[Q] If I was to choose another tablet - Galaxy Tab 8.9 General

If i were to return my galaxy 8.9 tablet... what other tablet would be ideal to get?
with all my research i came up with
#1 Kindlefire -
pros- price, would save me about $250, decent amount of developing roms
cons - NO CAMERA
#2 Motorola Xoom -
Pros- saves me about.. $100 bucks, comes with micro sd slot, lots of roms and development.., better camera also
cons-from what i heard washed out screen?(#1 reason why i got the galaxy tab in the first place), possibly too big, or heavy being that im use to the 8.9's leetness?
#3 ?
#4 ?
so on..
what do you guys think would be a good candidate?

the thing is im in love with the 8.9 screen size.
it took me a while to decide on what tablet i wanted and i tried out quite a few.
10.1 is just too big for me. i want to carry my tab around easily.
the 7inch is just too small. browsing becomes a chore and it just isn't that much of a gain compared to phones.
i really don't know why you would want to change your tab
everything else will feel bulky. a xoom is pretty huge and heavy plus the screen can be total crap if you are unlucky.
kindle is nice and cheap but is underpowered compared to the 8.9.
to be able to give you some ideas on what tab is good we would need to know why you want it and what you use it for. if you just want to watch movies on it by all means go for a 10.1 tablet if not then smaller might be better...

when another tab with 8.9 screen and tegra3 comes out, I'll take a look at it.

ellokomen said:
when another tab with 8.9 screen and tegra3 comes out, I'll take a look at it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
^ This. I totally agree. It's the perfect screen size.

ellokomen said:
when another tab with 8.9 screen and tegra3 comes out, I'll take a look at it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
thats a good reason for me to keep my tablet!,
the only reason why i was looking into another tablet is because im a college student and i feel like $450 was a big burn in my pocket just for a luxury device that i dont really need :/

Related

[Q] Should I get a Tab 1 now that 2 is 10"

