Don`t Buy Samsung Galaxy Tab (10.1-Inch, 32GB, Wi-Fi) Before You Read This Reviews

Samsung Galaxy Tab
(10.1-Inch, 32GB, Wi-Fi)

Have had my GT10.1 for a couple of days, and so far it has met or exceeded my expectations in just about every area. I think I have finally found my laptop replacement.

Look and Feel: Very solid, no creaks or flex. Grey plastic back really does look like brushed metal, feels good and does not feel cheap at all. Dang, it's REALLY thin and light.

Performance: Fast. I have run pretty much all my apps on it and have run videos from YouTube without a hiccup. Very responsive, very smooth. The touch screen in not as sensitive as the one on my HTC Incredible 2 Droid phone , but it is still very sensitive (the one on my phone is almost too sensitive, if that's possible).

Apps: Here's the cool part. Because my phone was already an Android device and I had a Google account, when I set up the GT10.1 it immediately and automatically synced, downloaded and installed almost all of the apps that are on my phone. There were just a couple that did not download, probably because they are not compatible with Honeycomb (phone runs Froyo). THAT was slick and saved me a lot of time and energy hunting for apps. The ones that did not download, like the anti-virus and stock market apps, I easily found substitutes for in the Android Market. Most games downloaded and seem to work without a hitch.

Availability of Apps: I have found PLENTY of apps in the Market that work on the GT10.1 - free, too. I even have one (androidVNC) that syncs to my desktop computer, so I can control it remotely. I had a similar program on my laptop and found it to be a lifesaver at times, when on the road. Can edit MS Office docs - Word, Excel, PowerPoint - although all the features of the main programs are not there. Also am using Google Docs, which has its own pluses and minuses. Am debating whether or not to buy DocumentsToGo Full Version to gain more editability. So far, I can get by with just viewing and tweaking. In general I prefer not to do heavy document creation and editing on the road, even with a laptop, so we shall see. K-9 is an excellent email client and provides more functionality than the basic one that comes with the device.

Memory: I bought the 32gig version, just to have plenty of memory down the road. So far, I have only used a small fraction of it. Honeycomb has a nice, small footprint, unlike some other OSs. The entire inventory of office files I could ever need on the road will fit on a 32gig flash drive with over 10 gig to spare, so I am not worried about running out of memory. Connectivity, you ask? See below.

Connectivity: Much lamenting has been done about the lack of ports for the GT10.1. Well, so far, I have not missed them. It's very easy to move data via WiFi. BUT, I know I will need access for things, like the above-mentioned flash drive. And, while most anywhere I go to give presentations these days they ask for the file on a flash drive to put on their own computer/projector, it would be nice to be able to run a video cable out, if needed. At first I thought this would be a deal breaker for me. But, then I read that Samsung is coming out with adapters for their proprietary port. So, I WILL be able to connect a flash drive or video out, when needed. Would it be nice to have these ports on board? Sure. But, frankly, the device is pretty much self-contained and very accessible via WiFi/cloud, so, assuming the adapters come out, I think the lack of ports is a non-issue. And, I am used to buying accessories for my devices as needed. I also use my phone as a WiFi hotspot, to which the GT10.1 connects flawlessly, and the combination of Android phone and Android tablet is pretty killer.

Keyboard: On board virtual keyboard is fine, quite large, in fact, if you are used to using one on a phone, as I am. I also downloaded Swype, which works fine on Honeycomb. Finally, just for those times, when I might need to do some more significant typing, I bought a Menotek flexible Bluetooth keyboard (kind of like the one in 'Live Free or Die Hard' but wireless). It synced immediately, and it works great. And, the keyboard is almost ridiculously portable (it rolls up/folds up). So, I just leave it in my briefcase and have it, when I need it. Have a leather case on order that will allow the tablet to be propped up like a monitor, so the combination of portable keyboard and angled tablet should be a nice substitute for a laptop.

