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First of all, this isn't a "why I don't like the Xoom" post. Actually, there is a lot that I do really like about the Xoom, and I'm optimistic that once Flash, 4G, and a few more Honeycomb-optimized apps come to the device, it will be a very capable device.
The reason I'm posting here is that I purchased the Xoom online from Verizon when it first came out, but there were a few things that bothered me enough about it that I returned it after about a week to make sure that I didn't land outside the return window. I have however, been considering buying another one, this time directly from the Verizon store so I can spend a little more time with it to determine if I like it enough to justify the $800 expenditure. So, I wanted to post my major nits with the product here to see if others have found them to be not as much of an issue or had found workarounds that solve some of these problems. I know there have been other posts about many of these problems, but I was hoping to get some fresh perspective now that the device has been out and in people's hands for a little longer.
Here's what is keeping me from going out and buying another Xoom right now.
1. I didn't like the display. On auto-brightness, it seemed like it was always too dark, and even the maximum manual brightness setting it still wasn't bright enough to overcome the glare that the screen attracted when I was sitting by a window or near a lamp. I felt like I was always struggling to see what was on the screen, even when indoors. Has anyone had luck solving this with, for example, an anti-glare screen protector? Or was this something that you adjusted to and found to be less of an issue over time?
2. The portfolio case, though serviceable, was unattractive and clunky, but I didn't like the lack of screen protection on the gel case. Is the gel case maybe worth another look, or are there any third party cases in the works that look promising?
3. It can't charge via USB, and the power adapter is a little larger than something I would like to have tucked in my bag all the time. How do you keep your Xoom charged on the go? Do you find that the advantage of being able to charge the Xoom quickly makes up for the fact that it can't be charged by a universal mini-usb?
Anyway, thanks for taking the time to read this. It turned out a little longer than I had originally intended. Looking forward to your feedback.
lazy_rider said:
First of all, this isn't a "why I don't like the Xoom" post. Actually, there is a lot that I do really like about the Xoom, and I'm optimistic that once Flash, 4G, and a few more Honeycomb-optimized apps come to the device, it will be a very capable device.
The reason I'm posting here is that I purchased the Xoom online from Verizon when it first came out, but there were a few things that bothered me enough about it that I returned it after about a week to make sure that I didn't land outside the return window. I have however, been considering buying another one, this time directly from the Verizon store so I can spend a little more time with it to determine if I like it enough to justify the $800 expenditure. So, I wanted to post my major nits with the product here to see if others have found them to be not as much of an issue or had found workarounds that solve some of these problems. I know there have been other posts about many of these problems, but I was hoping to get some fresh perspective now that the device has been out and in people's hands for a little longer.
Here's what is keeping me from going out and buying another Xoom right now.
1. I didn't like the display. On auto-brightness, it seemed like it was always too dark, and even the maximum manual brightness setting it still wasn't bright enough to overcome the glare that the screen attracted when I was sitting by a window or near a lamp. I felt like I was always struggling to see what was on the screen, even when indoors. Has anyone had luck solving this with, for example, an anti-glare screen protector? Or was this something that you adjusted to and found to be less of an issue over time?
2. The portfolio case, though serviceable, was unattractive and clunky, but I didn't like the lack of screen protection on the gel case. Is the gel case maybe worth another look, or are there any third party cases in the works that look promising?
3. It can't charge via USB, and the power adapter is a little larger than something I would like to have tucked in my bag all the time. How do you keep your Xoom charged on the go? Do you find that the advantage of being able to charge the Xoom quickly makes up for the fact that it can't be charged by a universal mini-usb?
Anyway, thanks for taking the time to read this. It turned out a little longer than I had originally intended. Looking forward to your feedback.
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Click to collapse
1. I agree with the auto brightness. I turned this off and keep the brightness at 75%. I added Zagg invisibleshield and it has significantly reduced glare, fingerprints and smudges. I am happy.
2. I ordered this but it has not arrived yet: http://www.zoogue.com/shop/#xoom-zoogue-case-genius I am currently using the Moto gel case and it works for now.
3. I haven't had an issue with the charger. It charges very fast and the battery life is very good.
I love my xoom, though i don't see a lot of resolution for you on these issues.
1. I love the display, agreed it's hard to see in bright light (but this to me is normal).
2. I like the portfolio case and use it constantly.
3. For me the lack of usb chargning is fine, as the default charger charges so fast and my battary lasts me all day. I can charge from empty to full in less then two hours and get at least a good 12 hour day of off again on again usage.
