Are you still using a laptop like a sucker? Stop being a sucker. Tablets are the future of personal computing in 2010 and every tech company in the world is scrambling to get their own model to market. While Apple’s iPad is getting all the attention (it’s the high school football hero of tablets) there are various alternatives about to appear on store shelves. If football jocks aren’t your thing, there are also bookish nerds, stoners, sk8r boyz, cheerleaders and more to choose from. And yes, we mean metaphorically. Let’s have a look.
Notion Ink Adam Android Tablet
The Notion Ink addresses most of the iPad’s main problems: it has a built in camera, HDMI and USB ports, supports Flash and is able to output at 1080p on its 10 inch screen. It also has a special miracle screen for viewing in direct sunlight. While that’s all impressive, it’s only been showcased in videos and no one has had a chance to smash it in real life and post the result on YouTube.
High school character: The mysterious, bookish nerd.
Dell Mini 5 Android Tablet
The smallest of all the tablets listed here, this is only 5 inch across. That said, it comes with a 5mp camera and a SIM card. If you want a tablet that also allows you to call people without the inconvenience of reaching for a phone, this one has your back.
High School Character: It’s the trusted sidekick who’s always there without taking away your shine.
HP Slate Windows 7 Tablet
HP’s effort packs serious processing power, plugs all those annoying iPad holes (flash, USB) and comes in at roughly the same price. The only problem is that it’s running on Windows 7 and that makes people all kinds of nervous.
High School Character: Even Steven. The solid, unremarkable kid, destined for a life in middle management.
NetBooks
Sure, they don’t have the physical appeal of a tablet, but the new generation of Netbooks are on their way and have ‘mad power’. You might not be able to poke at them, but they do offer a proper keyboard, all the usual PC sockets, multitasking, etc. Also, no one is going to mug you for an Asus from JB.
High School Character: The IT Nerd who spends lunch in the library and plays D&D on weekends.
Vega / Quanta / MSI
Three different tablets, three different companies, all of them running Android and powered by the same basic technology. Cheap, functional, unspectacular.
High School Character: The gang. Those three guys/girls that hang out together because individually they’re not that impressive.
Google and HTC
This is just a rumour at this point, but a joint effort between the two has the potential to draw a serious following from those not impressed with Steve Jobs' parking ability and the iPad's limited multitasking potential.
High School character: The dream girl.