Database Users

[Q]Help me choose: Transformer or IConia A500.

Greetings to you all.
I apologize if this is in the wrong section. I am having a heck of a time choosing between these two tablets.
Acer Iconia Pros:
Nice size
better front camera
Has a LED Flash
AFAIK a STOCK version of HC.
Has better sound ( Dolby )
REAL USB 2.0 port ( full size )
EASY TO FIND!!!!!
Cons:
Heard that Playing 1080p HD Video is horrible ( according to reviews that I have seen on youtube ) ( I consider 1080p to be be HD while 720p is more medium def )
Heard that it is not Gorilla Glass ( although I saw a thread that proved otherwise )
Heard that video recording and pics are "meh" at best.
Locked bootloader * Thanks to Lorimere for telling me about that *
and onto the Transformer:
Pros:
Slightly better battery life
IPS Panel Display
Dock that doubles as battery extender
Cons:
Aparently the Transformer has a LOT of issues. Sleep of Death, Non responsive screen, dock problems, massive light bleeding
So I was wondering what you guys would think? Give me your honest opinions ( as long as they are polite....I have no tolerance for rudeness )
I already have a Galaxy Tab 7 inch and a iPad 1 wifi 16GB.....so those who like to say "Get a ipad and be happy with it" Been there. LOL!!!!!

I have had both. And honestly you can't go wrong with either one.
I decided to keep the Acer for 2 reasons.
1) the USB host on the tablet. (after using both, I realized I really didn't need the dock, so the Iconia won here) ** just to add I use the USB port a lot, so for me tablet without it now is a no-go **
2) The build quality on the Iconia was better than on my Transformer.
If I was going to use and carry the dock a lot, the transformer would be better. But In the 2 weeks of having them both, I only felt the need for a real keyboard once. And plugging in a usb keyboard for that hour i needed it worked great.
The Transformer screen is nicer though (mine only had a very small amount of light bleed.). The Acer screen is not bad by any means, but the transformers colors were better. (but after selling my transformer I don't really miss its screen honestly.)
The only thing that keeps me from 100% recommending the Iconia is the locked bootloader. I think it will be cracked or unlocked eventualy. But the fact is as of now it is still locked.

Hmm.....did not know about the locked bootloader. Good to know. Thank You.

I have had two acer iconias. Now I have the asus transformer. And I love it very much. The asus screen is better and this tablet preforms better. The acer constantly woke up on it's on. And if left in stand by for long periods of time the screen would become unresponsive. The only way to fix this problem was to do a hard reset.
Both tablets are very good, but the asus just wins in every category except sound. Not to mention it has great software. Mycloud, Mynet, and slashtop are all exclusive to asus. And the support for acer is lacking. Asus on the other hand has issued four updates each with detailed change logs. And asus will released Honeycomb 3.1 tomorrow 5/31.
So don't believed the bad news about asus transformer all the bugs have been rectified in a timely manner. I have only had my transformer for a week and I have not experienced one problem, besides minor light bleeding. I also have the asus dock and functionality is remarkable. Two usb ports and sd card slot, and a touch pad, with a extra battery. I'm completely satisfied

I had 2 Transformers and returned them both because of excessive light bleed and a gap in the bezel on the upper left hand side which would allow dust behind the screen.
That said, if they have fixed these build quality issues and weight vs connectivity is not an issue for you then the Transformer is the better tablet, certainly in the screen department.
If weight vs connectivity is an issue for you then the Acer is a better tablet, simply because to get similar on the move connectivity as the Acer, the Transformer has to be carried with the optional keyboard dock which essentially turns it into a netbook, and doubles the weight to a hefty 1.4kg vs the Iconia 765g.
As for software glitches and random screen ons, not really an issue for me. Honeycomb is still pretty much a work in progress, and in it's current state it does everything I need it to, and therefore for me it will only get better as Acer release updates.
If you do go for the Transformer then load up a black jpeg, go into a darkened room and whack the brightness up to full to check for light bleed, because for me that was a deal breaker. A simply stunning IPS screen like that hampered by shoddy build quality just wasn't acceptable.
If you want to know what I mean, this is the level of bleed I got on both my Transformers, though not forgetting that they may well have sorted out their manufacturing issues for later batches.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=80pSCclf9Eg

At first I wondered about the $50 difference in the two. After playing with the Asus at Bestbuy and reading reports I think build quality is one major reason the Acer is so much more. It's well worth it in my opinion, although the locked boot loader for me is a big regret(I'm a big FOSS advocate)

I really agree with Lorimere. The USB port is really useful for me. And the USB port can be use for keyboard and mouse, too!
Actually I really wanted to try Transformer. But ASUS reps in my country (Indonesia) were really don't know when the tablet will go on sale. ASUS really need to fix this. Some are selling it through forums, but it's way too expensive. 16 GB Transformer worth the same as 32 GB Iconia!
I just got update from @acerID (ACER Indonesia twitter reps account), that lots of Iconia accessories will start coming in right away. Yaayy, finally!

