Apple products reign supreme in this day and age. Critics go crazy, often heralding these products as “the best on the market.” While in some respects this may be true, unfortunately the best is not for everyone.
From iPhones, to iPods, it seems as though any electronic device imprinted with the “i” is a must-have for shoppers. The latest addition to the “i” craze is the iPad, and it is no different. Introduced to the public in 2010, the iPad is a tablet device that allows users to perform a number of operations, which include downloading books, movies, and games, and even surfing the web, featuring applications such as Microsoft Office. Retrospectively, the iPad works as a small computer—minus its unique touch-screen feature—using the same operating system as other Apple products. It is also priced about the same as a laptop computer with prices starting at $499, according to apple.com. For some, this is entirely too much to pay for an electronic other than a computer of some sort, but with the tablet-craze in full effect many are interested in trying (or even buying) one, of course without the extreme pricing. To alleviate the need for a tablet experience, here are some cheaper, alternative devices that offer similar features to that of Apple’s iPad.
1. The Motorola Xoom: The Xoom is a top choice among iPad competitors. It is called “the first truly comparable competitor to Apple’s hit iPad.” However, the Xoom’s price tag is $599, $100 more than the iPad, so this may prove to be daunting for customers.
2. The Samsung Galaxy: In late 2010, Samsung’s Galaxy Tab offered a smaller alternative to the iPad. It is currently available beginning at $249 and has been overwhelmingly well-received by reviewers. It’s smaller and cheaper than the iPad and it has many of the same capabilities. It’s been doing so well that Samsung announced plans to release a second Galaxy edition sometime this year.
3. LG Optimus: Available exclusively on T-Mobile’s “4G network” the LG Optimus tablet boasts a dual-core processor, is 3D-capable and features a front-facing camera and two rear-facing cameras. Though there is currently no release date set for the G Slate, rumors insist on a late- March release date. The price isn’t final yet, either, but estimates say it should be available for about $300 with a T-Mobile contract.
4. Acer Tablet PC: Acer Tablet’s cover enough options to please almost every consumer. The company is offering a 10.1-inch device, which will cost close to $550. It will run on Windows 7 and will come with a keyboard dock.
5. The Dell Streak: The Streal by Dell has some great hardware to justify it, like many of Dell’s products. The 7-inch tablet has a rear camera and a front-facing camera for video chat. You also get 16 gigabytes of storage, a tracker system GPS, and 4G service from T-Mobile. It starts at $399.
6. Archos Tablets: Archos Tablets were on the market months before other manufacturers realized the demand for the device. They offer tablets in several sizes and features, all at affordable, competitive prices. Most Archos Tablets have 16 gigabytes of internal storage, a front-facing camera, and can play HD video.