Worth buying? - Galaxy Note 8.0 (Tablet) Q&A, Help & Troubleshooti

My dad needs a new tablet and isn't willing to pay very much, he mostly browses the Internet, some Skype, YouTube. Mostly reading stuff.
Is this a solid device? Is it worth buying in 2014? Are there any better alternatives for mid sized tablets that don't cost a fortune?

If he don't need a Stylus not really. Device itself is great. Also used a Nexus 7 2013 and this one is cheaper. Or maybe a Samsung Tab 3 is a nice device...

So a nexus 7 is better?

In case of Hardware specs yes because newer and also newer Androids OS. But there a lot of possibilities...

lvnatic said:
My dad needs a new tablet and isn't willing to pay very much, he mostly browses the Internet, some Skype, YouTube. Mostly reading stuff.
Is this a solid device? Is it worth buying in 2014? Are there any better alternatives for mid sized tablets that don't cost a fortune?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Your dad would probably like the Venue 8.0 Pro... it is a powerhouse that runs a complete version of Windows 8.0 / 8.1.
I would have gotten it but I found my brand new Note 8.0 in November for $225.00 shipped. Once I debugged Android 4.2.2 to be very stable and clean for my needs. I am happy with the purchase. A full OS Windows 8.1 is far superior than android in that you do not have any limitations of running applications and compatibility with a networked windows environment at home.

My answer is: yes. After 4.4 update, my Note 8 lives again and got better performance (except one second wake up lag).
Playing HD Homerun+Homerun TV+MX Player Pro is better than before.
However, if you don't need a stylus, Tab Pro is a much better device (S800>Exynos).

I'm about to sell mine if you want it. Don't really use it (never did). It's an awesome tablet, but I just don't use tablets. Plus...I want to use the money to buy a TV to put over my 3 monitors :laugh:

Related

[Q] Galaxy Note 8 - is it worth it?

