Is this a good tablet? - Acer Iconia A500

Hi,
I was looking at get the Acer iconia for university to take notes and play with.
Would you guys recommend it as a tablet? Are there any performance or screen issues at all?
The reviews I read were quite positive, but I find forums are always best place to get real opinions.
Thanks in advance
Sent from my X10i using XDA App

For me one of the main defects is the quality of the microphone, then once try, if it is possible before buying!

I haven't found anything wrong with the tablet itself, it's sturdy, looks good and works like a dream. I haven't tried the mic though, I don't have any use for such.

I've had mine for a month now and I can say, hand on heart, it's an excellent device. I believe that Android has some way to go before it can be described as a fully matured platform for tablets but it's streets ahead of anything Microsoft offer and in the useability stakes is not that far behind the iPad.

Its a good device - but the AC adapter just sucks (short cable, bulky, no power cable as we know it from notebooks)

PhilDsT said:
Its a good device - but the AC adapter just sucks (short cable, bulky, no power cable as we know it from notebooks)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
On that note the tablet recharges really fast, though. I have no experience with other manufacturers' ones, but it takes only like an hour - hour and a half to charge it to full and then it lasts the whole day again.

Thanks for the replies. I'm personally not too fussed about the mic as I probably wont use it.
Based on the replies I will probably get it soon. At first I was a bit worried about the vibration during charging from a thread somewhere here, but it didn't seem like it affected many users.
Thanks again for all your help
Sent from my X10i using XDA App

kylec said:
Thanks for the replies. I'm personally not too fussed about the mic as I probably wont use it.
Based on the replies I will probably get it soon. At first I was a bit worried about the vibration during charging from a thread somewhere here, but it didn't seem like it affected many users.
Thanks again for all your help
Sent from my X10i using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
And with tue full USB on the device any cheap USB keyboard should work
Sent from my Nexus S 4G using XDA Premium App

BrianDigital said:
And with tue full USB on the device any cheap USB keyboard should work
Sent from my Nexus S 4G using XDA Premium App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not to worry about the vibration I had it on one exchanged it haven't looked back. This is my first tablet so did a LOT of research chose this one & love it. Sure it has some faults but mostly because because of Google. Most of it should be resolved when 3.1 comes out in the next week or two. One thing I would suggest you do is read as much as you can on forums especially this one & don't be afraid to ask questions (not to me , I don't know enough yet).
Good luck & don't be a stranger.

wrong place
wrong place

The key issues seem to be screen-ons, weakish wifi and GPS radios.
Best to try the device out and see if you notice these issues. If not, the A500 rocks. I had two A500s with screen-on issues and they would not turn off the display unless the power button was pressed.
Suggest buying one and try it out. No issues, no problem. Were it not for the screen staying on and coming on unprovoked, I would have kept one of the two I had. Waiting for the issue to be fixed, or will get something else later.
added:
The only similar featured tablet in the near future is the Toshiba Thrive. A few of the hands-on previews suggest the display is washed out and soft, but no comparison to other devices to confirm if true.

Ive had mine for about a month now, and i was considering returning it, but im glad i didnt. Ive gone 4 days with out charging it, and when i do charge it, it charges in like an hour. The power adapter sucks, and it sucks that it doesn't charge by usb, but the sacrifice is worth it for the full size usb port. Hell, ive use the stupid thing as a back up charger for my cell phone (a Vibrant that has effing terrible battery!)
The only real complaints would be towards the software. It does like to hang every once in a while, and does still have the sleep death issue, but those things happen very rarely.

I am glad you are happy. I have spent a few hours looking at reviews and seeing what people were saying about this. I have to say this, in two days I will have some money and I am picking it up.

pros
The ports- buying factor for acer vs asus( tablet only)
Built quality- love the aluminium
Speakers- can party with them lol
Cons
Weight- a liiiiiiitlllle heavier than galaxy 10.1
Mic- gotta say its not the best but not that awful for me
Short cable for adapter- yes this really threw me off
I dont wnna talk bout bugs, all products have em. Asus gets the bleeding screens and 720p playback curse, samsung gets the bezel tearing and ipads lack a lot of things. Hope my opinion helps.

Thanks everyone for the additional comments. The pros all seem to outweigh the cons, so i will definitely get one. Thanks for all the input again.
I'll use the thanks button when i can get to my computer
Sent from my X10 TripNMiUI-IRIS using XDA App

tbor1277 said:
pros
The ports- buying factor for acer vs asus( tablet only)
Built quality- love the aluminium
Speakers- can party with them lol
Cons
Weight- a liiiiiiitlllle heavier than galaxy 10.1
Mic- gotta say its not the best but not that awful for me
Short cable for adapter- yes this really threw me off
I dont wnna talk bout bugs, all products have em. Asus gets the bleeding screens and 720p playback curse, samsung gets the bezel tearing and ipads lack a lot of things. Hope my opinion helps.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
All good points to consider and very true! I'll be keeping my A500 and returning the asus unopened.
Rob

I can not get
a answer can you tell me? Is your tablet rooted? I see instructions and have downloaded the file. But step one setting to debug or what ever. How do you do that please??
thanks
WereCatf said:
On that note the tablet recharges really fast, though. I have no experience with other manufacturers' ones, but it takes only like an hour - hour and a half to charge it to full and then it lasts the whole day again.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse

skycop51 said:
a answer can you tell me? Is your tablet rooted? I see instructions and have downloaded the file. But step one setting to debug or what ever. How do you do that please??
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Settings -> Applications -> Development -> USB debugging.