Hope this helps.
same here.
i turned of auto brightness and the screen is great for me now.
haven't put a case on it (waiting for a good one to come out).
i left the shipping cover plastic on the screen until i decide on what screen protector i am going to use.
no usb charging was not a deal breaker for me as it has been noted before that the charge time is fast and the use time is high.
1. I use mine on a bus and outside and haven't really had a problem with brightness, the glare is a killer though. Inside, at night when using the kindle app, I'd like to turn down the brightness. I picked up the Steinheil screen protectors (matte) and it really cut down on the fingerprint smudges and glare. Yea, the screen isn't as crisp as without the protector, but the smudges ruined it anyway. I took auto brightness off but keep the display turned down.
2. I haven't seen any third party case even for the ipad that I really like. The portfolio from Motorola is the best I've seen so far and I'm really disappointed. It needs to have a typing position, maybe 20-30% incline.
3. I would have liked a mini usb charger. I'll probably get a second one but by charging it at night I have more than enough juice to get through a day.
Motorola had a $100 off coupon floating around and the wifi models are being released at the end of this month which should be less expensive.
keitht said:
1. I agree with the auto brightness. I turned this off and keep the brightness at 75%. I added Zagg invisibleshield and it has significantly reduced glare, fingerprints and smudges. I am happy.
2. I ordered this but it has not arrived yet: http://www.zoogue.com/shop/#xoom-zoogue-case-genius I am currently using the Moto gel case and it works for now.
3. I haven't had an issue with the charger. It charges very fast and the battery life is very good.
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I have a Zoogue iPad case and have used it for the past 8 months. It is amazing and has held up perfectly. It is an awesome case especially if you intend to watch a fair bit of videos with your tablet. Maybe not the prettiest case around, but it protects the hell out of the tablet and not only allows you any angle of incline, but also a very sturdy base so that it wont go tipping over if you tap the tablet too hard.
I agree with most people here.
1. Forget the auto brightness. It's useless.
2. I really want the zoogue case, let me know how it is. I'm ok with the portfolio case. It's definitely grown on me. I have two big issues with it though: lack of a 30-degree angle for tabletop use, but i've gotten used to the "low angle", and no charging while closed. someone in the accessories forum suggested punching a hole with a punch meant for making holes in a belt and it worked like a charm (hint: try asking your dry cleaner/alternation shop if you can use theirs, that way I didn't have to buy one). Looks like it almost was meant to be there.
3. I would have liked the 'option' of a mirco usb charger, but honestly, I use it every day at work unplug in the morning, use at home after dinner and plug in at night, and have never had an issue. I even went away for the weekend (sat morn to sunday night) and brought my charger, but i never charged it. I dont see it as an issue.
lazy_rider said:
First of all, this isn't a "why I don't like the Xoom" post. Actually, there is a lot that I do really like about the Xoom, and I'm optimistic that once Flash, 4G, and a few more Honeycomb-optimized apps come to the device, it will be a very capable device.
The reason I'm posting here is that I purchased the Xoom online from Verizon when it first came out, but there were a few things that bothered me enough about it that I returned it after about a week to make sure that I didn't land outside the return window. I have however, been considering buying another one, this time directly from the Verizon store so I can spend a little more time with it to determine if I like it enough to justify the $800 expenditure. So, I wanted to post my major nits with the product here to see if others have found them to be not as much of an issue or had found workarounds that solve some of these problems. I know there have been other posts about many of these problems, but I was hoping to get some fresh perspective now that the device has been out and in people's hands for a little longer.
Here's what is keeping me from going out and buying another Xoom right now.
1. I didn't like the display. On auto-brightness, it seemed like it was always too dark, and even the maximum manual brightness setting it still wasn't bright enough to overcome the glare that the screen attracted when I was sitting by a window or near a lamp. I felt like I was always struggling to see what was on the screen, even when indoors. Has anyone had luck solving this with, for example, an anti-glare screen protector? Or was this something that you adjusted to and found to be less of an issue over time?
2. The portfolio case, though serviceable, was unattractive and clunky, but I didn't like the lack of screen protection on the gel case. Is the gel case maybe worth another look, or are there any third party cases in the works that look promising?
