Tablets

Definition

Just a few years ago, tablets addressed a niche market that was out of bounds for the general public. But since the advent of Apple's iPad, touch-sensitive tablets have become far more accessible.  Both powerful and versatile, today's tablets offer the perfect extension of a desktop system for anyone who wants to read the news and their e-mails and stay in touch with their contacts while comfortably sitting on their sofa.

Tablets have also become an important gaming platform that has attracted the attention of many software publishers. And the fierce competition between manufacturers has unleashed a frantic quest for more processing power, to the extent that some believe that the tablet is the indisputable platform of the future.

Choosing your tablet

                                                                                                 Operating system

Today's market is dominated by two IT giants – Apple and Google – with their iOS and Android operating systems. Each system has its strengths and its weaknesses. There are a few differences when it comes to getting started with each system, and it is worthwhile to test both solutions before deciding which one to buy. Apple iOS is often considered to be more intuitive and accessible, while Google Android is certainly more versatile and less limited when it comes to the possible uses. Since the platforms are shared with smartphones, it may be useful to prefer the same platform for both types of appliance in order to use the same applications without having to buy them again. Note that the imminent arrival of Microsoft with a Windows 8 operating system that is shared with desktop systems may change the face of the market somewhat.

Processor

Most tablets use processors based on the ARM architecture that is also used in smartphones. Compared with the x86 processor architecture used in desktop computers, the ARM architecture is simpler and often consumes less energy. While a simpler architecture results in a performance inferior to that of desktop machines, recent tablet models are following the same path as PC processors a few years ago, with a significant increase in their operating frequency and multi-core models. Multi-core models significantly increase reactivity, especially when it comes to multi-tasking. Therefore, you should prefer a multi-core model if you plan to use several applications at the same time on your tablet.

Screen size

The screen size is an important factor when it comes to choosing a tablet. Even if the market today appears to prefer screens measuring around 10", this size will have a direct impact on the portability and the weight of your tablet. If you plan to take your tablet with you as often as possible, then you should look at smaller models. But if your tablet is just a substitute solution that you use from time to time, then a model with a larger screen will offer greater visual comfort.

Graphical resolution

High graphical resolution displays more details on the screen. Depending on the size of the screen, higher resolution will offer a larger workspace when you are using your tablet. But high resolution also has a significant impact on the performance of your tablet, since it has to display higher volumes of data. And while high resolution may make even the smallest characters legible, it must be combined with a suitable screen size - otherwise, the visual comfort will deteriorate.

Capacity

Just like smartphones, touch-sensitive tablets are often fitted with a flash memory. This memory can be used to store your applications, some of your music and films and a few hundred photos. Note that certain content-rich applications, such as encyclopedias, travel navigation software or high-definition films can represent 4 or 5 GB of data. On the other hand, music and photos take up much less storage space. Make sure that the tablet you choose meets your storage requirements, or opt for a model with a slot for a memory card.

Connectivity

Since the very essence of a tablet is internet access, they all have a Wi-Fi connection. The Wi-Fi function has to connect with a modem or a router that offers a connection to the web. If you want to connect to the network anywhere and at anytime, then you should choose a tablet that is 3G-enabled, in which case you will need a specific data-type telephone subscription. Another solution consists in sharing the data subscription between your smartphone and your tablet. In this case, a Bluetooth connection may be useful so that you do not have to connect both appliances by wire.

Weight

Unlike laptops, which are usually placed on the user's knees or on a desk, tablets are generally meant to be held. This can cause severe fatigue if the tablet is used for lengthy periods. Therefore, special attention must be paid to its weight.

Which tablet for which use?

Always bear in mind the limitations of touch-sensitive tablets. While they may be powerful and versatile, they are no substitute for a desktop or laptop computer. They are not very comfortable when used for long periods, even if this problem can be partially solved with a support and a keyboard.

If you plan to make regular use of your tablet, then you should choose one of the models with a docking station that includes a keyboard and an extra battery, such as the Asus EEE Pad Transformer. Your tablet will then resemble a laptop and will offer the same performance as a low-end netbook. Advanced users may prefer tablets running Google Android, which is more flexible and versatile than Apple's equivalent, especially when it comes to external peripherals.

But if you only use your tablet for a few minutes each day, to check your mailbox and the latest news from your friends, or if you are looking to buy a system for a computer novice, then Apple's tablets are more readily accessible and intuitive.