I think A500 is a very good product... I own an A500 and an Asus Transformer and I have to say I do prefer the Acer. In my opinion the screen is better, more bright, more responsive and above all it get way less dirt than the Asus. The USB port is another plus, not talking about the led flash for the front camera. The only negative point is the weight as the Asus is lighter and has a wonderful grip.
Both of them have microphone problems but the audio of Acer is way more powerful.
To make it short, if I had to choose one of them I would buy the Acer... no question.
Max

kylec said:
Thanks everyone for the additional comments. The pros all seem to outweigh the cons, so i will definitely get one. Thanks for all the input again.
I'll use the thanks button when i can get to my computer
Sent from my X10 TripNMiUI-IRIS using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hey....also something to consider....the Transformer has a DOCK turning it into a netbook.
AFAIK.....the Iconia A500 does not have this at all. The W500 does however.

Related

How happy are you and issues you have noticed.

So im thinking about getting the transformer because of its keyboard dock (origanly had gotten the atrix for the same reason turned out to be crap).
How happy are you?
How is the performance?
What issues have you noticed?
is it worth it?
I got mines on Thursday. I'm happy with it.
Performance is very snappy and responsive.
Issues? Not really any issues that I've experienced but from what I've been hearing from the XDA forums is about its build quality. I got mines from Newegg because I've always had good experiences from Newegg.
One issue was that when I got it and 3.1 was stated in notifications and I wasn't able to flash the OTA until it was 50%+ even when the tablet was charged, the tablet didn't do the installation UNTIL it was 50%+ charged.
My biggest complaint is the USB cable. You can't charge it from the computer and the cable is pretty short. But you can workaround this by buying a USB3 A Male to A Female.
Fast delivery, low-prices and its build quality is perfect.
got mine June 1st.
Performance is great, very smooth and slick.
Apps look great on the IPS screen.
After a bit of fiddling I have it seeing all my network shares.
Internet is great on the Transformer.
Very slight light bleed but nothing worth returning it for.
Left speaker is a bit quieter than the right. Waiting for Asus to
release a patch hopefully, dont want to root it yet.
I have the dock and have found the dock battery drains quickly,
but the tablet battery lasts for 2 days easily with moderate to heavy use.
over all, very pleased.
hmmm i have been considering which tablet to buy transformer or galaxy tab dont want any of thoose 7 inchers.
I read all the bad stories here on XDA before I got mine and almost wished I hadn't purchased it... after I got it, all those fears went away. It's aa GREAT device.
The only issue I have with it is the stock browser. It's really nice but the poor performance it gives makes it a joke. Opera has been pretty good... only complaint with it is you can't fully change your user agent so sites like Facebook and Google look like junk. I'm guessing ICS may fix these issues, if we don't get a fix sooner.
I, too, ordered mine from Newegg. I have no creaking or dust. a little light bleed but it isn't anything to complain about. Overall, my device feels very solid and, IMO DOES NOT feel cheap, as some have said. My serial number starts with B5, I read that's the batch number... so they may have fixed some of the issues from the early batches.
Finally, I wrote this entire post on my TF with Opera and Thumb Keyboard. HIGHLY RECOMMEND the TF.
I am extremely happy,
Coming over from using the iPad 2, I was 50/50 about the tablet,
As the Market was really good for this I thought even if I didn't like it I could always sell it on,
But after a day of use it turned into my number one choice,
Can't fault it on anything really,
The browser I tend to use with flash switch off so it's really smooth and switches pages with ease,
Only thing I would like to see is a way to cancel the previous open windows on the desktop but this is more a google thing and nothing to do with the Asus...
I didn't buy the dock with my one as I don't see myself ever using it,
I will most likely buy the other dock and sd/USB adapter once release...
I'm pretty happy all said and done. The only light bleed I notice is where the virtual buttons are always located making it not a very big deal, imo.
I am happy with my transformer. I got it from Amazon a few weeks ago. I am having one issue... the internet browser keeps closing on me and i have the light bleed. But its not bad.
I got a TF from the first batch of shipments and it has been working flawlessly for me ever since. I have absolutely no light bleed and as far as creaky noises go, I don't squeeze my $400+ investments hard enough to test them for such.
The speakers have worked flawlessly for me ever since I got it, which was before the 3.1 update. The browser is remarkable for a tablet and the keyboard is epic.
The one issue that I have is the USB charger. It's waaay to short, but it's not really that big of a deal to me.
