Related
I realize this is the 10.1 forum, but it seems like the best place to ask... any news?
I found this today which doesn't sound good:
http://english.etnews.co.kr/news/detail.html?id=201106090001
Samsung Electronics Applies Two Different Touch Screens to Galaxy Tab 8.9
2011/06/09 By Lee Hyeong-soo
Samsung Electronics is finding itself in a dilemma concerning its super-slim tablet PC, the Galaxy Tab 8.9, made rather in a hurry to catch up with Apple’s i-Pad2.
The product succeeded in becoming the world’s slimmest smart pad, as thin as 8.6mm, thanks to the touch screen integrated with tempered glass called G1F. The thickness of i-Pad2 is 8.8mm. Nevertheless, Samsung is having difficulty actually putting it on the market owing to the low process yield ratios of its key components. If this situation goes on, the electronics giant’s plan to sell 10 million units of tablet PCs this year might be affected, too.
The Galaxy Tab 8.9 incorporates both the G1F and GFF (glass fiber filter) technologies. Earlier, Samsung was intending to select two local panel makers and kick off the manufacturing of the new tablet PC from late this month. However, the yield problem arose, resulting in some shortage of components. The corporation had to take drastic measures, bringing in two GFF panel manufacturers additionally. In short, the same tablet PC model takes two different types of touch screens.
A GFF-type touch panel is 30% to 40% thicker than its G1F counterpart. Moreover, the former’s light transmittance is lower than the latter’s, which means the display performance is poorer. “There is nothing certain about the specifications of the 8.9-inch version of the product with the 10.1-inch model having yet to hit the market,” said Samsung.
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No it doesn't sound good. When I Samsung announced the new 10.1 and 8.9 back at CTIA, I did actually wonder whether they were too ambitious with designing the tablets. In the back of my mind was that Samsung created those designs without being 100% how they were going to fit all the components into it. The main motivation to show those were due to competition against iPad2. While both the 8.9 and the 10.1 look damn sexy compared to the competition, I really think they have been rushed as this news article implies.
News of glass coming away from the screen on the Google IO 10.1 devices is also another sign that the devices were rushed. I think I'll wait a month or two after release for things to settle down and for other early adopters to be Samsung's "mass user testing team"
I'm sure there'll be some indication on the box via barcodes, SKU etc to work out which 8.9 version people will be getting so it's not a big deal but I've got my eye on the 10.1 so hopefully not affected by this.
Sigh... 8.9" version is all I want... =(
I was also leaning towards the 8.9 but then I saw the 10.1 at the event in NY and the screen was just right.
Sure the 8.9 might be even more portable but the 10.1 is slim and light enough.
All we know about the 8.9 is that it passed the FCC so it can't be too far away.
However, being that the 10.1 is delayed, I am sure they want to make sure that every store + Verizon is selling the 10.1 before launching a new product into the market.
If they would launch together people would buy either one. If they wait a bit they create a buzz for both.
Very disappointing to read. However since I'm on my fifth (!!) Samsung Captivate, I know all-too-well the company's ongoing issues with rushed hardware and quality control. GPS-gate, anyone?
Granted, even the mighty iPad2 is plagued with backlight bleed issues (traced to panel provider, LG) but if this article is true, and Samsung is speeding through a panel manufacturer selection process, I will *not* buy something that was tossed together with questionable quality control. The Asus Transformer's dust under-the-screen issue is a perfect example of poor QC. Same for the Google I/O GTab 10.1 with its lifting screen. At these $500+ price points, I think it's laughable these make it out of the gate with so many problems. (If the Xoom didn't leave me unimpressed with its tepid screen, I'd have stuck with it, as its build quality was otherwise exceptional.)
The more I read about this Tab 8.9 the more I want it.
This thread is a bit of a bummer if it's true but in the mean while have a look at what GSM Arena have put up.
Definitely put a smile on my face, just got to play the waiting game now
http://www.gsmarena.com/samsung_galaxy_tab_8_9_preview-review-603.php
The video looks pretty slick too and I think as of late Samsung have been pretty good with pushing out updates of it's newer models like the Galaxy S2 so I'm hoping any newer updates will come quickly to this lil guy....that being said, it will be another story when Ice Cream Sandwich rolls around.
Yes, I was really looking forward to the 8.9 myself. I had originally grabbed a 32gb Transformer, but was totally turned off by the build quality. I had pretty much every issue mentioned.. light bleed from all sides, screen not sealed all the way around, creaky, dead pixels... I sent that back and grabbed a Xoom from Costco hoping that the 8.9 would arrive before my 90 day return window closed.
The Xoom has 0 build issues and is actually one of the sturdiest electronic devices I've held in awhile... it's a bit big though for my liking. I think the screen is just a little too long in portrait and it's annoying to hold while reading in bed. The weight doesn't feel spread out either. Anyway, that's why I wanted to try the 8.9. The 7" tabs just feel like large phones to me and this seems like a great middle ground.
