the good, the bad, and the ugly! - Transformer TF300T General

The good, the bad, and the ugly.
Over the past year have had the opportunity to own and use "the three asus android tablets."
The bad
A year ago I had a prime. Previously i was using an acer 500, and thought I was going to get a much better tablet, the numbers indicated it would be. The problem of the prime were noticed from the get go. Perhaps if i didn't own the acer, the problems of the prime would not have been so noticeable. I not going back over all the primes problems, there is enough posting to give you an idea. On an extended contract I was able to get prime replaced as a lemon with the infiniity.
The good
The infinity was a big leap forward for asus. It's been their and my #1 ever sense. A big jump all across the android spectrum. Top of the line graphics, cpu speeds and other things at the top specs list. But all was not rosey. Asus for some reason did not use a dedicated i/o system and the infinity and infinity users suffers for it. Several top Roms and jelly bean have helped make this into a real joy to use but it could have , and with its price tag should have been, much better. After entering a drawing last month from Android Police i won a asus 300 with key pad.
The ugly
I don't really think the 300 is ugly, but its plastic construction, and its overall design have been commented on several times. Dollar for dollar this might be the best of the lot. Asus learned from the prime and corrected many of its problems. Lowered some spec to reach a better price point. It's been my impression over the past year that the 300 was a pretty good tablet, and after a week of using it, my impression was justified. Instead of pushing the envelope they put together a decent reliable tablet at what was a very good price point. I say was, because i think the 300 is on the high side in the current market.
The showdown
prime is already on boot hill. With the infinity on balance mode, the mode i use the most, and 300 on performance i saw very little difference. I tried hitting start buttons together and watch load times. most infinity was slightly ahead most times but not always and sometime 300 was ahead. web pages mostly went to the infinity. to my eye streaming was equal. I have a hard time to actually seeing the screen deference. this may be due to my vision. 300 is a little softer and whites were not as bright, and for reading the 300 was easier on my eyes. Pictures looked fine on both. holding the 300 was easier than the infinity. 300 has a better balance and "plastic"made holding in bed much easier.
I also have the use of a kindle hd 8.9. Its my personal opinion the 8.9 in, give or take a little, is the best size for a tablet. I would give the kindle and infinity the edge on screen. kindle has the better sound. 300 and infinity have two cameras, more flexibility, jb 4.2, and in general a more rounded experience.
As i said 300 is a good mid range tablet, one that I'm glad to own and its not going to be shoved to the closet. when unlocked and running the latest build of cleanrom 300 got a 7000 score. Some individual owners of infinity have reached 7000 my personal best was around 6800 on the same rom. not bad little brother.
woody
Sent from my ASUS Transformer Pad TF300T using Tapatalk 2

Related

Thinking of upgrading from Nook Color

I currently have a rooted nook color running pretty smoothly at 1.2 ghz. I mainly read on it but I almost use it just as much (sometimes more) as a web browser. The web is when I'd like a bigger screen and better performance with flash and quicker loading.
The biggest thing holding me back, besides size, is the weight in hand. I can hold the nook on its own pretty well without issue. But will the transformer or any other 10" screen tablet be too big/hefty? I was contemplating getting the galaxy tab but it looks like this is the one to get.
I'm also interested in rooting since Asus plays nice with developers.
The lightest is the Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1, it is iPad2 weight category (Sammy being a hair lighter). I suggest heading out to an Apple store and handle iPad2 since it's hard to find Galaxy or Transformer at the retails right now.
Transformer is a bit heavier than the Sammy.
Contrary..too light can happen
Sent from my Transformer TF101 using XDA Premium App
Weight can be important, granted. But I'm still a little struck by the big deal that's being made about the Galaxy Tab 10.1's weight. At 1.3 lbs vs. the TF's 1.49 lbs, that's basically a 3 ounce difference. It's not like the GT is 50% lighter than the TF.
There's basically a 1/2 pound difference between the Nook Color (at 15.8 ounces) and the TF. That may or may not be terribly significant depending on how you tend to use such a device. I personally don't find the TF's weight at all too high, since I tend to rest it on something when I'm using it.
I upgraded from NC to TF. The weight issue is really an issue of 7" vs 10", I suppose. Each form factor has obvious advantages. My mom has an iPad 2, and it is lighter, but still not comfortable hold single-handedly, to me anyhow.
The only thing holding me back was some of the apparent quality control flaws, my unit seems to be fine though. FWIW, it feels like a more substantial device in every way than NC, very fast, really nice screen and feel. Looks amazing, IMO. I feel a little irritated that I can watch netflix and hbo go on my NC, which is not 'meant' to do that to begin with, and my thorough bred TF can't do either, but it will.
As an aside, developer really need to WTFU, they will be moving more TF's this coming month than any other non-iPad tab, where is the software support? Surely they can see what has happened with android in phones? Was it not obvious the same would happen with tabs? Honestly.
I hope that helped, message me is you have any other direct comparison questions.
I have both Nook Color and TF (and Viewsonic G-Tablet).
Weight is DEFINITELY an issue. But it really comes down to when, where and how you will use your device.
If I am going out, I take the Nook Color.
I use the 10" tablets while reclining, when it is easier to prop or lean the tablet against something.
If I am stuck holding the TF without support for more than 10 minutes, it does become fatiguing. This is because I'm almost always holding it in my left hand. So, it's not just the weight but the torque.
By all means, get a transformer. Particularly with the keyboard dock, it's really unlike any other tablet available. But you will still keep your Nook and find that there are reasons and times you choose which one to pick up.