Just saw the news that the Tab 2 is 10.1". I had been waiting to buy a tablet for the Tab 2 with hopes of the upgraded hardware and still a 7" screen. I don't want a 10" screen for a tab.
I guess i'm just looking to see if the hardware on the Tab 1 is good enough for most things.
Guess I'm just disappointed in a 10".
Will you be using it as a phone? If yes, I would ask to re-think it twice about 10" for a phone lol
I actually am thinking about letting mine go and get a Dell Streak phone (the 5"). While I love the tab but I kinda miss being able to toss it in my pocket and don't have to use bluetooth.
Or you can just wait until Honeycomb will be released, at that time you will have an upgrade in your GT 7" from Samsung or from XDA.
At the moment the Hardware is capable enough to make everything you want, record video at 720, watch HD movies or play HD Games...
Personally, I would not move to a 10" Tab, as a 7" fits my needs.
I'm not moving. I don't have 1.
I was waiting to buy a tab till the 2, but it's 10". I've played with my friends Ipad, besides being locked down, I don't like how big it is. I really like the 7" size.
I don't think in NA I can use it as a phone. PLus I don't think I want a CDMA tab even tho My cell is Verizon.
I'm using it mainly as GPS, Game, email, hopefully Skype, etc. All over wifi. I travel for my job and would like to have this, and wherever I go I have wifi, and refuse to pay ~30-40/month for a data plan or w/e.
So was just looking to see if people felt I should get the 7". I mean I know it's my decisions, I guess I just want to know based on what I want to use it for, does it do it well.
I do plan on rooting it and stuff, I heard some of the ROM's actually remove a ton of the lag, and I doubt samsung will release HoneyComb so was hoping a xda developer would for the Tab, and the Tab would be powerful enough to run it.
The 10" was a big downer. I dont see any real use for a tab just in the home and a 10" is to big to have with you all the time plus its heavy for the hands/wrists to use longer times.
Now when im running Rotos JMI ontop a 1,4GHz ext4 kernel i cant realy ask for much more. The tab works great and are quick in the perfect format.
Would be fun if hc get ported to the sgt. But i will never buy a 10" when they are almost completly useless in my eyes.
EDIT: And i use my sgt as phone so i have it on me all the time. It fits in my front pockets on my pants without problems, but im a big dude so i have big pockets
robertsydbrink said:
The 10" was a big downer. I dont see any real use for a tab just in the home and a 10" is to big to have with you all the time plus its heavy for the hands/wrists to use longer times.
Now when im running Rotos JMI ontop a 1,4GHz ext4 kernel i cant realy ask for much more. The tab works great and are quick in the perfect format.
Would be fun if hc get ported to the sgt. But i will never buy a 10" when they are almost completly useless in my eyes.
EDIT: And i use my sgt as phone so i have it on me all the time. It fits in my front pockets on my pants without problems, but im a big dude so i have big pockets
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I got big pockets too, the 7" fits.
I thought the tab 1 was 1GHZ not 1.4?. But you like it alot?
I don't think I can get calling in USA.
I'm glad the Tab 10.1 turned out to be a larger device. Now i can stop trying to figure out how to afford to upgrade, and stay with the Tab1 with its 7" of goodness.
dardack said:
I got big pockets too, the 7" fits.
I thought the tab 1 was 1GHZ not 1.4?. But you like it alot?
I don't think I can get calling in USA.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
He's flashed it with a custom kernel to run at 1.4.
If you buy the AT&T version, you can indeed get voice calling in the US, after you flash it with Euro firmware and insert a SIM from a voice plan device. You can also get it with the T-Mobile version, but there's a few issues with that. Good news is that both versions can use international firmware no problem, even if you don't want/use voice calling.
I'd stay the hell away from the Sprint and Verizon devices for a couple of reasons. The first is that they have less internal memory (2Gb vs 16Gb), and the other is that neither unit can use international firmware, leaving you almost entirely at the mercy of the carriers for upgrades.
Croak said:
He's flashed it with a custom kernel to run at 1.4.
If you buy the AT&T version, you can indeed get voice calling in the US, after you flash it with Euro firmware and insert a SIM from a voice plan device. You can also get it with the T-Mobile version, but there's a few issues with that. Good news is that both versions can use international firmware no problem, even if you don't want/use voice calling.
I'd stay the hell away from the Sprint and Verizon devices for a couple of reasons. The first is that they have less internal memory (2Gb vs 16Gb), and the other is that neither unit can use international firmware, leaving you almost entirely at the mercy of the carriers for upgrades.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is the kind of information I was looking for. TY for taking time.