3. It can't charge via USB, and the power adapter is a little larger than something I would like to have tucked in my bag all the time. How do you keep your Xoom charged on the go? Do you find that the advantage of being able to charge the Xoom quickly makes up for the fact that it can't be charged by a universal mini-usb?
Anyway, thanks for taking the time to read this. It turned out a little longer than I had originally intended. Looking forward to your feedback.
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Click to collapse
1 - I operate my device on auto brightness pretty much all the time, the only exception to this is when QuickPic fires up because it ramps it to 100%. I have found that in most normal operating environments I can see the screen perfectly. I am not outdoors with it very often but I know what you are talking about because it is difficult to see under direct or even semi direct sunlight.
2 - I'm going to buy a gel case right now, I already own the protective case. I want to try them both and figure that I'll use the Gel case around the house and the protective case out at work.
3 - There is a car charger, but I am unaware of a more compact Xoom charger.
Thanks to everyone who has commented so far. I'm leaning strongly towards giving the Xoom another shot, although I might wait until they start shipping with 4G, so I don't have to send it back to Moto for a week for the upgrade.
lazy_rider said:
1. I didn't like the display. Has anyone had luck solving this with, for example, an anti-glare screen protector? Or was this something that you adjusted to and found to be less of an issue over time?
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Click to collapse
I'm still not over the display quality. This is one of the main factors why I'm weighing to sell the xoom and get another honeycomb tablet in the future.
lazy_rider said:
2. The portfolio case, though serviceable, was unattractive and clunky, but I didn't like the lack of screen protection on the gel case. Is the gel case maybe worth another look, or are there any third party cases in the works that look promising?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Couldn't say as I've never used it before.
lazy_rider said:
3. It can't charge via USB, and the power adapter is a little larger than something I would like to have tucked in my bag all the time. How do you keep your Xoom charged on the go? Do you find that the advantage of being able to charge the Xoom quickly makes up for the fact that it can't be charged by a universal mini-usb?
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Click to collapse
I found the xoom's ability to charge quickly makes up for the lack of usb charging. additionally, when in a car traveling long distances, i can hook up the charger to a power generator i bought for the car that easily hooks up to the lighter port.
I'm going to wait it out, and try and get the samsung tablet 10.1 coming out in about a month.
I too use auto brightness all the time, but maybe I live in a dark existence.
I use the gel case all the time, and no screen protector. When I take it with me, its in my protective net book sleeve in my backpack so I'm not really worried about the screen. If I start to hear complaints here about screen issues (other than the gym bag guy) I may seek better protection.
I don't find the charging to be an issue as the battery lasts a long time. I think the car charger (<$30) is a good idea if you are gonna be in the car for even 15 minutes or so. If you can hook up the standard dock someplace in your car you can charge it and play audio from itnto the aux port on your stereo if you have one...
Sent from my Xoom using XDA App
lazy_rider said:
Do you find that the advantage of being able to charge the Xoom quickly makes up for the fact that it can't be charged by a universal mini-usb?
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Click to collapse
Very much so; it charges it so fast and the battery life is so good I just don't worry about it any more. I might get a car charger for the times I can't get home in time, once they get 2nd-sourced (to save money) but so far, so good.
I suffer under no delusions that a device like this will be viewable in direct lighting (including sunlight). I pretty much assumed going in that I'd still be using my classic Nook with e-ink for reading outside...
i bought one and I returned it because of the same issues. Then I bought my wife an I pad 2 and i tested it for a few day and I
notice the xoom is so fast and you not handcuffed to apple products that I went and bought the xoom again and this time I'm keeping it.
Had it for 1 whole day. THe quanlity feels cheap. New honey comb ui is good and very impressive. When I restart the tranformer at night, I saw at least 8 birght spots on my screen. So decied to return it to amazon. But I don't have the speaker problem.
Mine does not feel cheap. Feels well put together. Some people think it feels cheap because it has a plastic back. That to me doesn't mean it is cheap. I don't need metal to feel something is quality.
If you had problems with it creaking and seems like you had problems with the screen, I assure you that is not how it is supposed to be. RMA.
Quanlity ........ Lol.........something wrong with the keyboard too?
Sent from my Desire HD using XDA App
Mine creaks a bit and may give the impression of not being solidly built, but in my opinion, it's a really nice tablet.
