I am going to be buying a new tablet in about a

[MrMongoose]

I am going to be buying a new tablet in about a month and have been looking around for something that fits my needs - but with limited success. The problem really boils down to the complexity of my needs... basically I need 'everything'. I realize I am likely going to be forced to make some compromises on that - but am hoping that some of you may have advice to help me get as much as possible out of the device.

First, a little background...

By profession I am a technology consultant. I do just about everything including software development, 3D modeling, website design, network security, etc. Therefore I need as much power as I can manage. However, this is not my primary professional requirement (I already have several PCs dedicated to doing most of the cpu-intensive workload). The real trick comes in on the 'sales' side of things. I noticed early on that whenever I would pull out my latest ultraportable, smartphone, pda, etc. that the response I got from my (usually technologically ignorant) clients was extremely positive. As ridiculous as it is, I get hired far more often when I bring along something 'shiny' to ooh and ahh the customers. Therefore I have incorporated this in to my image... and always strive to have the latest tech in-hand - it has been amazingly successful.

As a result, I really need something that is small (the smaller the better), stylish, and powerful... something I have not been able to find (not surprisingly). My main priorities include size, style, speed, and screen resolution.

I am about to break down and buy two seperate devices - one for show and one for practical use. However, besides being completely insane, this approach has one other drawback due to the fact that it is not at all uncommon for my clients to end up purchasing the tech they see me with. I hardly want to be 'pushing' a product that I myself do not actually use... and I certainly don't want to have to explain that to them! =)

I'm hoping that someone here may know of some devices I've missed... perhaps something not available in the U.S., something that isn't released yet but will be soon, or something from a lesser known company. Cost is not an issue.

Here is what I HAVE found so far...

Dialog Flybook - All the flash I want, very little of the function.

Thinkpad X41 Tablet - Middle of the road. Smaller than most, and reasonably functional. Biggest drawback is the low screen res

Lifebook T4010 - Most of the functionality I would like, but a bit large and kinda ugly (IMO).

I know I'm asking for a lot... but any advice is greatly appreciated! :D

[KenMagel]

How about a Toshiba: either the M4 or the M205? Each is among the mostpowerful tablets and also stylish. Be sure to get a gigabyte ofmain memory and either machine should meet many of your needs.

[modulargrey]

until sony makes a real tabletPC ---> M200

[Sagan]

The Motion Computing slates have outstanding screens that would 'wow' most audiences. The LE1600 has some power, but it's not up there with the Toshiba units. Still, it's a sexy machine. My only hesitation, for your needs, with the M4 and M205 is the viewing angle--if you're showing your applications to a group, some won't be able to see the screen from where they sit.

[Jehtris]

Plus, once you learn how to live without a keyboard, it makes showing it that much more impressive. "See, you don't need a keyboard!"

[MrMongoose]

If I didn't need to use it for programming, then I'd consider a device sans keyboard, but unfortunately that represents 30% of what I use it for.

Viewing angle isn't an issue - if I need to show something to a group I usually bring along a small lcd projector. The M200 is certainly a good call... I wish it was a bit smaller, but right now that is probably my favorite. Still, I wouldn't mind if something else came out in the next few weeks... (anything good in the pipeline?)

Thanks for the advice, all!

[Steve S]

<<If I didn't need to use it for programming, then I'd consider a device sans keyboard...>>

...And a USB or BlueTooth wireless keyboard won't work for you because....????

[rbushway]

I've got the LE1600 from Motion. It is by far the best looking tablet I've used yet. Bluetooth keyboard or the convertible keyboard and you are all set. They do sell a docking station as well.

[MrMongoose]

quote:...And a USB or BlueTooth wireless keyboard won't work for you because....????


Personal preference, I suppose - just another seperate device to bring along. Also a bit difficult to use in a plane, car, etc.

You might be right though, I may have prematurely eliminated that as a possibility... I know I'm going to have to give somewhere - maybe if I can have everything I want minus the built in keyboard that would be worth it. I'll do more research. Thanks!