Hello mates.Im still thinking of buying this tab,but why is his popularity so low? I mean not many roms,topics etc about it in forums.. Is there anything wrong with it? Havent seen the tab yet(only reviews),only saw and played with ipad mini,but I think this one is better.Would you advice me to buy it and why?
Thank you
Sent from my Nexus 7 using xda premium
Yes...go for it. I' ve replaced my Note 2. 7' Tab is small and 10' is too big for me. 8' Note is not mass market product, but just in between Note 2 and Note 10 solution with perfect performance and everyday use/ carry around. I use it as well as my primary phone, navigation, multimedia and personal computer.
The "problem" you see here relates more to the very niche market for a device like this in its price range when compared next to something like the Nexus 7 and even Samsung's other 7 inch tablet. So on price alone, its going to struggle a little when you have so many quality options for half the price in many cases. For example, the iPad mini is $100 less, you could buy 2 Nexus 7 16GBs, or hell, I've seen referb Nook Colors going for $60 so you could almost buy 7 of the damn things. What they all lack, however, and what sets this apart for those that need the feature is the Wacom digitizer. Yes, that little pen is the source of the fuss. If you're the sort of person who values hand written notes or loves to doodle in a way that no other tablet in this form factor is capable of (even with a third party stylus), then thats all the reason you need to pick up the Note 8. Other reasons would include the super thin body or large screen size (or you have some creepy love of IR blasters), but the pen is the point here.
This all means, sadly, that we won't ever enjoy the flood of rom options other devices enjoy. Sure, there will be some in time, but I'm not holding out for a solid, feature filled port of Paranoid Android. Instead, I'm doing with the majority of Android users are and just making due with what I have and honestly, the things I love outnumber the things I hate about TouchWiz.
At this point, I can't see myself ever going back to a "normal" tablet again (which will really suck if they don't make another one lol).
It's awesome. Don't hesitate.
Sent from my GT-N5110 using Tapatalk HD
I helped organize a Nexus 7 32gb 3G for my mother, and was suitably impressed with it.
I also own a HTC Sensation... which I was also suitably impressed with 2 years ago when I bought it.
I also have to my name an i5 Desktop + Wacom Cintiq 12wx.
So, yes, you guessed it... I like digital art / image manipulation. I also enjoy keeping journals and 'writing' stories... yes, WRITING, not 'typing'... when I sit infront of a keyboard and see the words spill from my fingertips in clinical neat text, it kinda kills the creative process for me...
So you can understand that the note 8.0 *BLEW ME AWAY*
It's as if someone out there decided to design a device *just for me*. It's the perfect size, perfect weight, so comfortable to hold, handwriting recognition is superb, and the sensitivity of the S Pen is second only to the Cintiq experience...
All i need is a means to fine tune the sensitivity of the S Pen for my drawing style and I believe I would actually prefer the Note 8.0 over the Desktop+Cintiq as a drawing medium.. I've only had the tablet for a few days, so I may still be able to figure out how to do this. If, however, the calibration must stay as it is... it is still an excellent drawing experience and, as I said, second only to using a full-blown Cintiq.
Like others here I'll never be buying a tablet again that doesn't at least match the features and convenience of the Note 8.0.
I'm very excited to see what they do with the Note 8.0 v2 + v3... and if for some odd reason, this is the first and last in the series... I'll be keeping this tablet... and keeping my eyes open for developments in the Surface Pro line (it's still too bulky/heavy to be a concideration for me at this point in time).
Bottom line:
Are you an artist / designer and do you prefer handwriting over typing?
If yes, then I can see no better option for you in this form factor. The price is well justified.
If no, then although it is a superb tablet that trumps the Nexus 7 in every way... the price will be hard to justify. If you're not going to put the Wacom Digitizer to work for you, then only buy this tablet if you have money to burn.
FaeMinx said:
All i need is a means to fine tune the sensitivity of the S Pen for my drawing style and I believe I would actually prefer the Note 8.0 over the Desktop+Cintiq as a drawing medium.. I've only had the tablet for a few days, so I may still be able to figure out how to do this. If, however, the calibration must stay as it is... it is still an excellent drawing experience and, as I said, second only to using a full-blown Cintiq.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
See this page...
http://phandroid.com/2012/12/05/how-to-adjust-s-pen/
Thank you for all your help friends . I currently own a Nexus 7 ,but I dont have 3g and thats killing me. Personally I was viewing Ipad mini and Note 8 . In fact in my country and my calculations for the 3G version price is likely the same.The only thing I love in Ipad mini is the app store (many many apps) and the accesoaries for the Ipad (docks and etc) If we remove this the Note 8 has everything.
I`ll think a little more and maybe decide the Note 8.It will cost me like 450~500$ with a contract for 7$ per month for one year and Im getting 3000MB high speed 3G.
Here the Apple Ipad Mini costs like 500~550$ ,but without any contracts .
linkenhtc said:
Thank you for all your help friends . I currently own a Nexus 7 ,but I dont have 3g and thats killing me. Personally I was viewing Ipad mini and Note 8 . In fact in my country and my calculations for the 3G version price is likely the same.The only thing I love in Ipad mini is the app store (many many apps) and the accesoaries for the Ipad (docks and etc) If we remove this the Note 8 has everything.
I`ll think a little more and maybe decide the Note 8.It will cost me like 450~500$ with a contract for 7$ per month for one year and Im getting 3000MB high speed 3G.
Here the Apple Ipad Mini costs like 500~550$ ,but without any contracts .
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As others have said. The price of the Note is almost purely based on the Spen / digitizer technology with in it. To decide if it is worth it, you need to decide if the added functionality that technology brings is of benefit to you.
