"What is a tablet computer?" - this is a question that many people ask themselves, and many simply cannot imagine their life without it. Given the small size and huge functionality of this device, it is used both for entertainment and for everyday work.
Developers computer science all the time they are trying to reduce the size of their products, put in as little as possible a box, more functionality. Considering that many people need a computer not only to work at the office and at home, but sometimes also in other places, a tablet computer becomes simply indispensable, you can take it with you anywhere. After all, you can’t really drag a stationary PC, and a laptop is not suitable for everyone.
The history of tablet computers began quite a long time ago. But at that time they were used in rather narrow industries and few people knew about them. Tablets gained their popularity thanks to the well-known and sensational company Apple, which launched its now so popular iPad back in 2010.
This not cheap toy quickly gained its ardent fans and scattered all over the world, given that this device was positioned more as an entertainment device. Many began to use it as an audio or video player, the display of the device was not small and it was a pleasure to watch movies and web pages on it. And if you look closely at its internal filling, then it allowed you to run quite demanding games and applications.
All this and the Apple brand itself served as an impetus for the popularization of tablets, and many computer equipment manufacturers began to develop their own device models and enter the world market with them. Which, in turn, greatly expanded it and made the device more accessible.
It's pretty the new kind computer, its feature is that its dimensions are, to put it mildly, small, you can safely carry it with you in your purse or in your hand. In fact, the size of the tablet determines the size of its display, since it occupies almost the entire area.
One more characteristic feature is a touch screen. Since, in almost all cases, a mouse or keyboard cannot be connected to it, due to the lack of inputs for them, the touch screen is the only means of control and input of information. Although some models allow the connection of additional control devices, there are very few of them.
What is a tablet computer for? Basically this device is good for viewing graphic images, reading books, watching video files or web pages. It is especially convenient for the latter option, since you can use wireless Internet, and while sitting in a cafe, rummage around the Internet, communicate with friends, both using messages and using video communication. Almost every tablet is equipped with a camera that allows you to make video calls.
If you want to use a tablet computer for work, then this is not the best the best choice. You need to understand that such a tablet computer, which does not have a normal keyboard and mouse, is not quite suitable for typing or other operations that need to be performed quickly .. Therefore, if you intended to purchase it for these purposes, then you should reconsider your decision and turn focus on laptops or netbooks.
It is quite easy to choose a gaming tablet computer, almost all of them are equipped with good hardware and pull all games with a bang. It all depends on your ability to pay. There are a lot of games for this device, for every taste and color. So if you like to play on the way to work - this is your option. You will find answers to all questions on choosing a tablet PC.
The main advantage of tablet computers is that they are able to work without recharging much more than laptops or netbooks. Also one of their main advantages is the size, they are quite compact and have little weight, which is very convenient when using it on the way to work or somewhere else. And also not unimportant fact is their price. It is much smaller than laptops, which makes it more affordable.
What is a tablet computer, figured out and we will finish on this, you can read all the other points about this device in the following posts. On this, let me bow.
A tablet PC is a portable computer with touch control, when you can work with a stylus or fingers, with or without using a keyboard and mouse.
Touch control is carried out by pressing a finger on the screen or using an electronic pen (stylus).
Instead of the usual keyboard, a stylus can be used, which is more convenient to press small buttons on the screen than with a finger. The stylus looks like a regular pen with a thin lead.
Tablet personal computer (Tablet PC) - a computer with touch control, which appeared in November 2002 after the presentation by Microsoft of its new development Tablet PC. Its main difference is that the standard keyboard and mouse are replaced by a touch screen.
Hardware compatibility with conventional PCs – main feature, which distinguishes tablet PCs from other mobile devices. Mobility is an equally important component.
There are tablet computers that look like laptops. At the same time, such a “laptop” can be divided into two parts: “pull out” the upper part and use it as a full-fledged tablet, and leave the lower part (keyboard) until it is needed.
Tablet computers support the following operating systems:
- Android (4.2.2);
- Windows XP (legacy build);
- (updated for Windows 8);
- Windows 8;
- macOS X;
- Linux (rare).
Ergonomics, compactness, powerful battery are the advantages of tablet PCs. As for the battery, you can add that you can work with a Tablet PC in much the same way as with mobile phone. When the tablet is discharged, you need to charge it, after which you can again work with the tablet without a charger.
However, just like with a laptop, you do not need to turn off the tablet, but leave it with the charger that is plugged into the outlet (220V). This is the option when you can “spoil” the tablet battery or you can in the shortest possible time.
