Good 10 inch android tablet - Device Reviews and Information

HI all,
Since my 2d Asus Transformer tf700t seems to have flaked out on me (won't boot, can't get to recovery, &c) I'm looking for another brand (e.g. Samsung &c) with similar size and specs especially the screen quality. The screen quality is why I went with the infinity in the first place. It's absolutely beautiful for reading books and comics. I don't really play games.
It also needs to be easy to unlock, root and install custom roms (something the infinity apparently doesn't like).
I've been rooting and customising since the G1 but the Asus really perplexes me regarding this.
Any suggestions for a replacement tablet? I'm on a budget so 200+/- would be great unless there's something REALLY spectacular that I should consider.
Thank you.

Related

Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 vs Asus Eee Pad Transformer

Short question, I am going to buy a tablet tomorrow, I like the idea of having 48GB with an Asus, since I can buy a 32GB microSD card
However, I like the idea of the Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 since it is SUPER light (I tested it on Verizon today)
however, the Asus Eee Pad transformer weights about the same as an original iPad, so it wouldn't be too bad
I want to use it for
1) GPS
2) Videos
3) eBooks
4) Android in general
There is a $200 difference between an expandable Asus Eee Pad Transformer and a non-expandable 32GB Samsung Galaxy 10.1 (I have to buy a 32GB model since it's not expandable)
Thanks in advance for your recommendations, is the $200 difference really worth it?
rafarataneneces said:
Short question, I am going to buy a tablet tomorrow, I like the idea of having 48GB with an Asus, since I can buy a 32GB microSD card
However, I like the idea of the Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 since it is SUPER light (I tested it on Verizon today)
however, the Asus Eee Pad transformer weights about the same as an original iPad, so it wouldn't be too bad
I want to use it for
1) GPS
2) Videos
3) eBooks
4) Android in general
There is a $200 difference between an expandable Asus Eee Pad Transformer and a non-expandable 32GB Samsung Galaxy 10.1 (I have to buy a 32GB model since it's not expandable)
Thanks in advance for your recommendations, is the $200 difference really worth it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I can only share what I have observed having had both tablets at the same time. The Asus seemed to be smoother and a little faster and it just got 3.2. I originally returned both of the tabs and then saw where I could get a white Gtab at Bestbuy and they would honor a 100.00 coupon so I could get the 16gb Gtab at the same price as the TF.I tried the keyboard for the Gtab, and it was not really what I was expecting or looking for. I am considering taking the Gtab back and purchasing the Asus TF again(or just getting a refund).I had used the TF with the keyboard dock and found it quite good. Quite frankly I am seriously looking at whether I would use or need a tablet at this time. I really do not watch movies etc just surf the net and email etc.I can do all of that on my cell phone. Overall I would rate the Gtab as the best(due to lightness and looks) but Samsung's history of not supporting devices is well documented. In comparison Asus has already came out with several updates and seems committed to keeping the device up to date. After this long winded post I guess it just comes down to what you prefer. Good solid device with a great keyboard and timely updates or a Good solid light good looking device that may not be updated for some time(other than TouchWiz). If you really want and will use a Tab you really cannot go wrong with either one.
Well I like the idea of Tegra dual core chip, and the HDMI out function
I already have Tmobile G2X and it has the Tegra and the HDMI out and I like the feature
I guess Samsung is better for looks and it's also lighter
Apart from that everything that Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 does, Asus See Pad does as well?
I had them both and guess which one got sold on Craiglist?
I first bought the Transformer when it came out and I was stoked! I thought it was the best thing since sliced bread. I rooted it and overclocked it with help from the community. Once it was overclocked, it made HC 3.1 run smooth as iOS. Once the Galaxy Tab 10.1 was available I couldn't resist so I bought it too. As soon as I picked it up out of the box, I knew right then that this was the keeper. Because the SGT is so light, it makes it a breeze to hold and read articles, surf the web, play games or what have you, in my recliner while sipping on a cold one. Although the Transformer is more versatile, it just can't compete with the weight and screen quality of the SGT. I bought a PogoPlug Pro to make up for the lack of sd slot. If you cannot add more memory to your device, invest in a PogoPlug(great device).
BTW, the screen blows the Transformer out of the water!
And that is not knocking the Transformer, that tells you how great the screen is on the SGT.