Tired of these threads. If u don't like, just go away. It's a $399 tablet and build quality is excellent for a $399 tablet. Maybe some company will release a tablet for twice the price one day made out of carbon fiber, but who the hell cares if it does the exact same thing as a $399 tablet. Lets get over this once and for all. Next, everyone will be saying that its not good enough because it doesn't have tegra 3 chipset or it doesn't run Windows 8 or it doesn't make pancakes. The TF is a great tablet that many of us love and anyone who doesn't probably should just get an iPad 2 or wait for the iPad 3 or just avoid tablets altogether...
Sent from my Transformer TF101 using Tapatalk
Indeed a little bit overdone to start a thread for this, but I must agree, the TF has some common issues, which keep me from saying that it's a real quality product. (Speaker problem, accelerometer not calibrated, backlight bleeding, dust under screen, dead touchzones, ...)
gadgetfann said:
Tired of these threads. If u don't like, just go away. It's a $399 tablet and build quality is excellent for a $399 tablet. Maybe some company will release a tablet for twice the price one day made out of carbon fiber, but who the hell cares if it does the exact same thing as a $399 tablet. Lets get over this once and for all. Next, everyone will be saying that its not good enough because it doesn't have tegra 3 chipset or it doesn't run Windows 8 or it doesn't make pancakes. The TF is a great tablet that many of us love and anyone who doesn't probably should just get an iPad 2 or wait for the iPad 3 or just avoid tablets altogether...
Sent from my Transformer TF101 using Tapatalk
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Don't be tired of these threads, everyone has the right to say what he thinks.
I had the Transformer for a day and had to send it back.
The quality of my Transformer was disappointing. The Upper rigth corner of the touch screen was not in line with the other corners, it was lower by 3 mm that the metal frame.The back was 3mm above the metal frame.
Not to speak that i could see through the hole between the touch screen and the metal frame.
So i think that those who got a good Transformer should be happy.But not all of them are great, in fact i think that the quality control was nonexistent.
NOT EVERYONE GOT A PERFECT TRANSFORMER!!!!!
If you did get o good one it does not mean the problems you hear about and you are tired off are not there.
I sent mine back and now i am waiting to get a replacement.
i have slight creaking only in the very edge of the top right an bottom left corner but its only a little other wise the build is good not cheap
I never understand why people want to start a whole new thread just to tell the entire world they're returning something.....
magicpork said:
I never understand why people want to start a whole new thread just to tell the entire world they're returning something.....
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Because they are butthurt and want to nag to other people to make themselves feel better.
By the way, if the OP wants good build quality you should pick up an iPad 2, they are half metal and feel sturdy. Just don't sell one of your kidneys like that kid.
yeah agree...why need to create another new thread ?? just find a related thread and post in it. next time another thread like this appear, can consider it as spam/troll
Oddly the demo units at staples feel like they were built like a tank. No creak or flex. Very solid despite plastic back.
I am on my fourth and waiting for my 5th TF.
EACH has suffered light bleed with the most recent one being the best so far.
However while it was solid on day one it now is creaking along the top left and right corners and a bit on the right side. If unit number five is no better they all go back and I get a Samsung. The dock for me is not so important as a laptop owner that I will accept such poor build quality.
my ipad 1 bought a year ago has no bleed no creaks after a year of use. The demo units in 3 stores of the transformer were all solid so I know Asus can build them well but likely make different units better made to be used as demos.
I suspect this as o e staples store who had just got product in and had not had their demo put out yet would not let me buy their demo unit.
ericc191 said:
Mine creaks a bit and may give the impression of not being solidly built, but in my opinion, it's a really nice tablet.
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Sent from my Transformer TF101 using Tapatalk
Shawn_230 said:
Because they are butthurt and want to nag to other people to make themselves feel better.
By the way, if the OP wants good build quality you should pick up an iPad 2, they are half metal and feel sturdy. Just don't sell one of your kidneys like that kid.
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They have been suffering from the light bleed issues too...
Lol, you want to know how badly my 7'' Galaxy Tab creaks? That's cheap plastic. Creak creak creak. It creaks if you look at it sideways.
Also, check out this thread: http://forums.macrumors.com/showthread.php?t=1122027 In fact, google up "ipad light bleed." Prepare to be astounded: http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/12/poll-is-your-ipad-2-backlight-bleeding-video/
Look, if you don't have anything nice to say about the iPad2, don't say anything at all! Ignorance is bliss!! J/k. I think you may be right, a friend of mines co. Bought 10 iPad2 and ALL of them have it to some degree... They also have as many 1st generation iPads and the difference is dramatic.