Battery life: Have unplugged the tablet at 0600, used it off and on all day, and it still had just under 20% juice, when I plugged it back in at 0100 - 19 hours later. That was not continuous use, but more real world use - emails (a lot), read docs, downloads, a few YouTube videos, a few games. Not bad. It only reported about 80% charged this morning after 5 hours plugged into an outlet, but from experience with other devices, I expect both the battery life and the charging time to improve over the next week or so, as it cycles several times. As you can imagine, using video-intensive programs, like some games or lots of videos, drains the battery fastest. Even so, I'd say the battery life is pretty good and more than sufficient for a day's work (and probably play).

So, in conclusion, I think I might have found my laptop replacement, a first for me. I thought I was going to get a Xoom, then an ASUS Transformer, and then this one came along. It is really a very powerful device, given its REALLY small footprint. Is it an IPad killer? Who cares? I have handled IPads owned by business associates. Nice device, but all they ever seem to use it for is to show photos and play songs, maybe blog. Large cool factor. I don't see it as a business tool. I DO see the Galaxy Tab 10.1 as a true business tool. The same goes for my Android phone. So, depending on your needs, one or the other probably will be better for you. As for me, I am really sold on the Android OS; it is fast, powerful and small. There are some differences between my phone and tablet versions, but they are minor. If the new version that is due out at the end of this year really merged them, but was not downloadable to my current devices, I would keep both of them, since the differences are so small. That should tell you something.

Hope someone, who is considering the Galaxy Tab 10.1 as a business tool, finds the above useful. My recommendation is to go for it; I do not think you will be disappointed. It is not perfect, but I think it executes beautifully on all of its advertised features and capabilities, and for that reason I give it 5 stars.

Samsung Galaxy Tab
(10.1-Inch, 32GB, Wi-Fi)

The Galaxy Tab 10.1 is a fantastic device. I had much difficulty choosing between this device and the ASUS transformer. I was sold on this device when I was able to hold it while at a brick and mortar electronics store. It is lighter and thinner than any other device on the market. I was able to take it and compare it directly to even an iPad 2. It was even lighter than than the iPad 2. The Galaxy Tab makes the Acer Iconia Tab seem huge and heavy. IT even makes the Xoom seem a bit brickish. Aesthetically, this is the best looking Android device on the market. It rivals even the sleekness of the iPad 2 (which is the benchmark, I think).

Hands down the best android tablet on the market right now. Ive been lucky enough to play with the Asus Transformer, Ipad 2 and the Samsung Galaxy 10.1 and i have to say the Galaxy 10.1 is my favorite. Its sleek, light, and the screen colors pop, There is a noticeable difference between the displays from the "Ipad 2 and Transformer" which both have an IPS screen and the "Samsung Galaxy 10.1" which has a PLS screen which is brighter and more vivid in my opinion. Android 3.1 is also very nice. Its nice having the option to customize the hell out of your tablet, unlike the Ipad 2. Highly recommend. I Love It.

This is a truly impressive device. Once you hold it in your hand you realize how great it really is. I didn't think the weight and thinness would really make that much of a difference, but comparing it to the Xoom it is nearly night and day. Samsung seems to have hit a sweet spot which makes the device easy to hold and handle in every day use.
The screen appears to be of high quality and images and video look great. The speakers are better than average.
I'm actually quite impressed with Honeycomb. There are many things which make the experience work very well: Task switching is great. The new notification system is probably one of the best new features, improving on an already solid system in Android. Things such as player controls in the music notification bring multitasking and convenience to a new level. Quick access to settings by tapping the clock is very convenient and oft used.

Samsung Galaxy Tab
(10.1-Inch, 32GB, Wi-Fi)

All the core Google apps have been updated for tablet use. Gmail looks great and handles multiple accounts like a champ. Maps are more convenient than ever with information overlays. Rather than having to switch back and forth between a places details view or directions and the map, the info is all right there.

Browsing is very good and the browser is very capable and smooth. Flash support in 3.1 works very well. I use it regularly to stream content from Amazon VOD, and it looks fantastic and plays back flawlessly. My one gripe is that the browser doesn't include the Labs functionality, which is available on the Xoom, which gives you a quick dial page when you open a new tab.