I thought the screen was very good on the Transformer, that's until I saw the SGT.
And with saying all of that, get the SGT 32gb model. That should tickle your fancy
Remember, the best tablet is the tablet that best fits YOUR needs!

[Q] How good is the N7 for ebook reading compared to a ereader?

Hello all, thinking of getting a Nexus 7 cause my older tablet (a Tab2 7") just isnt cutting it for me. TouchWiz isnt that great and the screen is really 2 years ago. Seeing as that tablet isnt that great I bought a Kobo Glo for ereading.
Havent really touched the tab again to be honest since buying the ereader.
However since M&M: Clash of Heroes is released I really want to start playing again, so the Nexus 7 imediatly springs to mind!
Now however the question is, what do people think of the N7 screen thats so great that it could replace the Glo even? for epubs?
The reason to why not keep both is simply while the Glo is great I'm really in love with CoolReader on Android. I can just set it all up easily and the simple directory file picker works for me.
The same can be done on the Glo but it needs a lot of setting up in Calbri and even then its a hassle... the refresh on a dedicated eink screen is just aweful I think.
Plus besides money!
I can get a cool 90euros for the Tab2 and again for the Glo... i'm kind of on a budget and the Nexus costs 269 here.
Plus I really like having everything on the same device... get one of those slim booklike flaps for the N7.... I could really love this tablet....
Anyhow let me know what you think!
Servaas said:
Hello all, thinking of getting a Nexus 7 cause my older tablet (a Tab2 7") just isnt cutting it for me. TouchWiz isnt that great and the screen is really 2 years ago. Seeing as that tablet isnt that great I bought a Kobo Glo for ereading.
Havent really touched the tab again to be honest since buying the ereader.
However since M&M: Clash of Heroes is released I really want to start playing again, so the Nexus 7 imediatly springs to mind!
Now however the question is, what do people think of the N7 screen thats so great that it could replace the Glo even? for epubs?
The reason to why not keep both is simply while the Glo is great I'm really in love with CoolReader on Android. I can just set it all up easily and the simple directory file picker works for me.
The same can be done on the Glo but it needs a lot of setting up in Calbri and even then its a hassle... the refresh on a dedicated eink screen is just aweful I think.
Plus besides money!
I can get a cool 90euros for the Tab2 and again for the Glo... i'm kind of on a budget and the Nexus costs 269 here.
Plus I really like having everything on the same device... get one of those slim booklike flaps for the N7.... I could really love this tablet....
Anyhow let me know what you think!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sounds like you're already sold on a N7
I have a Kobo and a N7 as well. I've stopped using the Kobo entirely and use Moon Reader for all my books now. Considering what you want to do with the N7, it sounds pretty cost effective. IMHO it's a no-brainer. Get the N7.
I use FBReader on my Nexus 7 for everything. Characters are much easier on the eye now with the new higher resolution screen. The only think I use my Kindle for is downloading new books I buy from amazon so I can copy them off, remove the DRM, convert to ebook, and read in FBReader .
With the increased screen resolution, the N7 is a better tha anything else out there. The only thing that beats it is one of the e-ink devices in bright sunlight. In normal light the N7 is better.
At least in my opinion. YMMV, of course.
The nexus 7 is the 7'' inch tablet with the sharpest most clear display right now so if you are gonna be reader just ujnderclock CPU and it should beat all other eBook readers
I moved from a eink device to the previous Nexus 7 over a year ago and never looked back. Even though my eyes are sensitive to backlit screens I have had no problem with eyestrain because the brightness can be manually adjusted. On the older Naxus 7 I used Moon+ Reader Pro because it allowed me to drop the brightness even lower than the Nexus 7 settings allowed.
I now have the new Nexus 7 and it is even better.
Since you use calibre I would suggest getting the Calibre Companion (CC) App to manage the transfer of books from your library to your Nexus 7. From there you can launch any book you want in the reading app of your choice, for you Coolreader. I have my entire epub library transferred over and CC handles it easily. One reason this app is so well suited to calibre is because the developer of calibre behind the advanced capabilities of the Sony driver, the template language, the metadata plugboards and many other aspects of calibre is the same developer that created CC. When a change to calibre is required to ensure CC works better he implements the change. Check out the CC thread on Mobileread.