(Note: I don't have a Galaxy tab 10, but even though it is thinner and lighter, you will still experience fatigue. Even if you could make a tablet less than a pound, it's still going to have demanding physical characteristics: Most of the weight is in the glass up front. So, it wants to tip over on you. You typically hold it by a corner or an edge, so it wants to pivot on you. Even a 7" tablet can cause fatigue (stretching to hold it single-handed by the long sides).).
glgehman said:
I have both Nook Color and TF (and Viewsonic G-Tablet).
Weight is DEFINITELY an issue. But it really comes down to when, where and how you will use your device.
If I am going out, I take the Nook Color.
I use the 10" tablets while reclining, when it is easier to prop or lean the tablet against something.
If I am stuck holding the TF without support for more than 10 minutes, it does become fatiguing. This is because I'm almost always holding it in my left hand. So, it's not just the weight but the torque.
By all means, get a transformer. Particularly with the keyboard dock, it's really unlike any other tablet available. But you will still keep your Nook and find that there are reasons and times you choose which one to pick up.
(Note: I don't have a Galaxy tab 10, but even though it is thinner and lighter, you will still experience fatigue. Even if you could make a tablet less than a pound, it's still going to have demanding physical characteristics: Most of the weight is in the glass up front. So, it wants to tip over on you. You typically hold it by a corner or an edge, so it wants to pivot on you. Even a 7" tablet can cause fatigue (stretching to hold it single-handed by the long sides).).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I was thinking of selling the NC to save a few $$. But I think I'll hold onto it and either use it or give it to my girlfriend. Although, Tegra 3 is due out soon and Tegra 2 is aging, so I might wait. But as usual, my need for gadgets will get the best of me.
i upgraded from a nc that was running cm7 and i am happy besides the browser crashes on honeycomb everything rocks...nc bluetooth was limited which annoyed me but for 250 buck u cant complain...
Kayak83 said:
I was thinking of selling the NC to save a few $$. But I think I'll hold onto it and either use it or give it to my girlfriend. Although, Tegra 3 is due out soon and Tegra 2 is aging, so I might wait. But as usual, my need for gadgets will get the best of me.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
well.. you probably won't see any Tegra 3 tablet until early next year...
and whenTegra 3 is out, Tegra 4 is likely to be in the horizone...so..
the TF is definately heavier than NC, but ok ish its own league.. lighter than Xoom and A500 and heavier than IPad and Galaxy Tab 10.1
magicpork said:
well.. you probably won't see any Tegra 3 tablet until early next year...
and whenTegra 3 is out, Tegra 4 is likely to be in the horizone...so..
the TF is definately heavier than NC, but ok ish its own league.. lighter than Xoom and A500 and heavier than IPad and Galaxy Tab 10.1
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Amazon's will be out this holiday with Tegra 3, if you go with the rumor mill..But that's how it goes. New tech is always on the horizon. I like the 6 month rule. If something new is coming out within 6 months, then hold off.
I've only held the Acer Iconia and it seemed pretty bulky. If BestBuy could keep any in stock I'd love to see/hold one in person.
Kayak83 said:
I currently have a rooted nook color running pretty smoothly at 1.2 ghz. I mainly read on it but I almost use it just as much (sometimes more) as a web browser. The web is when I'd like a bigger screen and better performance with flash and quicker loading.
The biggest thing holding me back, besides size, is the weight in hand. I can hold the nook on its own pretty well without issue. But will the transformer or any other 10" screen tablet be too big/hefty? I was contemplating getting the galaxy tab but it looks like this is the one to get.
I'm also interested in rooting since Asus plays nice with developers.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This Friday, I will have both!!! My main reason for getting the TF was that I wanted HC and it seems as if Google isn't going to release the code anytime soon. After my TF arrives, I will probably unroot the NC and give it to my mother or keep it and let my son read children's books on it!!!
Kayak83 said:
Amazon's will be out this holiday with Tegra 3, if you go with the rumor mill..But that's how it goes. New tech is always on the horizon. I like the 6 month rule. If something new is coming out within 6 months, then hold off.
I've only held the Acer Iconia and it seemed pretty bulky. If BestBuy could keep any in stock I'd love to see/hold one in person.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
yeah.hopefully Tegra 3 devices can come out this year.... but given we haven't really heard any 'official' news but rumours.. bah..
well..we didn't know anything about Xoom 6 months ago either..so....
I have both. The NC is much easier to hold and carry for a long time. But I find the screen to be almost too small.
Nook color is a great device.. I also had 1 for 3 weeks -rooted and OCed to 1.2 Ghz. Very responsive and its IPS screen won't let you down. I returned it before because it lacks GPS, camera, and it has a buggy bluetooth (maybe fixed now). Also the idea of TF dock drove my final decision.
About the weight, I don't really feel the difference.. That's just me, maybe I'm simply a strong man..lol.

Xoom vs TF101 vs Galaxy 10.1 vs iPad2

Hey all,
Figured I'd pass on my opinions of these devices, and since I finally chose the TF, I figured I'd get the least flames posting here - lol. Looooong time gadget geek/hacker going way back to the Palm Pilot days. If it was a tech gadget, and particularly if it was internet capable, I probably owned one. My current phones are a HTC Desire Z (w/ NAM AT&T 3G) running CM7, and an iPhone 4 jailbroken.
Over the past couple of months I've owned (or still own) the Xoom, iPad 2, TF101 (w/dock) and GTab 10.1. I still own all but the Xoom, and here's a few of my thoughts on all of them and why I'll be keeping the TF.
Xoom - Well built, sturdy, and nice design. Lousy screen (comparitively) and lack of promised features like LTE and the SD Card werre a bummer, but my biggest reason for selling that one was the screen, and seeming lack of "responsiveness" from Moto on the device. Plus I knew cooler devices were coming soon.
iPad 2 - Not yet Jailbroken (grrr) but it's still a suprisingly good media consumption device as is. I go the 32GB AT&T model, and have used it for a couple of trips as a laptop replacement. It'll be cooler when I can JB it, but since I have a fiarly big investment in iOS software, I'll probably keep it a while. Not real impressed with it's Safari performance, considering all the hub-bub about how fast it is. But it does do games great, is slick and trouble free, and nice sized with a great (smart-cover) solution.