What about the Best Buy / Amazon version? Yea I was staying away from Verizon/CDMA. I have verizon for my phone cause of work, and not a huge fan.
However, I won't need calling on the Tab.
Does it function OK OC"d at 1.4? It doesn't get too hot? Stability issues?
Yea I don't want to be at mercy. I want to put honeycomb on it if I do get it. I probably will now that 2 is 10, so I'll get 1. Just gonna wait and see if price comes down to like 400 or somethign hopefully.
I am 7" fan, too. Would love to see a SGT with the specs of the new 10.1" SGT 2 (or xoom), but with 7" screen. I am not big man, but "rounded in middle" (spare tire). I can fit my SGT in back pocket, nicely. It has fully replaced my Nexus 1.
For the 7" fans, the question maybe to stick with SGT 1 or maybe look at Acer a100 (http://www.mobileburn.com/news.jsp?Id=13010) -- appears to be 7" but with Tegra 2 (and a bump in a few other areas). The 7" form factor may have been validated with rumors about a 7" ipad (but those rumor seem unsubstantiated) -- so that might make more manufacturers take notice.
What would be really intersting, IMHO, 6", or 6.5" with SGT (or better) specs. I am not sure a 5" with 1024x600 would work..
LG has an 8.9" odd ball too.....
I think there is some more to come from MWC...maybe sammy has a refresh for the 7" sgt too?
Don't forget Dell has a 7" tablet too and it has dual core CPU (unlike our SGT 7"). The only downer is screen size is 800x480.
I don't think you could buy a SGT (no contract) lesser than $450 unless used. Streak 7" is $450 no contract.
I was in the same boat - bought my GT two weeks ago on T-Mobile, hoping that if there is an announcement about GT2, I can take a look at it before my return window closes. And at 10" no thank you. I actually had an iPad for few months (my wife wanted it more than me...) but just sold it, because it kept sitting unused, as it was too big for a book reader or to take it with me everywhere, but too small for good browsing (have a 14.1" laptop with 1680x1050 res for that).
I looked at the Dell Streak 7, but that screen just plain sucks. It looks like Dell was trying to build something nice, then just decided last minute that 7" won't work, so they found the cheapest LCD they could lay their hands on. Not to mention the battery life...
While it would be nice to have a GT with dual-core, 1Gb RAM and all that, I think the current hardware is more than capable, and will run Honeycomb just fine. My next tablet would have to be a lot more powerful, and have higher res screen.
i will stay with my 7'' tab
the best thing about the tab is it's size and the cell phone. i dont want to go back walking around with two devices in my pocket, i used to have an iphone & a big ass ipad so i know what is like to walk with two devices not cool lol.who ever makes the next 7'' tab with all the good stuff and a cell phone included i'm buying that.
quattr0 said:
Will you be using it as a phone? If yes, I would ask to re-think it twice about 10" for a phone lol
I actually am thinking about letting mine go and get a Dell Streak phone (the 5"). While I love the tab but I kinda miss being able to toss it in my pocket and don't have to use bluetooth.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
AFAIK the tab 10.1 can't be used as a phone
quattr0 said:
I actually am thinking about letting mine go and get a Dell Streak phone (the 5"). While I love the tab but I kinda miss being able to toss it in my pocket and don't have to use bluetooth.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well i came to the tab from a dell streak and i'll tell ya the tab does everything way better than the streak, except fit in your pocket...... i wont be going back to the streak.
Yea I've read about the Dell 7", not getting that for sure. Screen rez alone plus battery life, no TY.
So there is another 7" Tab coming?
EDIT: That Ace 7" seems nice, plus a WIFI only version. No word on release in USA tho, only Europe.
FYI: HTC annouced the 'flyer' at MWC. This is a 7" too. 1.5ghz, 1024x600, cameras, android 2.4 (?) or honeycomb, etc. GSM voice support unknown.
fwelland said:
FYI: HTC annouced the 'flyer' at MWC. This is a 7" too. 1.5ghz, 1024x600, cameras, android 2.4 (?) or honeycomb, etc. GSM voice support unknown.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think i may return my GT and wait for this. I will only be buying one Tab, so I gotta make the right choice.
Here is a decent comparison matrix of the newly announced Android tablets
http://www.droid-life.com/2011/02/1...-lg-g-slate-vs-samsung-tab-10-1-vs-htc-flyer/
no mention of phone/voice on any of these; this is a deal breaker for some of us.
It's a deal breaker for me as i was a "one gadget man"
my main reason i go with samsung was because it can be used as a phone
if it isn't i'd go with htc already
if flyer can be used as a phone too, i might be jumping ship to htc ^^