As most posts above have stated, the biggest differences are:
USB Host: Acer (built-in) vs. ASUS (on dock)
Display: ASUS generally better than Acer's (unless you get a unit with light bleed)
Build quality: Acer generally feels better made than ASUS
Bootloader: ASUS has an unlocked bootloader vs. Acer's locked
For me the biggest thing in this list is the onboard USB host. Being able to plug in a USB drive without having to carry around essentially 1/2 of a netbook to dock the unit into is a major win for the Acer.
The display issue is really pretty minor I think, unless you want to set your tablet up on a desk and watch a movie while moving around, in which case the ASUS' ISP display will be better with less viewing angle restrictions.
Other items to consider:
ASUS ships with Exchange support, although that's been added in the latest firmware update to Acer's tab; in addition, rooted Acers are able to use the ASUS apk, and some Market Apps (Touchdown is my favorite right now, particularly with the $7.99 pro license from Amazon appstore vs. $19.99 normally)
Update frequency: ASUS has apparently been pushing updates out more frequently
ASUS is more likely to get 3.1 update out first, although Acer's also said they'll be shipping it in June (test of ASUS' 3.1 has already been spotted)
Acer has better sound system (Dolby Mobile)
Final thoughts:
The issue w/ the Acer screen coming back on randomly appears to have been resolved in the latest firmware (mine hasn't turned itself back on since the .114 update).
ASUS in general appears a bit more committed to the Android platform than Acer (at least after the replacement of their prior CEO.)
Oh yeah, and you can BUY the Acer a lot more easily than the ASUS

The only reason the Asus has gotten more updates is because it had way more bugs than the Acer initially....

lord_voldemort666 said:
The only reason the Asus has gotten more updates is because it had way more bugs than the Acer initially....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry, but that is just FUD!
There are plenty of reasons to pick an Acer over an Asus, and vice-versa, but this frankly isn't true.
Regards,
Dave

lord_voldemort666 said:
The only reason the Asus has gotten more updates is because it had way more bugs than the Acer initially....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
A Very Big +1
Don't need updates every week for something that isn't broke.
I have had generic tablets. Viewsonic G.tablet. Xoom. And tried the transformer of a friend(he later returned it for Acer). I am very happy, with my A500 as is my friend. Sure there are a couple bugs here and there...but for 98% of the time I use my tablet...it just works. I pick it up and it almost seems eager to do all I want it too.
As for what to pick...want a tablet...get the Acer....want a net book with identity crisis...get the Asus. Or sit on the fence...a few months down the road...bigger names will enter the game and may have a more current version of honeycomb or ice cream sandwich or whatever google finds in their cafateria that sounds tasty :-D

Hi,
i have hesitate for a long time between transformer and a500. And now, don't know why so long hesitating, because a500 is far more efficient than the transformer.
My unique "regret" is the non avaibility of the 16Gb version wich is at the same price than the 16gb transformer.
Transformer is the tablet who makes you dream when you have to buy : ips is the best, the dock is nice idea, water theme is fun... But in reality, i can't find one to buy where i live. An more, if i want usb, have to buy the heavy dock (big major issue). The IPS is really nice... IF it's perfect as ipad... and it's not ! because quality built of transformer is not as good as it seems to be. Asus is active about their transformer (updates), because they are in late, it's seems have been built in emergency at many points, to solve now.
Acer is far more efficient. no hard (and loose time) developpment for any dock to fixed to the tablet, used spva screen which is really availlable (all ips are used by ipad), full simple connectivity, don't loose time on thick (like samsung), don't loose time on weight (few grams more and so ?), and maybe some less quality "electronics" (wifi, gps ?). But the tablet is really available, even here in martinique (it's a sign^^), and it really works well in my hand, it's a fact, it's not a dream, it's a fact.
For the updates activities : asus want to do well and have to work hard to be really good if they want to follow acer tab a500 who already sell their tablet in mass. Acer seems more confiant in their product, take time for update and 3.1.
at this time i have NO reasons to wait transformer, and for sure if acer know that, asus know that too

What akwaba972 said is exactly how I felt. I'm no longer thinking of Transformer right now. It's sweet, but if you can only dream of it, forget it!

Which way do I go!!!
I too am torn between the Transformer and the A500. I do not have either one of them but first leaned to the Transformer because of it low price. But one could not get it anywhere around. Since then I have been reading and now lean toward the A500 because of the USB ports. I may be a few bucks more but seem like a better build.
Thanks!!