Oh and btw, someone earlier said you can't charge via your computer usb. That's not true, it does charge just at a very, very slow rate unless you have usb 3.0 on your pc (that's how it is for all tablets I assume, since they just require a lot more power than a normal cell).
In all, if you imagine yourself using the functionality of the keyboard, such as the extended battery life, the keypad, usb port and sd card AND you don't want to burn a whole in your wallet, then the TF is a no brainer.
If your looking for something that mindless zombies will consider "aesthetically pleasing" but can do with less functionality and more $$$$$ then get the Galaxy Tab 10.1 or even the Ipad 2 (preferably galaxy just because it's android )
I'm very disappointed with it's video playback. But other than that. Since rooting and fixing the right sided audio issue it's great. I just wish they would fix video playback and it would be close to perfection.
Thanks guys. I will looking to buying at best buy dont like shoppong on line for electronics... I have this where if it doesnt work i will be on my way back to best buy. Im considering the transforner becuase of the keyboard. I had orginally bought the atrix because of the lapdock but that phone turned out to be a huge fail. Now i have a infuse 4g and considering the transformer. How bad is the light bleed? And do you think new ones got fixed?
Sent from my SAMSUNG INFUSE using XDA Premium App
Transformer27 said:
So im thinking about getting the transformer because of its keyboard dock (origanly had gotten the atrix for the same reason turned out to be crap).
How happy are you?
How is the performance?
What issues have you noticed?
is it worth it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Very happy, when i'm browsing most pages load faster than i can blink.
As well as 3 buddies i been very fortunate, none of us has had any issues, i surpose we got ours from Asus, all others on here are made in Brazil.
Of course it's worth it! you can do more with it than any other tablet, it's built the same as any other tablet, and it's cheaper
The only thing it doesn't do is help with spelling!
acid123 said:
I am extremely happy,
I will most likely buy the other dock and sd/USB adapter once release...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
what "other dock?"
onfire4g05 said:
Opera has been pretty good... only complaint with it is you can't fully change your user agent so sites like Facebook and Google look like junk. I'm guessing ICS may fix these issues, if we don't get a fix sooner.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've done the steps listed at this url: http://www.articlecms.in/3691-how-to-run-opera-mobile-in-full-desktop-mode.html on my captivate and it works great. Hopefully it works for your transformer.
" In the browser address bar type opera:config
Scroll down to User preferences and click on it
Scroll to custom user agent
Type this into the text box Opera/9.80 (Linux; en) Presto/2.7.81 Version/11.00
Click save
Restart the app"
I am very pleased - no issues, snappy performance, generally exceeds all my expectations.
Are the speakers great? - of course not, what do you expect from something the size of an ant's eye. Are they tolerable for general use? - of course
Only thing I am (patiently) waiting for, is Netflix and Cisco group authentication VPN.
One thing you need to think about. THIS IS NOT A PC! Trying to duplicate your PC work activities will leave you feel lacking. If you adapt your work activities to the (mostly) excellent native Android applications and capabilities, you will be thrilled.
I'm very happy with my Transformer. I agree that coming to this forum might make one think that there's nothing but problems with the device. However, consider the volume of troubles (most can be corrected) against the fact that 400,000 were sold in April and May, there really aren't that problems with the tablet.
I love, I mean, Love, the keyboard. I have the MSI netbook U123, which has a similar-sized keyboard. Somehow, this keyboard is so much easier to use and I never hit the wrong keys. And having the touch screen is very convenient.
Good luck with your decision.
I love it!
I have had mine since the initial US release and can honestly say I have not had one issue with mine. The video issues seem to be resolved since the 3.1 release, I have not noticed and light bleed issues others have, i even think the speakers soud great considering the size of the unit! For what I do with it, watching videos while running on the treadmill, browsing the web, passing some time with a few games, and using email and the calendar, think it simply is a GREAt device!
(not even xda-rooted yet- but..) am really very happy!!
[Xvid plays great / SSH client rules / happy PDF rendering / Dolphin rocking the web]
Can't wait for my dock; some NVFlash loveliness [tick];
audiophile voodoo; (possible) ubuntu dual-boot;
..and its a damn-fine, asus done-deal in my book
How do you guys connect the tablet to the internet without dock? Just wireless or tether right?
To me thats the main issue. It will be out here tomorrow and im readying all i can about it because i can't decide what to do.
going to go to best buy to see if they have it instock today