[Q] iPad 2 vs Galaxy Tab

Did a search, didn't find a whole lot on this topic so figured i'd ask since I'm trying to decide between the two.
I currently have a Captivate and can say i love the dev community it has. Running CM7 and its awesome.
That being said, Apple's hardware has always been great but iOS is lame. I previously had a jailbroken iPhone and it was ok at best. iPad is a bit different though, if i was to get one i'd jailbreak it as soon as i can....but more interestingly its looking like OpeniBoot has support for the original iPad so it might have iPad 2 support in the furture. I'm not sure how smooth android would be on it but it would allow me to run both android/iOS on great hardware.
A big factor for me is price, from what i'm reading the new Galaxy Tab 10.1 will probably be around $800 like the Xoom and thats too much for me. Both wifi verisons of iPad 2/Galaxy Tab around $500 which is the price point i'm looking for.
So which would you recommend?
Thanks
Wifi Galaxy Tab will be more like $400 max..
Would you not consider a used/new 3G Galaxy Tab.
The 7" design is great for portability and adding 3G completes the Tab imo..
If its for household use only I would say IPad..
Bear in mind I only own a Tab though not an IPad lol.
Well This is what I think:
iPad 2:
Much more secure
Closed Source
Nicer Screen
NOT PORTABLE DUE TO BIGGER SIZE.
Galaxy Tab 7
Not very secure ( Thank you you SOB's....your day will come ) but still more secure than Windows.
It is PORTABLE ( Can fit into pocket )
You can customize it/Flash it
All in all the Galaxy Tab is a winner IMHO. 7 inches is the PERFECT size ( pls no "****" jokes ) for being more portable and customisation.
Digiguest said:
Well This is what I think:
iPad 2:
Much more secure
Closed Source
Nicer Screen
NOT PORTABLE DUE TO BIGGER SIZE.
Galaxy Tab 7
Not very secure ( Thank you you SOB's....your day will come ) but still more secure than Windows.
It is PORTABLE ( Can fit into pocket )
You can customize it/Flash it
All in all the Galaxy Tab is a winner IMHO. 7 inches is the PERFECT size ( pls no "****" jokes ) for being more portable and customisation.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not very secure?
http://www.groovypost.com/howto/news/pwn2own-google-unhacked/
RE:
Just got the Tab on Thursday. Bought it outright.
Got the Bell Mobility model so I could put my internet keys' SIM into it.
Two things impressed me:
1.) Using Z4Root I rooted my Tab in seconds and it was simple. (Article on the forums here with the apk)
2.) The fact that I could unlock the device for free with Roto's process (also on the forums), was pretty sweet.
I put the Overcome 1.2.2 ROM on my Tab, an extra 16gb mem card, and have installed a crap ton of apps to test its limits.
Thus far, the device has not slowed down.
It's usable in all lighting conditions, and the battery life is quite impressive.
I get that everyone pushes Apple products because they're the greatest thing since a toaster(and mildly more useful. ), but with the Tab you get freedom, functionality, and portability.
I call that a win-win.
I feel that Galaxy tab is much more impressive, I am impressed by the openness of Android and how you can manipulate it with only a little effort.
Plus, iOS is a shame, with a huge portion of its apps being paid ones, go for the Tab if it gets only a bit more expensive but 800 is way pricier to be sold.
roy8846 said:
Wifi Galaxy Tab will be more like $400 max..
Would you not consider a used/new 3G Galaxy Tab.
The 7" design is great for portability and adding 3G completes the Tab imo..
If its for household use only I would say IPad..
Bear in mind I only own a Tab though not an IPad lol.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Where can you get one for $400?
Digiguest said:
Well This is what I think:
iPad 2:
Much more secure
Closed Source
Nicer Screen
NOT PORTABLE DUE TO BIGGER SIZE.
Galaxy Tab 7
Not very secure ( Thank you you SOB's....your day will come ) but still more secure than Windows.
It is PORTABLE ( Can fit into pocket )
You can customize it/Flash it
All in all the Galaxy Tab is a winner IMHO. 7 inches is the PERFECT size ( pls no "****" jokes ) for being more portable and customisation.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What do you mean by not very secure?
PhelanPKell said:
Just got the Tab on Thursday. Bought it outright.
Got the Bell Mobility model so I could put my internet keys' SIM into it.
Two things impressed me:
1.) Using Z4Root I rooted my Tab in seconds and it was simple. (Article on the forums here with the apk)
2.) The fact that I could unlock the device for free with Roto's process (also on the forums), was pretty sweet.
I put the Overcome 1.2.2 ROM on my Tab, an extra 16gb mem card, and have
installed a crap ton of apps to test its limits.
Thus far, the device has not slowed down.
It's usable in all lighting conditions, and the battery life is quite impressive.
I get that everyone pushes Apple products because they're the greatest thing since a toaster(and mildly more useful. ), but with the Tab you get freedom, functionality, and portability.
I call that a win-win.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
MAGPC said:
I feel that Galaxy tab is much more impressive, I am impressed by the openness of Android and how you can manipulate it with only a little effort.
Plus, iOS is a shame, with a huge portion of its apps being paid ones, go for the Tab if it gets only a bit more expensive but 800 is way pricier to be sold.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I agree with both of you about Android. I suppose one of the main reasons I was even going to consider the iPad is the possibility of putting Android on it in the future
chrisz5z said:
Where can you get one for $400?
I agree with both of you about Android. I suppose one of the main reasons I was even going to consider the iPad is the possibility of putting Android on it in the future
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Wait, what? Why spend all that money on an ipad if you are just going to jailbreak it and put android OS on it anyway?
vamp6x6x6x said:
Wait, what? Why spend all that money on an ipad if you are just going to jailbreak it and put android OS on it anyway?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Better quality hardware, bigger screen, and the prices are basically the same. Also openiboot dual boots iOS and android
Galaxy tab 10.1 is the same size screen as the ipad. And where is the documentation saying the ipad has better specs...
On most threads in all the blogs I've read, Galaxy tab beat the ipad hands down... Most threads say the ipad and tabs specs are pretty close with the main difference being screen size (also ipad has bigger battery with a bit better life, 10 hours versus 8). Nowhere did it say the ipad has better hardware...
Personally Apple hype up everything, had the ipod/iphone reps to expand their market with. They aren't any better than anything else out there, in fact I get the dirts with how limiting IOS really is.