Hopefully, we hear something soon from Samsung.
do u think this would fit it: http://www.logitech.com/en-us/tablet-accessories/for-android/devices/keyboard-case-samsung-galaxy
with a simple mod?
rukkus said:
Yes, I was really looking forward to the 8.9 myself. I had originally grabbed a 32gb Transformer, but was totally turned off by the build quality. I had pretty much every issue mentioned.. light bleed from all sides, screen not sealed all the way around, creaky, dead pixels... I sent that back and grabbed a Xoom from Costco hoping that the 8.9 would arrive before my 90 day return window closed.
The Xoom has 0 build issues and is actually one of the sturdiest electronic devices I've held in awhile... it's a bit big though for my liking. I think the screen is just a little too long in portrait and it's annoying to hold while reading in bed. The weight doesn't feel spread out either. Anyway, that's why I wanted to try the 8.9. The 7" tabs just feel like large phones to me and this seems like a great middle ground.
Hopefully, we hear something soon from Samsung.
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I came from a Tab 7" to a Xoom, and had the same "reading in bed" issues as well. Bought a Tab 10.1, and all that went away...smoother corners, better weight distribution, much less weight overall, and a better display. I read for hours at a time on the couch, in bed, in the "reading room", etc.
Glad I didn't hold out for the 8.9 three months ago...three months is a long time, and I've gotten a lot of enjoyment out of the 10.1 since then. Doubt I'll ever switch to the 8.9 at this point.
I will be buying the Tab 7.7 just as soon as it's released though...SAMOLED and Exynos in a slim 7" package is too good to pass up.
Croak said:
I came from a Tab 7" to a Xoom, and had the same "reading in bed" issues as well. Bought a Tab 10.1, and all that went away...smoother corners, better weight distribution, much less weight overall, and a better display. I read for hours at a time on the couch, in bed, in the "reading room", etc.
Glad I didn't hold out for the 8.9 three months ago...three months is a long time, and I've gotten a lot of enjoyment out of the 10.1 since then. Doubt I'll ever switch to the 8.9 at this point.
I will be buying the Tab 7.7 just as soon as it's released though...SAMOLED and Exynos in a slim 7" package is too good to pass up.
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Same here. Held out for 8.9 too long. Just sold 7 inch tab and purchased 10.1 for 350. Will switch to 7.7 when it gets to 350 price.
I want to add that build quality of 7 inch SGT was excellent. Used it with overcome ROM and loved it.
Edit: Said too early. Looks like SGT 8.9 is available for preorder
http://www.bestbuy.com/site/Samsung...bolsp-app02-02?id=1218376384117&skuId=3070224
It has USB!!
http://www.samsung.com/us/mobile/galaxy-tab/GT-P7310MAAXAR-features
It has USB the same way the 10.1 (and 7) does, via the 30-pin connector.
Croak said:
It has USB the same way the 10.1 (and 7) does, via the 30-pin connector.
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Check the specs on Samsung Site. Its mentioned under connectivity [USB 2.0 H/S]
http://www.samsung.com/us/mobile/galaxy-tab/GT-P7310MAAXAR-features
Its NOT for 10.1
http://www.samsung.com/us/mobile/galaxy-tab/GT-P7510MAYXAB-features
All it says is USB 2.0 High Speed. Which is still the same thing you find on the 10.1. There are no extra ports on the 8.9.
cnewsgrp said:
Check the specs on Samsung Site. Its mentioned under connectivity [USB 2.0 H/S]
http://www.samsung.com/us/mobile/galaxy-tab/GT-P7310MAAXAR-features
Its NOT for 10.1
http://www.samsung.com/us/mobile/galaxy-tab/GT-P7510MAYXAB-features
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If the Tab 10.1 doesn't have USB connectivity, how come it came with a USB cable and I'm able to connect it to my PC?
Step666 said:
If the Tab 10.1 doesn't have USB connectivity, how come it came with a USB cable and I'm able to connect it to my PC?
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For most people the cable that comes with it is enough as it does offer usb connectivity to a PC.
What people are talking about is the conntector on the tablet itself. You need an usb cable from samsung to be able to connect - it does not work with a standard usb cable (notice how broad the connector towards the tab is compared to a standard (micro) usb cable)...
Hype
Im just a bit puzzled about this tab, i'm really excited about this tab. But by googleing and searching forums I found that there's no hype? Why is there no hype about this tab?
hiitti said:
Im just a bit puzzled about this tab, i'm really excited about this tab. But by googleing and searching forums I found that there's no hype? Why is there no hype about this tab?
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Its because its still based on Tegra 2 which is basically very old news and soon to be obsolete. There are smartphones with more powerful chips than tegra 2.
Plus the fact that it's been delayed - it's not that different to the Tab 10.1, so most people will probably have gotten bored of waiting and just went for the larger model.
Croak said:
All it says is USB 2.0 High Speed. Which is still the same thing you find on the 10.1. There are no extra ports on the 8.9.
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FYI - Just saw this. Tab 7.7 has microSD slot.
http://thisismynext.com/2011/09/01/samsung-galaxy-tab-7-7-hands-on-ifa-2011/
ArtificialSweetener said:
Its because its still based on Tegra 2 which is basically very old news and soon to be obsolete. There are smartphones with more powerful chips than tegra 2.