Disadvantages - on tablet computers it is inconvenient to work with programs for editing audio, video files, graphics, spreadsheets, etc. In other words, the tablet PC is not suitable for content.
If you choose which is better - a tablet computer or a laptop, we can say that in general a laptop is better, it is more functional. But if possible, it is better to use a laptop for work, and for trips, for meetings, on the road it is more convenient to take a tablet computer with you.
The tablet may or may not have a stylus. With it, you can write on the screen of a tablet PC just like writing in a notebook at school. When I tried handwriting on a Tablet PC, at first I thought it would be just a picture, which, in general, is also not bad.
And when I saw that my doodles were automatically recognized as if I were typing them on the keyboard, and this wonderful transformation can be immediately inserted into specified place in a letter, in any other text on the tablet screen, I was amazed.
I know that many users in recent times it has become much more common to type text on a computer keyboard than to write something “by hand” on paper. Handwriting on a tablet computer with a stylus is convenient for meetings, travel, and more. Apparently, it was not in vain that we were taught to write with pens in notebooks at school, now you can write with a stylus on tablet computers :)
The presence of a stylus is a plus, and the minus is that the accuracy of pressing with your fingers on the screen can be quite low.
Consider briefly the complete set of tablet computers:
- , on which the speed and stability of the work of any, not only a tablet computer, depends;
- (RAM, 256 MB to 2 GB), the standard rule for all PCs is the more RAM, the better;
- Video card;
- (most tablets have the function of connecting an external memory card);
- USB - this port is used to connect a mouse, keyboard, printer, external hard drive, flash drive, phone, etc. True, sometimes instead of a regular USB, there may be a mini-USB.
Components that are installed in tablet PCs are in some cases “more powerful” than those on desktop computers.
Modern tablet PCs (regardless of the price category) can have the following wireless access modules:
- Wi-Fi (high-speed access to a wireless network);
- 3G and (access to the wireless network, which is carried out using a SIM card - not all models). This is convenient if there is no Wi-Fi;
- Bluetooth (allows you to connect various wireless devices, such as wireless headsets).
Some tablet PCs have the following disadvantages.
Tablets are well suited for the following tasks: online communication, mobile games and content consumption (reading books, viewing websites, videos, series and films). Some devices are also quite handy for office work.
The best tablet is the one that best suits your needs. From them and you need to build on, so as not to miscalculate. Think about what exactly you are going to do on your tablet. This will help you choose the right characteristics for your future gadget.
Select operating system
Android
Among Android devices, it is easiest to find an inexpensive, but at the same time productive and high-quality tablet. In addition, users have access to a huge number of services, games and programs for the most different tasks. And enthusiasts have a lot of opportunities to customize the system for themselves.
However, most gadgets on this platform do not receive timely updates. As a result latest features and fixes for software errors appear on devices with a delay or do not reach at all.
iOS
All new iOS devices are in the upper price segment. But these are always premium-class devices with up-to-date characteristics and fashion-setting design. Owners of iOS tablets, to put it mildly, are not deprived of programs, games and services. Devices on this system receive regular updates for several years after they hit the market.
Windows 10
Windows hasn't taken root on smartphones, but it does much better on tablets. The tenth version of this system turns the tablet into a complete laptop replacement. Especially if you connect a keyboard and mouse to it.
Windows 10 tablet owners have fewer apps available than users of other platforms. But they can install full-fledged desktop games and programs, including the Microsoft Office package. And this is a huge plus for those who need a tablet for work.
If you use, then you will quickly deal with a tablet on the same OS.
Windows 10 + Android
There are also such tablets on which two operating systems are installed at once. By purchasing, you can switch between Windows 10 and Android at any convenient time.
Decide on display size
Based on the length of the screen diagonal, tablets can be divided into three categories: compact (7-8 inches), medium (9-10 inches) and large (11-12 inches).
- Compact tablets great for socializing, most games, reading books and web surfing outside the home. For these tasks, they are more convenient than smartphones when you are not on the go. But still, a display diagonal of 7-8 inches is not always enough to view PDF documents or enjoy TV shows and movies.
- Medium tablets- the optimal combination between mobility and available opportunities. Such devices can not be put in your pocket, but they are often more powerful than their smaller counterparts and more convenient for viewing multimedia content and games. They also really work when the laptop is not at hand.
- Large tablets so far not so much. They are the most productive, and also best suited for business tasks due to the size of the screen and accessories. But at the same time, it is already difficult to call them portable. In addition, these devices are the most expensive.