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Fun, hey?
(I've only noticed light bleed when I turn it on and the screen displays boot animation, FYI. Any other time and it's not particularly noticeable.)
i was able to play with the Samsung 10.1 tab at the android central meetup in nyc and the Samsung tab had all the same UI issues as the TF. Yes it was thinner but to me the TF is fine the way it is and iits $100 less. My TF is fantastic and with the $$$ I saved I got a nexus s 4g. Put that in your pipe and smoke it.
grainysand said:
Lol, you want to know how badly my 7'' Galaxy Tab creaks? That's cheap plastic. Creak creak creak. It creaks if you look at it sideways.
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My gf's Galaxy Tab is solid as any tab I've ever handled, so therefore I think all Galaxy Tabs are perfect and you have the only bad one.
Sarcasm (not directed at you personally), hopefully it was duly noted The TF has some bad batches, I think that's obvious. You can say, "Oh it's just a small number on XDA!" but you can probably use this small sample and apply it to the entire user base and come up with an idea of the amount of defective units. Sounds like the early batches were rushed out the door to meet a deadline and demand.
Mine is pretty solid. Creaky, one spot of light bleed, but tolerable for the cheapest HC tablet, and I love it like I'd love my first born, if I had a first born. Still the best deal out there.
wackadroid said:
i was able to play with the Samsung 10.1 tab at the android central meetup in nyc and the Samsung tab had all the same UI issues as the TF. Yes it was thinner but to me the TF is fine the way it is and iits $100 less. My TF is fantastic and with the $$$ I saved I got a nexus s 4g. Put that in your pipe and smoke it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, Galaxy Tab 10.1 is supposed to be really thin but I still don't want it.
Compared to the Transformer it's more expensive, no expandable memory, no IPS display, and build is plastic just like our Eee Pads.
Honestly the Transformer has a few bugs, Honeycomb too... but overall you cannot beat this thing, no contest when you consider cost.
TF101FTW!
I was pretty happy with the overall design of the tablet but their quality control does leave a bit to be desired. I've had 2 tablets and both have a defect. One was light bleed and the most recent one came with a broken power button.
I'm not sure if I should keep trying replacements or call it quits on Asus.
Tutti-frutti said:
Indeed a little bit overdone to start a thread for this, but I must agree, the TF has some common issues, which keep me from saying that it's a real quality product. (Speaker problem, accelerometer not calibrated, backlight bleeding, dust under screen, dead touchzones, ...)
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i agree. it's not high quality, but good enough quality for the price - compared to the current market price for higher end android tablets.
I thought there was a lot of people with the screen bleeding issue? The way you guys make it sound that the screen be perfect. Unfortunately I noticed I got some serious bleeding myself. I just cant figure out if it's worth RMA and all that. It might take forever for KMART to get anymore back in stock.
I thought I read a lot of people had the issue also. It doesnt bother me at all really, but one of these posts made me feel that I should exchange it ASAP
I bought the Acer Iconia yesterday morning, and I was really not very pleased with it. The weight is a big issue for me, but the biggest problem I had was the screen. It was responsive enough and fairly bright, but the color reproduction and black levels are awful... After spending several hours messing with it, I decided to take it back today and pick up a transformer.
However, this forum has to be the biggest wet blanket in the world. I now have no idea what I want to do. Yes the screen quality of Iconia is bad, and it does experience the SoD like every other Honeycomb tab, but the list of issues that are mounting here are pretty considerable. The IPS display, and the supportive dev community had me pumped and ready to go, but now I'm thinking that it might be a sideways move. Dead pixels, black stripes on the screen, SoD, creaking bezel, reboots, lock ups... Jeez...
I guess the Thrive is the next on the list, but damn... That thing is the size of a standard hardback novel. And it's expensive to boot.
Divinedark said:
I bought the Acer Iconia yesterday morning, and I was really not very pleased with it. The weight is a big issue for me, but the biggest problem I had was the screen. It was responsive enough and fairly bright, but the color reproduction and black levels are awful... After spending several hours messing with it, I decided to take it back today and pick up a transformer.