Galaxy Tab 10.1 - I got this one on Sunday, so I haven't given it a whole lot of time. It's a beautiful, "Apple like" device from a design perspective. Also the screen while very saturated, is very nice, light weight and thinness also gets it lots of oooohs and aaawwwws from everybody. I hate that Samsung doesn't allow direct mounting of the internal storage, and we're forced to use that awful KIES software. I've just been using Drobbox and all my music is in the Google cloud. This one would have been my second choice if I didn't already have (and love) the...
Transformer 101- now this one is my keeper. A lot has to do wth the dock - I'm an "ultraportable" laptop fan (current Lenovo x220) so I like smaller laptops, and man this thing makes a damn good laptop substitute with tablet caapabilities. The screen is gorgeous, the responsiveness of the OS is equal to or better than the other Androids, and even beats iPad when Safari is sucking wind. I love the quick controls in the browser (missing in the Tab) and that it feels like there's a really robust community developing for this device. I'm not rooted on any of these yet, and actually pretty content like that. Therre's a few things I'd do with root (and anti ad hosts file for one!) but for the most part I'm ok with them as is. When I start to get bored I'll probably root this too.
I sold the Xoom about a month aftr I bought it, I'll keep the iPad (partly for the fun things to try like iOS 5 and it's great for kids to play games on) but the Tab is going back to BB (restocking fee be damned.
I just really like the versatility of the TF w/dock. I have it paired with a small BT mouse and it's like a pretty full featured laptop, that goes into Tablet mode at the flick of a switch. Still on the hunt for the slimmest folio case for it that allows it to be propped up for typing, but the kybd dock does that for now.
Hope these tips help some people interested in any of these, remember their just mmy opinions and everybody has different needs and required attributes that may differ from mine. Either way their all fun.
If anybody has any question about my experiences, fire away, love to chat gadget talk abou the cool toys.
-Joel
well played!
Shouldnt be a restocking fee witjin 14 days. I returned a tab a few weeks ago to wait for tf no issues
Sent from my DROIDX using XDA App
gottahavit said:
Shouldnt be a restocking fee witjin 14 days. I returned a tab a few weeks ago to wait for tf no issues
Sent from my DROIDX using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Good to know thaks, I'll push and see what they say, thanks for the heads up!
Good Post. Thanks.
Sent from my HTC Thunderbolt.
I quite agree with you.
From all these devices i tried the iPad 2 and the ASUS transformer.
Im already acquainted with iOS and although its simple and intuitive it's kind of boring. im quite into personalizing my device which the iOs wont really allow.
The bigger and wide screen on the transformer is really nice, and although build-wise it may seems "cheaper" then the iPad (everything that is not shiny-aluminum-ultra-appleish is cheap nowdays) its a comfortable device to hold in the hand.
Price-wise the transformer costs less, + the keyboard dock which increases battery life and also allows you to use it as a netbook.
Performance seems to be almost identical on both A5 and the Tegra 2. BUT the transformer is overclockable, therefore you can squeeze some more juice out of it.
I didnt use the other two, but by reviews i understood that the xooms screen is washed out and not all that great, and the lack of a MicroSD on all of the three (xoom,iPad,GT10.1) is meh-ish.
just picked up mine last night after doing a lil bit of reseasch for a week or so glad i chose this one,, love you wife she bought for me.. BAMBAM
good...
Sent from my MB860 using XDA App
Thanks for the comparison.
Regarding TF and Tab 10.1 screens, which do you prefer? Which is nicer for news/e-book reading? Does Tab 10.1 oversaturation mess with your eyes?
a042349 said:
I hate that Samsung doesn't allow direct mounting of the internal storage, and we're forced to use that awful KIES software.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Don't agree with this point. I had the Tab 10.1 for about 3-4 days and I had it mounted on my PC as a plug-play device and was able to transfer files directly. All your need is to install the proper USB drivers from the Samsung US site
myself11 said:
Thanks for the comparison.
Regarding TF and Tab 10.1 screens, which do you prefer? Which is nicer for news/e-book reading? Does Tab 10.1 oversaturation mess with your eyes?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes it does. Although the Galaxy screen seems better than the TF , its for sure over saturated and hurts your eyes if watched closely for lot of time.
Srikar_NBK said:
Don't agree with this point. I had the Tab 10.1 for about 3-4 days and I had it mounted on my PC as a plug-play device and was able to transfer files directly. All your need is to install the proper USB drivers from the Samsung US site
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, you could be right. I'm just so happy with the flexibility of the TF that for now (and for now could be 1-3 months lol) it's the one I'm choosing. IAs I stressed, this is just my humble opinion, hope everybody is happy with their respective choices.
glad to see that are still people who can choose between products without trashing another.
i'm stlll not sure if i'll send my tf back. i do like the versatility it has but seeing that i am keeping my gt 10.1 it's really hard to justify keeping it.
I don't think the keyboard dock can be stressed enough, and I wish I saw more advertising from Asus around the tremendous increase in productivity it provides. It's really not "just" an external keyboard or dock. It really does turn the TF into a completely different class of machine.
That said, I'll admit that if it weren't for the dock, I'd probably opt for the GT 10.1. I don't really use the microSD card I have in my TF right now, and I doubt I'll ever use HDMI. So if choosing between the two on the screen, size and weight alone, I'd probably lean toward the GT. However, man, the keyboard dock makes me want to stick with the TF no matter what else might be out there. As someone who needs to be able to write long-form stuff anywhere, I can't think of a better device than the TF...