If you want something that seems to be developed with the speed of continental drift go with the Ipad, if you want something thats open and can be altered, changed and played with then the Android Galaxy Tab is the go...
When Galaxy Tab 10.1 is released then Apple are REALLY gonna have a battle on their hands, there's a reason Android is liked and IOS isn't.
ultramag69 said:
Galaxy tab 10.1 is the same size screen as the ipad. And where is the documentation saying the ipad has better specs...
On most threads in all the blogs I've read, Galaxy tab beat the ipad hands down... Most threads say the ipad and tabs specs are pretty close with the main difference being screen size (also ipad has bigger battery with a bit better life, 10 hours versus 8). Nowhere did it say the ipad has better hardware...
Personally Apple hype up everything, had the ipod/iphone reps to expand their market with. They aren't any better than anything else out there, in fact I get the dirts with how limiting IOS really is.
If you want something that seems to be developed with the speed of continental drift go with the Ipad, if you want something thats open and can be altered, changed and played with then the Android Galaxy Tab is the go...
When Galaxy Tab 10.1 is released then Apple are REALLY gonna have a battle on their hands, there's a reason Android is liked and IOS isn't.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i haven't been comparing the Tab 10.1 with the iPad, I'm referring to the 7" that has been out for a while. And by hardware I'm talking about the materials its made from, i.e. look/feel/build quality...i already know what the specs are
chrisz5z said:
i haven't been comparing the Tab 10.1 with the iPad, I'm referring to the 7" that has been out for a while. And by hardware I'm talking about the materials its made from, i.e. look/feel/build quality...i already know what the specs are
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I also assumed you were comparing the iPad 2 to the Galaxy Tab 10.1 - I think that's a fairer comparison, for the original 7" Tab it's better to compare to the original iPad.
Between the Tab 10.1 and iPad 2 - I'm not sure, still deciding. But between the 7" Tab and the iPad - I went for the iPad, mostly for the bigger screen. If you go the way of the original iPad I'm sure you can pick up a mint condition one for a good price off eBay.
i think it all comes down to what kind of user you are. If you're the type that buys a Mac or any other decent pre build desktop computer and don't want to think about (read:don't understand) what goes on inside it, get the iPad/iPad2. If you're into building the desktop computer from scratch get the galaxy tab/android .
mic_888 said:
I also assumed you were comparing the iPad 2 to the Galaxy Tab 10.1 - I think that's a fairer comparison, for the original 7" Tab it's better to compare to the original iPad.
Between the Tab 10.1 and iPad 2 - I'm not sure, still deciding. But between the 7" Tab and the iPad - I went for the iPad, mostly for the bigger screen. If you go the way of the original iPad I'm sure you can pick up a mint condition one for a good price off eBay.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well my main thing is price. I've been reading that the 10.1 Tab could be around $800, i dont' wanna spend that much. I've seen the 7" Tab for around $500, and the iPad 2 is $500 for the wifi version.
Hmm idk, i think it'd be wise to wait for the 10.1 Tab's official price. If its around $500 then i'll get that, if not then i'll just try n find a cheap used 7" Tab or iPad
I appreciate everybody's input
pawces said:
i think it all comes down to what kind of user you are. If you're the type that buys a Mac or any other decent pre build desktop computer and don't want to think about (read:don't understand) what goes on inside it, get the iPad/iPad2. If you're into building the desktop computer from scratch get the galaxy tab/android .
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not so!
I used to put my own PCs together, but simply can't be bothered any more, so now I own Dells and Macs. However, I choose Android for my phones and tablets mostly because I dislike the control Apple exerts over its mobile platform.
Regards,
Dave
I have the galaxy tab, but the ipad 2 is better.
- dual core
- nicer screen
- netflix
- more RAM (i think)
- apple's market
- smoother and more refined
for me basically it lies on the OS itself
yeah sure, iPad looks / screen is better, but in term of hardware u can't possibly say that iPad 2 hardware is superior coz AFAIK, the chip is manufactured by samsung, and the storage drive is toshiba's
the fast that you saw based solely on the simplicity of the OS itself
you're doomed, not being able to do / mod anything like you wanted to, but in the bright side, you get stability and speed
same iPad hardware but running android wouldnt feel the same way i think, only my opinion though
how hard the process needs to be to provide square beside square beside square and that it opens up when you touch?
my suggestion is go for what you need, and make your own +/-, coz in the end you'll be the one using it ^^
Justin^Tan said:
but in term of hardware u can't possibly say that iPad 2 hardware is superior coz AFAIK, the chip is manufactured by samsung, and the storage drive is toshiba's
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's a strawman argument. Samsung don't even make the Tegra 2 chips that will power the Tab 10.1. They have a processor, the Exynos (which I suspect is very similar to the A5), but they are using the Tegra 2 because (a) it's the Honeycomb reference platform, and (b) chances are that they don't have sufficient production capacity to satisfy both A5 and Exynos demand.
Just because Apple don't make every single component in their devices (they don't even "manufacture" their own devices anyway), doesn't mean that they don't produce superior hardware (in most cases).
A product's hardware is almost always more than the sum of its parts - it's also how well it is designed and put together. The only time when this is generally not the case, is cheap Chinese clones, which are often less than the sum of their parts!
Regards,
Dave
I think you wouldn't go wrong with either.
However, given you already have your apps in your android phone, you could stick with android, so you don't have to buy them all over, by getting into IOS.
Do you need microSD slot? Then get galaxy tab. Why not get Xoom?
Do you need a large screen? Then get Ipad.
Sent from my GT-I9000 using XDA Premium App
a67543210 said:
I think you wouldn't go wrong with either.
However, given you already have your apps in your android phone, you could stick with android, so you don't have to buy them all over, by getting into IOS.
Do you need microSD slot? Then get galaxy tab. Why not get Xoom?
Do you need a large screen? Then get Ipad.
Sent from my GT-I9000 using XDA Premium App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thats the thing. I love android, but to be honest am leaning towards the ipad2 because the Xoom doesn't seem appealing to me and from the looks of it the gTab 10.1 is going to be a xoom with better speaker placement and lack of a sd card slot.