Buy it now you will not have any problems using it as an ereader.
One thing to keep in mind mind is that the display is pretty reflective. While it's very good for a tablet/phone screen (I think the only better screens are some Samsung AMOLED), it's still pretty annoying. For me, it's not good enough for outdoor reading.

[Q] Would you recommend the G Pad 8.3

Hi guys, I am looking to purchase a new tablet (7" to below 10") and I am torn between getting the Nexus 7 (2013), an iPad Mini (probably my first Apple device) and the LG G Pad 8.3... this was brought about when I accompanied my wife and bought her a new cellphone the LG G2 hehe.
I am a little bit leaning towards the G Pad... if not for issues that I'm not sure are real... such as no App2SD option? And the lack of casing and accessories.
Any advise will be greatly appreciated.
Yes. I recommend G Pad:good:
App2SD will be available with OS upgrade (4.3 has it)
I have now rooted my G Pad and moved entire 7GB app data to external SD. It work flawless.
There are good cases also available. I got it along with G-Pad.
You can also see G Pad review videos on youtube, have see some good cases (I don't remember the name of the video exactly)
Trust this helps!
That's great to hear! Thanks for the post. I'm a bit hesitant to jump in due to the SD concern... Hmm, does the OS upgrade available off the box? or depends on area / location? Hmm, I used to root my devices... but since I'm busier now-a-days... don't have time doing roots. Yup, seen several videos but no "real" hands-on experience from people who actually used the device and not simply doing a review and had the device for a day.
Hmm, anyone who had both the Nexus 7 (2013) and the G Pad 8.3? To do a comparison?
I was my self just a couple of days ago trying to decide which tablet to go with. Can´t help you with Apple products because i will kill or destroy any objects in my house that is made by thiefs like Apple. Countless of hours went in to researching which one that would give me the most bang for the buck. I had my eyes on the Nexus 7 (2nd gen) since i do not want a 10.1 inch tablet. A 7" would do fine but i was naggin me that i was "only" 7". But when i got to the store to pick the nexus up i saw the LG G PAD 8.3. It had everything i was looking for! a screen that was a bigger than 7" and smaller than the 10".
The problem in the store was that i knew nothing about the LG G pad so i went home again to researh it! (CRAP!!). I found lots of tests both international and 2-3 here in sweden. They all stated the same thing which was that the LG G Pad 8.3 i very impressive.
I went back the same night and picked one up and i have now used it for 14 days. I am loving it. The Pad feels really comfortable and it feels "exclusive" with the aluminium backside. The cameras perform well both front and back.
Pros:
Fantastic screen
Fast and no lag (and i have not rooted it yet but i will to make it go even smoother)
Awesome size but i can still use one hand
Expandable memory
LG apps with for ex. Qpair
Cons:
Speakers on the backside sounds bad (although i can use headphones instead)
Cant find any accessories here in sweden for it and i had to import from ebay - 4 weeks shipping
I don´t know if its my battery that is optimized yet but the batterytime could use another hour or so.
On its own the nexus 7 is a great device, great screen, great software, great price. Place the G Pad next to it and the greatness starts to dissipate quite fast.
Ignoring the specs for one moment the G Pad looks and feels so much better, there is an air of quality not too dissimilar to the IPad. Of course the look is subjective but i love the white version and silver back.
The extra screen really makes a difference, everbody talks about 8" being the sweet spot, and for me they are right. The nexus 7 feels tiny now and i always feel short changed using it.
The nexus 7 screen does look a little sharper and brighter when web browsing but it is very close.
Generally the chips are not too disimilar, the Nexus 7 performs slighty better likely due to running a pure OS compared to LG, and battery life is much better on the Nexus 7, very likely due to the OS again. The LG will get better battery performance over time, either through dev support or software updates.
Add in expandable memory which should be a must on all devices and you have a winner. There is a very good guide on these pages for root. Its a 5 minute job and then you can move apps to sd in a flash.
The LG Pad population is growing quickly, it was slow to start, very little advertising and it was not pushed hard but word has certainly got round now.
Go for it, you know you want to.
-What is your budget?
-do you have a preference for either android or IOS?