I quite like the aspect ratio of the screen. I use it in landscape mode most of the time, but have found that portrait mode works well for certain web pages or documents (Quickoffice HD is included for document viewing and editing. It even syncs with Google Docs).
The cameras work surprisingly well. Being that it is a larger device you are likely to hold with two hands, it seems like you get some automatic image stabilization this way, and less of the shaky mess you're likely to get with a smartphone. There's a great panorama mode where you simply pan the tablet and it takes pictures as you go along, then stitches them all together. I do have a gripe with the Samsung camera app: It removes the navigation bar from the bottom of the screen. It seems like this is a good thing to give you a larger preview window or more space in general, but it kind of breaks the Honeycomb flow and you can no longer do things like task switching, or even see what time it is, or what notification you just got. I hope they change this.

Much has been said about the 30 pin connector and lack of hdmi and usb ports and missing sd card slots. I gripe about this sort of thing myself, but in practice it has made no difference at all. The tablet comes with a 30 pin to usb cable which also functions as the charging cable and can be used to connect it to a computer. We have a Xoom at home, which has a dedicated micro usb port, but at the end of the day that is just as inconvenient as most devices don't connect to micro usb. The Xoom also has a micro hdmi out port and we even sprung for a cable, but other than trying it out once we've not used it. The lack of sd card slot also turned out to not be an issue. I have the 32 gig version, and I probably would be fine with the 16 gig one. I have all my music in the cloud with Google Music, which has worked well for me so far. It even worked in Europe, when I took a trip there, and you can easily download music to the device for times without a connection. I had several movies with me and took a ton of pictures as well and that hardly put a significant dent in device storage. My personal recommendation would be this: Ask yourself how often you've swapped the sd card on your phone. Ask yourself how often you use hdmi out. Chances are you really don't need either. If you do, there are some great other devices which will fit the bill. But none of them are as nice as this one. Also, with USB host support in 3.1, you can now connect a usb stick or hard drive when the need arises.

I'm very happy with the Tab. It's a joy to use.

As far as a tablet is concerned, I think this has got to a point that I will gladly settle with it for a while. I feel sorry for Samsung when people compare this tablet with iPad 2. Samsung has made such an extraordinary effort in designing and making this tablet to prove that the Android tablet platform is not only viable but also competitive.

The world with Android tablets is a better one than that has only iPads. These products are for very different needs of people. For those who prefer simplicity and a feel of luxury, go for iPad. Apple's fundamental philosophy is to offer less but to make everything so simple and smooth to create an illusion that you are in the perfect world. No, I don't say this in a criticizing or disparaging way. I believe for people who have other interests in their life, this is not only a respectable but even desirable attitude to have about electronics. You just get a great feeling about using the iPad, or any Apple device for that matter. Things are taken care of by the Master in the Apple world. Why do you seek for trouble?

Samsung Galaxy Tab
(10.1-Inch, 32GB, Wi-Fi)

But for people like me who just want to do more, even at a price of possibly introducing a few quirks and problems with the additional features, Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 offered a reason to celebrate in the free world. Yes, I admit that I would have chosen an Android tablet anyway (who is not biased?), but Samsung has made even an Android tablet so beautiful and so smooth that I just can't help but feeling thankful.

The iPad characteristics are mostly subjective. But the advantages offered by the Samsung galaxy tab 10.1 are indisputable hard facts. The 1M pixel screen versus 760,000 pixel screen is a hard fact, for example. Full compatibility of Internet video is another example. Much better cameras, etc.. These are not "feels", but hard facts.

So for simplicity, go for the iPad. But for functionality and most of all freedom, go for the best Android, which is the Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 at this moment.

With the exception of battery life (which is slightly lower) this tablet beats the iPad 2 in every respect. It has a higher resolution screen, with more vibrant color and brightness. It is thinner and significantly lighter. It has a faster Tegra 2 processor.