Choose your form factor
Classic tablets are monolithic devices with no moving parts. Many of them can be connected to accessories like keyboards and mice. Case in point- on iOS, to which they sell a keyboard case with a stand. Having bought such a device, you can use it for most business tasks.
In addition, there are hybrids of tablets and laptops. They are also called transformers. An example is the Lenovo Yoga Book on Windows 10 or Android. The device looks like an ultrabook. But it is worth taking the panel with the keys to the back of the screen - and the gadget will become a tablet.
Hybrid owners can easily switch between work and play functions, but classic tablets usually cost less.
Get to grips with the features
Resolution and screen matrix
Screen resolution is measured by the number of pixels that make up the screen. The higher this setting, the sharper the image. Therefore, it is very important for a tablet.
You should definitely not take a device with a resolution of less than 1,920 × 1,080 (or Full HD) pixels. And if you are interested in tablets with a display diagonal of 9 inches or more, then it is highly desirable to choose even more a high resolution. But remember that the cost of the gadget greatly depends on this indicator.
The matrix is called the technology on which the screen is based. The overall image quality depends on it, so it is better not to neglect this parameter. Take a look at tablets IPS matrices(PLS) or OLED (AMOLED, Super AMOLED). They provide best picture. Other options are cheaper, but lose a lot in quality.
The pixels of a working OLED display can turn off completely. Thus, they transmit an image with true black color. In this regard, the OLED matrix has no equal, and in addition, it consumes less power than IPS. On the other hand, OLED displays are more expensive.
The best way to choose between IPS and OLED is to put two tablets side by side and view the same images on them. If you notice a difference, choose the type of matrix that you think will do the job better.
Performance
The speed of the tablet depends largely on the architecture and frequency of the processor, as well as the number of random access memory. But if you are not going to use the gadget for 3D games or professional graphics work, then do not dwell on these components.
Even an average hardware stuffing by modern standards is enough for most user tasks. In addition, if the manufacturer poorly optimized the software, then the tablet can slow down even with a top-end processor and a large amount of RAM on board. This is especially true for Android devices.
To determine if the device has enough power for your needs, it is best to take it in hand and test it before buying it: touch the interface, open several sites, start a video or game.
As a last resort, you can see how the tablet reacts to these actions in video reviews.
Wireless Technology Support
The more wireless technologies a gadget supports, the more opportunities it has to transmit and receive data.
If you plan to use the device mainly in the office and at home, then, most likely, the Wi-Fi module, which is present in all tablets, will be enough for you. If you are going to use network functions on the road, then buy a device that supports LTE (4G) networks.
You may be connecting headphones, keyboards, mice, and other wireless devices to your tablet. In this case, select a device that supports the Bluetooth wireless standard version 4.0 or higher. This will ensure fast data exchange with accessories while minimizing the load on the battery.
Storage size
The amount of storage determines the amount of data that the tablet can hold. If you buy a device for web surfing, communication, and then 16 GB of internal memory is enough for you.
But to store music and movies on your gadget, install games and many programs, you will need much more free space. The required size depends only on your appetite.
The size of the storage significantly affects the cost of the tablet. To save money, you can choose a device with a small amount of internal memory, but with a capacious SD card slot. It is convenient to store music and video files, as well as data from some programs. But keep in mind that iOS gadgets do not support memory cards.
Battery capacity
The battery life of the tablet depends on the capacity of the battery. But by the value of this parameter it is difficult to judge how often you have to charge the device.
At the same time, on the websites of manufacturers, you can often read how many hours the device can withstand in a particular mode of operation. Take this indicator as a guideline. For example, Apple traditionally indicates in the characteristics of its iPads that they are designed for 10 hours of web surfing, watching videos or listening to music. Very good indicator for a tablet.
Do not forget to check the manufacturer's statements with, which are often present in gadget reviews from independent publications.
Camera Options
Manufacturers and sellers focus on the number of megapixels of the camera, as if this indicator entirely determines the quality of video and pictures. It's not, so don't be fooled by big numbers.
Also, cameras on tablets are not as important as those on smartphones. Due to the size of the tablet, it is simply inconvenient to use it as a camcorder or camera.
What you need to pay attention to is the presence front camera. Without it, you won't be able to video chat. And in order to at least roughly evaluate the quality of the camera on the selected tablet, look for samples of photos and videos taken by it on the Web. If the device is popular, it will not be difficult to find such information.