I love my G Pad. The 8.3" is just the right size. Both for Notes taking and watching movies. Sadly I had to exchange it 2 times because of damaged display (not my fault), but the 3rd one is perfekt so far. My 4,7" LG 4X HD is so small when I worked with the G Pad for a while. It's really comfortable reading emails, browsing the web, reading articles, chatting. Playing games. And still mobile everywhere I go. I caried a A5 Notebook all the time with me, so I just swapped it for this nice device The big benefit is the Full HD Diplay, everything is so crystal clear.
Apple is just too expensive and I don't want an apple device anymore. There is only one button (I missed my "return" and "settings" button) and really a limit to what you can do with it.
Nexus 7 is too small and has these large brezzels.
G Pad is better than I pad because G comes before I in alphabets lol?
You mentioned that you didn't have time to root the phone. A developer who frequents this forum has developed a root method that will take about 5 minutes or less.
If you have enough time to load up the phone with so many apps that you're worried about app2sd, then you certainly have time to root the phone.
It does take some time to find a good case, but there are some out there. A few people have reported problems with their device and some have had to replace it, but it sounds like more people have had problems with the Nexus 7.
If you can find it at a good price, give it a try.
I just bought both last week and got my G Pad in yesterday. I will write up a longer comparison review when I can, but suffice it to say I'm writing this on my G Pad and the Nexus 7 is getting returned...
Sent from my LG-V500 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
I picked one up yesterday and REALLY like it. I've had 7" tablets (Nook Color), 10" tablets (iPad 3), and 9" tablets (Nook HD+), so this pretty much completes the collection with an ~8" tablet that effectively splits the difference between those. The thin bezel makes it feel much smaller than, say, the Nook HD+, but the screen is really only 0.6" smaller diagonally, so it's a similar experience with less heft. The hardware is outstanding with a beautiful display, silk-smooth performance, and even though many reviews say that LG has really modified Android, I'm finding it's closer to AOSP than, say, Samsung by a long shot. It's mostly reskinned rather than completely reorganized.
To me this is the closest thing to an Android equivalent to the iPad Mini Retina. Yes, it's slightly larger vertically and the pixel density is slightly lower, but when you get close to 300 DPI (this one is 273 DPI, I think), it's imperceptible to the human eye anyway.
I've rooted it, primarily to use Titanium Backup to restore from a backup I made on the Nook HD+, but also to use some apps like fullscreen+ to make certain apps like games and book/magazine readers run 100% full screen without the status or nav bars. I do hope LG releases and official upgrade to 4.3 or even 4.4, but this device is so smooth I'm not sure that's really necessary.
I have a 32GB microSD card that I'd been using in the HD+ that I'll put into this device to hold media and such, but even with every app I had on the HD+ installed, the internal storage is only 1/3 full or so. The stock ROM is way less bloated than, say, my Samsung Galaxy S4 where it's half gone before you ever put your own first app on it!
The main thing that's missing in my opinion is peripherals such as cases and covers. I'm accustomed to having dozens from which to choose on the other devices I've owned (except for the Touchpad), and I'm only seeing a very small number of cases/covers, none of which really do much for me. I'd love to see Poetic release a Slimline smart cover for this device! I love the one I have for the HD+.
Anyway, I give this device exceptionally high marks as hitting an almost perfect sweet spot in the Android tablet market in terms of size, performance, features, and price!
I have the Nexus 7 gen2, and my LG G pad V 500 is on its way Tuesday. But I've already played with one and I can tell you the 8.3 is the way to go. The form factor is infinitely easier to use in every regard. There's nothing negative I can say about the Nexus 7 2013. I absolutely love it but I simply don't need it now as it would be redundant. So I'm selling it to a friend for exactly what I paid for it and keeping the LG 8 inch. I also have a Nexus 10 for watching movies Nexus 4 for daily use. ... and Neptune pine on order through Kickstarter for what it's worth
Sent from my Nexus 7 using xda app-developers app
---------- Post added at 02:42 PM ---------- Previous post was at 02:39 PM ----------
Lcwells,
Thanks for that advice! To those who don't want to root the device but still want to get maximum screen real-estate you can simply do what I do and download Go Launcher from the App Store for free. I use it on all my devices and I love it because you can take away all notification bars. Plus it's freaking awesome to use and does not slow down the device. Add pie control and you're all set.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using xda app-developers app
---------- Post added at 02:43 PM ---------- Previous post was at 02:42 PM ----------
Scwells... sorry
Sent from my Nexus 7 using xda app-developers app
What kind of results are you guys getting on benchmarks? I'm really interested on getting this device. I have a Nexus 10 that I've enjoyed for about a year now. Wondering how much more of an improvement the LG G pad is compared tonit. In performance. I'll be using this tablet if I get it for gaming mostly. Thanks.