Thoughts of let down with a hint of mutiny...

Odd title eh'?
So here is the boat I am swimming in. I jumped on the Xoom bandwagon when it was released. I immediately was fascinated with the tablet experience and enjoyed it. The Xoom certainly had its issues but was a very neat device. When I got word that the TF was coming out I jumped ship and bought a TF. Used it for a week and also liked it for the most part. However I was finding that productivity really lacked on all tablets on screen keyboard. Then I got my hands on a dock and the experience changed. Using the keyboard was infinately more productive and I found that from the day I first docked it I have yet to undock it (around a couple months now).
My problem is I basically just spent a ton of money on a netbook that isnt exactly a speed demon. Web browsing is often slow, updates have caused many issues, etc etc... The device still works but it feels like im playing with a toy instead of actually using the device as a tool. I enjoy Android but think it is very early in the game and it leaves allot to be desired. As I said at first i loved both devices but once the newness wears off you basically have a dumbed down netbook (in my opinion of course).
So now Im thinking about selling the TF as well and picking up one of the new Sandy Bridge Alienware M11x's. To be able to have an i7 processor, damn good video card, and best of all use all my programs in windows sounds like a breath of fresh air at this point.
I know tablets are meant to be stand alone but I never found a use for it for work purposes and the few times I did it was quite the let down. Again, dont read my words wrong. I like the device I just dont think it is good at being anything much more then a toy at this point.
After more thought the only real downside I see in switching is losing the touch screen. It is super nice to be able to just tap where you want to go but often on smaller links it would just pick the wrong one anyways.
So here I sit trying to figure if I should make the switch or not. I know im not comparing apples to apples hardware wise, but I am comparing portable device usefulness. Just curious if anyone has the same feelings or any further input before I make my decision.
Godspeed...
03stage2 said:
Odd title eh'?
So here is the boat I am swimming in. I jumped on the Xoom bandwagon when it was released. I immediately was fascinated with the tablet experience and enjoyed it. The Xoom certainly had its issues but was a very neat device. When I got word that the TF was coming out I jumped ship and bought a TF. Used it for a week and also liked it for the most part. However I was finding that productivity really lacked on all tablets on screen keyboard. Then I got my hands on a dock and the experience changed. Using the keyboard was infinately more productive and I found that from the day I first docked it I have yet to undock it (around a couple months now).
My problem is I basically just spent a ton of money on a netbook that isnt exactly a speed demon. Web browsing is often slow, updates have caused many issues, etc etc... The device still works but it feels like im playing with a toy instead of actually using the device as a tool. I enjoy Android but think it is very early in the game and it leaves allot to be desired. As I said at first i loved both devices but once the newness wears off you basically have a dumbed down netbook (in my opinion of course).
So now Im thinking about selling the TF as well and picking up one of the new Sandy Bridge Alienware M11x's. To be able to have an i7 processor, damn good video card, and best of all use all my programs in windows sounds like a breath of fresh air at this point.
I know tablets are meant to be stand alone but I never found a use for it for work purposes and the few times I did it was quite the let down. Again, dont read my words wrong. I like the device I just dont think it is good at being anything much more then a toy at this point.
After more thought the only real downside I see in switching is losing the touch screen. It is super nice to be able to just tap where you want to go but often on smaller links it would just pick the wrong one anyways.
So here I sit trying to figure if I should make the switch or not. I know im not comparing apples to apples hardware wise, but I am comparing portable device usefulness. Just curious if anyone has the same feelings or any further input before I make my decision.
Godspeed...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yep. I think people will be switching, and you should too.
The dock is addictive for productivity. Unless I tried it I would have not realized how much better is the experience. Yet, when reading a book I prefer only the tablet. This combination is awesome on the Transformer.
Bob Smith42 said:
Yep. I think people will be switching, and you should too.
The dock is addictive for productivity. Unless I tried it I would have not realized how much better is the experience. Yet, when reading a book I prefer only the tablet. This combination is awesome on the Transformer.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
+1, and if anyone is that worried about selecting the wrong link by accident they can always use the mouse pointer via the trackpad. I've had no problem doing it this way and it's a big plus for the TF.
Sounds to me like you have no business owning a tablet and windows fits your needs. I'm glad you got that figured out.
GeLopez said:
Sounds to me like you have no business owning a tablet and windows fits your needs. I'm glad you got that figured out.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think the TF is perfect for his needs. The problem is, that this tablet HAS SO MANY PROBLEMS. This tablet is much slower than any tegra 2 tablet as there is no hardware acceleration! And the fact that there is light bleed, dock issues, battery issues, charging issues, sound issues, etc. Asus really screwed up..
Lets put things into perspective here...
The tablet is not a laptop, it can perform many functions of a laptop, but it is truly not one.
It does have a place in the field. I have found that for business, being able to show information instantly to partners without having to 'boot up' or 'plug in' is essential when I want to get a point across.
It is great for email, messaging, movies, light surfing, reading, and even playing some good casual games on.
The dock makes it appear to be more like a laptop, but again.. go back to my 2nd sentence, and do not put it in a category it does not belong in.
If I need to develop, I use my Alienware mx17-r2, if I need to demo products I have my Inspiron. If I need to take notes, read a quick email, show a slide deck / video, or just look something up real quick, I have my TF101.
So this is more about how you set your expectations above what a product is intended to do, and now have buyer's remorse because of it.
Sounds like you put expectations on the device geared towards what it is not. Go get a netbook or start hackin up the ROM and tailor it to your needs.
Instant On
16 hours of battery life.
Love it.
True though...I barely ever undock it now ahahahah...so we've kind of went full circle...
It's nice to know that I can undock it though.
Even as a netbook it is sleek...IPS screen...touchscreen. The interface is just nice for what it's meant to be...a light portable machine.
I can listen to music/pandora...type up some docs...play some games...browse some web...watch some movies....read some magazines...
Edit: oh yeah...I can mount it in my car and use it as a GPS....use yelp to find nearby food places then map a route to it...(yes this can be done on phone too)...but it's kind of cool.
It's kind of nice.
xTRICKYxx said:
I think the TF is perfect for his needs. The problem is, that this tablet HAS SO MANY PROBLEMS. This tablet is much slower than any tegra 2 tablet as there is no hardware acceleration! And the fact that there is light bleed, dock issues, battery issues, charging issues, sound issues, etc. Asus really screwed up..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I dont know of any problems you speak of ,mine is perfect
GeLopez said:
I dont know of any problems you speak of ,mine is perfect
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't have those problems either, but thousands do.
xTRICKYxx said:
I don't have those problems either, but thousands do.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
my issues havent been hardwre related, just update related. That being said I dont blame Asus for my particular concerns. Im still a TF fan but just think to achieve a broader gambut of ability at the same basic price point is the wise move. Obviously this is mainly due to me personally always using the dock.
Ironically on a side note I bought one of the first asus netbooks years ago and hated it after a month. Now Im finding myself wanting to use the TF daily, go figure....
And lastly I dont think I would have even looked at m11x if the performance on this thing was simply up to par...
xTRICKYxx said:
This tablet is much slower than any tegra 2 tablet as there is no hardware acceleration!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Actually, the TF benchmarks very competitively against other Tegra 2 tablets. The only area where it's not (allegedly) hardware accelerated is in playing Flash videos in the browser.
xTRICKYxx said:
I don't have those problems either, but thousands do.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Where do you get the idea that it is "thousands"?
Regards,
Dave
foxmeister said:
Where do you get the idea that it is "thousands"?
Regards,
Dave
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That wouldn't be surprising. Even 5k would be less than 1% out there by now. I mean heck, last month alone they shipped out 400k didn't they?

Battery & Display suck; why the love?