If you dont draw, or dont think you will be taking hand writen notes, then there may be little benefit of this tablet over a cheaper android alternative. My advice is, if you want to use the Spen, then the Note 8.0 is the perfect companion, if you dont, wait for the new NEXUS to be announced and either buy the older 7 at a discount or wait for the newer one (or do the same with the ipad mini. cant be too long before a newer version is announced).
hertsjoatmon said:
See this page...
http://phandroid.com/2012/12/05/how-to-adjust-s-pen/
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the link! After reading that... I'm a little nervous about possibly screwing up the sensitivity that I have - after all, there's nothing *wrong* with my pen, it's not wonky at all... I just would love to be able to map out the pressure gradient curve like I can do via software for each of my Cintiq pens (I have them all - Airbrush, 6D Artpen, Grip Pen and Classic)... So I'm going to continue looking for a software solution. But if one doesn't turn up, I'll probably buy an extra S Pen to fiddle with mechanically.
Thanks again.
linkenhtc said:
Thank you for all your help friends . I currently own a Nexus 7 ,but I dont have 3g and thats killing me. Personally I was viewing Ipad mini and Note 8 . In fact in my country and my calculations for the 3G version price is likely the same.The only thing I love in Ipad mini is the app store (many many apps) and the accesoaries for the Ipad (docks and etc) If we remove this the Note 8 has everything.
I`ll think a little more and maybe decide the Note 8.It will cost me like 450~500$ with a contract for 7$ per month for one year and Im getting 3000MB high speed 3G.
Here the Apple Ipad Mini costs like 500~550$ ,but without any contracts .
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Do you own any other Apple products? Have you already made significant purchases in the Apple app store you want to use on your tablet?
If not, and it's just a case of which is the better tablet... Go for the Note 8.0.
In my opinion, the iPad Mini and GNote 8.0 are not even in the same class of device.
iPad Mini is appropriate for the mass-market consumer who is primarily concerned with consuming content. It's easy to use, especially for people who are not all that technologically skilled.
GNote 8.0 is aimed at power users, creative professionals, and discerning creative hobbyists who are primarily concerned with *creating* content... but who also want a top class media consumption device as well.
If you have any interest in creating content, then it's a no-brainer.
But like I said, if you aren't really going to use the Wacom Digitizer all that much... then the iPad mini could be the right device for you... even though it makes me cringe recommending an Apple product to anybody.
Ill go for the Note.Ill go and order one.Thank you all
And about thias 25$ gift card - it doesnt depend from what country you are ,right?
Sent from my Nexus 7 using xda premium
linkenhtc said:
Ill go for the Note.Ill go and order one.Thank you all
And about thias 25$ gift card - it doesnt depend from what country you are ,right?
Sent from my Nexus 7 using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You need to check with whoever you are buying from. As far as I was aware, the gift card was only available to US residents.
As I live in South Africa, I got other extras... such as a free Official Stand Pouch, a 16gb MicroSD card, 2 year warranty, and two months free internet with MWeb (which i'm not using as I'm with another service provider - I bought mine outright, i.e. not on contract).
Juvenall said:
The "problem" you see here relates more to the very niche market for a device like this in its price range when compared next to something like the Nexus 7 and even Samsung's other 7 inch tablet.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Bingo. The Android tablet market is dominated by low priced, low spec devices (at least in the 7 to 8 inch form factor). And this has worked to get Android tablets into people's hands and steal market share from the iPad. The N8 is targeted towards users who actually value a premium device, and are willing to pay a bit more. Unfortunately, we are in the minority.
Yes, the N8 is not going to sell in huge numbers, and that means less developer interest. But all that is needed is a few good developers. We already have some good looking contributions, and this will continue to grow. My previous tablet was the HTC Flyer, which arguably had a worse market penetration problem than the N8 has. The Flyer was more expensive ($499 US at release), and the tablet market was much less mature at the time (much less people interested in buying tablets). The Flyer sold in very low numbers. But even so, it had a fair number of very good developers, and a decent number of ROMs. More than sufficient, IMHO. In the end, you don't need dozens of ROMs. Just a decent selection of good ones.
I don't see the trend towards cheap Android tablets changing anytime soon. The Note 8 is easily the best Android tablet around in the "smaller" (7 to 8 inch) form factor, and I'm willing to bet that will remain the case for some time.
That is just it. This tablet is NOT just about the pen. It is a really fast tablet too. Much faster then the Nexus 7 or just about any other tablet out right now. It is smooooth. The screen is the perfect size too. I had a Nexus 7 and returned it because I couldn't stand how slow it was. I have a note 2 and it is nice to actually have a screen large enough that the multi window feature may actually get some use too.
As a consumer, I love my Note 8 (speedy, responsive, relatively okay battery life, etc everything else ppl said)
As an Android/Linux dev, I lament the fact that because this thing costs so much, it is just statistically less likely to get huge momentum behind it.
I don't know, from a practical point of view this tablet is a better buy than an ipad mini. It does cost a little more than an entry level mini but does the mini have expandable storage, usb otg support, multi windows and a pressure sensitive stylus. If I were Joe Public I'd certainly consider getting one as it offers quite a bit more value for just a little extra investment.
Sent from the mighty Note 8.0
I sold my Note 2 ans Ipad Mini 64GB and replaced them with a Note 8.0 w/ 64GB SDCard and am much happier now.
As for the $25.00 Play Store credit , That is for the WiFi model only checks serial # ( US Only ? ) . 3G versions do not qualify.