Well it appears that fate has smiled upon me. I just got $400CDN from a friend of mine that I forgot owed me money! I have then decided to get BOTH....for now.
The Acer Iconia will be purchased when I can get up to Owen Sound Staples or will be ordered from NCIX.
The ASUS Transformer has been already ordered from NCIX and has been shipped already ( 16GB Variant ) and depending on the quality and on how I like it then and only then will I purchase the dock.
I will continue this thread to help other people out and see how these two tablets fare. If I decide to keep them both then I will sell my iPad as I will have no use for it. ( Wifi 16GB 1st Gen )

bear in mind, the asus transformer is getting a 3.1 update today, so it's safe to assume ASUS is argubly more dedicate to the firmware support than Acer. and no one seems to mention in this post the dock gives extra 6-7 battery hours plus TWO usb ports, this is crucial to me as I normally want to plug in both of my western digital passport and a mouse...(and now you can even use two xbox360 controllers!)

The 3.1 update will be the absolute FIRST thing that I will do with both devices as I get them.
I feel like a kid with a new toy...come on Purolator where ARE YOU!!!! LOL!!!

magicpork said:
bear in mind, the asus transformer is getting a 3.1 update today, so it's safe to assume ASUS is argubly more dedicate to the firmware support than Acer. and no one seems to mention in this post the dock gives extra 6-7 battery hours plus TWO usb ports, this is crucial to me as I normally want to plug in both of my western digital passport and a mouse...(and now you can even use two xbox360 controllers!)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I make a cruise ship in april, and many people on it have an ipad or ebook reader.
It's at this time my wife tell me she will like to have one, and me looking for the best tablet (except the locked ipad).
If i take the example of this ship cruise, i can easily imagine somebody give me his usb key to quickly share immediatly some pics or songs on my a500 who is in the bag with the towel. Easily reload the tablet at night (8 hrs nice enough for a day).
With the transformer, first, i have to carry the dock in luggage , but still ok for now. AFTER, when l'm on the pool deck and someone give me an usb key... have to go to my room, get the dock, back, connect for finally have the usb accessibility. I cannot have the dock already at pool, because it take more place, very more weight and finally may be you do not use it at all.
Of course, it's not a dramatic issue, it's just a real example of use among many others. acer in my example is an all in one simple device.
but i agree that in your case, the dock may be fine.

I wanted the Transformer for a long time i bought the Iconia last week since i wanted a tablet for a week long work trip, i love it, with the full size USB i can mount my NTFS 1TB drive and watch my 12GB 1080p videos, you cant do that with any other tablet.
Transformers only pro to me is the dock... but go look at logitechs new bluetooth keyboard that is also a stand...

Well I got my TF....still waiting on the Acer.
Time will tell........

Iconia vs transformer

I'm torn right now any thoughts? I like full usb of iconia and the screen of the transformer. The plastic case on the asus worries me but I hear its fine and sturdy...
Thanks
Sent from my Dell Streak using XDA App

There's a couple-page thread comparing the two a page back in the forum
In general, ASUS has slightly better screen (but possibly a higher incidence of light bleed from backlight), better accessories, faster updates and an unlocked bootloader, while Acer has the on-board USB host (ASUS requires the dock), LED flash for rear camera, better sound (incl. Dolby) and better build quality.
It's amazing how post-purchase critical the USB host has become to me, causing a serious /boggle when I saw that the otherwise /drool Samsung Galaxy 10.1 has no USB host port (along with no memory card) ... had to give up something for the smaller size but I think those're going to be painful differentiators

Vereynn said:
... when I saw that the otherwise /drool Samsung Galaxy 10.1 has no USB host port (along with no memory card) ...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
To me, the reported lack of a memory card on the Samsung is the larger issue (though I have used the Acer USB port to connect a keyboard and a flash drive). I wouldn't buy a tablet without a memory card slot.

yeah, the presence of a full-size SD card slot (vs micro) plus TWO USB slots on the upcoming Toshiba is making me feel better about their pricing.

I recently sold my Transformer + Dock and got an Acer Iconia A500, mainly because of the build quality and the fact that the dock just wasn't for me. Anyways, received my Iconia A500 today and damn, I love it, its just way better for my needs (mostly for games) I love how it has the haptic(force feedback) its great for games, how come no one mentioned the Acer has this while the Asus does not? Speakers on the Acer is also light years ahead of the Asus. Great tablet, I just hope they unlock the bootloader.

eviltuna said:
I recently sold my Transformer + Dock and got an Acer Iconia A500, mainly because of the build quality and the fact that the dock just wasn't for me. Anyways, received my Iconia A500 today and damn, I love it, its just way better for my needs (mostly for games) I love how it has the haptic(force feedback) its great for games, how come no one mentioned the Acer has this while the Asus does not? Speakers on the Acer is also light years ahead of the Asus. Great tablet, I just hope they unlock the bootloader.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well now I'm even MORE happy with my purchase. I wasn't aware that the Asus had no haptic feedback.

