iPad
Specs: 11” LED backlit screen | 680-730g | 16, 32, 64GB flash storage | Apple A4 1.0GHz | iOS
With seven million units already sold, iPad is clearly number one, despite the lack of a camera, inability to handle Flash, and the fact that it’s chunkier than its competitors. Still, we love its overall sleekness, user-friendly operating system and crystal clear TFT screen. The battery power is also sturdy enough to watch two movies in a row.
Verdict: Impressive looks and ease of use; but we’ll wait until they bring out a smaller model with a camera option.
$928 (16GB with WiFi & 3G) upwards from EpiCentre@ION Orchard, #B3-14 ION Orchard, 2 Orchard Turn, 6509-5028.
Galaxy Tab
Specs: 7” TFT screen | 385g | 16GB internal (up to 32GB microSD) storage | Cortex A8 1.0GHz processor | Android OS 2.2
The Galaxy Tab is simply a larger version of a Samsung Galaxy S smart phone. It offers similar performance to the iPad, except it also comes with the geek favorite Android 2.2 OS, two built-in cameras for photo, video and video chat. Perhaps the biggest plus for the Galaxy is the fact you can also use it as a mobile phone.
Verdict: Definitely more portable, the Galaxy needs to drop its price to take on the iPad.
$998 upwards at SingTel Shops including #B2-12 Ngee Ann City, 391 Orchard Rd., 6235-1688.
Dell Streak
Specs: 5” | 2GB internal (up to 32GB microSD card) storage space |220g | 1 GHz Snapdragon | Android OS 1.6
Dell’s foray into the tablet market takes the form of the ultra-portable Streak. Equipped with WiFi, Bluetooth and 3G connectivity, this lightweight allows for easy web browsing, digital entertainment and social networking. The screen is also impressively durable with the use of tough-as-nails Gorilla Glass. Dell calls it “a hybrid device”—it’s both a tablet computer and a smart-phone. Yes, you can make and receive calls with this one.
Verdict: The Streak is a large and sleek smart-phone that still fits in the pocket or an ultra-portable tablet computer, whichever way you want to put it.
$938 with two-year contract from Starhub Shop, #B1-02 One Raffles Place, 1 Raffles Place, 6873-2828.
ViewSonic Viewpad 10
Specs: 10” WLED screen | 875g | 16GB SSD (up to 32GB microSD) storage | Intel® Atom™ 1.66GHz processor | Dual boot OS Android 1.6 & Windows 7 Home Premium
With an option to boot up on either Android or Windows 7, ViewPad 10 is definitely a tablet worth considering. With Windows OS, you can plug in a mouse and keyboard into the two USB ports to use it as a proper PC.
Verdict: ViewPad 10 is a good compromise for those who can’t choose between the instant startup and long battery life of a mobile platform (of up to 10 hours) and a full Windows 7 OS experience.
$929 from South Asia Computer, #03-01/41 Funan DigitaLife Mall, 109 North Bridge Rd., 6337-0871.