Sent from my Transformer TF101 using Tapatalk
i'd have to suppose the lack of advertising is one major factor for the price of the tablet. moto, apple, samsung all have commercials yet i've not seen one asus commercial, not even for their laptops.
To each his own I guess. I played with them all as well including the acer and viewsonic and kept the wifi Xoom. I really wanted to like the Asus because of price but it was just as bulky as my xoom and had serious build quality issues. The Asus screen was great, the quality around the screen, not so much. Enjoy your new toy dude. Aint technology fun
The only one I haven't played with is the tab 10.1, I secretly want one but Samsung and I have bad history.
Sent from my ADR6400L using XDA Premium App
wynand32 said:
That said, I'll admit that if it weren't for the dock, I'd probably opt for the GT 10.1. I don't really use the microSD card I have in my TF right now, and I doubt I'll ever use HDMI. So if choosing between the two on the screen, size and weight alone, I'd probably lean toward the GT. However, man, the keyboard dock makes me want to stick with the TF no matter what else might be out there. As someone who needs to be able to write long-form stuff anywhere, I can't think of a better device than the TF...
Sent from my Transformer TF101 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This!
The dock is the absolute biggest reason for my choice. With my BT mouse (dislike trackpads) I feel like I'm using a real computer, with 16hr batter life and tablet flexibility. Love the shape, size and design of both the iPad and Tab 10.1, but just love the flexibility of the keybd dock too much - at least for the next 90 days or so. ;-)
a042349 said:
This!
The dock is the absolute biggest reason for my choice. With my BT mouse (dislike trackpads) I feel like I'm using a real computer, with 16hr batter life and tablet flexibility. Love the shape, size and design of both the iPad and Tab 10.1, but just love the flexibility of the keybd dock too much - at least for the next 90 days or so. ;-)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I know about the 90 day shelf life all too well
Sent from my ADR6400L using XDA Premium App
wynand32 said:
I don't think the keyboard dock can be stressed enough, and I wish I saw more advertising from Asus around the tremendous increase in productivity it provides. It's really not "just" an external keyboard or dock. It really does turn the TF into a completely different class of machine.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
+1
Not just a different class of machine, but two machines!
My 2 Bitz
Ok, I'm a little late to the game... but if anyone buys one of these tablets second hand.... like I just did, then here goes nothing: I bought a Motorola XOOM wifi (32gb) and an Asus TF101 (16gb) (and I nearly bought a Galaxy Tab 1 and an iPad Gen. 1). It's my first tablet; I haven't yet figured out what I'm gonna do with it, but there ya go.
Samsung Galaxy Tab 1: I passed on the Sammy because it did not have an SD card slot.
iPad Gen. 1: I passed on the iPad because.... well, it's an iPad. About as useful as a maxi-pad to me. I was put off by the closed system. It means far less choices for free or hard-to-get apps (of the kind I might need), and limited storage with no SD card options. It wouldn't do, even for a kid's tablet. (Despite the fact I have an iPhone....).
Asus Transformer Eee Pad TF101: I really wish they would have stuck to one name, and left it at that. What was the original name? The "Asus Transormer Mario Consuela Maria Concito Esperanto Gonzalez Eeee Pad TF-101"?
Motorola Xoom: Anyway, it came down to Asus and the Xoom. And boy, I had a hard time deciding. So hard, I spent 3 days of my life testing these two tablets, up, down, backwards and forwards. I ended up settling on the Xoom, but first, the Asus....
The Asus has a gorgeous screen, compared to the Xoom. The TF101 is sharper, more clarity, brighter, blacks and whites are more darker and brighter, respectively. Better contrast and angle viewing, and reading books is less of a strain with a more muted white for the background.
THe sound of the Asus however, is like slamming a suitcase lid down on twelve kittens while Freddy Krueger scratches his name out on the chalkboard. It's the ridiculous choice of stuffing really tiny speakers so they can fire out both sides of the unit. Even EQ'ing the thing with Viper4FX could not hide the tinny shortcomings of the speaker sound. Which also had a tendency to break up at louder volumes (its particularly keen to distorting around 500hz). Connected to a stereo though, was quite another matter.
Though much less bass, richness and body, the Asus resolved timbre better than the Xoom on music program material, output through a stereo via headphone jacks. However, I still preferred the sound of the XOoms (yes, "Xooms" as in I had TWO Xooms to compare), because the Asus was causing some degree of stress through its sound and picture, as compared with the calmer energy of the Xooms.
The construction of the Asus was nice in parts (ie. color, back design, aluminum frame)... but the superb construction, design, looks, case and smaller size of the Xooms is what pushed me toward the Motorola choice. I have not seen any tablet as well built as the Xoom. The Xoom has a timeless design and hough it is heavy on the wrist if you have to hold it up, it just feels nicer in the hand than the ultra-wide Transformer; which appears more dated due to its size and design. The really nice charging dock and 32gb internal (vs 16gb of Asus) also helped me accept the inferior colors and viewing angle of the Xoom. I also liked the nice design of the various white & green charging LEDs, around the screen of the Xoom - the Asus has none of that. I was not enamored by the fact that Asus required special prorpietary data cables, where the Xoom uses microUSB. What also pushed me toward the Xoom was the mediocre camera in the Asus. No flash and grainy photos (though it let in an unusual amount of light, despite or because of no flash... but it was too much light, and washed out detail at times). The Xoom 5mp camera was excellent... perhaps better than that on my iPhone. I like the idea of snapping pictures on a tablet, because of the large viewfinder.
I'm kind of a stickler when it comes to design. On pure performance and lightness of weight, the Asus wins. But you might not feel like a winner, trying to listen to vidoes and music on those tinny built in speakers for extended periods of time.
My wife has a Samsung Tab 4, and comparing it with the Asus, I don't find the Tab 4 any much better in any way, and in some ways, not as a good (it has a cheaper build, for example).