A tablet computer is a compact electronic device that is operated using a touch screen. The tablet PC is most often used to work with the Internet and web applications, but its capabilities are not limited to this. This compact device allows you to read books, work with documents, listen to music and watch videos. More powerful tablet computers have a wider range of applications.
Win your place under the sun in such a a short time tablet computers have been enabled by a unique combination of portability and performance. In addition to these indicators, the buyer should pay attention to the following indicators:
- types of tablet computer;
- diagonal;
- CPU;
- camera;
- memory;
- operating system;
- touch screen type;
- battery life;
- communication opportunities;
- case material.
Tablet computers are conventionally divided into two types: tablet personal computer and internet tablet.
The first is essentially a full-fledged computer, and in form it is the display part of a small laptop. If necessary, you can connect a mouse and keyboard to it, turning it into a full-fledged computer. These devices install a full-fledged OS - Windows, Linux and Mac OS, it has hardware compatibility with desktop computers.
An Internet tablet is a device that has compact dimensions and its main functional purpose is to work on the Internet. Such tablet computers are not compatible with desktop computers, as they install mobile operating systems or web-based systems. The functionality of such devices is significantly limited compared to tablet PCs.
The screen size of tablet computers varies from 4 to 11 inches.. The most common devices with diagonals of 7 and 10 inches.
If a tablet computer is selected for work, then you need to choose a model with a larger diagonal. The quality of the picture in such a device will be higher, which will allow you to consider even minor details, making it easier to work, especially with graphic programs. To work with Internet resources, tablet computers with a smaller diagonal are most often chosen.
For surfing the Internet, a screen resolution of 800x600 or 1024x480 is suitable. However, in order to better see the details and more convenient to work with graphic programs or play games, you should choose a tablet computer with a screen resolution of 1280x800 or higher.
The heart of a tablet computer is the processor. Internet tablets have a much weaker processor than tablet PCs. But the specifics of the user's work with these devices is such that higher power is not required. Tablet PCs, as a rule, work with more complex programs, are used for games, etc. Therefore, processors with a frequency of 600 MHz to 1 GHz are installed in such devices.
Almost all tablet computers are equipped with a webcam, which allows you to take photos and videos, just like on a smartphone. And access to the Internet will allow you to upload the footage immediately to the network. Most of the installed cameras shoot video in Full HD format with a resolution of 1920x1080.
Like their older brothers - laptops and computers, tablet PCs have built-in and RAM memory.
- Built-in memory (hard disk) is responsible for the amount of information that can be stored on the device.
- RAM is responsible for speed, the number of applications that can be installed and run on a given device.
Also, most tablet computers have the ability to use removable memory cards.
Tablet computers can be installed in two main types operating systems(OS) A: iOS for Apple products and Google Android for others. There are several other operating systems that can run on such devices, but they are less stable, less functional and therefore less common.
Two types of touch screens are used to control the tablet computer: resistive and capacitive. Resistive "sharpened" to work with styluses. They can also respond to finger pressure, but only a fairly strong pressure. Capacitive, on the contrary, do not respond to styluses, only to touch with your fingers. Here you need to choose based on personal preferences and convenience.
If the tablet computer will be used to work with graphic programs and photo editors, then it would be more appropriate to purchase a model that uses multi-touch sensor technology. It allows the display to perceive multiple touches at the same time, so you can, for example, zoom in or out with a few fingers.
Tablet PC battery life varies from 2 to 10 hours. For effective work with the device, you should choose a battery with a capacity of at least 2000mAh. The operating time will also depend on its diagonal. The larger the diagonal, the greater the energy consumption.
Tablet computers are equipped with wireless devices providing access to the Internet, synchronization and data exchange with other media, as well as the possibility of a phone call.
- Wi-Fi is a feature that allows you to use free Internet in places where a Wi-Fi hotspot is installed or in your home wireless network. Today, all tablet models are equipped with such a module.
- 3G - a module that gives access to high speed internet, including without using a modem. With it, you can use the Internet at speeds up to 3.6 Mb / s.
- 4G / LTE is a function that duplicates 3G, but at the same time gives Internet speeds up to 20Mb / s. However, there are not many operators that support this format.
- Bluetooth - given function allows you to use a wireless headset, transfer data from device to device via a wireless communication channel.
- GPS - tablets equipped with such a module can become a full-fledged replacement for a car navigator.
Plastic and metal can be used to make a tablet computer case. The metal case is more durable and stronger, does not scratch, does not creak and has a stylish, solid look. However, a tablet computer with such a case will also have a solid weight. Models with a plastic case, depending on the quality of the plastic, can last no less than models with a metal one. At the same time, their weight will be lower, such a case is easier to replace if necessary, and Wi-Fi is better in them.