Sent from my Nexus 10 using xda app-developers app
I've owned all the major tablets out there.. and I love this one. I've had every gen iPad 9.7", first gen ipad mini, both Nexus 7's, and the g Pad. So far, I'm extremely pleased with this one. Build quality feels better than the Nexus 7's, and portability is excellent. The case availability stinks right now (I do want the slim one, but they are not readily available, unless you want to spend a ton on ebay).
GL!
Thanks
Thanks for the reply guys. I'm sure I am not the only one who will benefit from the postings. I'll be getting the tablet next week - during my bday as a gift from my wife. Since she asked me what I wanted for my bday. Looking forward to do the 5min rooting... to be able to fulling maximize SD storage. Will also post my experience with the tablet once I get it. Feel free to continue posting advice or recommendations since I am sure there are a lot of people wondering what Android tablet to get this Holiday Season.
abdulm said:
Yes. I recommend G Pad:good:
App2SD will be available with OS upgrade (4.3 has it)
I have now rooted my G Pad and moved entire 7GB app data to external SD. It work flawless.
There are good cases also available. I got it along with G-Pad.
You can also see G Pad review videos on youtube, have see some good cases (I don't remember the name of the video exactly)
Trust this helps!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I rooted my Lenovo A2109 tablet but still could not move my biggest apps to my sdcard. Then I found out about the mount bind trick, where you redirect the system to a new directory. I moved my Google Newsstand, with 8gb of data, to my sdcard this way. Each time my tablet boots, it runs this command:
Code:
#!/system/bin/sh
mount -o bind /sdcard2/Linked/com.google.android.apps.magazines /data/data/com.google.android.apps.magazines
Basically, you run the mount command, with the bind option, followed by the destination directory and source directory. You will need root, but this will move even those pesky apps that the app2sd applications can't. Me so happy
---------- Post added at 06:21 PM ---------- Previous post was at 06:18 PM ----------
jjdevega said:
What kind of results are you guys getting on benchmarks? I'm really interested on getting this device. I have a Nexus 10 that I've enjoyed for about a year now. Wondering how much more of an improvement the LG G pad is compared tonit. In performance. I'll be using this tablet if I get it for gaming mostly. Thanks.
Sent from my Nexus 10 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
According to these numbers, the G Pad slays the Nexus 7:
http://www.gsmarena.com/lg_g_pad_83-review-1004p5.php
I highly recommend the G Pad. Honestly, I have had a few Android devices (and the iPad mini and iPhones before that) and although I love the functionality of Android, I always felt that the iOS is superior in terms of user experience. Well after getting the G Pad, I no longer feel this way. Seriously, if all Android devices are at least as good as this in the future, I can think of absolutely no reason to go with an iPad or iPhone anymore.
PROS:
-Great screen: I've shown it to a few people and they have all commented on how nice it looks. The PPI may not be as high as the Nexus 7 2013 or iPad mini 2013 but unless you have a magnifying glass (i tried ), you won't notice the difference. As far as I can tell, the screen is very accurate and doesn't look yellowish or greyish as reported by some people. It's definitely better than a lot of the AMOLED screens on some Samsung devices which can look blueish or greenish.
-Tiny bezel: People complain that it makes it hard to hold but I've found several positions that make it quite comfortable. It also makes everything on the display pop out. It makes devices like the Nexus 7 look primitive by comparison (like an old television set compared to a flat screen).
-Performance: The main reason why I think it's on par with any iOS device. The interface feels buttery smooth and games and apps run without any stutters. People might say that most of the latest devices that run Jelly Bean are like this but I am really picky when it comes to this and unfortunately, most devices just don't feel up to the standard of iOS. With the G Pad however, I'd say it's 99% there. I've noticed one or two stutters sometimes when going back to the Homescreen but it's so minuscule that it doesn't bother me.