[Q] Tab Pro 10.1, Tab S 8.4 or Ipad Air ?

Hi,
I'm going back and forth with this..
I have a budget around $400 to $450... and I basically want to use the table as a replacement of the laptop for basic stuff ( browsing, FB, youtube, videos, movies, email, etc). I like how IOS look right now, my mom has an ipad retina display and look and feel good, but my budget allow me to but the 16gb one... and isn't enought since I'm planning to copy movies on the table and watch them... beside ipads doesnt allow me to watch movies on divx, xvid, mkv, etc... I had to converted to mp4 and thats a hazzle...
I was thinking on buying the Tab Pro 10.1 because of the size, the screen definition and the battery life... but now that the Tab S is around the corner I don't know what to do... I don't care about the fingerprint... the Super Amoled is a nice touch (I have a galaxy S4) but the screen on the Pro look good enought for me... the selling point for me is the extra GB of ram...I don't know if is really work it to pay extra for that GB of ram (assuming that I can go up to $500 for the galaxy S 10.5) or paying the same as the Pro 10.1 ($400 on amazon) for the Galaxy S 8.4 and downgrade the size of the screen...
What do you guys say? Ipad air ($450), Pro 10.5 ( $400), S 8.4 ($400) or S10.5 ($500). Paying an extra $100 for 1GB of ram seem pricy to me if the feeling and performance is similar of the 2gb pro 10.1.... but I don't know if the cost/benefit is really good?
I bought a Tab Pro 10.1. It's not perfect, but I'm pretty happy. Obviously it's what I would do, since it's what I did. Just make sure Tha at you are comfortable doing a root... Of course that's the case with any android device.
Good luck!
Sent from my SM-T520 using Tapatalk
Well, you could save yourself some money by buying the iPad as a refurb straight from apple. It comes down to the ecosystem and os that you prefer. Is ios nice? Sure. But does it work for you? Do you struggle with the 2gb of ram in your phone today? If not then I wouldn't worry about the 2 vs 3gb of ram. If you're worried about ram, I'm pretty sure iPad air only has 1gb.
I've tried 2 different ipads and I keep coming back to android. I just started using a tab 8.4 today and it's smooth. If you keep a ton of apps open at once then it may get laggy, but I'd imagine the iPad would have the same issues. The iPad air has what seems limitless keyboards, cases...while there are significantly less for the tab pro. I think the s line is going to have Samsung accessories.
Don't forget the real file browser, micro sd, USB support, and vast selection of keyboards on androids. You can't really go wrong with any of them, all nice devices. Pick the he one that fits your budget and hits your biggest priorities.
I have a tab pro 8.4 and it is a really good tablet. I am considering getting the pro 10.5. I've also thought about an iPad air too, so I am in a similar situation. I do love the fact that the iPad has a plethora of keyboard case options. Supposedly with the S Series Samsung is going to get more Keyboard cases. Logitech has already announced one for the 10.5.
I am probably going to go with the pro 10.5. If you have a micro SD card it is really simple to expand the storage in which the iPad would not be able to do. If you already have purchased apps on your Android phone, it's much easier just to use an Android tablet then using an iPad and paying more money for apps you already have.
That's how I work things out in my head anyway.
Sent from my SM-T320 using Tapatalk
I am a long time user of apple , I think apple lost me after the 4S, the closed ecosystem is terrible in my view. So I switched to nexus 5 and never looked back. On tablet I bought the tab 8.4 , and put aside my iPad retina . I last week upgrade it to iOS 8 , and have to say I'm disappointed and not impressed . so I'm still loyal to my macbook on the PC side. But as far as tablet and phone no question in my mind that you get better value and better ecosystem in an android device. I also didn't root my tab, only put on it Google now lquncher and I love it , love the density and sharpness of the screen
Sent from my SM-T320 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
Jumping in the thread :
So I got 7 and 10.1 tablets in the past. They both have their strengths and weaknesses but I would like to have your opinions on the 8.4/10.1 Pro more specifically.
By default, I'd go with the 10.1 for the bigger screen and battery especially as it seems quite light, especially in comparison to my past 10.1 devices.
However, the 8.4 seems to have more ROM support and looks more powerful. Plus, the 8.4 format allows a better grip with one hand. But I'm afraid the battery won't hold as much as I want to.
So, here my questions :
- Is there any work done on CM11 for the 10.1 ?
- How comfortable is the 10.1 to hold ?
- Is the 8.4 really much more powerful and snappy ?
Thanks !
DannyBiker said:
Jumping in the thread :
So I got 7 and 10.1 tablets in the past. They both have their strengths and weaknesses but I would like to have your opinions on the 8.4/10.1 Pro more specifically.
By default, I'd go with the 10.1 for the bigger screen and battery especially as it seems quite light, especially in comparison to my past 10.1 devices.
However, the 8.4 seems to have more ROM support and looks more powerful. Plus, the 8.4 format allows a better grip with one hand. But I'm afraid the battery won't hold as much as I want to.
So, here my questions :
- Is there any work done on CM11 for the 10.1 ?
- How comfortable is the 10.1 to hold ?
- Is the 8.4 really much more powerful and snappy ?
Thanks !
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You need to be more specific on the 10.1... For the 10.1 LTE (sm-t525 aka picassolte) CM11 is coming along nicely but for the WiFi only 10.1 (sm-t520) there is no known work on it for CM11.
I was thinking about the Wifi version, sorry. I forgot that the LTE model is also Snapdragon and benefits, I guess, of the work done on the 8.4.
Acutally, I need my tablet for some productivity as well. Mostly, taking meeting notes on the go. Is the 8.4 screen big enough in landscape to do so ?