[Q] should I get this tablet

hey, I already have an expensive smartphone plan but I want all the experience of android so I am looking for a somewhat inexpensive WiFi only android powered tab with a good build quality (good specs, multitouch, at least 6-7 inches, 1ghz, you know, that stuff). I currently have a windows phone, but I used android long ago and I was wondering, is this the tab for me?
also, is the android experience good on the tab?
and another thing/ slightly off topic, if I bought apps in the amazon app store, can I download them on the samsung galaxy tab?
sorry for this barrage of questions, but I just don't know if this is the right tablet for me
The tab is the best 7inch tablet on the market hands down, i love mine to death and it goes everywhere with me besides the pub. It was my first android device, but its not that different from android phones ive used, its just wayyy better for gaming and web related stuff
Just to provide some colour (yes, that's the correct spelling of colour) to the argument:
No. Don't get one.
I also wouldnt buy one,
I just got one bbecause I only had 300€ and no cellphone, so this is my all in one device.
But it really isnt as great as I thought and if you have a gooood cellphone already a 7inch tablet wont give you much more functionality...
I thought it would be great, it is, but not really functional.
Thanks for the input. If I don't get this tablet, what tablet would you suggest (I don't have a laptop anymore so I want another mobile computing device, other than my tower) for under $500 USDollars?
Very subjective. Getting it or not depends on individual requirement. I had mine for more than 6 months now and still loving it; maybe because how I use it and suit my requirement. Lugging an 7" inch tablet with phone function everywhere is no joke. Quite heavy after a while. Well, my guess is, lugging an Ipad is also the same. And because it is my 1st Android; it just got better.
TheGrammarFreak said:
Just to provide some colour (yes, that's the correct spelling of colour) to the argument:
No. Don't get one.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Why do you say that GrammarFreak?
daml said:
Why do you say that GrammarFreak?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For fun
In all seriousness, this is a great device. Solid piece of kit, well worth it.
Sent from my Galaxy Tab. Now that's dedication
TheGrammarFreak said:
Just to provide some colour (yes, that's the correct spelling of colour) to the argument:
No. Don't get one.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Maybe in Canada : P
Sent from my GT-P1000 using Tapatalk
Since you already have a smartphone, get Viewsonic Gtablet and put a custom firmware on it as soon as it arrives.
I've had mine for a few months now and recently looked at the Xoom and the new Acer 10" tablets.
I don't use it for voice but use mobile data quite a lot.
After comparing I've decided to stay with the Galaxy Tab because, by far, it is the best made and (despite Samsung) developers are giving us all we need to keep the Tab great.
well, just tried out the sprint version in the store (any difference between that and wifi only in terms of the OS?) and I think that the tab is perfect in terms of hardware however, I will try out other options like that viewsonic Gtab 10 when I get the chance to.
thanks for all the input and opinions
If you just want an android experience, and don't really mind having a 3G, then Archos 70 can be a cheaper alternative. Otherwise, if you want to venture into the realm of 7" tablets and want a lot of customization or an pure eBook experience, the Nook Color will, errr, color you impressed.
Otherwise, if you want the best 7" android tablet that no other 7" android tablet can hold a candle to, then go on and get the tab.
@grammarfreak - Random thought, that's what they said too when I went to UK a year ago. The Philippines uses American English, so we say, "color" instead. Btw, do you guys spell it as, "Center" or, "Centre?"
Edit: accidentally typed 10" instead of 7" for the Nook
pendevous said:
If you just want an android experience, and don't really mind having a 3G, then Archos 70 can be a cheaper alternative. Otherwise, if you want to venture into the realm of 10" tablets and want a lot of customization, the Nook Color will, errr, color you impressed.
Otherwise, if you want the best 7" android tablet that no other 7" android tablet can hold a candle to, then go on and get the tab.
@grammarfreak - Random thought, that's what they said too when I went to UK a year ago. The Philippines uses American English, so we say, "color" instead. Btw, do you guys spell it as, "Center" or, "Centre?"
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Centre. And "Z" is "zed", not "zee"
don't get the tab
Don't get the Tab.. Buy a B&N Nook Color and put this on it.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=954902
It runs as fast as the Tab. Has WAY better XDA Development and cost 250 instead of 350.
I am regretting buying my Tab.. It's the most hostile dev forum I have seen for getting a straight answer to any question. that's not a good sign.
hmm, judging by the specs, the nook color may pay off as the better tablet (for the price) in the end except, does it have any HD output? that is important to me however, its not a deal breaker
kingblind said:
Don't get the Tab.. Buy a B&N Nook Color and put this on it.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=954902
It runs as fast as the Tab. Has WAY better XDA Development and cost 250 instead of 350.
I am regretting buying my Tab.. It's the most hostile dev forum I have seen for getting a straight answer to any question. that's not a good sign.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You mean it can play 1080p without hiccups? If that's true, I'm buying
Nah nah nah.
Dont get a nook color. I had one and I sold it after a month. It was the first device that I've ever sold.
In comparison to the galaxy tab it pretty much sucks.
The mediaplaying capabilities are limited to 854•480 mp4 baseline profile.
So you have to start to convert again.
Not that I have a problem with converting, after a while of constant converting its very annoying....
The tab has overwhelming mediaplayingcapabilities. It has played absolutely EVERYTHING that I've thrown at it.
mkv, avi, xvid, mp4, mov. 1080p no problem.
I had to only convert some vids once, they where mov, the tab played them, but they didn't show up in the videoapp, so I converted them to mp4.
The tab is so cheap now. I wouldn't save those 100$ to get a nook.
If you really like the tab, you could also simply pop in the sim from your cellphone and use the tab as cellphone-replacement.
That's the way I use it, the tab is actually the first cellphone I've owned LOL.
I rather have a device that is a working jumbojet than a device that is a small plane and everyone is wanting it to be a spaceshuttle.....
sent from my galaxy tab
{Diemex} said:
Nah nah nah.
Dont get a nook color. I had one and I sold it after a month. It was the first device that I've ever sold.
In comparison to the galaxy tab it pretty much sucks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks, needed an opinion from someone who's had both devices.
well, I took a look at the Gtab (thx ravness for telling me) and the specs for that are amazing at an even more amazing price so I have added THAT to my list of possible tablet devices I might get.
so, does anyone have both/can tell me what the viewsonic Gtab is like compared to the galaxy tab?
and thanks for all the suggestions and, If I wasn't interested in tweaking my device(so as to make it how I want it to be) as soon as I get it, I would probably already have a galaxy tab however, Dual core 1.2Ghz processor does make the Gtab look nice (aside from the default homescreen/skin which looks and functions terribly).

Would you still buy the Galaxy Tab 8.9?

