So you have decided to purchase a tablet - regardless of make, the key thing you will want to consider is the screen. After all, this will be the primary interface through which you will use to enagage with the device - if it doesnt work well, you could have a very tedious experience.....
What are you going to use the tablet for? (Image credit to Josh Miller / CNET)
According to CNET the main consideration is whether you want to use the tablet to replace your main computer, or just to watch TV or movies on occasionally? Will you need access to the internet all the time, if so you are likely to need a tablet with mobile capability in addition to that afforded by wifi coverage.
Which? also advise checking where you will use the tablet as this could impact on your size of screen as well.
Pixels
As well as the size of screen, the number of pixels a tablet has, help to form the clarity of the image on the screen. Which? note a screen resolution (a measure of the number of pixels in a screen) of 1024 x 600 measured diagonally is sufficient to give a sharp display. However, they also note that high resolution screens will contain 1280 x 800 pixels.
7 inch, 8 inch or 10 inch?CNET outline the following when thinking about the size of tablet you purchase:
7-7.9 inchesIn the world of tablets this is considered small - the screen size reflects the diagonal measurement from corner to corner across the screen. Tablets in this spectrum are usually lower in price and have low specs, although on the plus side they are generally more portable.
Which? says tablets of this size are best for:
Those on a budget, those wanting a light, easy to hold device and those who want something portable.
8.9 - 10.1 inchesCNET advise tablets in this size bracket are medium in size and generally provide a more immersive experience than the smaller sized tablets due to their increased processing power. Most mainstream tablets fall into this category and would have a better resolution (more pixels so items seem sharper) on screen.
It is argued these screens are better suited to watching movies and TV and that they feel more interactive.
Over 10.1 inches(Image credit to Josh Miller / CNET)
CNET notes there are very few tablets currently available in this size bracket - they also note, tablets in this size are often hybrids containing a screen and keyboard and with processing power more akin to desktop and laptop computers.
Which? adds that tablets of this size are most suited to those who like watching lots of movies, need to type and need more memory.
Should you have any comments or queries regarding screens drop me an email or leave a comment below.