[Q] Lack of Custom ROMs, Kernels for Tab 8.4

Hi,
I was planning on buying nexus 7, but then prices for tab pro 8.4 have dropped, if google nexus 7 lte costs 350$, then why not add some and buy samsung tablet with better performance, better screen and micro sd slot and many more advantages.
But from what i see, modrianlte is very short on customization,wifi version has some support at least, but lte has like 1-2 custom rom available, no custom kernels. Is the reason for such lack of customization because its too early ? Or the tablet isnt just popular enough ?
I'd like to know the same. The galaxy tab pro 8.4 looks like the closest thing to the perfect tablet to me, with the nexus 8 being somewhat a little further away. I'd love to get it asap as the price here in Sweden is almost identical to the "big" nexus 7 while being significantly better spec'd . so I'm hoping the lack of development (and dedicated forums for the different gtab pro iterations) is due to the young age of the device. Maybe someone with some more insight can shed some light on this
Keep in mind this tablet is having a bit of a short lifespan unfortunately. Blame Samsung.
Here in Canada, it's no longer available for purchase anymore and I had a HELL of a time finding the "white" Samsung OEM case for my white Tab Pro 8.4
I live in the largest city in Canada and only ONE store still had the white cases, and they only had 3 or 4 of them left, all for full MSRP price...
It's a great tablet, but IMO Samsung is a bit of a foolish company. I don't know which idiot (maybe someone in marketing) thought it would be good to release the Tab S just 3 months after general availability of the Tab PRO.
This is my first Samsung product since the Nexus S and probably my last (not due to product quality, but due to Samsung being a foolish company).
well that **** my upgrading plans. Good for them. New Revision, slightly worse specs, higher price. Now what. I love the N7 but its just a little bit too small and apart from the T320 there isnt really anything that compares by a long shot in the 8-9" range.
thanks anyways, guess the only thing to do is wait for the N8 or an upgraded N10.
audiosmurf said:
well that **** my upgrading plans. Good for them. New Revision, slightly worse specs, higher price. Now what. I love the N7 but its just a little bit too small and apart from the T320 there isnt really anything that compares by a long shot in the 8-9" range.
thanks anyways, guess the only thing to do is wait for the N8 or an upgraded N10.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
don't get me wrong, i love my Tab Pro 8.4, but i think i just have to get accustomed to using it stock (or stock + root) rather than having a HUGE selection of ROMs/kernels like my Nexus 4
my thoughts exactly. Im coming from 1st gen n7 and the n4 and im addicted to flashing sth new almost weekly so of course im used to a lot there and id never expect anything close to the variety of roms and generaly development on a the galaxy tab series. But as it is probably the most bought tablet series out there i was hoping for there atleast to be a certain amount development for it. With Google taking so long and this being such an incredible deal for the money i had hoped that that would stoke development for the tab pro here on xda.
Can you think of any alternatives offering atleast a FHD screen, not too old A15 processor and 2 gigabytes of ram for under 450 USD in a <9.9" package?
well new nexus, htc nexus 8 or 9, seems to be not the thing we are looking for, word around says it is going to expensive.
Tab S is a scam, i don't know what kind of idiot would buy that piece of crap over iPad mini.
From my point, i want to buy a tablet and use it for a long time, just like my galaxy nexus phone of which im very happy, i'm not planing on to buy, try and sell.
audiosmurf said:
Can you think of any alternatives offering atleast a FHD screen, not too old A15 processor and 2 gigabytes of ram for under 450 USD in a <9.9" package?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nope. Your criteria is very similar to my own! Before this tab became widely available, I was going to get the LG g pad 8.3,but its hardware is worse than the tab pro obviously. Especially the screen, ugh.
Basically, for 8" tabs it's either this or the Tab S.
BTW I think from a "sales" point of view, there are more galaxy tab 3's and 4's out there... But let's be honest even if more people have those (which in turn causes more development) their hardware is pathetic for anyone over the age of 10, lol
I'd say stick with this one and try to get all your friends to get one too, boost sales
Most unpleasant situation would be would be if idiotic samsung sold all Tabs and stopped producing.
Buy used one from swappa or CL. Then sell it when Nexus 8/9 comes out. I traded my N7 2012 for $50 GC and after all the deals/coupons/perks the tab pro cost me $240. I don't care about custom roms on tablet , all I care about is root. But on my phone I need latest the Android version so my next phone is going to be a Nexus.
I think that once you change the launcher and freeze a few apps the tab runs pretty good and you can even root it if you want. Nexus 7 is good but still smaller screen, lower resolution and slower CPU. There are a couple stockish ROM and CM for the models using a Qualcomm CPU, I find the situation not so bad looking at how young the tablets are,
Sent from my SM-T320 using Tapatalk
Well, what do you guys say about the new nexus, if its starting price would be 400 $, then the LTE version might go out the same price as iPad mini/Air, then why not to buy a iOS tablet rather than android if they would cost the same ? If the new nexus is going to be that expensive it must have all the other extensions that nexus series don't have, like micro sd slot, IR blaster and the other luxury toys
brutalsam said:
Well, what do you guys say about the new nexus, if its starting price would be 400 $, then the LTE version might go out the same price as iPad mini/Air, then why not to buy a iOS tablet rather than android if they would cost the same ? If the new nexus is going to be that expensive it must have all the other extensions that nexus series don't have, like micro sd slot, IR blaster and the other luxury toys
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
All just rumor for the time being, but if the Nexus 8 is going to be at the $400 price point, I would wager it would be with impressive specs and features. Yes, the Nexus 7 had a "budget" set of specs and features, but also appeals to a much lower price point (currently $229, release was $299 I believe?). Rumor also has it that its being made by HTC, which makes arguably the most beautiful smartphones around, and briefly did so with tablets. So the build quality may rival or even surpass the iPads (in my opinion the HTC M7 and M8 easily surpass the current iPhones).
I for one am happy to see the "race to the bottom" on price for small form factor Android tablets started by Nexus 7 and Kindle Fire has somewhat cooled down. Manufacturers are started to recognize that some folks actually want quality, not just cheap.
redpoint73 said:
All just rumor for the time being, but if the Nexus 8 is going to be at the $400 price point, I would wager it would be with impressive specs and features. Yes, the Nexus 7 had a "budget" set of specs and features, but also appeals to a much lower price point (currently $229, release was $299 I believe?). Rumor also has it that its being made by HTC, which makes arguably the most beautiful smartphones around, and briefly did so with tablets. So the build quality may rival or even surpass the iPads (in my opinion the HTC M7 and M8 easily surpass the current iPhones).
I for one am happy to see the "race to the bottom" on price for small form factor Android tablets started by Nexus 7 and Kindle Fire has somewhat cooled down. Manufacturers are started to recognize that some folks actually want quality, not just cheap.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yep, let's hope for prices that won't compare with iPad air/mini, android always has been cheaper than apple products, so changing this thing will only brings failure,
brutalsam said:
Yep, let's hope for prices that won't compare with iPad air/mini, android always has been cheaper than apple products, so changing this thing will only brings failure,
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I didn't mind paying $399 for the Pro 8.4 soon after release. The exterior design isn't quite as high-end as the Ipad Mini, but it has a higher resolution screen, MicroSD, etc.
More importantly, I'm not interested in the closed Apple ecosystem. The iPad was never a real contender for me.
But I also realize and agree that the mass market is not going to see it that way. To many, a tablet is a tablet (many don't distinguish or even understand the difference between Android and iOS); and furthermore Apple has more brand recognition and respect than Android (to the masses). Android tablets need to either carry more features and/or come in at a lower price point than the iPad in order to sell.
redpoint73 said:
I didn't mind paying $399 for the Pro 8.4 soon after release. The exterior design isn't quite as high-end as the Ipad Mini, but it has a higher resolution screen, MicroSD, etc.
More importantly, I'm not interested in the closed Apple ecosystem. The iPad was never a real contender for me.
But I also realize and agree that the mass market is not going to see it that way. To many, a tablet is a tablet (many don't distinguish or even understand the difference between Android and iOS); and furthermore Apple has more brand recognition and respect than Android (to the masses). Android tablets need to either carry more features and/or come in at a lower price point than the iPad in order to sell.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Indeed, that's exactly what i want to say.
Anyway, iOS has more exclusive content than android, some fine games, apps first come out in the AppStore, then Android, but sometimes developers refuse to make an android version, or crappy android port.
For example, a fun app called ElfYourself was first to come out in iOS then it was ported to android, but to compare both official apps android version looks crappy, laggy, lacks some features, it was probably ported by some other developers.
That's why i want iOS tablet.
brutalsam said:
Anyway, iOS has more exclusive content than android, some fine games, apps first come out in the AppStore, then Android, but sometimes developers refuse to make an android version, or crappy android port.
For example, a fun app called ElfYourself was first to come out in iOS then it was ported to android, but to compare both official apps android version looks crappy, laggy, lacks some features, it was probably ported by some other developers.
That's why i want iOS tablet.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you want to talk about very particular apps and games, than yes iOS has more "exclusive" content. But there are plenty of apps for any purpose on Android, whether it be games, utilities, etc. Seriously, both iTunes and Play Store currently boast over 1.2 million apps. It used to be a big deal for iTunes to tout there number of apps when it was 50,000 or 60,000 etc. But honestly, once it went into the tens of thousands, why does it even matter? A few dozen good ones is enough. You don't even hear Apple or Google mention the total number of apps anymore, because its now irrelevant.
Yes, the quality is not always there (and there is a lot of crap to dredge through on the Play Store), but its getting better. Fact of the matter is that iOS users spend more money on apps. But on the other hand, developers can no longer ignore the fact that Android now has more market share (at least for phones) than iOS in the US (and its not even close globally). They simply can no longer ignore that customer base.
If you like iOS, then fine. Apple makes fine devices. But I personally can't stand how Apple dictates what the customer wants; instead of listening to what the public wants. How the OS looks, how it works, the device form factor (Steve Jobs "Nobody is going to buy a big phone"). iOS has hardly changed since it began. And the biggest changes to the OS appearance have actually largely stolen from HTC Sense, of all things (talk about coming full circle!). It took what, 3 or 4 years for Apple to even let folks change their wallpaper background on the iPhone? Come on!
I'm not a fan of iOS, im just trying to make point for myself, maybe you are right, maybe my infos are outdated. I just don't do much gaming or surfing or even use many kind of apps, cuz of tiny screen of the phone, that what i want to change by buying a tablet
brutalsam said:
I'm not a fan of iOS, im just trying to make point for myself, maybe you are right, maybe my infos are outdated. I just don't do much gaming or surfing or even use many kind of apps, cuz of tiny screen of the phone, that what i want to change by buying a tablet
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm not saying you are wrong about the apps (at least particular apps or ports). iOS certainly does get more attention from software developers. And if your goal is particular apps, games, etc. than you might not be happy with an Android tablet. As you mentioned, they don't all come to Android. And if they do, they sometimes don'r run as smoothly or get updated as often as the iOS counterparts.
But for me, there are plenty of great apps to keep me busy. I'm not a big gamer (but play a few sometimes) and most often use my tablet to web browse, read books, comics, and watch Netflix and other videos.
I'm also a big user of various Google services (Gmail, Calendar, Google Maps), and their integration into Android simply has no comparison.
redpoint73 said:
I'm not saying you are wrong about the apps (at least particular apps or ports). iOS certainly does get more attention from software developers. And if your goal is particular apps, games, etc. than you might not be happy with an Android tablet. As you mentioned, they don't all come to Android. And if they do, they sometimes don'r run as smoothly or get updated as often as the iOS counterparts.
But for me, there are plenty of great apps to keep me busy. I'm not a big gamer (but play a few sometimes) and most often use my tablet to web browse, read books, comics, and watch Netflix and other videos.
I'm also a big user of various Google services (Gmail, Calendar, Google Maps), and their integration into Android simply has no comparison.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, then the android tablet is my bet.
I'm not a big gamer as you said it yourself, i plan on reading, surfing, watching movies