Hi,
I have been thinking about buying a Android tablet for some time. I don't really need a tablet, but would like to give it a try anyhow. I would probably use it mostly for surfing the web, reading new sites and watching movies when on the train. I might play some games from time to time. I would also like to use it for Skype voice and video chat. I'm also prepared to root the device and flash custom roms for better performance.
At the moment the Galaxy Tab 8.9 (Wifi) is on sale for about $ 220 here in Switzerland. It seems like a good deal for this tablet and within the amound of money I am prepared to spend for something "unnessecary", but would you still buy it given that the hardware is somewhat dated? How well does Skype work?
Any advice is greately appreciated!
Cheers
TiredHornet
To my opinion, the Galaxy Tab 8.9 has a unique form factor and weight (approx 420g), that make it still very desirable to my eyes. The screen is very good. ICS with an alternative launcher like 'Nova' or 'Apex' makes it lovely to use on a daily basis (I don't appreciate the Touchwiz one much).
I learned to live without any sd card expansion slot. I bought a 32gb model to compensate for the lack of memory extension, but finally I don't use the internal storage at all, except of course for apps. If I had to buy it again, I would simply stick with the 16Gb version...
The only complain I have is the outdated Tegra 2 processor, that's why I use to overclock a little bit (1.2Ghz). Works like a charm.
PS: I tested Skype a little bit and seemed good enough to me and to the people at the other end.
Yes, definitely. sgauge points out some great benefits of the 8.9, the form factor is just right. I'm still using 3.2 Overcome Rom also OC'd to 1.2 and really it runs super smooth. I also have the 16gb and that's plenty of space. I bought the usb dongle which can read off a usb stick so no need to carry movies on the tablet itself. It's really replaced my laptop for internet browsing, following live sports streams online and casual emailing. Just an extra aside, but I also invested in the official external keyboard and dock (amazon uk had them at rock bottom prices a few weeks back) and they are classy add-ons making the tablet a real smart package. And with ICS seemingly here, perhaps I'll think of upgrading my rom too!
Update: Skype works great, impressed with video/sound quality and stability!
Hmm, $220 for a 8.9 is practically a steal
It helps to know what you want it for, but I use it on train commute, and a lot of casual browsing on the couch. Basically, I could use my phone for that, but the tablet has more comfort and battery.
I find the 16gb not enough, if you take it on holiday and want some movies. I got the usb reader for $3 dollars shipped from China (ebay), much better value than €30 local shop.
I dislike the weight and size of a 10.1, to the point that I think 8.0 to 8.5 should be ideal size.
Good luck
Thx for all the advice! I think I'm going to go the shop right now and have a look at the tablet. I had it in my hands some month ago and found the size really good. And with the official ICS release starting to roll out, it is probably a even better deal at $220.
I bought it in Ch (living in Constance) and absolutely love it.
Had an Acer Iconia A500 before, the difference in weight and quality is huuuge.
After Installing JB it works like a charm!
If your local M.Electronics is out of stock, you can just place a reservation. I waited for 1 day
In fact, I did just buy a Tab 8.9 -- Cowboom had a bunch of preowned ones for sale. I snagged a Condition 7 (looks brand new, came with all accessories other than headphones) for $170 shipped. I love the size. Every 10" tablet I looked at was too big for comfortable reading, but the 7" tablets just felt...cramped.
Go for it
$220 is a real steal! And with ICS now it will be just awesome!
Idlekilla said:
$220 is a real steal! And with ICS now it will be just awesome!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Agreed. Having seen the difference in how my 8.9 ran on Honeycomb and now on ICS, it's like a different tablet! If you can pick up one of these tablets for less than $200 then jump on it.
Next phone or tablet is a nexus for sure
im done with samsung
- Form factor is just perfect.
- the ics runs great so no tensions for some time to come.
- 10.1 is too big, 7 is too small.
- 7.7 is close but too pricey.
Sent from my GT-P7300 using xda premium
My tf101 just broke now using as a Google TV and my tab is galaxy 8.9 and I bought it for $150
Sent from my SPH-D710 using xda app-developers app
TiredHornet said:
Thx for all the advice! I think I'm going to go the shop right now and have a look at the tablet. I had it in my hands some month ago and found the size really good. And with the official ICS release starting to roll out, it is probably a even better deal at $220.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Have fun with it. I doubt you will regret.
I bought the 8.9 so that when my partner and I went camping we could watch movies that we had, ahem, aquired.
It was perfect for just that reason with the desktop dock and the SD / USB adapters.
Now that we are back from holidays, it's perfect for general surfing and stuff like solving arguments where powering up the PC would take too long to Google something and the phone screen would bee too small / fiddly.
8.9 was the best form facto for my needs and I do not see any need to change to a bigger screen, if I wanted a bigger screen - Netbook / Laptop yet I would have to wait for it to boot up, so, long story short, I love the 8.9 and would definately buy it.
Hope this helps!
I like the form factor, the screen and the build quality seems solid. I hate the proprietary plug in on the bottom. Afraid I'm going to lose the cord and be unable to charge the thing till I get another one from Samsung. It should be the mini USB everyone,minus Apple and Sammy, uses. Charge times are completely ridiculous, taking hours upon hours to get to full but the drain times are pretty good. Hopefull the ICS update fixes charge times, or at least makes it bearable. And no SD card slot sucks, plain and simple. Other than that it's pretty good....
Personally, I love it. I bought mine for about 400 dollars and didn't regret it ever since. For 220$, this is an absolute must. The size is optimal and the overall feel of the tablet is just...perfect. Go for it, champ!
Well I have to say out of all the tablets I have (most samsung ones, asus, nexus7, ipads etc) the galaxy tab 8.9 is probably the best feel for a semi-mobile tablet... However after looking at the samsung support and release cycle across the devices I have, I doubt I will ever buy samsung again tbh. Just an opinion...
I love the hardware, don't like the Samsung software. Waiting for the rom hackers to put the official ICS to use and build a full featured JB rom and then it'll probably beat the Nexus 7 as my favorite device.
Sent from my SPH-D700 (CM9) using xda premium
Looking to buy an 8.9. Anybody know where I can find one in the US?? Thanks
I just bought an 8.9 3G 32Gb for £250, which I think is a real bargain. Vodafone 3G SIM is very fast in my area, and I soon as I can work out how to get an official version of ICS or JB onto it, I will be laughing! 8.9" form factor is ideal for me, and Skype works great... and I find i'm using Skype alot more than I do on my laptop.... it's pretty sweet all around. Go for it! Touchwiz and all the Bloatware suck, so if you work out how to remove them, let me know!