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Ah, maybe so. I'm getting one. The resellers in Sweden is just starting to get them to their inventory.
Did anyone see the new toshiba thrive yet? Sure, it's got nice features, but it's thicker and heavier than the gtab. Remember all those whines about how humongous and heavy the gtab was? Some people even described it as weighing a ton. Well, how on Earth are the going to survive with the thrive? LOL
I have one. Bought one Sunday as an upgrade to the gTab for me and handed off the gTab to my wife.
And overall, it is an upgrade. Honeycomb stock out of the box. Screen is much better, no problems with viewing angles. It weighs more and is slightly larger, but I don't notice. And with the weight and the textured back, it is actually easier to hold onto than the gTab.
Also, GPS, full size SD, user replaceable battery, and rear camera...all big upgrades over the gTab. Not as much modding yet, and the bootloader is locked, but it's coming.
The few negatives over the gTab: price (obviously), the charging cable is a laptop-like brick, and the SD card fits in the top and sticks out slightly (vs being tucked away in the gTab). Volume and portrait are the reverse...not so much a negative, but having to get used to.
I'm all for more tegra 2-based tablets on the market; I doubt I'll buy one as my gTab does what I need after some fiddling, but if someone just wants something that works out of the box (and has good specs for a reasonable price), the Thrive looks like a decent option. Then again, so is the eeePad.
If I can sell enough crap on craigslist Im just going to buy an ipad2. I dont care what my wife says. She can wait for her damn diamond ear rings! Google OS = Fail in my eyes. I was hopeful, i waited, and with no out reach to the people who asked for help. They have failed us. With only a couple of months away, iOS5 is looking mighty fine. And believe me, its a sad day when I buy an Apple product. 20 year hater.....soon to be lover.
MechAniX.one said:
If I can sell enough crap on craigslist Im just going to buy an ipad2. I dont care what my wife says. She can wait for her damn diamond ear rings! Google OS = Fail in my eyes. I was hopeful, i waited, and with no out reach to the people who asked for help. They have failed us. With only a couple of months away, iOS5 is looking mighty fine. And believe me, its a sad day when I buy an Apple product. 20 year hater.....soon to be lover.
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Here's my take on apple vs google vs microsoft.
I love apple. I highly recommend it to everyone. I absolutely love the fact that they make their software with dummies in mind. Speaking as the techie that's been helping dummies for years, it is at times frustrating. I'm certainly glad there's a company out there that makes all their softwares with dummies in mind.
The only reason I don't use apple products is I want to keep myself on my toes. I don't want to ever become lazy minded. I want to constantly force myself to learn new things. This is why I regularly purposely do dumb things to my gadgets to replicate people's problems.
I say go for the ipad. It is a great product. I've used it before. I absolutely love it. You'll have a great time with it.
The Thrive looks great. The inclusion of a full size SD Card slot seems so obvious for a device this size. It frustrates me to no end that the Gtab requires a micro SD Card, which results in more expensive storage for slower throughput. A 32GB Class 10 SD card is $50 compared to the $80 Class 4 Micro SD equivalent. When I get my quad core tablet a year from now there better be a SD Card port.
TarheelGrad1998 said:
Not as much modding yet, and the bootloader is locked, but it's coming.
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The bootloader is unlocked from the factory. I know, because I bricked my Thrive
I thought G-Tab didnt have an SD SLOT???
TarheelGrad1998 said:
I have one. Bought one Sunday as an upgrade to the gTab for me and handed off the gTab to my wife.
And overall, it is an upgrade. Honeycomb stock out of the box. Screen is much better, no problems with viewing angles. It weighs more and is slightly larger, but I don't notice. And with the weight and the textured back, it is actually easier to hold onto than the gTab.
Also, GPS, full size SD, user replaceable battery, and rear camera...all big upgrades over the gTab. Not as much modding yet, and the bootloader is locked, but it's coming.
The few negatives over the gTab: price (obviously), the charging cable is a laptop-like brick, and the SD card fits in the top and sticks out slightly (vs being tucked away in the gTab). Volume and portrait are the reverse...not so much a negative, but having to get used to.
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jpinks said:
I thought G-Tab didnt have an SD SLOT???
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There is a microSD slot and USB port on the left side under the cover right below the power button.
I just picked up a thrive and i think it is Awesome!! had a asus eepad and went through three of them because of screen bleed. the thrive is awesome full usb, HDMI, and sdcard the docks are dirt keep. battery backs comes in different colors. the asus doesn't compare in my book neither does the g-tablet. it was my first tablet and the viewing area sucked.
Rotary Parts said:
I just picked up a thrive and i think it is Awesome!! had a asus eepad and went through three of them because of screen bleed. the thrive is awesome full usb, HDMI, and sdcard the docks are dirt keep. battery backs comes in different colors. the asus doesn't compare in my book neither does the g-tablet. it was my first tablet and the viewing area sucked.
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Let's hope so since it is about double the price of a G Tablet.
