all these task are completed by my N7 . And it is always on , the battery even can survive a single of heavy usage !
But of course , I would still keep my EEEPC , since it is still a standard IBM PC , there are still lots of works that require a standard computer to complete . For example , briefing with VGA out , connect some uncommon hardware (e.g. 3G usb modem , printer with no network) .
one last thing i do alot also is use torrents, is that something that can be easily done on the N7. I saw utorrent just released a beta for android, so i assume that this is a task easily done now on the N7. Thanks guys i think i am going to go with the N7 as my go to mobile device. For only $250 you cant really beat it.
On another note, is anyone using the tablet UI, and if so what do you like better by chance?
Nutshell version:
In most situations laptops are orverkill. Web browsing, torrenting, music, gaming can all be done BETTER on the N7. You don't NEED a laptop for this. CREATING a lot of content then you'll NEED a laptop. The N7 can handle SOME of this but when you get into doing a lot of it it's clunky and you'll run into limitations.
TL-DR version:
An N7 is NOT a laptop replacement. If you're looking to replace an entire laptop, just buy a laptop. HOWEVER... if you realize you don't NEED a laptop.. the N7 is perfect.
Here's a little illustration to help:
I personaly have come to realize that I don't NEED a laptop. I have one.. but it never leaves my house. When I go out, I take my N7 instead. My needs on the go are different than my needs at home. I realize what I need (I say "need"... but who really "needs" luxury devices like laptops and tablets though) is a beefy and powerful desktop at home and some periphery computing accessories like a chromebook and a good tablet. If i want to do graphics, music or gaming.. I do it at home on the desktop. If i'm on the go, i'm not trying to do graphic editing or create music... i'm consuming content or gaming.. the Nexus is perfect for this. If i'm trying to create content on the go... it's not going to be heavy duty stuff.. it's most likely going to be document editing or coding.. the chromebook will do nicely.
I hope that illustration helps. Thats a real world use for the N7 as opposed to something unrealistic like trying to do all of your college work (i'm also in school.. the N7 can handle some things like documents, but it's DEFINITELY better to use a full computer/laptop) you're going to run into limitations you'll be forced to work around.
^ well put
Reply
Honestly if I had a hard keyboard for my nexus 7, I wouldn't really ever use my laptop. Jellybean is a pretty good operating system getting better everyday, serves as a pretty good windows replacement
It comes down to a decision about content consumption vs. content creation and which & when you do more of. Because of variability in what people do and how much they travel around, I don't think there is a one-size-fits-all answer. The need to use a single PC application that can't be substituted for with a tablet app can easily force the decision.
Three years ago I was down to two computers - a laptop and an android phone. When the laptop finally died, I switched to a deskside, even though I knew I would sorely miss it for one kind of multitasking: watching TV and web surfing simultaneously.
Why? Screen real estate! You simply can not be as productive (say as a programmer) when you need to refer to several things simultaneously (docs, code, deguggers, etc) on a single 15-17" diagonal screen. Multiple monitors are a game-changer when it comes to productivity. (Sure, you can use stacks of windows or multiple virtual desktops on a laptop, but switching back and forth between them is lost time).
Along the same vein, appreciate that Android style multitasking - a single activity on the whole screen - makes cut-n-paste operations or quick referral to info in a 2nd app clumsily slow. A tablet (Android or Apple) isn't productive for work that needs frequent use of that type of activity.
Same goes for using a finger for text entry - pathetically slow. If you must capture notes of any length ("content creation") on the tablet, use a physical keyboard.
Still, I missed surfing from the couch, and a 3-in android phone screen wasn't cutting it. Tried Google TV for a while, but sharing the same display just seems unnatural and is an irritation to a 2nd person watching the same TV screen.
So, now I still don't have a laptop - just the big iron for being productive (read: not in front of the TV!), and an entertainment/reading device that can be used anywhere - couch/bed/crapper.
In a way, that's good as it helps enforce a decent separation between work and play.
At this point, I miss the laptop only for situations that require both a full-up OS and portability. I don't need that for work; but if I did I probably would have all three.
If it came down to a matter of money, and I could only afford one, it would probably be the laptop that got the nod.