After my last experience with a tablet computer, I knew I wanted one. It just had to be better than my first cheap attempt. As a software developer, it was really important that I get some hands on experience with these units. That said, I sure didn’t have $500 to spend. So, I was really pleased when Samsung released the Galaxy Tab 2 7.0 in the $250 range. Everything and everyone is going mobile so if your not already on the bandwagon, ya better get there! This is far from a professional review but hopefully gives you my impression of the device.
This unit comes with Android 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich), front and back cameras, GPS, Wi-FI, microSD slot, 1GHz dual-core OMAP CPU, 8GB of storage, and Bluetooth 3.0. The screen runs at 1024×600 pixels which is the best available but it looks pretty sharp. Of course a bunch of apps are installed as well. I added a 32GB SD card.
I am not a gamer so I can’t tell you how it does there. Part of the pricing is about the processor. It is not the latest, greatest, and fastest – I understood that going in. For my normal use, it performs wonderfully – web browsing, email, downloading/watching videos, NetFlix, reading, and a variety of apps. The screen response and app load time is very good.
The “feel” is very good. It is very thin and light but does not have a fragile or “I’m going to drop it” kind of feeling to it.
Google has done a wonderful job with the new Play Store. Obtaining apps is now just like an Android phone. All the nonsense I described in this post for Android 2.2 is now history – thankfully. Additionally, Google now has Play Video and Play Books. I haven’t used either of them yet but they too look promising.
The Wi-Fi reception seems to be pretty good. At least as good as my HP laptop and better than my Samsung Galaxy S phone.
I don’t have a very good handle on battery life yet. It seems to hold up pretty well but I haven’t given an all day workout yet.
I am VERY happy to report that the device has yet to give me any hassles. Samsung has done a good job getting this thing rock solid. I give it an A+ – Love it!
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