Hi guys. I just bought the Acer Iconia and wanted to give a few of my initial thoughts.
First thing I noticed after performing all the updates was the lag. After exiting applications, it takes a little while for the icons to re-appear on the homescreen. I haven't added any besides the default. Also, when scrolling with the browser, it tends to render in square blocks.
Battery life..I've read reviews that it goes up to 8 hours while others say it lasts between 4-5 hours, and others say 6 hours. I understand that what we do varies, and the battery needs to be calibrated. After having it on for 3 hours and playing FieldRunners for 45 min (the rest of the time it was idle with all wireless connections off), I'm at 75% remaining. That's pretty crummy. Not even a calibration will improve it THAT much.
Also, when viewing a white background, you can see every "box" or pixel. Goodness, that's pretty frickin' bad. I'm not expecting any ridiculous "retina display" here but this is just a cheap panel.
I went into Staples to compare it to the Galaxy Tab and Xoom, and I see why Iconia is priced $100 less.
So, serious question. Why all the love for this thing?
Thanks!
Obvious troll is obvious
Sent from my A500 using Tapatalk
With 14 posts, maybe you shouldn't comment. And I can't imagine a troll would actually take the time to write up a full post. What a waste of time that'd be.
I genuinely want to know. Perhaps there's something I'm missing. I want to love it because for $299 (after the Staples $100 off tablets coupon) it might not be a bad deal even with my complaints. But for those who actually spent the full $400, what do you actually like about it?
If you wanna go to staples n pay $300 (not $100!) For extra bulk and a non functioning micro SD, or for a device that doesnt even have a micro sd, USB, or HDMI, go for it. If you feel like a thin piece of plastic is a better investment than stainless steel, that's your money. But don't polute our forums with a "grass is greener" thread. You dont like the Iconia cuz it has the same battery as every other device (the only difference is some companies lie more in their specs- I've tested them all, they are all about the same) or cuz you can see pixels on a white screen, go somewhere else.
It's $100 OFF, making it $299 as I posted above. Read the post and learn to write full words in english. Good lord, tough to get a real answer out of babies.
Don't be too hurt if people knock the device. I'm allowed to call it like I see it, and the reason I posted is so someone can point out the actual good parts of the device (besides USB port).
Does anyone else see the issues I was referring to in my original post?
allen099 said:
It's $100 OFF, making it $299 as I posted above. Read the post and learn to write full words in english. Good lord, tough to get a real answer out of babies.
Don't be too hurt people knock the device. I'm allowed to call it like I see it, and the reason I posted is so someone can point out the actual good parts of the device (besides USB port).
Does anyone else see the issues I was referring to in my original post?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I cant find your first post. You posted 224 messages. I klap my hands.
Don't diss the Odom, you can't make any friends that way.
For me it was the ports it offered. If the galaxy offered a micro SD I probabally would have bought it. The Acer on the other hand offers a lot of ports, which I found very fun. On the Xoom issue the Acer actually out performs it on display as thy have the same one but Acer codes it better. That has been proven in tests.
To break it down it was the price and the ports. The graphics are fine, watched The Green Hornet on this last night and I was satisfied with the performance. But to tell the truth I'm not a graphics whore.
I looked and played with all of these devices and I stick with my decision to buy the Acer.
Sent from my A500 using XDA Premium App
I obviously misinterpreted a conversation stater by the looks of it!
I beg pardon and stand aside.
Sent from my A500 using Tapatalk
Torisen said:
Don't diss the Odom, you can't make any friends that way.
For me it was the ports it offered. If the galaxy offered a micro SD I probabally would have bought it. The Acer on the other hand offers a lot of ports, which I found very fun. On the Xoom issue the Acer actually out performs it on display as thy have the same one but Acer codes it better. That has been proven in tests.
To break it down it was the price and the ports. The graphics are fine, watched The Green Hornet on this last night and I was satisfied with the performance. But to tell the truth I'm not a graphics whore.
I looked and played with all of these devices and I stick with my decision to buy the Acer.
Sent from my A500 using XDA Premium App
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Click to collapse
My slight trolling aside, I agree with Torisen. The screen is better than most devices, albeit topped by the Galaxy. I find the extra ports and functionality a major deal breaker for me, as well as the price difference vs what you get with the galaxy (to me the xoom was never even a question, there is a reason google views it as a flop.) Also, I'm personally a fan of.the stainless chassis, both in appearance and functionality. As for the lag, a real world test of the galaxy provided similar results due to the bloated Samsung ui. Another key advantage is the near stock system, free of bloatware. After weighing all of my options, I am very happy with my iconia true, their whole update process was screwy, but they seemed to have cleared it up a little (for instance at least most everyone got the 4.010.13 update at the same time!) In yhe end, if youre not happy with it, it is a ffree market, get a different one.
strider_mt2k said:
Obvious troll is obvious
Sent from my A500 using Tapatalk
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Click to collapse
Sorry, but I tend to agree at least a little with Strider_mt2k because I don't understand posts like this. If I did not like a $300 device that I purchased, I wouldn't criticized it on the dedicated forum for that device, and then expect strangers to convince me to keep it.
My "love" for this tablet is definitely not going to do anything towards negating your disdain for it. Technology life is too short to keep a device that so obviously disappoints you. Return it and get a tablet that you want.
internetpilot said:
Sorry, but I tend to agree at least a little with Strider_mt2k because I don't understand posts like this. If I did not like a $300 device that I purchased, I wouldn't criticized it on the dedicated forum for that device, and then expect strangers to convince me to keep it.
My "love" for this tablet is definitely not going to do anything towards negating your disdain for it. Technology life is too short to keep a device that so obviously disappoints you. Return it and get a tablet that you want.
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Click to collapse
Yeah I agree. It did come across as an insult to the device, not any form of question. Don't like it? Complain to staples or wherever you bought it and get a different device
The battery stand 8 hours if
- you do not use 3D Games constantly
- Brigthness arround 50%
I use about 12 hours straight my tablet, wifi constantly open, reading ebook, playing games (a little), going internet....
but I charge my tablet every 1.5 day or 2 days sometimes... no I do not use my tablet every 2 minutes
so far with GPS, full brightness, Sygic navigator... about 5hrs++ wich is nice... since I do not drive that long, and I don't need the navigator 5 hours in a row.
playing games 3D . 6hrs ++
playing normal games (angry bird) 8hrs...
Charge the tablet until 100% do not overnight, let the battery drain until 5% oftenly. that's how I use my tablet.
I do not use OVERCLOCK or else. when I make those feedback
Go get an iPad 2 then and stop whining. Oh wait... the display still sucks on an iPad. At least you get a great range of connectivity with the Iconia.
i work at staples, i have had the time to play with all the tablets, i personally recommend the Acer over all of them, even to my customers
the 100 dollar coupons kill our stores sale figures, but i used one and bought the Acer.
i do not regret it one bit, i love my acer. you shouldnt have your face that close to the screen to see the pixels, if you do need to, you need to get glasses
allen099 said:
First thing I noticed after performing all the updates was the lag. After exiting applications, it takes a little while for the icons to re-appear on the homescreen. I haven't added any besides the default. Also, when scrolling with the browser, it tends to render in square blocks.
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Click to collapse
I don't have such issues, maybe you've got a defect one?
Battery life..I've read reviews that it goes up to 8 hours while others say it lasts between 4-5 hours, and others say 6 hours. I understand that what we do varies, and the battery needs to be calibrated. After having it on for 3 hours and playing FieldRunners for 45 min (the rest of the time it was idle with all wireless connections off), I'm at 75% remaining. That's pretty crummy. Not even a calibration will improve it THAT much.
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Click to collapse
Well, how much do you really expect it to last when playing games? If you're claiming it's "crummy" then obviously you think some other tablet does a lot better, but.. well, so far I ain't seeing one. They all last more-or-less the same.
Besides... I don't play games on my tablet, but it's on for 3rd day in the row at the moment. I have WIFI on 24/7, I do some web browsing, reading comics etc. and it still has over 50% battery left. That ain't something I personally would call "crummy."
Also, when viewing a white background, you can see every "box" or pixel. Goodness, that's pretty frickin' bad. I'm not expecting any ridiculous "retina display" here but this is just a cheap panel.
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Those aren't pixels! You're seeing the grid used for touch-input. You're mixing the two concepts!
As for the grid: yes, it is sometimes visible. I personally don't get bothered by it since it isn't as clearly visible as you make it out to be. But I can understand if some others are bothered by it. It is even mentioned in all the better reviews that the grid can be seen easier than on other tablets. If the grid bothers you that much then go and get another tablet. But bear in mind that even iPads have the grid and atleast I can see it on those, too.
So, serious question. Why all the love for this thing?
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Because it is great hardware for a great price.
I've had mine for 48 hours, and I have to say I'm loving it. I did take into consideration the $100 off, and getting this device for $299. You can argue positives and negatives on devices of equal price, but for $299, the A500 is a bargain.
The two issues mentioned- display: yes, the transformer's display is brighter. BUT...I've read many, many posts over at the ASUS threads about light bleading. Further, about how the Transformer can "bend" a little due to plastic construction, and this in turn causes further problems. Still, I liked the TF...I was torn over between the two, so don't think I'm hating on ASUS here. But the display is about a 7.5-8/10 for me compared to the BEST displays I've seen. But its a 10/10 for $299.
Battery: I have only good things to say about battery life so far on mine. No, I don't play 3D games constantly, but compared to the many android phones I have had, I realize I'm not always thinking about having this plugged in just in case I'll need the battery power later.
The other points that were in the A500's favor were the aluminum as stated, full USB port (not a feature you should discount), mini usb port, etc. I can't imagine ONLY being able to transfer files via miniSD. That would be a pain.
Most of the other gripes I have are about Honeycomb...it's not up to competing directly yet with iPad, just a few bugs that keep it from going head to head right now. But that has nothing to do with the unit.
I got two A500's now by the way, and both seem to be working as advertised, they were better than I expected when I made the decision to buy them.
+ 1 for all the love here for our devices on such a hateful thread
The Odom Project said:
+ 1 for all the love here for our devices on such a hateful thread
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I love your haircut
Is that enough love? ^^
WereCatf said:
I love your haircut
Is that enough love? ^^
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Hehe yeah lol.now I just need to re pierce my lips lol. . . Damn here we go again with the OT lol
I love this baby... and I'm not new to my portable devices... with auto brightness and auto use i get all day battery... and that includes using it's USB port to charge my Moto Atrix when it needs it! I must admit tho mine was a bit laggy with te stock kernel, but that was an easy fix!