Thanks guys I'm going 2 be picking an acer up tomorrow hopefully, any suggestions for the first things I should do to make the tablet run its best?
Sent from my Dell Streak using XDA App

Ehmmm full battery charge?
Sent from my HTC Desire using XDA App

garbagecanman said:
Thanks guys I'm going 2 be picking an acer up tomorrow hopefully, any suggestions for the first things I should do to make the tablet run its best?
Sent from my Dell Streak using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, do a full battery charge when you get it, before use, allow about 4 hours 'til the light goes off, then another 1/2 hour.
Use the tablet, let the battery go down to about 10% or so, then full charge + 1/2 hour again.
You should be right for a good 5-8 hours use now.

Acer Iconia vs Galaxy Tab 10.1 hand on comparison.

I hope this is of some use to someone as Ive been on a search for an ideal tablet for myself since the Xoom was released.
Ive had the Acer for about a month and love it for the most part.
Galxy Tab owner for about a day ((so why a review ??)) Its not.
Its a physical comparison as its difficult to track down an Acer without a huge magnet brick stuck to the back and the Tab releases country wide tomorrow.
Anyways...here goes any questions more than happy to answer.
HxW
This was a big surprise. Unlike the Asus Transformer with its mega wide bezel the Acer is actually pretty compact in that area. So much so that stacking the Tab on top produced negligible difference. As far as height and width theres about 'half a skinny straw' difference.
Weight
Well this is where the difference comes in. The Tab is simply much lighter. If you hold both in your hands it may seem like a "slight" difference. But after a short period you will quickly notice the acer is just plain heavy. After using the Tab for a bit then picking up the Acer the difference is huge.
Thickness
This IMO is the second biggest determining factor. Do you want the slimmness ? .......Or the Ports.
Holding the Tab it feels like a larger Kindle. Or just a truly "slate" computing device. Ive had several star trek moments holding it thus far.
Acer has always felt like a laptop cover ripped off the keyboard where the ports somehow magically transferred to the top. Yes its thick but I can connect this sucker to a monitor , a external drive , a card reader , and easily expand with a micro SD.
Look good or be efficient ?? Your choice IMO cant go wrong.
FYI:Tab will require at least 2 add ons , plus a case that can accommodate your extra accessories in order to match connectivity.
Microphone-
**SO FAR*** my biggest grip with the Acer has been the awful mic. It just sucks. Dont know if its the quality or the placement but the end result remains suckage. Far too often a phrase like "When can we meet ?"
results in "can we me".... or worse "w"..... WTF?!!?
Voice to text is my primary need/use for a tablet, this was a huge deal for me.
Galaxy Tab has been better. But frankly neither are up to snuff to my Nexus One. Im assuming phones in general will just have better mic quality.
Audio clip from Tab (using camcorder)
http://db.tt/XrcHGaK
Audio clip from Acer (using camcorder)
http://db.tt/eZ0rOIa
While not a tell all example the above differences in clarity were consistent with other apps as well.
Screen-
Thus far there really isnt a reason to side for one or the other outside of need or preference. Until this.
The screen on the Tab is gorgeous and is simply richer in color and after flicking through Picasa it seems to have gotten a more accurate representation of the pictures taken.
While I do feel the tab pushes colors a bit much ;almost like oled does. Ex: The YT still shot Rebecca Blacks red jacket is too saturated
However over a wide range of pictures and videos it just felt more vivid with better blacks.
This isnt a Ipads "cool" vs Tabs "warm" approach to color temp. The Tab is simply a better looking screen.
Software---
Not touching on this unless asked.
I will say I still have numerous videos FC on YT and the browser does NOT have any quick controls on the galaxy tab. Major bummer and worthy of return or sell if it cant be added as I find the controls are what make two handed Tablet browsing possible.
Wrap up-
In short Lebron James is overrated.
But seriously
Acer-8/10
Tab- 9/10
If you will make regular use of the ports , or weight isnt an issue the Acer is the choice.
If you care about aesthetics and or mobility is a bigger concern then the Tab is the way to go.

i stopped reading when u said the acer is heavy and teared up with laughter at the thought of u weight lifting

BrianDigital said:
i stopped reading when u said the acer is heavy and teared up with laughter at the thought of u weight lifting
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Right, because "heavy" means "unable to lift" and not relative to the topic of tablets. Try harder next time.

Very detailed.connectivity is why my Acer rules
Sent from my LG-P999 using XDA Premium App

LIKE YOUR REVIEW, very truthful...
i bought the acer because it came first in my country.... but then loving it... usb port is the biggest difference among 2 tablets in favour of iconia, where weight is the biggest difference in favour to the tab

I was contemplating on whether to buy Galaxy Tab or Iconia A500, and I chose Iconia A500 because of USB host mode port, plus the fact that I don't need any proprietary adapters or cables. Those kinds of things are surprisingly hard to come by here, and they're a lot more expensive to replace should they break.
As for the weight: well, everyone has their own taste. I personally don't see enough of a difference for it to make matter to me.

I choose Acer because of non proprietary adapter and cables...
now
- galaxy tabs is really toooooo light... I feel like I was about to broke it just by holding it hahahah
I wanna buy it so deep... but after tested it... hu... no thanks, maybe the 8.9...

