Can Android tablets be used as stand-alone computers?

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timestyles

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#97765 20-Feb-2012 10:53

The guy sitting next to me at work asked me about buying a tablet. He knows that I'm into tech and he doesn't have a computer. His daughter suggested he get a tablet so he can Skype the grandchildren. I remember that the iPad requires a PC/Mac - so that's not suitable. Can an Android be used easily without a computer to hook up to?

munchkin

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#583762 20-Feb-2012 10:55

Having both devices, I'd recommend an iPad over an Android tablet, the user experience and app quality are far better.

You don't need a PC to set up a new iOS device now, either. As long as you have an internet connection, you're good to go.

vexxxboy

4336 posts

Uber Geek
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#583772 20-Feb-2012 11:12

if all he wants it for is to skype then its cheaper to get a netbook , there are some really cheap ones around for nearly half the price of a tablet

Common sense is not as common as you think.

Kiwipixter

246 posts

Master Geek
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#583785 20-Feb-2012 11:33

Both devices doesn't need a computer to operate. My suggestion is to try out the tablets in retail shops to help with the decision making process.

timmmay

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#583796 20-Feb-2012 11:47

Asus Transformer (v1 or prime) have an optional keyboard, with that yes many light users could get away without having a full PC. It'd be similar to a netbook, probably not quite as functional, but lighter especially with the detachable screen.

NZtechfreak

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#583807 20-Feb-2012 11:59

If you're looking to replace a PC then the ASUS Transformer's are the clear choice in tablet land, I see Munchkin's comments about having had both Android tablets and the iPad, but I doubt Munchkin has used a Prime with dock running Ice Cream Sandwich (latest version of the Android OS), which is a clear step up from the older Android tabs.

That said I still wouldn't recommend them over a PC for many usages. As timmmay says though light users would likely manage fine. Try reading Artoo Detoo's review of the Prime at AndroidNZ.net to see whether it could fit the bill for you

Review parts are here:
http://www.androidnz.net/2012/02/transformer-prime-real-user-review-part.html

...and here:
http://www.androidnz.net/2012/02/transformer-prime-real-user-review-part_19.html

A big focus of his review is around where tablets might fit into your digital life, and particularly how they might or might not replace laptops/desktops.

Twitter: @nztechfreak
Blogs: HeadphoNZ.org

Linuxluver

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#584373 21-Feb-2012 10:20

munchkin: Having both devices, I'd recommend an iPad over an Android tablet, the user experience and app quality are far better.

You don't need a PC to set up a new iOS device now, either. As long as you have an internet connection, you're good to go.

So no need for iTunes then.

Really?

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timmmay

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#584375 21-Feb-2012 10:23

Linuxluver: So no need for iTunes then.

Really?

Newer versions of iOS don't rely on a computer, they're standalone.

I've never plugged my Android tablet into my PC.

wakaridnnz

226 posts

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#584419 21-Feb-2012 11:34

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DrStrangelove

368 posts

Ultimate Geek
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#584682 21-Feb-2012 17:05

If you had a 4"+ smartphone with Adreno 220/Mali-400M which supported powered dock/Keyboard/mouse/game console and HDMI how much time would you spend using a tablet...