[Question] Is it still worth getting the note 10.1 2014 edition?

Hey everyone,
I really need a good tablet for home multimedia consumption and maybe college. I could get either version: SM-P600 or the 605.
Should I still purchase the note even though it's so old, I am kinda iffy because of the discontinued software updates etc?
What is the latest security patch?
Or, is there any other tablet with stylus that would be better?
I looked at the new Zenpad from Asus.
Would anyone be kind enough to help me? Thanks
It is still on android 5.1.1. There was a recent update and security patch is sept 2016 i think. Great tablet though but a tad too expensive. If you dont have much use for the spen i would suggest a different tablet. Rom dev for this device is pretty active but i have stayed stock since i bought it.
Not sure what ur budget is. I would suggest sticking to mainstream brands. With asus i am not sure of dev support on xda or update support from asus themselves.
On a side note, nokia seems to be preparing to launch a new android tablet.
Sent from my Find7 using Tapatalk
Thanks for your help. Which model would you suggest getting 605 or 600? I wouldn't mind spending 500 for a brand new device. The s-pen would be very useful for me. I absolutely love the stylus and the abilities it gives you. Do you think I could still work with the 10.1 for 2 years?
Benzema9 said:
Thanks for your help. Which model would you suggest getting 605 or 600? I wouldn't mind spending 500 for a brand new device. The s-pen would be very useful for me. I absolutely love the stylus and the abilities it gives you. Do you think I could still work with the 10.1 for 2 years?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Are you planning on installing a custom ROM? Not sure if the 605 you are looking at has an unlocked bootloader. That might make up your decision.
IMO, I would not spend $500 on the P600 becaues it is indeed 2 years old. I chose to get a second hand one a few weeks ago for a pretty good price (~$150). At that price, its a decent tablet but you can kind of tell it is getting a little old. With CM13 installed, there's new life in the tablet. Noticeably faster and mSD as internal storage are huge.
If s-pen is not a deal breaker, that Zenbook from Asus is nice. Is it 64GB/4GB?
Sorry I didn't express myself clear enough lol
I meant I would spend $500 on a new tablet. I would only dish out $200 for the note 10.1.
Yes, it's this one: ASUS Zenpad Z500M-C1-GR. It has stylus support as well. Unfortunately it's sold out on Amazon
I would recommend the Nvidia Shield K1 it's around 200 bucks. Good specs, xda area is filled with nice roms and works in progress. However it's a 8 inches tablet and has about 6000 mah capacity, the K1 versions doesn't have the stylus pen nor the charger included but you can buy the pen for about 10-20 bucks and you probably already have a charger.
The note 2014 have nice specs even in late 2016, but it's in shadows because of Samsung's bad support and woeful software, the oem roms are basically mandatory if you want the S-pen functions, the CM roms are maintained by some nice folks in the forum but they aren't still 100% yet and you loose yer S-pen functions (I'm aware of a specific app that can help restoring the S-pen functions, but its not 100%).
So I would recommend you to stay away from the Galaxy Note 10.1 2014.
had mine for 3 years now and its working perfectly and meets all my tablet needs, the best bit being the superb screen and I see no need to upgrade it
would I buy it now if I needed a tablet? at a reasonable price definitely yes...if you are an avid tablet gamer (im not) then I would consider one with more graphics power
but this tablet is still more than holding its own ...im on my 5th case! and its still immaculate
I'm very happy of how long this tablet has lasted me.
For a while there, when on the ok1 firmware (XAR), I couldn't install or update apps. It would reboot almost every time. I was considering getting a tabpro s (Windows10) as a replacement, but pulled the trigger on a gaming laptop instead.
With the latest update, everything is working great again. Not even rooted. Don't need to be. It may not be marshmallow, but getting support for literally 3 years since launch isn't bad. With no replacement/successor for the N10.1 2014 rumored, we may (probably not) get marshmallow before they fully kill support for this beast.
Sent from my SM-G935T using Tapatalk
If you can get one for a good price, I think it's still a very good tablet.
I dropped mine and shattered the screen a few months ago. Because if the way it is built, you cannot just replace the glass. The whole screen and digitizer is one unit. So, since there was no real other 10-inch tablet with the screen resolution and the S Pen support that the Note 10.1 has, I ended up buying a used one on eBay to replace it.
I am using mine everyday, and I use the S Pen all the time to take notes. It's replaced a paper notebook for me.
I had the opportunity to work with a Surface Pro tablet at work, and although it is a great machine, and it can replace a laptop, I found it a bit too big and heavy to use as a notebook replacement to take notes. I still carry my tablet everywhere with me.

