The launch of the latest iPad was met with more of a ripple of applause rather than gushing praise. Yes, it’s moved on and but it marks more of a predictable improvement than a revolutionary redevelopment that many may have been hoping for. The super-smooth ‘retina’ display allows for gorgeous graphics and super high resolution images and the processor was given a boost, while users in 4G-enabled countries can benefit from the high speed data processing of the new iPad’s 4G technology.
But those steps forward apart, there doesn’t seem too much more to shout about in terms of improvements on the iPad 2. So, does this open the door for other tablet developers to swoop in and capture a share of the market dominated by Apple until now?
Rumors aplenty continue to circulate about a Google-branded Android tablet set to be unleashed later this year, while the recently-previewed Windows 8 operating system from Microsoft will offer Windows-powered tablets the same functionality as a Windows PC yet with the portability and super-smooth operation of a tablet device.
But even without waiting for the promised new arrivals, whether it’s price, practicality, feature, or a simple matter of taste, there are other options already out there to explore if you want to get involved with tablet computing without feeling you have to plump for the trend-setting iPad. Here are four alternatives tablets which can provide realistic rivals to the new iPad:
Amazon Kindle Fire
Yet to be unveiled in the UK but expected to be a big seller when it is, this is set to become the tablet of choice for those on a budget and has already established itself as a firm favourite in the US market. The dual core processor keeps things moving snappily and smoothly, while it is not cluttered up with frills such as a camera making this a simple tablet that does what it says on the tin. The tempting $199 price tag makes this an attractive option for those that want simple yet effective portable computing.
ASUS Eee Pad Transformer Prime
Perhaps the least trendy name on the tablet market, but ASUS has quietly gone about its business carving an impressive reputation for itself in the crowded space. And in the powerful Eee Pad Transformer Prime it has delivered a genuine contender with practical accessories such as the portable keyboard dock which turns the pad into a laptop in an instant. But it is the impressive Quad-core Nvidia Tegra 3 processor which has made the Prime a heavyweight presence in the tablet arena with eye-catching speed and processing power.
Samsung Galaxy Note 10.1
Still similar to the iPad in terms of looks yet slightly slimmer, the soon-to-be-released Galaxy Note 10.1 comes complete with an ultra-responsive stylus, making it a tempting prospect for those who like the feel of creating content by hand. Doodlers and scribblers will love it.
Toshiba Excite X10
Perhaps the sleekest looking of all the Apple competitors, it is also incredibly thin and light and considerably lighter than the new iPad. Designed to run on the latest Android operating system available, it is packed with premium features and power and aims to be a premium offering for tablet users looking for performance and good looks in one slender package.
And if that is not enough for you then take a look at this compare chart featuring the latest 8 tablets to the market.
Click to view enlarged Tablet Compare Chart
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About The Author: Rob Boirun
I am the Team Leader here at BurnWorld. I am an audio/video enthusiast and have been in this industry for over 10 years. I love testing DVD/Blu-Ray and Video software. I have tried almost all there is and am honored that I can bring you my thoughts on each. Be sure to follow be on my Google Profile
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