However, this forum has to be the biggest wet blanket in the world. I now have no idea what I want to do. Yes the screen quality of Iconia is bad, and it does experience the SoD like every other Honeycomb tab, but the list of issues that are mounting here are pretty considerable. The IPS display, and the supportive dev community had me pumped and ready to go, but now I'm thinking that it might be a sideways move. Dead pixels, black stripes on the screen, SoD, creaking bezel, reboots, lock ups... Jeez...
I guess the Thrive is the next on the list, but damn... That thing is the size of a standard hardback novel. And it's expensive to boot.
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Click to collapse
I think the newer batch (serial number B60xxxx) has a better build ... SoD and slightly creaking bezel (it may be ignorable when you put it in a case) may still be there, but the other issues should be pretty much gone. Except if you got a lemon ...
Hmmm... I wonder if Best Buy will let me thumb through their stock to look for a B60??? They also don't sell a case, so I have to go out looking for one... Ugh...
Okay, you guys must have the worst luck in the world. My Transformer doesn't have any of these issues and I have a B50. Does it have problems right away or is mine going to develop these issues over time?
ShensMobile said:
Okay, you guys must have the worst luck in the world. My Transformer doesn't have any of these issues and I have a B50. Does it have problems right away or is mine going to develop these issues over time?
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Same. I have a B50 and my first one was completely fine.
And I don't think the issues are going to build over time.
Actually, it looks like the Thrive is having some pretty well-documented SOD issues itself. I've had decent luck with my TF. Minimal light bleed, and a slight looseness to the bezel on the right (right above SD card). Imperfections aside, I love it. I'll definitely hold me until Android tablets round 2 (ICS).
Well, the dude at Best Buy did actually let me thumb through the stock. I got one of the 3 B60 revisions that they had. I also picked up the stand/sleeve from Toys R Us on the way home. Here's to hoping this isn't a lemon.
I love the screen so much more than the Iconia... I played with the display model (also B60) while I was waiting on "customer service". Colors look sooooo much better.
I got a B6 at best buy they had them in the display locked up and i told him i needed one with a B6 serial number he got me one. the only thing i see wrong with this hardware wise. light bleed. im a happy camper. but i did buy the extended warranty.
Divinedark said:
Well, the dude at Best Buy did actually let me thumb through the stock. I got one of the 3 B60 revisions that they had. I also picked up the stand/sleeve from Toys R Us on the way home. Here's to hoping this isn't a lemon.
I love the screen so much more than the Iconia... I played with the display model (also B60) while I was waiting on "customer service". Colors look sooooo much better.
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Welcome back.
Well, I got her home, charged, rooted, and running on Revolver 0.2.1. OC'd to 1.2Ghz.The tablet is everything that I wanted, so far. I am still pretty excited to see where the dev community goes. I really hope to see some new kernels and creative roms show their faces. I'd also like to see Virtuous's Galaxy/Xoom/Thrive roms on our little tab.
As far as issues. I have 3 places on the screen with minor spotlighting, but to be quite honest, I have worse on my iPad 1.
The battery life is stellar so far. Much better than I had with the Iconia. To top that off, the case Asus offers is EXACTLY what I was wanting. It's almost identical to the Apple iPad stand case.
The strangest thing I've noticed between the two tabs is the flash performance. The Transformer just blows the Iconia out of the water. Justin.TV is a completely pleasant experience all the up to the 720p+ mark and beyond. The Iconia had noticeable lag when playing anything on the channel.
The Iconia's speakers were definitely of a higher quality, but after correcting the speaker balance issue, and using Supercurio's mod, the sound is every bit as good, if not better than my iPad 1.
In the end, I'm pretty damn happy with it. My wife is a complete Apple fan, and she walked by while I was working on the Transformer, and she stopped and said "What is that?!?" I told her it was Android Honeycomb, and she snatched it out of my hands. That's fine... She can play, but in the end, she's getting the iPad...
Seems that ever since the TP went on clearance at my local Best Buy and strangely the first generation Transformer Tablet is still available tells me there is a reason Asus is limiting the production of a great product.
Well here is some pictures. The TF300T was just as responsive as my TP and screen was bright fir indoor use. They also have the keyboard dock for $149.
Also looks like the TF300T serial will be C3OK
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I717 using xda premium
They had the TF300 at my local Best Buy. They don't have them out on display yet, but one of the floor salespeople got permission to open one up and allow me to play with it. Verdict: this thing's going to be my next tablet (I currently own an HTC Flyer, which I will also keep for its portability).