Goodbye Transformer

I had my transformer for about 2 weeks and today I decided to sell it because Im completely dissapointed. the browser was choppy, so were the home screen swiping and the battery life was least of all unimpressive.
I did try the stock rom, Revolver 3.6 and Prime 2.0.6 roms, along with different browsers and launchers and it just didn't do it for me me unfortunately
I know I'm gonna get quite a bit of heat for this but my 1gen iPad gave me a better browsing and much better battery life than my TF. the only good thing about TF was that I got to do all the crazy fun things (rooting,flashing, tweaking) I do on my Android phone for this two weeks,but its just not good enough.
so there you have it, just wanted to rant a bit, hopefully the new releases of Asus will be better.
I guess they aren't for everyone.
Some fools prefer to be separated from their freedoms.
Shame to hear u giving it up so soon. I've had mine for about just over a week and so far its been nothing short of excellent all around. Exact opposite of all your negatives.
Good luck with your ipad.
Sent from my Nexus S using XDA App
ipad1 browsing was always awful for me. checkerboard all over the place, and having to reload sections of a page as you scroll is obnoxious. browsing on these devices is never going to be great till typical web development changes focus.
I had an iPad 1 before I bought MT transformer. Great product. But the transformer blows away the ipad 1 and 2 in my eyes. So much more your allowed to do. My wife uses the ipad still and ios 5 made the product alot better. But its still no transformer. I am sad to say I am going to sell my transformer and rely on the ipad for a while, or until the new transformer comes out I should say.
Sent from my MB860 using Tapatalk
good story
different strokes for different folks
Oh Noes! But I agree, coming to a developer forum dedicated to that specific device to cry about how you hate it is by far the best course of action.
Are you expecting that we care?
When a user changes from Android to iOS, the average IQ of both platforms goes up.
Think about it.
H3llb0und said:
When a user changes from Android to iOS, the average IQ of both platforms goes up.
Think about it.
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Click to collapse
Haha... I have a buddy of mine who is an iPhone guy and in his case this is very true.
siscopiso said:
I had my transformer for about 2 weeks and today I decided to sell it because Im completely dissapointed. the browser was choppy, so were the home screen swiping and the battery life was least of all unimpressive.
I did try the stock rom, Revolver 3.6 and Prime 2.0.6 roms, along with different browsers and launchers and it just didn't do it for me me unfortunately
I know I'm gonna get quite a bit of heat for this but my 1gen iPad gave me a better browsing and much better battery life than my TF. the only good thing about TF was that I got to do all the crazy fun things (rooting,flashing, tweaking) I do on my Android phone for this two weeks,but its just not good enough.
so there you have it, just wanted to rant a bit, hopefully the new releases of Asus will be better.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I know what you mean, I got fed up with the battery issue and a few other things like no spell checker and really bad lag while typing on some websites/forums, I could go on about printing docs and a few other things but I won't*
*I've put my tf up for sale and bought a lovely netbook which in most ways kicks the tf ass, but do you know what I've started to look at the tf in a different way
*I've managed to solve the battery life problem, it's a bit of a slaver but I sorted it on my tf, now getting really good battery life, I also sometimes use a different browser for different sites, an example would be techradar, the stock browser just can't handle it so I use opera, I know you shouldn't have to use different browsers for different sites but that's just how it is
The tf is not a pc and I've stopped looking at it as such, I now look at it as a multi media device that can browse the internet and send and receive emails and play games, for that it's good
voyager_s said:
Shame to hear u giving it up so soon. I've had mine for about just over a week and so far its been nothing short of excellent all around. Exact opposite of all your negatives.
Good luck with your ipad.
Sent from my Nexus S using XDA App
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Click to collapse
I guess I was unlucky to end up with a dodgy unit. have fun with yours pal
ExploreMN said:
Oh Noes! But I agree, coming to a developer forum dedicated to that specific device to cry about how you hate it is by far the best course of action.
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Click to collapse
I concur, but hey its not supposed to be all jolly success stories eh
wimpanzee said:
I guess they aren't for everyone.
Some fools prefer to be separated from their freedoms.
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Click to collapse
freedom?! you mean like expressing ones opinions without being called a fool?
siscopiso said:
freedom?! you mean like expressing ones opinions without being called a fool?
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Click to collapse
calling someone a fool IS the expression of freedom. you can call me a fool now. don't be shy
that's what "freedom of speech" means.
on the topic - good luck with whatever tablet you would buy next think you're already on the tablet side, not preferring laptop or smartphone over tablet device.
moehagene said:
I had an iPad 1 before I bought MT transformer. Great product. But the transformer blows away the ipad 1 and 2 in my eyes. So much more your allowed to do. My wife uses the ipad still and ios 5 made the product alot better. But its still no transformer. I am sad to say I am going to sell my transformer and rely on the ipad for a while, or until the new transformer comes out I should say.
Sent from my MB860 using Tapatalk
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almost the same here man, my girlfriend likes the iPad much more than the TF. the iPad works for our purposes, watch movies during long flights or train trips which we do quite often. and more importantly it lies around in the house for casual emailing and recipes n stuff and it needs charging every other week or so!something I couldnt get with the TF. however, coming from an android background Im constantly bored with it (the iPad) coz there s not much you can do with it. (try telling that to some filks who find it obligatory to start barking mad at the first person who says the "i" word )
tixed said:
calling someone a fool IS the expression of freedom. you can call me a fool now. don't be shy
that's what "freedom of speech" means.
on the topic - good luck with whatever tablet you would buy next think you're already on the tablet side, not preferring laptop or smartphone over tablet device.
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ok you're a fool nahhhh
yeah I suppose I'm leaning towards Samsung this time. hopefully I wont be starting one o these threads in Samsung dedicated forum anytime soon
Can you not even jail break them anymore???
I remember when i got my first gen ipod touch before android even existed and put ubuntu on it among other things that was the device that got me interested in hacking programming etc
Sent from my tf101 using xda premium 1.54Ghz
The battery issues some have is as simple as installing the auto airplane app from the market. With moderate use of my TF, I can get just over a week of battery life. As far as browsing, in my case, opera has worked so well on every website that I've totally stopped using the stock browser. My sister has a Ipad2 and it totally blows compared to the TF for general use, which that is all apple products are good for in my eyes. I can't even imagine what the TF2 will be like.
Danzano said:
Can you not even jail break them anymore???
I remember when i got my first gen ipod touch before android even existed and put ubuntu on it among other things that was the device that got me interested in hacking programming etc
Sent from my tf101 using xda premium 1.54Ghz
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Click to collapse
you still can, but there is so much extra, unofficial tweaks you can put on to make it more interesting.
Riley1524 said:
The battery issues some have is as simple as installing the auto airplane app from the market. With moderate use of my TF, I can get just over a week of battery life. As far as browsing, in my case, opera has worked so well on every website that I've totally stopped using the stock browser. My sister has a Ipad2 and it totally blows compared to the TF for general use, which that is all apple products are good for in my eyes. I can't even imagine what the TF2 will be like.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thats the thing, I didnt want to have to turn things off to get a good battery life. I wanted to get email notifications the minute the email comes not the next time I turn it on.

Why'd you buy the Transformer? Compare against the A500...