-Well placed speakers: IMO, the speakers are in a great place. Sure, when it's in portrait mode, they're both bunched up to the left but chances are, it doesn't really matter where the sound is coming from when you're in portrait mode. It's in landscape where it matters for stuff like gaming and movies. In terms of placement, you can't satisfy every position unless you stick 4 speakers in there like the Sony Xperia Tablet Z so I think LG's solution is quite good, especially since they're in a place that can't be blocked easily by your hands.
-Optimus UI: This depends on your taste. I really like the look and functionality of what's being offered by LG. I believe they have struck a perfect balance between style and functionality as opposed to just functionality (Stock) or just style (Samsung).
-Build Quality: This thing feels like a luxury device. It's tiny (without sacrificing screen real estate), has an aluminium back panel and the plastic they use on the other parts of the device feels as nice and solid as the metal parts.
-MicroSD support: Pretty much explains itself.
CONS:
-Battery life: It's not terrible, but definitely below average. I'm a pretty heavy user and most of the time, I have around 10% left after spending 12 hours out of the house. Your mileage may be different but I can say that this is the first tablet I've owned where I ran out of battery before I was able to plug it in after coming home. This only happened once but i'll definitely be bringing my charger from now on. Also, I noticed that even when plugged into my computer, the battery still goes down if I'm using it (although rather slowly). This also has not happened with any of my other devices which suggests that it uses quite a lot of power as opposed to having a weak battery (but I guess then they should've put in a bigger battery which would of course made the device bigger and heavier).
-Auto-Brightness: Unlike many people, I don't think the screen is potentially too dim. At maximum, it's as good as I could ever need on a sunny day. The only problem is that the auto-brightness is not very reliable because it tends to adjust to the dimmer side. It's not unusable but I would certainly prefer it if it was a touch brighter a lot of the time.
-Snapdragon 600: As I mentioned earlier, this thing is fast. But knowing that it doesn't come with the latest and greatest is a little annoying as far as pride is concerned and also for future proofing. But the competition isn't that great either (with the real exception being the iPad mini). The Kindle HDX has a Snapdragon 800 but unless you want to be locked out of the Play Store, I don't see that as a viable option at all. The Nexus 7 has an even older processor (although it seems to be able to punch above it's weight). At this price and size range, the only other option are some of the Tegra 4 devices like the Tegra Note but then you have yourself a tiny screen with a much lower resolution as well as a huge bezel.
Anyways, that's my take. Wrote a bit more than I was planning to but what can I say, I just can't stop talking about this device
vicstarman said:
I have the Nexus 7 gen2, and my LG G pad V 500 is on its way Tuesday. But I've already played with one and I can tell you the 8.3 is the way to go. The form factor is infinitely easier to use in every regard. There's nothing negative I can say about the Nexus 7 2013. I absolutely love it but I simply don't need it now as it would be redundant. So I'm selling it to a friend for exactly what I paid for it and keeping the LG 8 inch. I also have a Nexus 10 for watching movies Nexus 4 for daily use. ... and Neptune pine on order through Kickstarter for what it's worth
Sent from my Nexus 7 using xda app-developers app
---------- Post added at 02:42 PM ---------- Previous post was at 02:39 PM ----------
Lcwells,
Thanks for that advice! To those who don't want to root the device but still want to get maximum screen real-estate you can simply do what I do and download Go Launcher from the App Store for free. I use it on all my devices and I love it because you can take away all notification bars. Plus it's freaking awesome to use and does not slow down the device. Add pie control and you're all set.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using xda app-developers app
---------- Post added at 02:43 PM ---------- Previous post was at 02:42 PM ----------
Scwells... sorry
Sent from my Nexus 7 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Mostly I see people using Nova Launcher but if you recommend Go Launcher instead of stock UI, I'll give it a try but how does one eliminate all the notification bars? And what is pie control?
I'm not a rooter, maybe I can get a friend to do it if it is easy and a 5 minute process but I feel many don't do it and we would all be interested in getting as much as we can from a device as possible without doing so. Whatever other recommendations you can make would be great! Thanks!
I hope more people try the G Pad. I cannot put it down and wouldn't have to except I rather have it charge while idle but then again that only adds to the anticipation of using this great device again ASAP.
As far as the Kindle Fire HDX? I'll take the G Pad anyday and I also cannot stop talking about this device either. So glad I tried one on for size!