TidBit said:
Let's hope so since it is about double the price of a G Tablet.
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but i loved the asus too but the screen bleed was killing me. don't get me wrong i loved the g-tab too used it everyday.
G tab thread FYI 9
Thought I only needed 10 posts to post in the dev fourms so here is 11
Its a nice tablet.
I got to check it out the other day at Best Lie.
It's beefy... But has a nice selection of ports to use.
Couple of pre-purchase questions
Hi, I have been considering the Thrive. I have several questions I hope some owner could answer:
1. I have a TripleHead2Go Digital Edition configured to 2-23" Asus monitors. Could a HDMI to DVI cable be used with the Thrive to power these two monitors thru the TH2GO?
2. Currently I have a laptop that I use wirelessly in our office to access the server files. Would this be possible on the Thrive?
3. How good is the speech to text for email composing?
Thanks for looking and especially if you can answer. Ken B
On the Fence Between the Thrive and Galaxy ab 10.1
I am leaning towards the Thrive cuz of the full usb, hdmi, replaceable battery,and sd slot. However, The Galaxy Tab 10.1 is sexy! I have an Ipad, so I think I might just grab the Thrive instead.
CROMWarGOD said:
I am leaning towards the Thrive cuz of the full usb, hdmi, replaceable battery,and sd slot. However, The Galaxy Tab 10.1 is sexy! I have an Ipad, so I think I might just grab the Thrive instead.
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I was in the same boat, but went with the thrive because of the included convenient full sized ports, and removable battery. For example, the HDMI adapter for the galaxy tab is 50-60$ alone. THOUGH I did hear from someone that it has a usb and micro sd slot under the back cover, though I've never actually seen it.
I have the gTablet and bought & tried the A500 and Transformer. My gTablet is rooted and bloat free, but is slow compared to any of the other devices. Display also is something only it's momma' could love.
Thrive wins for me due to the ports and 64gb sdxc cards work fine (I have a Ultra Sandisk). All three newer tablets have good and bad, but the ports combo and better display than the A500 won out.
All three have far more good points than bad, but the bad stuck out for me:
A500=
-Slip magnet
-USB host located where the tablet would normally be held
-Fine black stripes going vertically on the display (panel arrays)
-Weak wifi radio that had issues keeping connection in low signal areas
-Sleep/wake issue that persists for some, even after recent update
Transformer=
-Display less responsive than A500 or Thrive
-Proprietary connection needed for data and power
-Have to buy the keyboard to get the expanded connectivity
Thrive=
-Sleep mode issue (now fixed, BTW and an update should be anytime now).
-LED lights are obtrusive (nothing some tape can not block or reduce)
-A little thicker, but more comfortable and better to grip as a result
I got the 16gb Thrive for $402 after the $100 Staples coupon and then bought a Ultra 64gb sdxc card for $120. $522 for a 80gb tablet
None the less for all three tablets, they are all IMO worth a few hundred $ more than the gTablet, due to MUCH MUCH better displays, faster performance and more stable. Not to mention Viewsonic SUCKS.
I literally just put my order in about 3 days ago and will see my TF on Thursday, but I'm having second thoughts. A friend of mine just got his TF in today, and - well I dunno, I'm not all that impressed.
Out of the box came with the speaker issue (one side is louder than the other). The sound wasn't all that loud
Screen brightness was kind of low
The sharp edges were cutting my fingers
So I started to have a read about the differences between the Transformer & the Galaxy tab in the Galaxy Tab section. However, I think everyone posting there is biased toward the tab because they are now tab fanboys posting in their forum.
A few things I do like about the TF. Price of $399 (unbeatable) Expandable ports, dock option, memory slot, hdmi out, 5mpx camera. Do I think I'll use all of that (except price)? Probably not.
A few things I like about the Tab. Same size screen with less bulk, thinner, lighter, rounded edges, very solid build quality. Do I think its worth an extra $100 for these items? I think so. Plus I know the resale value will definitely be there because its a well known brand.
I haven't made up my mind completely on this but im about 80% of the way there in returning my TF and going with the Tab.
Thoughts, comments?
Nobody can decide for you. Do whatever you are happiest with.
Having used a hybrid tablet/netbook like the Transformer, I would never buy a tablet-only device.
^x2
Sent from my SCH-I500 using Tapatalk
It's more than $100 (or here in germany 100€). You don't have a MicroSD Slot and HDMI-out. Do you need both options you must pay way more. And for the same price you can get a Transformer+Dock.
I don't see, why anybody would pay more for less...
Hi mate,
I have had the TF since release day and to be honest I'm very happy with it. It does what I need it to do very well: reading books, browse internet, playing games, plays movies (although there are some issues).
On the other hand I don't need and I will never get the dock, simply because if I wanted a netbook there are much better options on the market. And I have one of them as well.
Because of that I'm waiting to see the Galaxy Tab in real life, hold it in my hands. And if that offers everything that I need and is better than the TF I might go for it.