[Q] Is it too late to buy an 8.9?

Well I asked this question in the CM10 thread but was told it was best left for the general thread. I am in a position to get my first tablet and have it down to the 8.9 and the nexus 7. I love the hardware on the 8.9, and the screen size is perfect, but it is a little older and I plan on putting CM on it to keep the software up to date and it might not be able to keep up much longer. I like the Nexus 7's hardware but I have a feeling it'll be just a little too small for any sort of productivity (mostly taking notes) and I have never been a fan of the 7 inch form factor. So I ask you 8.9 owners, how does CM10 run on it and how do you think it'll fare in the future? Would you recommend it still as a purchase? Thanks in advance.
Brettbesa said:
Well I asked this question in the CM10 thread but was told it was best left for the general thread. I am in a position to get my first tablet and have it down to the 8.9 and the nexus 7. I love the hardware on the 8.9, and the screen size is perfect, but it is a little older and I plan on putting CM on it to keep the software up to date and it might not be able to keep up much longer. I like the Nexus 7's hardware but I have a feeling it'll be just a little too small for any sort of productivity (mostly taking notes) and I have never been a fan of the 7 inch form factor. So I ask you 8.9 owners, how does CM10 run on it and how do you think it'll fare in the future? Would you recommend it still as a purchase? Thanks in advance.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you can get it cheap it is still a very good tablet but I wouldn't recommend paying full price for it now as the hardware is a bit outdated. I'm personally aiming for a nexus 10 or 7 because of the high res screen is just too tempting!
There can unfortunately be very few guarantees made about future developments. The dev community on 8.9 is small, and any time one of the remaining devs decide to buy a new tablet, support for cm ROMs may disappear without notice...
Or it may be continued by new devs who currently are happy to watch and learn.
The good thing is the similarity to 10.1 tablet, so the 8.9 devs can inherit a lot direct from 10.1 devs.
It is still a very able, good size and weight tablet for mobility, and for a good price, I'd pick it up again. Personally I'd like a 8.0 to 8.4 inch, max weight 300g... For even more comfortable reading. But everyone differs...
Its your first tablet, so I'd be going for future updates. The n7 and n10 are great choices for you first tablet.
My first tablet was the OG Xoom. Then I got a flyer and hated the small screen. I was glad I don't sell the Xoom, as it is great, but still needed something a bit more portable, so I picked up a used i957 for 200 and really haven't touched the Xoom since.
Not that the gtab is better, but I needed something bigger than the note I had, but smaller than my Xoom, plus the cellular connectivity my note had.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I957 using XDA Premium HD app
Ps. It struggles with high bitrate, fast motion x264 video... My own encodes (720p -crf22 -ref5) run fine...
Brettbesa said:
Well I asked this question in the CM10 thread but was told it was best left for the general thread. I am in a position to get my first tablet and have it down to the 8.9 and the nexus 7. I love the hardware on the 8.9, and the screen size is perfect, but it is a little older and I plan on putting CM on it to keep the software up to date and it might not be able to keep up much longer. I like the Nexus 7's hardware but I have a feeling it'll be just a little too small for any sort of productivity (mostly taking notes) and I have never been a fan of the 7 inch form factor. So I ask you 8.9 owners, how does CM10 run on it and how do you think it'll fare in the future? Would you recommend it still as a purchase? Thanks in advance.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The 8.9's are closing to a phase-out. I think. CM10 works like a charm on the 8.9, if you're not after face unlock. And I hear there's a school in SE Asia that uses 8.9s as ebooks. So maybe it's a sign that it's good.
you can always check out the nook HD+. they've rooted (temp root) it and found the bootloader unlocked so development should be starting up soon. as to whether i like it better than the sammy, hell no!
as it is its running b&n's launcher and the tablet is laggy as hell. scrolling netflix queues is as slow, choppy and unresponsive as my tf700's were. the sammy is better, but not as good as the galaxy note 10.1.
i'm still on the fence on whether to keep it or not. CM may bring out some better performance, but right now it's just a high res book reader (which it's market to be - and a pretty good one at that.) since i'm a silver rz member i have 45 days to make up my mind.
Just bought an 8.9 from Amazon - very pleased
HI - I just bought a 3G Galaxy Tab 8.9 from Amazon.co.uk - for £250...it was a refurbished one, but is in mint condition. I love it. Need to work out how to root it and get rid of the Samsung Apps - but once I've done that I will be set. I was also going to go for the Nexus 7, but found that when using the keyboard in landscape mode - the keyboard takes up half the screen. I'm sure I would have enjoyed it, but I have no regrets on the 8.9 - for me it is the ideal size screen... speakers on the 8.9 are surprisingly good too. Go for it!
i just picked up a used one with a nice leather case for $220. Boss is going to pay for the data plan, so I'm all set.

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