100% recommend the G Pad. Smooth, fast, very little bloat, and very sleek.
Pie control: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=jun.ace.piecontrol&hl=en
Takes the very best feature of the stock google browser (and the only reason I'm using it and not Chrome) and makes it functional for the main interface.
Mark

[Q] Nexus 7 (2013) Or LG G Pad 8.3 ???

Hi,
I am planning to purchase an Android tablet but scratching my head which model to go for, Nexus 7 2013 or LG G Pad 8.3 (non Google Play Edition). Could anyone provide some buying guidelines? Love the brush aluminium back plate of the G Pad and the screen size but crave for the stock android on Nexus. Also I prefer a better battery back up. Please help educate me. Many thanks!
Do you really think you will get the advise to buy the G-pad on THIS forum?
I looked at both but bought the Nexus, the screen is better, the size suits me perfectly but most of all you can do so much more to it because of it being a nexus device!
Nexus 7. Lots of support.
cypherlwind said:
Hi,
I am planning to purchase an Android tablet but scratching my head which model to go for, Nexus 7 2013 or LG G Pad 8.3 (non Google Play Edition). Could anyone provide some buying guidelines? Love the brush aluminium back plate of the G Pad and the screen size but crave for the stock android on Nexus. Also I prefer a better battery back up. Please help educate me. Many thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Depends on what you want to do with your tab. I have both, and I tend to use the Nexus 7 a bit more only because it's easier to carry around. I am not sure about its screen being better than the Gpad. For movies I prefer the Gpad.
I'm certain you've done some research on the specs of both. But if I were you, I'd go for the LG since (1) it has a bigger screen; (2) it has less hardware glitches; (3) you might get it for less because it's lesser known (but not necessarily inferior specs-wise). Unless you're a flash-freak, that is. I just saw lollipop support for the LG the other day.
graphdarnell said:
Depends on what you want to do with your tab. I have both, and I tend to use the Nexus 7 a bit more only because it's easier to carry around. I am not sure about its screen being better than the Gpad. For movies I prefer the Gpad.
I'm certain you've done some research on the specs of both. But if I were you, I'd go for the LG since (1) it has a bigger screen; (2) it has less hardware glitches; (3) you might get it for less because it's lesser known (but not necessarily inferior specs-wise). Unless you're a flash-freak, that is. I just saw lollipop support for the LG the other day.
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Hi graphdarnell,
Actually battery life is my main concern, I seek good battery backup, I would say I use it mainly for some internet surfing, play some not so graphical intensive games such as Clash Of Clans and Angry Birds, check mails, Youtube and basically that's all. I don't watch movies on a tab. Well actually I was thinking about Nexus 7 (2013) because of the new stock Lollipop OS. Will G pad getting it as well or only the Google Play Edition? The hardware glitches you mentioned, what are those? Thanks mate for your reply and I hope you could guide me on my purchase. Cheerz~!
cypherlwind said:
Hi graphdarnell,
Actually battery life is my main concern, I seek good battery backup, I would say I use it mainly for some internet surfing, play some not so graphical intensive games such as Clash Of Clans and Angry Birds, check mails, Youtube and basically that's all. I don't watch movies on a tab. Well actually I was thinking about Nexus 7 (2013) because of the new stock Lollipop OS. Will G pad getting it as well or only the Google Play Edition? The hardware glitches you mentioned, what are those? Thanks mate for your reply and I hope you could guide me on my purchase. Cheerz~!
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Yes. I do have to say that battery life on the Nexus 7 is slightly better, but given what you said you'd do with the tab, I don't know if that should be of utmost concern. The most intractable problem with the Nexus 7 is the touchscreen, in my opinion. So many have it, and there's no absolute cure. Once you have it, it won't go away. The worst of it is that it's intermittent. Most noticeably so as the battery goes down towards the 25% limit.
Some devs are working on Lollipop for the Gpad. Hopefully, it will be stable enough for daily use soon. Right now, it's at Beta stage. Hope this helps, and happy Thanksgiving if you celebrate it.
graphdarnell said:
Yes. I do have to say that battery life on the Nexus 7 is slightly better, but given what you said you'd do with the tab, I don't know if that should be of utmost concern. The most intractable problem with the Nexus 7 is the touchscreen, in my opinion. So many have it, and there's no absolute cure. Once you have it, it won't go away. The worst of it is that it's intermittent. Most noticeably so as the battery goes down towards the 25% limit.