So good luck choosing! Let us know what you go for.
rio
PS: Actually what I'm considering at the moment is the small Galaxy tab 8.9 (I think). That one was on the Samsung website for a while, but I'm not sure what is the current status
rio911 said:
PS: Actually what I'm considering at the moment is the small Galaxy tab 8.9 (I think). That one was on the Samsung website for a while, but I'm not sure what is the current status
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Actually that is the "MEDIUM" Galaxy Tab. THe "small" one is the 7 inch versions and there are two of them. The powerful 3G/Wifi one and the neutered and less power Wifi only version.
The MAJOR downside to any Galaxy Tabs are :
1.) Updates are so slow....MONTHS behind the others.
2.) 10 inchers have no expansion slots.....and the 8.9 as well I think.
Get whatever YOU decide to be happy with. Others cannot make that choice for you. Only YOU can.
Some people like smaller I would not be able to stand a 7" tablet or laptop without optical media. My motto has always been its the size/shape that makes it portable it doesn't matter if its 20lbs its still light and easy to move around. But then again I compare it with moving around 300-400lbs.
Digiguest said:
Actually that is the "MEDIUM" Galaxy Tab. THe "small" one is the 7 inch versions and there are two of them. The powerful 3G/Wifi one and the neutered and less power Wifi only version.
The MAJOR downside to any Galaxy Tabs are :
1.) Updates are so slow....MONTHS behind the others.
2.) 10 inchers have no expansion slots.....and the 8.9 as well I think.
Get whatever YOU decide to be happy with. Others cannot make that choice for you. Only YOU can.
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Click to collapse
Gtab. 10.1 also with build issues. Many are suffering from Newton rings. Dust under screen. Colors are way oversaturated.....
If u want android in an ipad like body then go Samsung. If Samsung would have made the device 1 or 2 mm thicker and put in micro SD and HDMI they also would have been able to prevent the Newton ring issue and have the one killer tablet.
Sent from my Transformer TF101 using Tapatalk
Digiguest said:
1.) Updates are so slow....MONTHS behind the others.
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I don't know how you can say that really.... there hasn't been any major updates for Samsung to pass onto the Tablets. The only time when you'll be able to use that point is when Ice Cream Sandwich comes out. I'd say that 1/2 months is a good enough turn around for manufacturers to update their devices a major version.
I'd also like to note that I have a Galaxy S. While Americans are still using Eclair because of their crappy carriers wanting to hack the firmware to bits, us using unbranded european devices got Gingerbread before any other device (bar the Nexus devices). Samsung know what they are doing.
The way I see it, from my experience with the TF is this:
16GB is not enough. My music alone is near this and more. Since there is no additional storage options on the GT, you are going to have to opt for a 32GB or more which equals greater $$$ to spend. But sacrifices could be made...
So, I would say the dock is the real reason to get this thing. If you are not too excited about the dock, I wouldn't bother. The GT excels in design, but the TF excels in utility and value.
If the "sharp edges" of the Transformer are really "cutting [your] fingers," that's a physical problem with the device (or your fingers, I guess!).
Buy sleeve m8,than will be perfect
Your not the first to have these concerns. I bought the tf and was considering selling it for a tab. But what you've stated (price, microsd, HDMI out, and KB option) kept me from doing so.
I played with the tab for an hour or so and still prefer my tf. I didn't like the button placement on the tab, (they're in a more natural placement on the tf.
I did have the speaker issue on my tf but it was an easy fix. Just root it (there's a very well written guide by yours truly ;-)) and read up on the thread in the development section and it's as easy as editing a txt file.
If the edges bother you, grab a case, I'm currently using the roocase multi-angle which I got from amazon for under $30.
Other than that the only downside of the tf I see is the charger. Proprietary connection, short cable and sometimes the adapter doesn't want to work.
Sent from my Transformer TF101 using XDA Premium App
I was in the same boat. I traded my iPad2 for an Android tablet and had lots of offers. I was looking at the Galaxy Tab and thought it was for me until I found that it didn't have any expansion ports like the iPad2. It is one of the reasons why I HATED the iPad2 because you had to carry around the special USB cable to sync it... then you needed special software for it to work...
Screw all that. I need to be able to quickly get files on and off the my tablet. I don't want to have to rely on another computer or a computer with special software to read my stuff.
90% of the time you'll have access to a Home or Work PC which you will probably have setup properly... but trust me... you WILL find yourself somewhere needing to pull a picture off or text or an attachment or something and you'll be stuck. It will happen more often the more you use it.
Plus the price point. I was trading my iPad2 for whichever I wanted. Did I need the keyboard dock? No. Will I use the keyboard dock often? No. Is it badass? Yes.
The keyboard dock has an additional battery that will charge the tablet battery when docked. It also increases the functionality of the tab.
Both tablets are identical in hardware except the Transformer has lots of additional ports. microSD is a must and HDMI out is actually very handy for throwing pictures, movies, games, etc on a larger screen.
I just can't see buying the Galaxy Tab 10.1 for the same price as you could buy the Transformer + Dock.
sontin said:
It's more than $100 (or here in germany 100€). You don't have a MicroSD Slot and HDMI-out. Do you need both options you must pay way more. And for the same price you can get a Transformer+Dock.
