Tablet recommendations

**gatorj24** · 12-20-2007, 06:14 AM

Basically, I am looking for a laptop in the 12" range that I can use on-the-go for my business (online retail), use at the range for inputing shooting match scores, has capability for extra/long-life batteries and is sturdy.

I looked at Dell's "rugged" laptop, but a guy who works with my wife in a nearby city said that their definition of 'rugged' left a LOT to be desired. So he suggested the IBMs.

I like the tablet concept, but am not wedded to it. Sometimes when I am out taking orders or visiting a local national guard unit, I end up scribbling notes on pieces of paper that get lost. The idea of the OneNote software is appealing since I can (in theory) basically just write on it as if it were a piece of paper.

I would also be doing some writing on the machine, so a reasonably comfy keyboard (or at least one that didn't require Herculean effort like I hear the Toughbooks need).

In short, a lightweight, sturdy laptop that isn't too big (12-13" range) that will do word processing, Internet and run Quickbooks. Those are the Big 3. Could be a Tablet PC, but doesn't have to be.

So, theoretically, a tablet PC will give me the "notetaking" capability that a standard laptop will not. I would venture that most of the use will be via keyboard, given that's what I'm accustomed to, but that's no guarantee I won't take to the handwritten input concept...I am open, though I do know I type much faster than I write.

Sorry that this isn't strictly focused on tablet PCs, but I've found that those who are knowledgeable about laptops generally don't know much about tablets. I would imagine that the reverse isn't true, or at least is less true.

Thanks,

Steve S · 12-20-2007, 06:34 AM

Tim: Since you seem to be uncertain about whether a tabletPC would meet your needs, or not, I'd like to suggest that you try one before you get too serious about finding a permanent long-term solution.

As has been mentioned many times in the tablet blogosphere, Allegiance Technology Partners ( www.alltp.com )features a 48-Hour demo program that allows you to "rent" a tabletPC for 48 hours. All you pay for is the shipping. However, in your case, I'd suggest that you consider buying a used tablet so that you can try it out over a somewhat extended period. With luck, you might be able (probably will be able) to get one with OneNote as part of the package. It definitely sounds like you need a good mobility solution, and having been in ranges myself, I know that environment can be demanding.

As for what to look for, why not try the Lenovo ThinkPad? It's a popular, and it will give you a good idea of what current model tablets are capable of.

Tablets really are a paradigm-shifting concept; I strongly advise you to take some time to explore this before you try to jump into the pool (with the rest of us)...

Good luck!

**gatorj24** · 12-20-2007, 07:08 AM

Actually, the thinkpad was the first tablet I'd had an opportunity to play with, which is what got me thinking about them to begin with. A guy who works with my wife (local city government, streets and such dept) is evaluating an X61 for the department. One person I know who is versed in laptop/tablets indicates that since the Lenovo merger, the QC for thinkpads isn't at the level it used to be. Also mentioned Fujitsu's as an option.

Steve S · 12-20-2007, 06:21 PM

<<...One person I know who is versed in laptop/tablets indicates that since the Lenovo merger, the QC for thinkpads isn't at the level it used to be. Also mentioned Fujitsu's as an option...>>

Tim: I won't disagree with your friend. I have owned three tablets since I got interested in them again, two Fujitsu's and my current HP / Compaq. Both companies do a good job with quality and service. Another contender might be Motion, although they seem to have been getting checkered reports recently.

Check out Allegiance. They just updated their demo program and for a modest fee (which might be a business expense for you) you can rent tablets for 14 or 30 days. That should be plenty of time to decide what you might want...

**gatorj24** · 12-20-2007, 08:02 PM

I'll check that rental out. I was looking over CDW's site (based on some other posts) and they seem to have a good selection, and I've not heard bad things about them before...

Out of curiosity, what do I need to look for in a tablet that can be used outside...meaning it's visible...is that SXGA or ...?

Steve S · 12-21-2007, 06:43 AM

Tim: Look for an "indoor / outdoor" screen. Different OEM's have their own names. Motion is "VA," for "view anywhere." Fujitsu is "Indoor / Outdoor." Dell has, I think, "Outdoor Viewable." Those are the ones come to mind. In each OEM description, look for display options that talk about expanded viewablity.

One important note: Except for some very specialized units, no "indoor / outdoor" screen performs really well in direct sunlight. It's just the way things are. A lot has been written about this, so try doing a few forum searches on this topic.

SXGA+ refers to screen resolution. XGA is more or less standard for many tablets right now, as is 12.1" screen size. SXGA+ is a higher (finer) resolution (in the same screen area). However, finer may not be better for you. Screen icons are typically sized in pixels, so if there are more pixels within a fixed area (such as our 12.1" screen) everything appears smaller (even though there's more of it visible)!

Suffice to say that an XGA, 12.1" is a good starting point and that you may choose larger screens or finer resolutions if the increased cost is OK with you...

Finally, I've dealt with CDW several times in the past, and they've always treated me well. I haven't seen any particularly critical posts about them in the forums, either, so if they have what you want, you can probably buy with confidence.

**gatorj24** · 12-21-2007, 07:03 AM

I understand about direct sunlight, and that's not a problem. I've just had my share of frustration trying to use my laptop outside...except for being in the shade, it was always problematic at best.

I was looking at the X61 on CDW last night, and the price was pretty decent on a slightly older gen model (1.6ghz, L7500 duo core) rather than the latest, etc. directly from Lenovo. I was surprised that nearly every other tablet model was more expensive than a comparable IBM. Should that encourage me toward the IBM, or raise eyebrows? :)

Steve S · 12-21-2007, 11:55 AM

<<...I was surprised that nearly every other tablet model was more expensive than a comparable IBM. Should that encourage me toward the IBM, or raise eyebrows?..>>

Tim: Maybe a little of both. For whatever the reason, the industry has always charged more for tablets than for laptops of the same...and frequently superior capability! Go figure.

However, you'll be making a mistake if all you do is to buy based on price. Tablets definitely have a "personal" aspect to them, more than a laptop does. You should really take some time to get hands-on experience, if you can, before you buy...