Help Me Decide

Howdy, folks.
I'm in the market for a tablet, and not familiar with the Samsung lineup, so I could use some guidance here.
First, I'm not sure I understand the difference between the A and S series. I assume it's a CPU issue, and I seem to recall a Tab A that I played around with didn't have an accelerometer and/or GPS, which are both critical for me.
Then we get to the firmware. I need to run Xposed and Xprivacy. Obviously that means I'll need to be able to root the machine. Would I be correct in assuming that I'm stuck with getting an S2, or is it possible to downgrade an S3 so I can benefit from the better hardware specs?
My choices seem to be an S2 at $480 or an S3 at $550 except that the S3 ships with a pen and LP, if I'm not mistaken, which knocks me out of the box in terms of running Xprivacy unless I can downgrade the OS.
Anyway, your input here would be helpful, and any pointers on unlocking / rooting would be appreciated.
Thanks in advance!
I think since late 2014, the Samsung tablets were split into just two lines, the Tab S, the high-end line, and the Tab A, the low cost line. In my humble opinion, the Tab A line is utter crap and it hasn't been updated effectively since 2015. If you want a cheap low end tablet, you might as well just buy one of those sub-100 dollar Amazon Fire tablets. Their specs are in the neighborhood of those Tab A tablets, but Fire tablets are much cheaper. Quite sadly, I think Samsung's high end line Tab S has also lost its way. I mean, I certainly love the idea of a high end Android tablet, but not at 500-600USD, specially when it comes with outdated flagship SoC, like the Snapdragon 820.
I love my Tab S 10.5, but if I am forced to replace it tomorrow, I'll probably get the Huawei Mediapad M3. Its hardware specs are high end enough to check nearly every box, and it costs under 300USD.
Excellent suggestion. I was wondering about alternatives to Samsung.
How would you compare the M3 to the S3? Can it be rooted? The new Samsung got excellent reviews for both construction and performance, and I confess the pen has appeal. I also wanted a 10"-ish screen, and the Huawei comes in at 8, so while the price is right, you give up a fair amount of screen.
I can pick up the S3 32 gig with a keyboard case for $550, which was more than I wanted to spend, but i can live with it since I'm not the type to buy a new device every year. Or even every two or three years, for that matter.
Sent from my HTC 10 using Tapatalk
I have purchased 5 Tab A devices, 3 T280 and 2 T555. Me the missus and little one have the T280, my mother and I have the T555. Both have an accelerometer and GPS. I don't know of a Samsung tablet that doesn't unless you meant gyroscope?
The Tab A T280 is stuck on Lollipop and the T550 runs Nougat.
I don't have issues with either for how I use them.
I also own the Tab S, but I use the Tab A T555 far more as it's light, comfortable to hold and runs just fine.
BillTheCat said:
Excellent suggestion. I was wondering about alternatives to Samsung.
How would you compare the M3 to the S3? Can it be rooted? The new Samsung got excellent reviews for both construction and performance, and I confess the pen has appeal. I also wanted a 10"-ish screen, and the Huawei comes in at 8, so while the price is right, you give up a fair amount of screen.
I can pick up the S3 32 gig with a keyboard case for $550, which was more than I wanted to spend, but i can live with it since I'm not the type to buy a new device every year. Or even every two or three years, for that matter.
Sent from my HTC 10 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The first thing I do when looking for a new tab is xda support, if you can't get a custom rom for it, forget it!
M3 support is thin to non-existant, they are just getting it to root, and no TWRP ( I think) , other than that its the best hardware for the price. Tab s2 is good, Tab A fair, s3 just starting.
Xposed is now officially on NU, the main framework has been released, modules compatibility varies.
For that amount of cash, your in ultrabook / chromebook territory.
A tablet that does not fit in a pocket, and costs the same as a dell ultrabook with 256 gb hdd and an i5, is a bad choice maybe?
I use my t705 as a pocket device, with the aspect ratio it just fits, and the fact that's its also a very cool phone makes it a nobrainer.
Also remember the folding screens are just months away, once they are out most of the current tabs will be obselete real quick.
I want something larger format (~10") for use when doing demos for customers, casual browsing or web work away from my desk or when traveling for short spans. An 8" screen is not of interest.
Sent from my HTC 10 using Tapatalk

Categories

Resources