Having issues with Prime wifi. Best bet to get TF101?

So I received my Transformer Prime today and am having wifi issues (very poor connection strength). Also, I have a group of very bright pixels on the screen.
I know there is a new Transformer tablet in the works that has significantly better specs...so I'd be best to wait. In the meantime, I found a mint TF101 with docking keyboard for $350. Everything checks out and it seems like a great package for the price. This coupled with ICS arriving in two weeks for the TF101 makes it a reasonable decision to return the defective Prime and get this original TF101 w/keyboard.
Is this a good move? I've never owned the original Transformer and hope that it is plenty fast to play flash content. Anyone care to offer a POV on this decision?
I plan on getting the newer Transformer in Q2 when it's rumored to release.
i think you should go for it !
I returned my Prime due to the "Unknown Serial Number", and bought the TF101. Although WiFi wasn't bad on my Prime, it is better on my TF101. My TF101 also performs flawlessly, and doesn't have any of the common issues some of the Primes suffer from. I'm happy I "downgraded".
I am in the same situation. I was contemplating the TF101 vs TF201. It was not an issue of money, though availability became an issue as TF201 stock got sold out. I just wanted a flawless Internet experience so having poor wifi was not good. It seems like Asus is in flux right now so better to get a stable machine. I will see what happens at the end of the year, maybe upgrade to TF700. I originally got a Windows tab which actually was not that bad of a touch experience. I had the Acer W500 which is the same form factor as the prime basically with the 10" tab and keyboard dock. It was also heavy, slow and the battery life was poor (<5 hours). I think the TF101 will be a lot of fun.
try the squeeze trick before returning. takes a couple seconds and ive heard it helps a lot of plagued tf201s. cant find the vid but just squeeze just above the entire top of the screen just enough to cause a little light bleed
try the squeeze trick before returning. takes a couple seconds and ive heard it helps a lot of plagued tf201s. cant find the vid but just squeeze just above the entire top of the screen just enough to cause a little light bleed
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
But that isn't going to help the OP's pixel issue and pixel deformities are annoying as ****.
Just return it and either get the TF101 or wait for the TF700T. Really the TF101 should be much easier to find and much cheaper. You'll have less of a hassle finding it and it's tried and true. It was much too early for them to release the prime so it's not like you're losing something.
Interesting to see that I am not alone on this.
This week I returned my 3rd prime and was very close to say "Screw Asus" and look for a Windows tablet but then I thought why not give the original Transformer a shot. I got it yesterday and have to admit I am really impressed.
Everything works as it should, it has two USB ports instead of one, stereo speakers instead of one, a better hardware keyboard (at least in my opinion), the USB transfer rate seems to be much better, the screen seems to be more responsive and it is much cheaper.
And the funniest thing of em all: I don´t know why but it is even faster than Prime. Of course not in 3D games or stuff like that or 1080p videos etc.
But while doing normal usage, e-mailing, writing, watching videos, browsing etc.
And I havn´t even tried a custom ROM, yet.
Just to make this clear: I am comparing ICS Prime (three actually) to HC original Transformer. Which makes no sense to me.
So, the only few things that are better about the Prime are (in my opinion):
- It looks better
- It "look" better manufactured
- Slightly better battery life
- Slightly better display
- Smaller and lighter
And since I am planning to keep my Transformer only for a few months until the Padfone or the TF700 is out I think this was a really good decision.
prime is a prototype.. not ready for the public. it tells others that quad core is now possible/.
Came lookin' for the same question/answer. Have the T201 and has issues like 80% of everyone else. Bluetooth/wifi is a joke on the 201...I love using it for remote access to my Win7 box, but seems that when I'm streaming Spotify, if cuts out and loses connection. And, this is upstairs from my router 15 feet a way.
I guess it's time to research the h*** out of the T101 like I did the 201. 399 at bestbuy this week...will search for cheaper this week . . .
Me Too...Prime's WiFi WeaK Compared to Other Tablets
Thank you OP and other posters.
I too am about to return my Prime, and was wondering about the TF101 as a replacement.
I don't do much gaming but decided to buy the Prime since it was supposed to be state-of-the-art. Well, the WiFi just isn't as good as other tablets I've tested, both the Samsung Galaxy 10.1 and HTC Flyer get better WiFi at distance. I've moved my router and changed router settings so I get satisfactory WiFi now at home, but I'm worried about weak WiFi when I travel.
Son (who has the Galaxy 10.1) says I should return the Prime. So, now what to get? The Galaxy 10.1 looks like a very strong performer (especially so in WiFi), but was looking to see if the Original Transformer TF101 would be a good fit for me.
Just wondering what you all think? What will I "lose" if I "downgrade" to the Tf101?
Ride525 said:
Thank you OP and other posters.
I too am about to return my Prime, and was wondering about the TF101 as a replacement.
I don't do much gaming but decided to buy the Prime since it was supposed to be state-of-the-art. Well, the WiFi just isn't as good as other tablets I've tested, both the Samsung Galaxy 10.1 and HTC Flyer get better WiFi at distance. I've moved my router and changed router settings so I get satisfactory WiFi now at home, but I'm worried about weak WiFi when I travel.
Son (who has the Galaxy 10.1) says I should return the Prime. So, now what to get? The Galaxy 10.1 looks like a very strong performer (especially so in WiFi), but was looking to see if the Original Transformer TF101 would be a good fit for me.
Just wondering what you all think? What will I "lose" if I "downgrade" to the Tf101?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Some pixels and the buggy software lol
I like Samsung, but galaxy does not have dock and Samsung had minimal support updates. Asus is spot on with their updates, despite the delay on ics for the tf101..
luna_c666 said:
Some pixels and the buggy software lol
I like Samsung, but galaxy does not have dock and Samsung had minimal support updates. Asus is spot on with their updates, despite the delay on ics for the tf101..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Lose some pixels? What do you mean? Don't the Original Transformer and the Prime have the same resolution?