Though I only held it in my hands for a few minutes, that was enough to alleviate all the concerns I had about the TF300.
1) I was worried that the blue color would be too gaudy. I've seen pictures and the hue tends to run the gamut from "nearly black" to "Tonka Toy blue." Well, in person it's a very classy, understated, beep blue. I could absolutely live with that color (even if I'd probably choose the white one if it were available now).
2) I was worried that it would feel too thick, after holding the iPad II or Transformer Prime. Well, yea, it's a little thicker, but it in no way feels thick. Feels really nice to hold, in fact. Definitely wouldn't feel like I was compromising by buying this tablet.
3) I was worried about the quality of the screen. Yes, it's no iPad 3. The screen simply doesn't hold a candle to an iPad 3. But it's as good as any other Android tablet screen I've seen, and better than the iPad II. I'm sure that the Transformer Infinity screen will be a real competitor to the iPad 3, but I don't want to wait three months and pay an additional $200.00.
My only real complain is that Best Buy seems to be stocking only the 16Gb model at the moment. Once they get the 32Gb model in (or can order one for me) I'm going to strike. I could buy it online now, of course, but I like Best Buy's 18 months same-as-cash financing, so I'm going to hold out.
dsf3g said:
They had the TF300 at my local Best Buy. They don't have them out on display yet, but one of the floor salespeople got permission to open one up and allow me to play with it. Verdict: this thing's going to be my next tablet (I currently own an HTC Flyer, which I will also keep for its portability).
Though I only held it in my hands for a few minutes, that was enough to alleviate all the concerns I had about the TF300.
1) I was worried that the blue color would be too gaudy. I've seen pictures and the hue tends to run the gamut from "nearly black" to "Tonka Toy blue." Well, in person it's a very classy, understated, beep blue. I could absolutely live with that color (even if I'd probably choose the white one if it were available now).
2) I was worried that it would feel too thick, after holding the iPad II or Transformer Prime. Well, yea, it's a little thicker, but it in no way feels thick. Feels really nice to hold, in fact. Definitely wouldn't feel like I was compromising by buying this tablet.
3) I was worried about the quality of the screen. Yes, it's no iPad 3. The screen simply doesn't hold a candle to an iPad 3. But it's as good as any other Android tablet screen I've seen, and better than the iPad II. I'm sure that the Transformer Infinity screen will be a real competitor to the iPad 3, but I don't want to wait three months and pay an additional $200.00.
My only real complain is that Best Buy seems to be stocking only the 16Gb model at the moment. Once they get the 32Gb model in (or can order one for me) I'm going to strike. I could buy it online now, of course, but I like Best Buy's 18 months same-as-cash financing, so I'm going to hold out.
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Yes the TF300 is not bad at all for the price build quality. I have the TP and if I didn't have the TP I would also get the 32GB TF300.
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using xda premium
The Prime is on clearance at your local Best Buy but the TF101 is not?? How much does your store show the price being for the Prime? Their website still lists the Prime for $499.....
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using XDA Premium HD app
I played with one at Best Buy tonight, it was on display.
I actually liked it better than the TP I had and sold a while back. The prime has some sharp edges that the 300 doesn't have, and the raised texture on the backplate was nicer to hold.
Catch is the only 300 version Best Buy offer is the 16gb version, but you can go elsewhere and get the 32gb version for only $20 more. Getting the 16gb version seems silly.
The 101 is still on sale since Best Buy has a lot of accessories still to clear out. Especially keyboards.
The Prime can be ordered again at Best Buy and has a "B1" in the product ID suffix instead of an "A1". Still full price though, so where are the clearance sales?
The Prime shows none available at Best Buy, but if you go into a store, the sales person can order at a terminal for you. They could in Lexington KY, at least, but could not before.
I do agree though that the Prime is probably being phased out of Best Buy and maybe they are purging product from their channel. The radio issues never really gave it a mass consumer chance.
fraeone said:
I played with one at Best Buy tonight, it was on display.
I actually liked it better than the TP I had and sold a while back. The prime has some sharp edges that the 300 doesn't have, and the raised texture on the backplate was nicer to hold.