Samsung Galaxy Tab
(10.1-Inch, 32GB, Wi-Fi)

And Honeycomb has numerous functions that iOS can't match. The widget architecture alone is a huge leap forward, and although it's been part of Android since the beginning, Honeycomb adds a lot of eye-catching elements to its widgets, allowing you to thumb through books, apps, and YouTube videos right from your home screens, for example. My screens are filled with widgets showing animated, interactive representations of news, weather, media and system controls, etc. I don't know why Android doesn't get more credit for this, and Apple has made no steps to catch up - the iPad 2 will still offer you nothing but screens full of icons.

Also, the Flash on this device works really well. I clicked on videos from the NY Times as well as the Daily Show, and found the video to work smoothly and seamlessly. Flash on Android has really matured, and guess what, it's still the Web's killer app. Not having Flash is a massive detriment; I'm surprised more reviewers don't call it a dealbreaker. Finally, Android remains far more open, flexible, and customizable than Apple. I have already installed off-market apps and betas from the web, which Apple does not allow, along with live wallpapers and replacement keyboards.

From the perspective of both the hardware and the operating system, I find the Galaxy Tab 10.1 to be significantly ahead of the iPad 2. The only area where Apple has a clear advantage is in its tablet-specific software selection. But as with phone apps, this will change soon. And Android phone apps are designed to work with phones of many screen resolutions, so they scale up to tablet size much better than iPhone apps do on the iPad. Overall, though I'm looking forward to a few more key tablet apps coming out soon, the small but growing selection hasn't bothered me.

So having owned my Tab for a few days now, I really don't see where anyone gets off claiming the iPad 2 is a superior product; it may be the market leader, but it comes up short in nearly every measurable way. I highly recommend the Galaxy Tab 10.1.

Full disclosure: I've had my tab for just two days now. After reading reviews in every corner of the internets, I had it narrowed down to the tab 10.1, the Toshiba Thrive, and the ipad 2. I have been an Android phone user for a year now (EVO), but both my computers are bleeding edge Macs.

My top reasons for getting a tablet were 1) going mostly electronic for research, so...pdf effective markup is key and 2) not wanting to lug my Macbook Pro with me evey time I leave the house and want a computer along for the ride. I wanted to be able to read for work and fun, play games, watch movies and TV, and check email and occaisionally do some writing. I visited and played with all three of my top tablet finalists at my local Best Buy, read tons of formal and informal reviews, and talked to my friends who have ipads (none have android tabs).

Samsung Galaxy Tab
(10.1-Inch, 32GB, Wi-Fi)

First impressions (Will update when I have had it longer)

The Good: Overall, this thing is so much better than I expected it would be, even after pretty much knowing exactly what I was getting myself into. The screen is awesome, very bright and pretty to look at. The sound is really good, both through two speakers on sides and included headphones. Playing the simple games I like to play is terrific, much better than on the EVO. The EZpdf reader app I purchashed for marking up pdfs for research is AMAZINGLY AWESOME. Being able to sync with App Brain and pull all my apps to the tab was super easy and convenient. And it comes with Quick Office pre-installed, so you save a few more bucks over ipad the since you don't have to buy Pages to edit docs. I also pulled my music from Amazon Cloud, so that was a breeze.

The Not as Good: Typing on the screen definitely is not quite as rsponsive as it seemed to me in the store. I make more errors than I expected due to te letters not registerin, as you cansee fom the errors I chose not corect in this sentence. I have ordered the keyboard doc to use for longer note taking in future, and I am sure that my on screen typing wil improve as I learn how to work with/adapt to the keyboard a bit better. The built in sensor for screen brightness is also a weakness for me at this point since it doesn't seem to always get it right (screen dims at times when it would be easier to see it better lit).

All in all, as a person with a familiarity and appreciation for Android OS, I am thrilled with my choice to get the 10.1. It is super sleek and light (unlike Thrive, which I ultimately decided was not going to be comfortable to hold for long periods of time, and what's the point of a tablet if you can't do that comfortably). It is beautiful inside and out. It is cheaper to fill with apps you know and love and have already paid for if you have an Android phone. Oh, and if you install a remote desktop app, you can get Netflix on it now, though it seems like an official app is in the works.