And what do you mean by buggy software? Is the Original Transformer's software more buggy, than the Primes? In what way? Or do you mean the Prime has more buggy software?
Thanks for any thoughts on my possible "downgrade".
Ride525 said:
Just wondering what you all think? What will I "lose" if I "downgrade" to the Tf101?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Someone09 said:
So, the only few things that are better about the Prime are (in my opinion):
- It looks better
- It "look" better manufactured
- Slightly better battery life
- Slightly better display
- Smaller and lighter
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
In short: If you can handle the size/weight and looks of the TF101, you should get it. Just my two cents.
EDIT: And of course the Prime´s camera is better and it behaves better with 3D games etc...at least in theory.
Ride525 said:
Lose some pixels? What do you mean? Don't the Original Transformer and the Prime have the same resolution?
And what do you mean by buggy software? Is the Original Transformer's software more buggy, than the Primes? In what way? Or do you mean the Prime has more buggy software?
Thanks for any thoughts on my possible "downgrade".
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You are right, my bad they do have the same size screen (I was thinking of the TF700) but the TF Prime has the 'Super IPS' screen and has more brightness (nits), but the ICS update has been bricking people's Primes, it also has crappy wifi/bluetooth as reported..
I say the TF101 is a safer bet, the TF201 is more a prototype as mentioned..not really ready for commercial consumption, more like the icebreaker paving the way for the real cargo ship (TF700)
luna_c666 said:
[...] but the TF Prime has the 'Super IPS' screen and has more brightness (nits), [...]
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That is true, too. The question is if it worth it.
I mean if you turn Super IPS mode + highest brightness settings you might easily get a sunburn from it...I don´t need that setting.
Your only really option is to get the TF101. Everything else is not preferable based on price : features or price : performance ratio.
With the Galaxy Tab 10.1 you're paying too much for what you're getting, that is good hardware and a good design but no or little updates. The hardware is roughly comparable to the TF101 so really all that you're getting out of it is good design, no expansion slot, no/little updates and pay more. Do not want.
The TF101 hits the sweet spot in terms of what you get for how much you pay and you're guaranteed to get ICS and most likely more updates after that. We've been getting updates for HC like what, once or twice every two months? Don't even think you'll see anything close to that with Sammy. Maybe one update a year or two.
The TF201 is good looking and good hardware and it shares the same Asus speed in terms of upgrades but the connectivity and build quality + launch issues leave a lot to be desired. It's confidence shaking, would I want to keep a tablet where the Wi-Fi and GPS are already **** and there's a possibility it might get worse? For $500 and with a successor already on the horizon? Do not want. Really it was a rushed, piece of garbage that's DOA. This is what happened when they decided to rush something rather than do their time with more R&D and releasing it in a more suitable time frame. They should have released the Prime when the TF700T is scheduled to be released (whatever date that is) which in my eyes puts the TF700T as what the Prime should have been, AKA the fix.
Tubular said:
They should have released the Prime when the TF700T is scheduled to be released (whatever date that is) which in my eyes puts the TF700T as what the Prime should have been, AKA the fix.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Amen to that.
Plus, I hope the same applies to the Padfone.
The TF101 has much better WiFi than the Prime.
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using Tapatalk
ericshmerick said:
I know there is a new Transformer tablet in the works that has significantly better specs...so I'd be best to wait. In the meantime, I found a mint TF101 with docking keyboard for $350. Everything checks out and it seems like a great package for the price. This coupled with ICS arriving in two weeks for the TF101 makes it a reasonable decision to return the defective Prime and get this original TF101 w/keyboard.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Honestly, the TF101 will likely be better than that successor model, too. The latter has far too high screen resolution, which will lead to problems in some apps, give no advantage at all in most apps (just extra blur from scaling), and cause eye strain in some apps. As an added bonus, it'll reduce battery life and make everything slower.
All so Asus can put a bigger-is-better number on a spec sheet.
They got it right with the TF101, by and large. They're struggling to invent a reason for people to upgrade, and not doing a great job of it.
Being an early adopter of the TF101(my first one was a B40) I had to deal with the pain of owning a new model. Asus has been right on time with their updates and they pay attention to what people post on the internet. It is my opinion that in a few months the Prime will be ready for prime time. But until then I will do my best to wear out my B50 Transformer. It is a great little device totally stock.

Almost bought an iPAD today

I went out today with the intent of buying an ipad with a few accessories but decided against it once I tried it out
While the screen is nice, it is small.
The thing was very warm to hold, something is wrong with these devices and I am sure Apple is aware. Will this get fixed? Will it cause early failures? Will Apple provide some weird fix like free oven mitts?
Where's the app drawer?
Where the micro SD port?
The prices of accessories are in line with everything Apple - too much. $30 bucks for a stand? $80 for a flimsy leather cover? what about the backside?
The price $499 is crazy for a 9 inch, hot to hold, closed system. I was not impressed one single bit. And the fact that Apple never drops the price a penny anywhere is too controlling.
My ASUS lives to another day, or year. No thank-you Apple, not today.
Dude you have enough money that you should not even be bothered considering apple when you could afford so many better tablets and phones with higher specs and better systems
Just my opinion but congrats on ditching the i-crap
Sent from my Transformer TF101 using xda premium
possible heating problems. guess they weren't kidding when they say it's a "hot" item.
http://www.cnn.com/2012/03/20/tech/gaming-gadgets/ipad-overheating/index.html
i went out today and all most got two slices of pizza. But then I saw In and out and opted for a burger. Heck with that greasy cheesy two toppings slices of NY pizza.