I'm amazed at the white color temperature difference between the two displays. Which is which in the pictures?

I guess samsung is the warmer one... you don't mess with samsung displays.

@xManMythLegend,
What video files will it support?... the only thing that bugs me is my Archos can support all my xvid divx out of the box... my samsung epic also supports divx... my acer doesn't know what divx is... bummer.

After the Captivate, Samsung is dead to me. Thanks for the review though. The Acer holds up better than I expected it to in the comparison.

What was wrong with captivate? i9000 is still awesome for me. Branded/carrier versions will always suck.
I'm pissed at samsung's tablet atitude, It's like they're trying to imitate Apple. I don't want a stupid adapter to be able to use usb!
Anyway, great review! I was actually waiting for the Galaxy tab but now I couldn't care less. Iconia's connectivity outweighs it's weight by far

Excellent review -- thank you! I'm sold on my A500 (primarily because of the USB port), but it's always good to know what else is out there and how it compares.
I don't understand why people rely on the stock software and configuration for images and/or video on any tablet. Even with a desktop PC monitor, you have to fine tune the settings to get your photos and videos to display properly. I wouldn't use the Samsung's default display settings because I think they're (for the most part) over-saturated. I use 3rd party gallery and video apps, both of which allow for rather customized display settings. I'm very happy with my A500's display the way I have these apps customized, and this was very important to me (right along with the USB port and memory expansion options) due to being an avid photography hobbyist.
I hope that doesn't sound too defensive, because I'm really not -- I knew the A500's display is "cooler" (more blue) than most when buying it. I just think they all need tweaking -- even the precious iPad, which everyone raves about the display out of the box.
Thanks again!

Well i bought Acer Iconia A500 because of the ports i don't mind a difference of 0.00000033mm in thickness or 0.000000888 pound in weight but i do care a lot if my device has all the ports i can use without the worry of looking them here and there.

sanaell said:
I choose Acer because of non proprietary adapter and cables...
now
- galaxy tabs is really toooooo light... I feel like I was about to broke it just by holding it hahahah
I wanna buy it so deep... but after tested it... hu... no thanks, maybe the 8.9...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I believe 8.9 will be a very interesting form factor for many people especially if it does include an sd card slot.
silencer51 said:
I'm amazed at the white color temperature difference between the two displays. Which is which in the pictures?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Top Is the galaxy tab Bottom is the acer.
threedfreek said:
@xManMythLegend,
What video files will it support?... the only thing that bugs me is my Archos can support all my xvid divx out of the box... my samsung epic also supports divx... my acer doesn't know what divx is... bummer.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I immediately installed mobo player. Plays everything but .mov thus far it also has terrific on screen controls.
internetpilot said:
Excellent review -- thank you! I'm sold on my A500 (primarily because of the USB port), but it's always good to know what else is out there and how it compares.
I don't understand why people rely on the stock software and configuration for images and/or video on any tablet. Even with a desktop PC monitor, you have to fine tune the settings to get your photos and videos to display properly. I wouldn't use the Samsung's default display settings because I think they're (for the most part) over-saturated. I use 3rd party gallery and video apps, both of which allow for rather customized display settings. I'm very happy with my A500's display the way I have these apps customized, and this was very important to me (right along with the USB port and memory expansion options) due to being an avid photography hobbyist.
I hope that doesn't sound too defensive, because I'm really not -- I knew the A500's display is "cooler" (more blue) than most when buying it. I just think they all need tweaking -- even the precious iPad, which everyone raves about the display out of the box.
Thanks again!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I completely agree! If these were hd tvs you could not even begin the discussion without calibration. I even cut out a portion on it. In short since there are no universal apps to do this and most devices require root access ;along with the fact most people simply would not bother. So unfortunately out of the box is what people will judge it by.
But you are 100 percent correct calibration can fix many many issues. I have yet to try on the tablet but fully intend to.
P.s apologies for any weird typos. voice to text is strangely capitalizing words that shouldn't be.

I had the Acer and returned it for the Galaxy Tab 10.1
I'm loving the GT much better. The main reason I wanted a tablet was for mobility and having something lightweight. The Acer was nice, but after surfing the net for a while I was inclined to place it either in my lap or on a solid surface. If I put it in my lap it would start sliding all over the place. The GT doesn't slide in my lap like the Acer did. It's also not as heavy, so I don't mind holding it if need be.
All tablets that come with a USB will be rather thick in size. There's no way that the GT could keep it's slimness with a USB port on the device itself. This was a concern for me in deciding if I wanted the device. Once I found out that they have a USB adapter, I was sold. The Acer had many ports, but I rarely used any of them when I had the device. It all boils down to how you're going to use a tablet. That will determine which one is the best fit.