I don't see, why anybody would pay more for less...
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I wouldn't exactly call the Samsung as "less" than the Transformer. I think they're different enough that it's gonna come down to how you personally use it.
One thing I'd like to point out - the Gtab is much easier to hold in your hand than the Transformer. Corners aren't as sharp, it's lighter, and seems better balanced. The texture on the back of the Gtab is easier to grab, though this could be solved with a sleeve on the Transformer.
Another point is screen reflection. The Transformer's glass is much farther away from the LCD than the glass on the Samsung. IPS screens are nice, but unless you're always going to be in a optimally lit room, you'll see a lot more reflections with the Transformer than with the Samsung Tab. Some Samsung Tab's have issues with the screen actually touching the LCD and making oil marks, but most don't.
So - the differences are definitely there. I don't you can write off the Gtab's advantages. The reflection and ergonomics itself might be worth $100.
My experience is that I just bought the Galaxy Tab 10.1 16GB about 5 days ago. I played with it over night and returned it the next day.
The following day, I purchased the Transformer 16GB and a dock for $50.00 more.
Now that I've owned the TF for 3-4 days, I'm very satisfied with it for many reasons:
- Multiple media input/out options: mini HDMI out, x2 USB ports, and SD/MMC card reader. - Will work perfectly with my Nikon P100's SD card and I can use a external HDD and plug it right into the USB port if I want to watch my movies.
- Dock acts as extended battery: I also tether my HTC Thunderbolt and plug it into the dock to keep a charge on my Thunderbolt while tethering my 4G to the Transformer.(SO MUCH WIN!!!)
- Having a keyboard when I want to compose an email is x100 better than thumbing my words through the tab. - I still use the touchscreen kb for somethings.
- Dock/keyboard has shortcut buttons which I take advantage of all the time.
- Textured casing makes handling the tablet/net book very secure and eliminates any smudges.
*I do not see where in the world you could cut your hand/finger on the tablet or the docking station. - You should tell your friend to get an RMA because there's something wrong with the one he has. Either that or he may need to see a dermatologist about amyloidosis, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome.
Re: Samsung Galaxy 10.1
I chose that tablet first because of the sleek design. I was extremely impressed with the way that Samsung engineered the design.
HOWEVER, no more than 1-2 hours after playing with it, I came back to my senses and see how limited I was with any options. Not only does it look like an iPad but it also has all the shortcomings in hardware that the iPad does.
I have had a few Android devices and so it's practically a religion to have a microSD card for my stuff. Samsung decided to cut back on adding any option to extend storage and that was a the biggest decider for me. - All the selling points that a Android tablet has in terms of hardware-media expansion was nerfed on latest Galaxy Tab. Did Samsung want to imitate Apple so much that they even decided to try and sell a tab that requires additional parts to make it comparable to all other tablets?
In the end, this is only my real life opinion having owned both devices and what I still have now is the Asus Transformer.
Once I used the keyboard/dock with my tablet, I can not imagine another tablet without this option. Asus did a decent job in engineering the look/feel of the tab with the dock/keyboard.
*I did have to return both tab and dock/keyboard to Best Buy until I found the right Best Buy which had B60 as my previous ones were B50.
Good lucking in making your decision. If you buy it at Best Buy, you can at least return it in 14 days without restocking fee and get the other one. If you felt that first one was better than you can simply return it again and go back to the other model. I am in NO WAY suggesting to abuse a return policy but it's there and it works as mentioned.
coachclass said:
I wouldn't exactly call the Samsung as "less" than the Transformer. I think they're different enough that it's gonna come down to how you personally use it.
One thing I'd like to point out - the Gtab is much easier to hold in your hand than the Transformer. Corners aren't as sharp, it's lighter, and seems better balanced. The texture on the back of the Gtab is easier to grab, though this could be solved with a sleeve on the Transformer.
Another point is screen reflection. The Transformer's glass is much farther away from the LCD than the glass on the Samsung. IPS screens are nice, but unless you're always going to be in a optimally lit room, you'll see a lot more reflections with the Transformer than with the Samsung Tab. Some Samsung Tab's have issues with the screen actually touching the LCD and making oil marks, but most don't.
So - the differences are definitely there. I don't you can write off the Gtab's advantages. The reflection and ergonomics itself might be worth $100.
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Of course the closer together glass in the gtab has led to the oil blob effect for Many
Sent from my Transformer TF101 using Tapatalk
I've had my TF since right after it launched in the US and I do love it. With that being said, I do plan on picking up a galaxy tab tomorrow, the last day that you can use the $50 off coupon for any tablet at staples.
The TF definately has the advantage when it comes to storage, because of the SD card and dock if you want to buy it, which I have no interest in. The galaxy tab however has a great form factor and from my limited use with one seems to have snappier performance than my TF, even though they have almost idendical specs, and my TF is overclocked. I also prefer the screen on the tab compared to the TF.