Damn now I want pizza.
I was starting to give into the tablet craze last summer and was about to buy an iPad1 when I randomly saw a sarcastic comment on Engadget about the transformer. I'm so glad I saw that comment and got a transformer instead, and I cant wait for the padfone now.
Last year I started to read about tablets, wanted ti get an ipad, but then waited a little, in December google made the $0.10 offer and I bough a bunch of apps & games that I like a lot, and now switching to the iOS world will require me to repurchase all the nice apps and games, so now there is very little chance of switching from the Android to iOS....
not to mention the closed nature of iOS and different apps for doing one thing, for example, for sometime I liked Swype as a keyboard, then discovered Swift Keyboard which I liked a lot on my phone, switiching to tablet I really like Hacker's Keyboard, on the iOS you have only 1 option: iOS keyboard.....
The case acts as a heat-sink doesn't it? So it's no surprise it gets warm.
I always thought maybe I was a bit of an android fanboy since I tend to bash apple a lot and talk people into buying android products. But when the new iPad came out I decided to get one because I do a lot of photography (not a professional but I do like it) and with that resolution and all the quick edits I can do with iPhoto I wanted it.
Well at work this friend of mine knew I had gotten it and he came over to check it out. He was asking some questions and I made sure to answer them. Then I was surprised that he said "well you don't seem very excited about it". I guess he was right, I got it for a specific purpose but for everything else I still really prefer my TF101.
The heat issues are a bogus debate created by a bunch of whiners. Tests were done and the iPad 3 is at roughly 30-33 celsius while the iPad 2 was at roughly 28-ish celsius. Does this matter? No. They don't have the same hardware, one will clearly be hotter and better than the other. Is this dangerous? No. The MacBook and iPhone run hotter than this and each of those shows designs where space is constricted to the either end of the spectrum. On the MacBook you have more room and air so the temps might not matter as much but on the iPhone you have much less room and air and an overall denser device than an iPad 3 and it's still hotter than the iPad 3 but people have to ***** about it anyway.
In addition to the fact that those two devices run hotter and nobody cares, none of this changes the fact that the tested heat levels are within acceptable thermal levels. Processors are usually allowed to go WAY UP to 70 celsius or more. 30 celsius spread out on the back of the plastic exterior where we're not even sure how much of that is directly contacting any of the working parts like the proc. or batt. and people are complaining? Give me a break. It's shiny new gadget syndrome, everyone gets it including TF101 owners. Suddenly every tiny issue is a huge one that warrants a nationwide recall.
Tubular said:
The heat issues are a bogus debate created by a bunch of whiners. Tests were done and the iPad 3 is at roughly 30-33 celsius while the iPad 2 was at roughly 28-ish celsius. Does this matter? No. They don't have the same hardware, one will clearly be hotter and better than the other. Is this dangerous? No. The MacBook and iPhone run hotter than this and each of those shows designs where space is constricted to the either end of the spectrum. On the MacBook you have more room and air so the temps might not matter as much but on the iPhone you have much less room and air and an overall denser device than an iPad 3 and it's still hotter than the iPad 3 but people have to ***** about it anyway.
In addition to the fact that those two devices run hotter and nobody cares, none of this changes the fact that the tested heat levels are within acceptable thermal levels. Processors are usually allowed to go WAY UP to 70 celsius or more. 30 celsius spread out on the back of the plastic exterior where we're not even sure how much of that is directly contacting any of the working parts like the proc. or batt. and people are complaining? Give me a break. It's shiny new gadget syndrome, everyone gets it including TF101 owners. Suddenly every tiny issue is a huge one that warrants a nationwide recall.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Might not be an issue for a naked iPad3, but put that puppy in a nice leather case folded over to double thickness on the back play a video game and the insides are getting warm enough to impact the reliability. If it actually turns out to be an issue, Apple will most likely issue a firmware fix to cool it down. BUT as this is more of a mechanical issue than a firmware issue, it will most likely slow down the clock without publicly announcing it.
now.. there is report of problem with "new ipad" wifi... half power of the ipad2...
antennagate : the return ?
Well, I will have to buy the new iPad as a developer but I'm not much happy about it. I think Transformer will still be my main tablet. I'm waiting for a A15 Android tablet with Wacom stylus and maybe 1920x1200 resolution until I part with my Transformer for good.
Magnesus said:
Well, I will have to buy the new iPad as a developer but I'm not much happy about it. I think Transformer will still be my main tablet. I'm waiting for a A15 Android tablet with Wacom stylus and maybe 1920x1200 resolution until I part with my Transformer for good.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thas what im doing too.
Also have to buy a iPad3 for my job but the tf is still my favorite.... Apple stuff are overpriced and very over rated.
I think moust people only buy iStuff just to show off...
Sent from my Transformer TF101 using XDA
I bought an ipad 2 last week. $350 on sale was too good to pass, so I got it. Played with it for about 2 hours and the next morning took it back and got myself transformer for the same price.
I don't care about the image, or styling, or brands. I just found that ipad is not capable of doing anything that I wanted it to do.
It's basically a tablet for blondes. If all you want is to spend money in itunes and use their content - it will work just fine. If you're not interested in itunes - don't get an ipad.
It doesn't see the file shares, there's no file manager, it doesn't play all the video formats, keyboard is terrible and it's impossible to install a different keyboard, it doesn't work with the book formats that I use, I couldn't even set up a homepage in safari, and the app store asks you for password every 1/2 hour.
Oh, and some of the stuff can be resolved by jailbreaking, but I chose that it just didn't make any sense to start troubleshooting things that work natively on android.
i didnt buy an ipad today
Verstuurd van mijn Transformer TF101
I think the guy talking about how hot processors run in normal Macs forget that you're holding this thing in your hand or something. Anyway, I didn't buy an iPad today either! (I'm Spartacus too?)