I'm just curious. I have an Asus Transformer on the way and currently have the Acer A500. I have to give one of them to my girlfriend and frankly haven't decided which one to hand off. I really like the Acer, but have heard many great things about the Asus. What made you choose it? I will root and load a custom ICS ROM. Most likely, I will not buy the docking keyboard for this. Don't feel I really type a whole lot on it.
Thanks for your input!
I chose the transformer because of Asus being known to have timely updates. Even for their " older " devices. The price was a big part also. I mean with basically the same specs as the galaxy tab but priced about $100 less is a win to me.
I said it a million times already and I'll say it to you as well .... I'm very very happy with my choice. Had it since Christmas and got ICS just a month ago and then a little bug fix update today. That's nice support for what is in all reality in today's world and " older device "!
Sent from my Transformer TF101 using xda premium
I think the screen is nicer on the Transformer and I like the style and design of the Transformer better. Plus having the keyboard option is a plus. When I look at the two side by side in the store the Acer just seems a little cheaper looking to me. I would keep the Transformer. I have had mine since last summer and have had next to no issues with it and as others have pointed out ASUS does a good job with pushing out updates and fixes in a timely manner.
The main reason I got it was the keyboard dock. I liked the additional functionality and the extended battery life. I don't think I would have gotten the TF if it hadn't had the dock.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using Tapatalk
Without a doubt, the screen on the transformer is superior to the iconia. I've had them side by side, and it's a no brainer.
That and the dock, battery life, voodoo sound and most importantly a very active development community. This last part will prolong your investment far beyond the lifespan of the iconia.
TF IS THE BESTEST YOU GOTTA KEEP IT caps
Use them both for a week. Nobody can judge better what slate's best than you. Least of all fan boys
It depends on which one you prefer. I guess I was one of the unlucky ones, my non-rooted, rarely used 32gb Transformer has spent more time in Texas than Bush (service center). During the 8 months I've had it the power switch broke, the dock drained, the ICS update bricked it, when they restored it to the factory ICS and sent it back it died again in 4 hours, and as I type this it is on it's way back to Texas on an RMA. I have a lot of gadgets (Rooted NookCOlor, iPad, Acer W500 windows tablet, HP Tablet PC) and not one of them has ever had an issue. I'm assuming I just got a lemon, but the real problem isn't that the build quality sucks, it's that Asus support is the worse I have seen from any manufacturer (although I will admit there are plenty of updates). At this point I've ordered a Samsung (it can't possibly be worse) and would not recommend the Asus Transformer to anyone, but there are plenty of people in this forum who seem to have had a lot of luck with them so I guess it's the luck of the draw. I will say that when I thought there was something wrong with my Acer the support was much better and it's easy to get upgraded to support in the States instead of the poor drones Asus uses that are basically reading off a script.
Keyboard dock for usability -- great for watching movies, typing, ports, battery life. Pad itself had good specs. Asus brand has a good history of support (I have used their motherboards for years).
I guess it really is luck of the draw, there are probably more positive posts than negative really.
People are always more prone to post it is not working then everything creating a post to let everyone know it works.
Mine has been awesome bought it probably summer time ish, barely any issues, couple of weird things after ICS update but after a couple of tweaks and things from the good guys here I can honestly say it is the best bit of techy stuff I have ever bought. or work bought anyway.
but have a play with both as mentioned above and go from there, you are are kind of taking some of the positives and crossing them off the list by not having the keyboard though.
I had the acer for a week it was very nice, but too heavy for my use, plus i wanted the keyboard. If you need usb host you'll be happier with acer, if not you'll prefer the TF. The TF does have a nicer screen.
All that said the acer is a nice wellnbuilt Tab.
There's a rule where a happy customer may tell one friend while an unhappy customer will tell 10 to 20 people. Don't go by all the negatives you may sew.
Some people on here have had very bad experience with the TF while people like me, have had nothing but good experiences
Sent from my Transformer TF101 using xda premium
dman918 said:
I'm just curious. I have an Asus Transformer on the way and currently have the Acer A500. I have to give one of them to my girlfriend and frankly haven't decided which one to hand off. I really like the Acer, but have heard many great things about the Asus. What made you choose it? I will root and load a custom ICS ROM. Most likely, I will not buy the docking keyboard for this. Don't feel I really type a whole lot on it.
Thanks for your input!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Give her the TF, she will love you even more! Then share it with her for fun things and make the Acer your workhorse.
Sent from my Transformer TF101 using xda premium
tedr44 said:
Give her the TF, she will love you even more!
Sent from my Transformer TF101 using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sigh, if only women worked this way...they don't love you more they just start expecting more from you, then you have to work harder to maintain your image of 'nice boyfriend/husband'. It's a downward spiral from there..
Hahahhaha, you gotta do good things in a random, unpatterned way.. sadly. Anyway, the Acer always looked.. cheaper to me. The Asus didn't. The only thing that is wrong with mine is the speaker, which is way too soft and probably broken on the right side, but it's okay because I rarely use the sound alone because of how soft it is (even when initially pre-breakage).
you know why i bought the TF over the a500???
My roommate picked up the a500 and dropped it IN A CASE a week later. Power button hardly worked. Volume rocker flew across the room. Bent the bezel. It was nasty.
Dropped my TF a few days later. Nothing. Mine as taken the leap of faith a few times and nothing. Had a kid throw it on the floor when i was trying to shut his bad ass up on a plane. Nothing.
Testing out RDP
I bought my TF101 for the dock (I would have opted for the TF201, but didn't want to mess with the WiFi issues). I thought about the Galaxy but need something to replace a laptop, and so needed the dock. I've been testing remote access Linux and Windows machines via RDP for "when I need a desktop" and Android for everything else. Pretty satisfied so far (although now that I think about it I should see if the ICS update which came out today includes the tun.ko driver so that VPN works out of the box).
I don't know about the XDA community for the A500, but I've been able to find any answer I needed here; rooting, unrooting, upgrading, etc. A good user community is also a plus.
I have used both ASUS (mainly for building desktops) and ACER (notebooks) in the past, and one of the main factors for me was the brand quality of ASUS.

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