Some devs are working on Lollipop for the Gpad. Hopefully, it will be stable enough for daily use soon. Right now, it's at Beta stage. Hope this helps, and happy Thanksgiving if you celebrate it.
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Hi,
Does the touch screen issue apply to all Nexus 7 units? Or just some batches? In this case I think it is better to get the G pad instead... what a let down from Asus ... sob sob ...
I kept my N7 after returning G-Pad-not enough brightness for me. If I were looking for an 8in tab today, the current Bestbuy price of $199. for the Samsung Galaxy tabpro 8.4 would have me looking at it. Lots of support for it (not like nexus, of course). My N7 had some touch issues that were improved (maybe fixed) with L.

Considering buying this, owners opinions needed.

Hi I need a new phone and the Zenfone 2 seems to fit my needs. I'd like to know opinions from current owners regarding the following.
Community
How's the support for this phone? I don't need a bazillion ROMs just one official CM that works well and is solid. If there's no CM are there at least ROMs without the propietary UI? Also does double tap 2 wake work on other roms or just the stock and stock based ones?
Bootloader and root
On my old Nexus 5 this was as easy as it gets. I know there are some phones that are a complete pain in the ass to unlock bootloader and root like some Samsung phones. So how easy is it to do these things on the Zenfone? How easy is to break (and brick) and recover?
Audio
I've owned a couple of seemingly badly engineered phones that would make headphones hiss and crackle when listening music and using mobile data or wifi at the same time. This phone doesn't suffer from anything like this does it?
GPS
My Nexus 5 was a disaster regarding this, sometimes taking 5-10 minutes to get a lock. Not terribly important but nice to have.
Screen
This is the most important factor, a bad screen is a deal breaker for me. I plan on watching lots of media on this phone so this is very important. I like neutral, slightly warm and punchy colors, can live with a too warm and yellow screen and absolutely abhorre blueish screens. How's the color and contrast on the Zenfone? Im quite pleased with my Nexus 5 screen, quite neutral and a bit punchy without overdoing it like some Samsung phones. I've also owned an lg optimus g that is the nexus 4 cousin, the screen on that was atrociously blue with no contrast. Thankfully there were custom kernels with fine color, contrast and gamma tuneablity, does the Zenfone have anything like this? I know it has a color profile picker by default but I'd like something with even finer control. Would like to know if said feature works on other roms or just the stock one and if its merely an overlay like those cheap apps on the playstore or if it works at kernel level. Max brightness and sunlight legibility are not important for me.
Battery
I've heard people say this phones battery life is atrocious but so did they about the N5 yet I was ok with my N5 battery life. I don't use my phone much so maybe that's why. Still would like to know if it's really bad, my N5 gets 4 days on standby and almost 4 on web browsing on wifi. Im perfectly ok with those numbers, is the Zenfone better or worse?
Camera
There's no mention of Optical Image Stabilization on reviews but most new phones have it, just want to confirm the Zenfone has it too. RAW support would be nice too.
Performance and x86
From all the info I could gather the Z3560 is roughly on par with my N5 old S 800, am I right about this? Also this would be my first x86 phone, it is my understanding that since android is a java vm I shouldn't have any app incompatibility problems, is this correct? Is the extra $ worth it for the 4gb z3580 version?
If it's of any importance my other options are the Note 3 and 4 and the LG G2 and G3.
All opinions appreciated.
I had a note 3 with an unlocked bootloader. Rooting and installing TWRP was very easy and there is a lot of support for the phone on XDA. It's pretty easy to recover from a soft-brick but a hard brick is very difficult.
The G2 is also a nice phone. Even with a locked bootloader, bumped TWRP and bumped ROMs make installation very easy. Autorec simplifies the rooting process. The G2 can be recovered from virtually any brick. For a soft brick, recovery is a bit easier than a softbricked Zenfone 2.
In my opinion, the note 3 screen is nicer than both the Zenfone 2, G2, and G3. The Note 4 screen is nicer than all 3 phones.
The camera on the G3 and Note 4 and better than the note 3 and G2.
Note 3 and 4 have great battery life and the battery is easily replaced with good aftermarket batteries from Anker and Stallion.

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