2011CorvetteZR1 said:
The price $499 is crazy for a 9 inch, hot to hold, closed system. I was not impressed one single bit. And the fact that Apple never drops the price a penny anywhere is too controlling.
My ASUS lives to another day, or year. No thank-you Apple, not today.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sent from my Transformer TF101 using Tapatalk 2 Beta-2
It's 9.7" 4:3 aspect ratio and not 9" and this ratio it's much better for web browsing and ebook reading in portrait mode. In fact i would be happy if transformer had the same screen. Except this i prefer my transformer with a much more capable OS.
.
Holy sh#t this hackers keyboard is amazing omg.
Sent from my Transformer TF101 using Tapatalk
vfragos said:
Sent from my Transformer TF101 using Tapatalk 2 Beta-2
It's 9.7" 4:3 aspect ratio and not 9" and this ratio it's much better for web browsing and ebook reading in portrait mode. In fact i would be happy if transformer had the same screen. Except this i prefer my transformer with a much more capable OS.
.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The Le Pan II was designed with you in mind.
Almost forgot: I didn't buy the new iPad today.
I did receive my new iPad today, also having a TF101. I have to admit the iPad is just way more snappy, and a lot less buggy than the transformer has ever been.
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk HD

[Q] Nexus 10 vs Transformer Infinity

In terms of overall performance which one is genuinely better, price is no concern because I can get them both for $399, storage is not a big concern because I don't plan on taking picture or having TOO MUCH music on there.
Jlox1 said:
In terms of overall performance which one is genuinely better, price is no concern because I can get them both for $399, storage is not a big concern because I don't plan on taking picture or having TOO MUCH music on there.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I cannot speak as to the Nexus 10 yet, as I do not own one. Waiting for Google Play to get them back in stock.
I can, however, speak regarding the Infinity as for a brief period I owned one... actually went through four. Trust me, you do NOT want that tablet! Asus threw a decent CPU at it, but went cheap on the storage and as such its prone to stutter quite a bit. It's enough of a hit to harm the user experience... my HP Touchpad running CM9 ran circles around it and that thing was a full year older!
Get the nexus ive owned the infinity when it came out and while the screen is great and also build quality, the I/O lag is terrible you have to flash cleanRom to even get any kind of smooth performance and even then it cant match the nexus 10.
I used CLEAN ROM and Data2SD with a UH1 Micro SD, still laughable performance by comparison.
In my opinion, if you don't need a full fledged Keyboard dock (full size usb port, and extra battery) then get a Nexus.
The transformer is cool, and if the keyboard dock didn't cost an extra $150 I might have kept it for school. Otherwise, it's got a brushed aluminum back.
Sent from my Galaxy Note II
If you don't care about storage then there is no question you should get the nexus 10.
Speaking as a tf 700 owner, the user experience is awful.
The build quality is nice, screen is the best and it's got cool features but if constant stuttering and lag doing the most basic operations like opening a web page then switching to Kindle and going back to home screen, bothers you then stay away from the infinity.
+1 for all posts about how laggy the t700 is. Made a huge mistake buying this one.
I also had a TF700T....kept it for 58 days and returned it to Best Buy (60 day return option under Premiere Silver). Great case, overall fit and finish very nice, nice screen. But the periodic lag was annoying, there were periodic freezes, and I didn't want to depend on a custom ROM just to get normal performance. I liked the extra battery in the keyboard/dock, but found the keyboard to be unnecessary. In the end I found that I just wasn't bothering to use the Infinity.
In contrast....I love the Nexus 10, carry it and use it all day. Excellent device that will keep benefitting from Android evolution frequently and long into the future.
beamed from a Nexus 10 far, far away
I have had both as well. Although the 700 was decent - I am loving the N10. Wonderful screen and fast in all aspects....including games.
I have owned both, the TF201 Prime (C1) and then the TF700 (C6) which I exchanged the 201 for, and now after having N10, I'd take it over both- anyday of the week.
Keyboard attachment with battery and the look are really only things going for them there's so many cons to both all you have to do is go into one of their forums to get an idea of what is wrong with them. (Backplate interference, dead GPS on the 201, I/O, popping/clicking screens etc) 400 imo is still too much I wouldn't pay much more than 300 for either after all the BS I've experienced with them personally.
As the other posters noted the Infinity suffered from lag issues. I kept it for 30 days. The Nexus is clearly superior in performance.
Yup, I'm another one who went through 3 of them before getting the N10.
Love my infinity. Awesome tab. People say the screen on the N10 is better but honestly its not. Its pixel density might be higher (spec sheet booster) but the contrast sucks to all hell. I not rooted or unlocked and performance on the infinity since the updates is amazing. Add to that the form factor, full keyboard for extra battery and external storage and you have the best tablet IMHO. I would say around with both but honestly the infinity to me just the better all around device. Take a look at all the comparison sites and they will confirm what im saying. Also are you a student or just looking for a media consumption tablet? Best of luck!
Sent from my ASUS Transformer Pad TF700T using Tapatalk HD
I've had tf201, tf700, n10 all at the same time. Performance wise you can't beat the n10. Its a beast but the form factor of the Asus is awesome. If you're only concern is performance don't get an Asus. Even with cleanrom, clemsey kernel and data2sd its not going to beat the n10 on performance.
N10 is also future proof for a while and will probably have a better resale value vs the tf700. Just in case you decide to sell it and go for the new tegra4 tablets
Sent from my SGH-T999 using Tapatalk 2
IO speeds on the nexus 10 (above 100MB/s) are second to none. In fact they are twice as fast as the second fastest device. They are more than 5 times faster than the IO speeds on the infinity. That alone plus the cortex a15 and the ridiculously fast gpu makes it a much better performer.

Categories

Resources