cdf3 said:
I had the Acer and returned it for the Galaxy Tab 10.1
I'm loving the GT much better. The main reason I wanted a tablet was for mobility and having something lightweight. The Acer was nice, but after surfing the net for a while I was inclined to place it either in my lap or on a solid surface. If I put it in my lap it would start sliding all over the place. The GT doesn't slide in my lap like the Acer did. It's also not as heavy, so I don't mind holding it if need be.
All tablets that come with a USB will be rather thick in size. There's no way that the GT could keep it's slimness with a USB port on the device itself. This was a concern for me in deciding if I wanted the device. Once I found out that they have a USB adapter, I was sold. The Acer had many ports, but I rarely used any of them when I had the device. It all boils down to how you're going to use a tablet. That will determine which one is the best fit.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I did the exact same thing today and share the same sentiments. I think the acer is very good at being a full featured unit out of the box. But it was not comfortable for me to use and my glove size is an 11. I picked up the GT10.1 and wow I didn't care what is was missing.

usman3206 said:
Well i bought Acer Iconia A500 because of the ports i don't mind a difference of 0.00000033mm in thickness or 0.000000888 pound in weight but i do care a lot if my device has all the ports i can use without the worry of looking them here and there.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
+1
The Acer wins for me based on connectivity and flexibility overall.

PLease tell us about the software. Tab is 3.1....is it smoother? The Acer is still driving me crazy with the scroll lag.

Actually the weight and size difference is dramatic. The photos and numbers paper really dont translate well to how well it feels in hand. Saying that I do miss the usb port on the a500 but the GT10.1 is more portable and hand friendly. Using it as an ereader is great as well because it balances in the hand without feeling top heavy.
Go play with one at BB and tell me what you think, just curious.
Another reason for my switch was I truly feel thus device will sell well and therefore have longer support. Acer already announced they were scaling back production due to slow sales. Which tells me Acer really needs to do better advertising because they have a winner.
I think noils down like this.......
If you want a light hand friendly device then get the GT10.1
If you want a device that has more media input/output accessiblity device and offers expandable storage then go with the a500.
Sent from my GT-P7510 using Tapatalk

Iconia A500 or Transformer?

I am debating on which to buy. I've been wanting a tablet for awhile now and have slimmed it down to these two options, but would like some feed back if possible.
I'm looking for s-off and root (quickly glancing at the forums, it looks like both are able to achieve this. I like to toy and tinker with things and having a root, with s-off, is a must for this.
Are there any huge differences between the two? I am liking the additional dock available for the Transformer.
Going to post this in the Transformer forum as well. Iconia people, win me over!

The major differences are that the Transformer has that keyboard dock and a slightly better screen, while the Iconia has built-in USB host and slightly better sound.
I personally greatly prefer having the USB host port built into the device rather than in a bulky dock.
ASUS also appears to be doing a slightly better job of providing software updates than is Acer.

I'll be ordering an Iconia on Friday. I have seen both in the flesh and normal use as at work there's 1 guy with an Iconia and 2 with Transformers. The Iconia seems solidly built and no slower than the Transformer on 3.1, and the screens are almost identical. Not to mention the built in USB.
On the other hand both Transformers have been replaced already, one with a strange screen issue that looked like a liquid under the glass when you touched the screen, and one because the case doesn't line up properly - it creaks noticeably if you hold it landscape fashion.
Also I've been buying Acer kit for years (3 laptops and a netbook so far) and the oldest is still going strong after 5 years, no build quality issues in any of the Acer kit i've bought contrary to popular belief, and they've lasted longer than some of the so called premium brands we use at work.

I have a500 and a Transformer so, I think I can answer to your question... If you want my 2 cents opinion, the a500 is way better. I think the screen is more responsive and more brighten. Plus the transformer's screen get incredibly dirty very quickly. The usb thing has no comparison. Just, for example, I bought a cheap silicon keyboard and it works pretty well with the iconia. Same about the mouse. The transformer has just 2 advantages: 1) it's lighter 2) it has a way better microphone. About all the rest it is inferior or equal to the iconia.
If the mic, for you, is a must then buy a Transforemer. If it's not... then buy a a500.

Try both and decide for yourself. You will be happier.
Don't let others do your thinking for you.

If you can, definitely try both as bungaboy suggests, your own preferences may certainly steer you in a different path. In the end it could quite simply come down to something as off-the-cuff as the location of the front-facing camera.
In terms of companies, I currently have an Acer laptop (very happy with) and an Acer monitor (happy with), and have purchased and installed about 6 ASUS motherboards and video cards over time (only 1 less-than-stellar experience with those) so I'd happily recommend either company in general.

