• Buyers Guide to Computers


    Why buy a tablet?

     

    Tablets are taking the computing world by storm. They are the latest trend that gives you fast access to the internet, email, video chat and allows you to take photos and videos wherever you go. These multimedia devices are portable, with small dimensions and a lightweight design. They typically allow you to move around the device using a touchscreen display or stylus pen. This builtin functionality almost make the mouse and keyboard obsolete.

    Regardless of whether you are a student, business professional or just love technology, tablets have something for you!

     

    Key criteria to consider when selecting a tablet:

     

    a) Built in features: These should include at least one camera (ideally better than 3MP) that can also be used for photos and chatting (eg. Skype). A Music player and video player (if not naturally supported by the operating system). GPS facility or the ability to use location sensative software. An eReader either builtin or via software (supporting PDF or common format). WiFi and to a lesser extent mobile broadband (3G/4G). Note, these days it can be easier to have a WiFi hotspot that supports multiple devices, than having mobile broadband SIMS in each device. A USB 2.0 (even better USB 3.0) port (or mini USB) port is a must. Remember you will have no DVD/CD, you can add one via USB cheaply and effectively. Sometimes a mini-HDMI or HDMI output is good, but be aware your tablet may have issues with speed when connecting to a FULL HD large screen TV in playback mode.

     

    b)Operating System: This must be compatible with other software, either PC/Mac bases, or atleast compatible with cloud or external media devices. Android OS (like JellyBean etc), might well be good for Phones, but will prove limiting on your tablet. Windows 8 has been designed to operate on a tablet, but do be aware of the limitations of Windows RT (a cut down version).

     

    c) Hardware: When considering different tablets, you need to look for a reliable processor and make sure it offers sufficient speed. If you go to a display centre, check the heat being generated by the tablet, it should not be overheating. Whilst I would not recommend a laptop with an ATOM processor, it will often be good enough for a Tablet. Also, the amount of memory is important, mostly the RAM for running programs in (I recommend 2G or more). Very few people will buy a tablet with a large amount of storage for music / videos / etc (as this is not its primary function). To expect more than 80G in a tablet will be expensive. Even though most use solid state or MicroSD (add in cards), most will find they need cloud storage of upto 5TB as well.

     

    d) Display: Naturally the Display has a lot more functionality to provide the user on a tablet, so you will want a reasonable size (I dont suggest anything less than 10"). It must have good resolution, whilst Full HD is naturally great for playback, it is not entirely a must!