Honestly I think that the OP will be happy with either one. My only real gripe against the TF is that the majority of them seem to suufer from light bleed or some manufacturing defect, thankfully I only have minimal bleed, and that Asus has been slow with delivering on most of the official accessories that they promised months ago. I really want the desktop dock, which is readily available for the GT at a reasonable price.
I will say that if the galaxy tab disappoints me in any way during my return window, I will gladly buy a second TF after returning it.
I own the TF since late May...only problem I have with it is that the right speaker is louder than the left.
This past Sunday I bought the Galaxy Tab for someone and yeah it looks very nice it's thinner and lighter, but it seemed to have less options than the TF (specially within the browser settings.) The browser actually froze up on me and didn't want to display any pages. Didn't like that fact that it doesn't have an external microSD slot! I ended up returning it 2 hours later because the person preferred a laptop! My short experience with it wasn't good
This is my 5th Android tablet. The first Transformer had gone directly back to Best Buy due to terrible light bleed. Transformer Prime sold in a month. It had its obvious problems plus a screen problem: when you press a little harder on the right side of the screen it would flicker into white. Probably a faulty one. This is my 3d transformer and it is not that impressive. Surprisingly there is no light bleed at all, but the Prime was much better in every way. I sense and hear a squeaky sound when I press the right side of the back camera just under the power button as though it was not fitted well. I pressed all the sides and corners of the tablet, only this spot gives that sound. There is an emptiness there. It really is annoying. I still think I will keep it but wait for the new Samsung. MY GTAB 7 and 10.1 were also made with plastic but they were sturdier and far better in build quality. Asus keeps disappointing me.
Cool story bro.
Perhaps your expectations doesn't match the design specs and price tag of this machine? To me it seems they opted for better guts then exterior and screen.
Thats very true. ASUS wanted to give a nice device to those who couldn't meet the price tag. Everything comes at a cost, this tablet is plastic :T
Sent from my HTC Sensation XE with Beats Audio using Tapatalk 2
Firstly, I am not quite sure why anyone would want to press the back right side of the tablet next to the back camera? If it squeaks, don't press it, no function on this tablet requires that part pressed, nor is it near anywhere near where one would hold it.
This is my 3rd tablet as well.
First, I had a Prime. I disagree the Prime was better in every way. No GPS, poor wifi signal, micro sd card slot poorly placed so the card kept popping out, micro hdmi port was loose - cable kept coming unplugged. Is the prime sexier, sure, but the aforementioned problems made it quite non-functional.
Second I had an Acer A510. Great tablet, just a bit bulky and had a terrible heat problem where the back of the tablet would reach over 100 degrees when 3D gaming...could not hold it anymore it was so hot. Also, due to low sales volumes, the tablet does not have much developer support, still don't have their own forum with similar launch date to this tablet.
I have had none of these problems on my TF300, it works amazingly well. I actually don't mind the plastic, it is comfortable to hold, and looks much better than I thought it would. The sound is great for a tablet, I had the a510 and believe this is comparable, even without the speaker separation. Is this tablet perfect, no: Battery life could be better and they could have used Gorilla glass, but those are minor nuisances compared to what I have dealt with on my other 2 two tablets and I don't think any tablet is perfect. I am not a budget buyer and purchased this tablet originally to check it out, but it is so good compared to anything else I have used, I plan to keep it and enjoy it.
I did press to get it out from its keyboard dock. Thats how I realized it was not fitted well. Do we really have to accept something with its flaws because it is cheaper? ASUS is a brand name I respect. I had more than 6 laptops, netbooks and now an ultrabook which I LOVE!!!! But we have to accept that Asus is less attentive when it comes to Android. We will see how they will try hard this fall or next year with their Windows 8 tablets and stuff.
I honestly think the build quality is great with the 399 price tag. I have no issues with light bleeding, creaking or loose parts. So far my experience is great and have no complaints.
Love my tab after unlocking and installing cm9. How much more could you ask for with a guad core processor and 399.99 price tag for a 32 gb! all the tablets I see are dual core for 399.99 for 16gb.
Asus, in my opinion gave us a budget tablet and then some. The realm of this tablet was to cut cost so everyone could afford Tegra 3 without buying a 700$ unit. I love my tablet
Sent from my VS910 4G using xda premium
Great, cheap, tablet.
Always fun to see how people can differ.
Some like the building quality and others think everything is cr*p. I think this is purely what you expect of it and what you want to spend. If you buy an IPad it is not comparable to a Asus because as the manufacturer is different the buildingprocess is different.
I think you (the topicstarter) just want to get a almost undestructible tablet. But tablets are just fragile and if you have a technical problem with one you just bring it back to the shop because you have warrenty.
At this point in time there is no better tablet to buy, yes i had the cash to get a prime, but i need good wifi coverage, which the prime has not, so i bought this one. I don't want older technology , and surely not at the same price (all other tabs are dual core at maximum)
I just didnt feel the thrill I felt when I held my Samsung 10.1 for the first time or even the TR Prime. TR Prime just for a couple of days.... But I agree with most views here. It is a very good tablet for its price. I like the battery usage. I havent charged it for more than 2 days now. Unnoticeable light bleed, etc... Just that squeaky sound
BTW. No Riptide onboard was a bum!