When choosing a tablet computer, you should also take a closer look at the manufacturer. The opinion of consumers in the issue of leadership today is very clear. Apple holds the palm. Samsung, Sony, Asus, Dell are on his heels.
Hello, dear readers of the Start-Luck blog. Not all that glitters is gold. Like not all tech products that many people use are useful. Do I need to go far for examples? Surely everyone can name two or three products that, although they are used everywhere, you would not buy yourself.
“Spinner, toaster, sandwich maker - let others use them and call them at least 1000 times useful, they don’t suit me personally. I wouldn't even spend a dime to buy them." However, today we will not talk about them.
In this article, I want to tell you about what tablets are for. I will tell you why and for whom they are needed, whether a tablet is suitable for working on the Internet, and much more that will definitely be useful to you. By the end of the publication, you will be able to decide whether you really need a tablet or better save yourself from unnecessary expenses.
What is a tablet really
To be honest, I've owned a plethora of tablets from the most expensive to the incredibly cheap. Despite this, do not expect that right now I will begin to talk about their necessity, importance and usefulness. I tend to admit my mistakes and try to be objective.
To start. What is a tablet? This is a large smartphone, the main task of which is not to make calls, but all other functions - games, applications, a reader, and so on. You can view the news and publish your own photos.
Through the tablet, as a rule, you can also communicate via telephony, but you can also use Skype to communicate with friends and acquaintances via the Internet using the camera. The main thing is that there is a slot for a sim card inside the device. Pay attention to this when choosing a gadget, otherwise you will only be able to connect to the Internet via Wi-Fi. This is extremely inconvenient. The tablet is no longer 100% mobile.
Samsung tablets are considered very good. pay attention to Galaxy Tab A 7.0″ 8Gb . It is not very big, but comfortable and functional. Naturally with a slot for a SIM card.
PC and smartphone alternative
If you are thinking about buying a tablet to use instead of a phone, as I once did, then I will tell you right away that this is not a good idea.
The tablet, after all, is larger than a regular phone, it is not very convenient to carry it with you. In a week or two you will get tired of it and either you buy yourself a regular smartphone, or you stop taking a tablet with you all the time. As an alternative to the phone, this gadget, in my opinion, is not suitable.
There are also those who want to use a tablet as an alternative to a laptop. For example, at one time I wanted to write articles, taking with me not a heavy PC, but a small gadget. I think a lot of people have thought about it too. And again, the tablet itself in this case does not show itself in the best way.
The on-screen keyboard does not allow you to type quickly, the work slows down, and you start to lose your temper. Fortunately, ordering a wireless keyboard for your tablet will not be a problem. It turns the gadget into a decent little laptop that is easy to carry around. For copywriters who like to work outside of the home, this is not a bad solution.
However, do not forget about the specifics of the tablet. There are versions special programs for PCs that will not install on Android or iOS. You will have to use which of them to install instead of the usual Office, Photoshop and so on.
A tablet is not 100% a good alternative to a computer. This is an independent thing that you need if you need, sorry for the tautology - a tablet.
When and who needs a tablet
If you have small children, then a tablet is an indispensable thing. You can turn on cartoons and all sorts of videos from YouTube, but at the same time you don’t worry much about the baby’s eyesight, as well as the fact that he will somehow break something in him.
On a laptop, a child finds a thousand buttons that are so wonderful to press. This does not happen with a tablet. By the age when the baby begins to figure out where and why to press, his interest in destruction fades a little. He already understands that this thing is enough important thing and it shouldn't be broken.
How to choose a tablet for a child? I recommend paying attention to the exhibits at a low price, since the risk of breakage still exists, because we are talking about a child. Another important point- big screen. By the way, there are special tablets for children, for example, Turbo MonsterPad 7 .
When does an adult need a tablet? That is, if you cannot live without a phone. If you often play games and use applications, you need a tablet. If you like to watch movies or read books from your mobile device, consider purchasing this gadget. The screen is much larger, and therefore it will be more convenient for you to use it. This item will not disappoint you.
For work, it can also be suitable if you show some presentations, often work with mail via phone, and so on. There is a whole layer of people who really need a tablet. Lately I really like Lenovo, so I can offer you them Tab 3 Plus for 16,500. A very profitable purchase.
I hope this article was helpful to you. Don't forget to subscribe to the blog newsletter and group Start-Luck Vkontakte . Until we meet again and good luck in your endeavors.