Just a quick reply before I go to work. I live in Japan. I don't have a Best Buy here. They have a Iconia A500 at the BX and I've played with it some, but can't compare to the Transformer.
I'll reply back later today when I have more time. Thanks for all the good input!

inifekt said:
Just a quick reply before I go to work. I live in Japan. I don't have a Best Buy here. They have a Iconia A500 at the BX and I've played with it some, but can't compare to the Transformer.
I'll reply back later today when I have more time. Thanks for all the good input!
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Alright. Thanks for all your replies everyone. I am and will decide for myself but since I cannot try out both I was reaching out to the community to give me their pro's and con's so I can weigh them for my own decision.
I'll have to go back to the BX later and play around with the Iconia some more. I didn't really play with the form factor, but what I really like from the Transformer is the keyboard/battery/etc dock. From my understanding it'll be future-compatible too.

why do you like the dock? will you carry with you all the time? if not, pointless. if you want a tab and a keyboard, wait a few more months till the asus eee slide comes out. i got an iconia, and as much as everyone at work bashes me for it, i can do much more than their ipad2

shdw03 said:
why do you like the dock? will you carry with you all the time? if not, pointless. if you want a tab and a keyboard, wait a few more months till the asus eee slide comes out. i got an iconia, and as much as everyone at work bashes me for it, i can do much more than their ipad2
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I was going in with the idea of selling my laptop and leaving the dock at home and use while I'm there. And what is the eee slide? I was also looking at the ASUS W7 tablet they have.

Iconia is my preference... cause of USB port.

Is the Iconia capable of good tablet drawing?

bluemax137 said:
I have a500 and a Transformer so, I think I can answer to your question... If you want my 2 cents opinion, the a500 is way better. I think the screen is more responsive and more brighten. Plus the transformer's screen get incredibly dirty very quickly. The usb thing has no comparison. Just, for example, I bought a cheap silicon keyboard and it works pretty well with the iconia. Same about the mouse. The transformer has just 2 advantages: 1) it's lighter 2) it has a way better microphone. About all the rest it is inferior or equal to the iconia.
If the mic, for you, is a must then buy a Transforemer. If it's not... then buy a a500.
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Click to collapse
lol, ignorance is bliss, eh? it is a well known fact that the Transformer screen is the second best android tablet screen on the market right now (after Gtab 10.1) while the Iconia screen is far behind.
OP, just go in store and compare the two side by side with the screen set at max brightness. You'll see the big difference especially when viewing from an angle. The Asus blows the Iconia away in this respect.
my 2 cents:
Asus Transformer
-way better screen (most important feature in a tablet, imho)
-a lot lighter then the Iconia (Iconia is the heaviest Android tablet)
-faster updates
-less freezes & runs smoother
-dock option
Acer Iconia
-USB port (the Transformer only has this on the dock)
-better built? allegedly. (my Asus is also very solid but the Iconia metal back feels stronger)
-better sound
-better camera (with flash)
For me it boils down to needing a USB port or not & to wanting the dock option or not.
If you don't need the USB port, then the Transformed is the obvious choice.
If you do (and don't want to spend the extra $150 for the dock) then go for the Acer.
Also if you really want a better screen and the dock option, again the obvious choice is the TF.
good luck & enjoy your new toy either or!

I just purchased the Iconia myself. But from forum postings of people who have bought both and checked them out, it seems people are generally more satisfied with the Transformer (apart from the people who got bleeding screens).
The guy above summed it up pretty well.

I bought both when the Staples coupon came out (Inconia from staples, TF from Office Depot), and kept them sealed in box for a couple of days while I did my research on which one I wanted to keep.
I spent a couple of hours over a few stores comparing and then read a bunch on forums, etc.
There is really no reasonable argument for Acer screen over the Asus. The TF is brighter and displays more colors, this is a fact, not opinion. I also thought things looked slightly sharper on the TF (perhaps it was due to the better contrast). I did not like the one port pulling all duties and its location (understandable as its for the keyboard as well). I have no intention of using a keyboard with any tab that use (I have laptops for that). The TF design appeals to me more, I like it's shape more.
I chose the Iconia over the TF due to the additional ports, better xda dev support and numerous reports of quality controls issues on the TF. Frankly, the last issue was the biggest factor in my decision.

The one complaint I have about the Iconia is the screen. It leaves MUCH to be desired. I'm not sure if it's a problem with the Iconia or with Android tablet screens in general, but you can easily see individual pixels on the screen if you hold the device closer than usual.
Text also is somewhat blurry, not sure if this is an issue with Android text rendering or with Iconia's screen.
Everything else is great though.

Hi, i'm planning to buy an iconia, but i've read on soms sites that the display can only display 265k colors while other devices have 16million.
Is this true? And if so, do you really recognise it if you compare it directly to another device?
Sent out of my Free Candy Van.