I think mine is fine, besides some uncomfortable cracking I tend to hear with the keyboard dock. Then again, I was not very impressed by my Asus laptop in terms of build quality either. I feel weird buying another Asus product after that laptop but there is nothing else that compares as far as I am concerned when it comes to tablets. I deal with it.
Well I was greeted with a busted pixel upon opening package still gave a try then started to have small bleed then by third week serious bleed, then when I hold on certain spots in landscape and portrait at different angles I get this blur like bleed as if im pressing to hard felt like if I held any looser I would drop it, also can barely see in the sun light other than that it works like heaven which really bugs me because I want it but dont believe it will last so im sending back and waiting for the reviews for the 700 when it releases after atleast a month has passed till then I will be pad less...........
bigwalt12 said:
Well I was greeted with a busted pixel upon opening package still gave a try then started to have small bleed then by third week serious bleed, then when I hold on certain spots in landscape and portrait at different angles I get this blur like bleed as if im pressing to hard felt like if I held any looser I would drop it, also can barely see in the sun light other than that it works like heaven which really bugs me because I want it but dont believe it will last so im sending back and waiting for the reviews for the 700 when it releases after atleast a month has passed till then I will be pad less...........
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I have none of those problems. You must have a defective unit, try exchanging for another one before final judgment.
Sent from my HTC Vision using XDA
I honestly love this pad but I see im not the only one experiencing this only bought this because the wifi issue with prime if the 700 solves this without a dongle with a better and brighter screen then I will get that one instead. I have a good relationship with amazon hate returning things multiple times I dont want to take another risk but you guys got a great pad for the price that is if you got a good one. Im gonna miss this pad but im hoping the 700 is worth the wait?????
Psyloid said:
At this point in time there is no better tablet to buy, yes i had the cash to get a prime, but i need good wifi coverage, which the prime has not, so i bought this one. I don't want older technology , and surely not at the same price (all other tabs are dual core at maximum)
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Click to collapse
You nailed it! The only other tablets to compare to this one is the prime (poor GPS and wifi at $500) and the Acer a510 (no keyboard dock, overheat issues stalled sales at $450) and the Toshiba excite( screen issues, OS issues for I think $500- $550).
NO BRAINER to me.
Even if I dont thing 400 is cheap, it is a very good Pad. I dont have any dead pixels and not one other Problem. Wifi is is even better than my last tablet (Hannspad ). Would recommend it at any time.
The 300 is pretty much built the same way as the 101 plastic back..
I got mine Shield Tablet on Saturday, at the Gamestop in PalmBay, FL (Closest Place that had them in stock). They had 2 remaining in stock after I got mine. They did not have the cover or controller.
Mine is replacing a Nexus 7 (2013). The lack of an SD Card slot in the Nexus was really bugging me.
The Shield tablet's front-facing ported speakers are also very noticeably better.
I also find it amazing how much easier it is to see the screen (I wear reading glasses), despite the fact that there is not that much difference in size. I need to see if the DPI set lower in build.prop.
The only thing I miss is Near-Field, and that is more appropriate to have on a phone, so it is no big omission, but I guess it means no more tap-to-pay for me until I get a new phone.
The Nexus 7 was definitely a "Settle-for" when I bought it, because I could not find anything that met my requirements, but the Shield does meet all of them:
-- Standard USB charging
-- 8 inch tablet with a worthy resolution
-- Front facing stereo speakers
-- Standard ports and slots
(There was a Chinese Tablet that met the specs: The FNF iFive X2, it was also cheaper, but I was a little worried about the firmware, and firmware updates on a tablet like that.)
I also got 20% off on the Nexus 7, so I went for it at the time.
To be clear, IMHO, the Shield Tablet would not be worth $115 more than the Nexus 7 ($229 - 20% = $185 vs $299) (if you can get one at that price), but at the same time, I think it is worth $70 more --- It's that close.
Ironically, the Nexus 7 will now be used for Gaming, and the Shield is my "Work Tablet".
More details comparing the 2 if anyone is interested.
Small world. I bought mine at the same place on Saturday also. I went in Friday night and they had 3. I wanted to see it in person but they didn't have a display up. I decided to sleep on it as I'm replacing my aging Nexus 10 and was concerned about the size. Saturday I decided to go for it so I actually called GS to hold one for me. By the time I got there, the other two were gone and I got the last one. So far I'm very pleased with it. Just waiting on a controller to round out. Performance of this thing is unbelievable! Getting used to its size and almost makes my N10 feel bulky in comparison. Good purchase!
Wow! Yeah, it is a small planet.
I was in Best Buy on Friday night, and the salesman said that they were not going to get them until October. He said that 8 people a day were asking for them.
That's when I called GS, and... we both know the story. If one was on hold for you, and another must have sold shortly after I got mine, I guess it was lucky that I got there fairly early.
Picked mine up at the microcenter in minneapolis while on vacation. LOVE that tablet. Only gripe is that x-com doesn't work on it. Crashes as soon as you try to start a game.