Tablet PC
The future of computing is tablets
Only a few years ago, tablet computers were restricted to the realm of science fiction. The thought of a touchscreen device that could replace nearly all of the functions of a desktop or laptop computer was absurd. Today, however, it's a reality. The tablet PC market is growing rapidly and consumers around the world are benefiting. It's now possible to surf the Internet, send e-mails, watch movies and create music (and a whole lot more) on a thin and light device that you can carry with you anywhere in the world or simply use while you're lying on the couch. The future is now.
Making Sense of the Different Tablet Computers on the Market
The most popular tablet computer is the iPad, manufactured by Apple. The iPad is so popular that, for many consumers, its brand name is synonymous with the term "tablet computer" (much the same way many people refer to tissue as Kleenex). The original iPad can be credited with creating the tablet boom we are experiencing now and the iPad 2 only made the boom even bigger.
The most popular alternative to an iPad is an Android tablet. Android is an operating system created by Google. There are numerous hardware manufacturers that produce tablets that run on Android. Some of the most popular Android tablets include the Samsung Galaxy tablet and the Motorola Xoom tablet.
Microsoft loyalists will be happy to know that Microsoft is hard at work optimizing the Windows operating system for tablets. Though we have yet to see a truly successful tablet PC that runs on Windows, do not rule out a return to dominance for Microsoft.
Finally, there are tablets like that BlackBerry PlayBook and the discontinued HP TouchPad that run on their own operating systems. Tablets in this category have thus far failed to carve out a significant market share.
Is There Such a Thing as a Cheap Tablet Computer?
The best option if you're looking for a cheap tablet is probably the Kindle Fire from Amazon. It's significantly cheaper than many of the other tablets on the market. Though it lacks the processing power and impressive graphics of some other tablets, it's a great little machine for Web use and media consumption (listening to music, watching movies, etc.).
Another option for those who are looking for a more affordable tablet is to find a tablet that runs on a version of Android that is not the most current. There are many cheap Android tablets available that run an older version of Android. Keep in mind that you will have to sacrifice some functionality if you use this strategy.
Must-Have Features
- Large app marketplace
- Either a large hard drive or the ability to store files in the cloud
- Voice recognition software
Major Considerations
- What screen size do you prefer?
- Which operating system do you want to use? Do you want an Apple iPad, an Android tablet or something else?
- How important is the weight of the computer? Some tablet computers are much lighter than others.
- Do you want a font-facing camera for video chat?
- What kind of damage is covered under the warranty? Since tablets are handheld, they are more likely to be dropped or damaged, and repairs can be costly if not covered under warranty.
Top Manufacturers
- Apple
- Samsung
- Motorola
- Toshiba
- Amazon
Common Accessories or Add-Ons
- Wireless keyboard
- Wireless mouse
- Travel case
- Docking station
Price Range
It's possible to find a tablet for around $200, but most cost about $500 to $600. Factors that influence price include the internal components, larger screen, larger hard drives and 3G accessibility.
Summary
The advantages of tablet PCs are their versatility and portability. It is likely that tablets will one day take the place of laptops and desktops as our primary personal computers. Though tablets do still have some limitations, most consumers find them remarkably useful.
Comments (12)