Yes Plestiuc, ignorance is a bliss... Even not being able to understand what's written is a bliss... and even attention lack is. If you re-read what I wrote, hoping you're able to focus on all the world and not just on random ones... you will notice I wrote: "If you want my 2 cents opinion". If you do not know the meaning of the word: "Opinion", I do suggest you to go back to elementary school.
Over

even tho the iconia is heavy keep in mind that all of the tablets are to heavy to comfortably hold with one hand for more than 5 min. soo I dont know how much the little wieght difference matters....
Sent from my PG86100 using XDA Premium App

Flussen said:
Hi, i'm planning to buy an iconia, but i've read on soms sites that the display can only display 265k colors while other devices have 16million.
Is this true? And if so, do you really recognise it if you compare it directly to another device?
Sent out of my Free Candy Van.
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Click to collapse
In all seriousness, you can't see it. I like the colors on both tablets, and the screen on the transformer is superb. But when I play a movie (the guy at the store let me try a video on the display transformer) I don't notice a difference. The black on the TF is a bit darker, and that's about it.
I didn't think that a built in USB was going to matter to me, but I am actually using it a TON. Thank you so much ACER!

What should I get this A500 or transformer?

I have got some bestbuy giftcards and now I want a honeycomb tab that is $399 so which of the two would you get or would you have picked the transformer over your Acer?
Thanks guys
I think ill get the a500 because I like the Cam and flash
Sent from my LG-P925 using Tapatalk

It boiled down to the USB port for me. I knew I wouldn't buy the Asus dock, so for me the Transformer didn't cut it. It's ultimately personal preference, as I think they're both great value compared to the competition.

I love the weight of the a500, its solid construction. The full usb did it for me also. But it is a fully loaded Hog. Love it, Went to best buy and felt up all of there tabs. Good luck with your choice, they all work really good. My choice goes to the a500 and soon the a100.
I have had excelent service and proformance from acer products over the years.

Here is my story. I knew nothing of Android tablet. First I drove to 5 different stores, but all out of HP TouchPad. Then I got:
1. Acer Iconia A100: Promptly returned it even with my lack of experience: poor screen, horrid WiFi signal (couldn't detect my router 35-40ft away).
2. Asus Transformer: Excellent device, liked everything about it. Then I found out about the Toshiba Thrive with full size USB, full size SD (+ SDXC support), full size HDMI. Returned Asus.
3. Toshiba Thrive: Excellent device, liked everything about it, good screen quality despite not IPS. Poor camera quality, no LED Flash, so far slower community development than other tablets.
4. Acer A500: Poked about this forum and found out how advance the commnunity development of the Acer A500 is. And the fact it has all the necessary ports including full USB and nicer looking than the Thrive. Sold. Much better WiFi signal than A100, on par with the Asus. It looks like I'm settled with this one.
Personally I would get the A500 over Transformer, due to its full size USB, which open up lots of features, such as connecting mouse, keyboard, game controller, flash drives, 3G dongles(?). I prefer the Acer microHDMI over the Asus miniHDMI, since my phone also uses micro. They both have good WiFi detection and same weight. The performance are basically the same. The Asus has a nicer IPS screen. I can't confirm it, but base on reviews, the Asus will have longer battery life.

Personally, I can never understand these questions, which have been asked ad nausium... You are asking in the A500 forum....we have A500's!!! We chose A500's. We did not chose transformers. It's like asking transformer owners which they would choose, in the transformer forum. Sheeesh. Sorry....just sick of the question.

i actually enjoyed reading the opinions because up until two days ago i was going to buy the transformer....or wait for the tf2, but decided on the Acer Iconia A500 because i can plug in any standard usb device without a dock. That and because i know they are all essentially the same device with minor differences.

Thanks alot for the replies peeps I actually choose the thrive because of the ports on it I travel alot and it was basicly free, because I had buy back on the Droid incredible so thanks I really wanted the a500 but best buy was sold out . Good thing I never looked into the thrive. Plus I was already running late for a flight so thanks alot guys! And to the guy with a stick up his bum yea I asked in this forum because I figured I might get a person that had the a500 and wish or bought something else.
The thrive all in all is a great choice for me as it has up to 130gb SD slot, HDMI not micro, mini USB, and standard USB, yes its a big tab but the rubber grin is really important for me lol sweaty hands and giving its as heavy as first Gen ipad I like that I don't want to break my new toy. And please I'm not saying this to be mean or anything I just wanted to share my thought since you all were nice -1 to share yours!
Thank you again,
Brett
PS sorry for horrid grammar and all I have my 11month old on my lap
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dincdoes.me said:
the guy with a stick up his bum
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Oh brother.
The fact is, if you had just done a little searching, you would have found many threads giving the exact "advise" you were looking for.

TFordham said:
Oh brother.
The fact is, if you had just done a little searching, you would have found many threads giving the exact "advise" you were looking for.
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Please stop. Your post was decidedly negative. You contributed nothing other than to say "omg you suck for asking a question". If you dont like something you should just move on. I sometimes suck at it myself.

If you plan on doing alot of video chatting with the tablet, the A500 is kind of a pain because the FFC is off to the side. You have to hold the tablet at an ackward angle for the other person to have a good view of you.
The Transformer seems to have its FFC in a much better place - almost dead in the middle.