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I like the TF300 better than the Prime I used to have for the same reasons. The rounded sides, raised texture on the back, and for me the slightly increased thickness do make it much nicer to hold. I also like having working GPS and better WiFi reception. I've seen a lot of people dogging the TF300 around here, which is to be expected to a certain extent in the Prime forum, but most people doing that haven't spent any quality time with one. I can understand having some concerns about the TF300 if someone has a Prime, is coming from the Prime, or was going to get a Prime, because I used to have a Prime myself and had several concerns about the TF300. But like the dsf3g said, most (if not all) of those concerns will be alleviated once you actually use one. The Prime is a great device, but the TF300 is also a great alternative. For me, the slight trade-offs with the TF300 are more than worth it for better ergonomics and improved WiFi/GPS reception.
Agreed the 300 is a better option than the Prime. Display is good, FAR better radio reception, feels better to hold and $100 less.
Still think the 510 is a better option overall, IF the dock is not needed.
rushless said:
Agreed the 300 is a better option than the Prime. Display is good, FAR better radio reception, feels better to hold and $100 less.
Still think the 510 is a better option overall, IF the dock is not needed.
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I wouldn't say that the TF300 is a better option than the Prime. The Prime is great, and it has some featuers the TF300 doesn't. For some, the Prime will be the better option depending on their needs/wants. But for me, the TF300 is definitely the better option.
I've played around with the Acer 510 a little, but I just can't bring myself to purchase another Acer product after the poor experiences I've had in the past. My experience with Asus has been top notch (except with the GPS/WiFi issues on the Prime), and I'm a sucker for the keyboard dock.
The TF201 has never touched any shelf in my state, and was only seen in the store when it was being returned from an online purchase. Now I check online if the TF300 are available and practically all of them have them stocked on their shelves. Might have to wander into a bestbuy and test out their display.
On the one I played with at Best Buy, I noticed a lot of flexing and creaking in the plastic back. I literally, with very little squeeze, could squeeze the back in where I was touching together so that whatever innards there are attached to the back were touching those attached to the front. Didn't seem to make anything run poorly, or short out or anything, just felt a bit strange. I did like the rounder edges which are more comfortable than my prime. It also showed more bars of wifi reception. They had a Prime next to the 300 and the screen brightness was definitely much, much less on the 300.
I guess it all comes down to how you will use your tablet. My Prime, a C03 model, seems to not have the poor wifi that early models had and I have no problems with signal anywhere in my house or at work. I also like to sit on my back patio with it so the bright screen is necessary. If one has a weaker router or longer distance to router, and doesn't need to use it outside I would say the 300 would be a fine tablet to get.
I picked up a TF300 at my local BestBuy on Monday. To my surprise, the unit was configured with 32GB of memory (not 16GB). The box label clearly states "16GB EMMC" and the serial number on the tab matches the box. It's priced at $379.99 US
I think ASUS slipped the wrong tablet into the box at the factory.
dsf3g said:
They had the TF300 at my local Best Buy. They don't have them out on display yet, but one of the floor salespeople got permission to open one up and allow me to play with it. Verdict: this thing's going to be my next tablet (I currently own an HTC Flyer, which I will also keep for its portability).
Though I only held it in my hands for a few minutes, that was enough to alleviate all the concerns I had about the TF300.
1) I was worried that the blue color would be too gaudy. I've seen pictures and the hue tends to run the gamut from "nearly black" to "Tonka Toy blue." Well, in person it's a very classy, understated, beep blue. I could absolutely live with that color (even if I'd probably choose the white one if it were available now).
2) I was worried that it would feel too thick, after holding the iPad II or Transformer Prime. Well, yea, it's a little thicker, but it in no way feels thick. Feels really nice to hold, in fact. Definitely wouldn't feel like I was compromising by buying this tablet.
3) I was worried about the quality of the screen. Yes, it's no iPad 3. The screen simply doesn't hold a candle to an iPad 3. But it's as good as any other Android tablet screen I've seen, and better than the iPad II. I'm sure that the Transformer Infinity screen will be a real competitor to the iPad 3, but I don't want to wait three months and pay an additional $200.00.
My only real complain is that Best Buy seems to be stocking only the 16Gb model at the moment. Once they get the 32Gb model in (or can order one for me) I'm going to strike. I could buy it online now, of course, but I like Best Buy's 18 months same-as-cash financing, so I'm going to hold out.
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All I could take from this review is that you put a $500 device on credit for 18 months. We really do live in a "must have it now society".
Actually, it's only $400...
ls3mach said:
All I could take from this review is that you put a $500 device on credit for 18 months. We really do live in a "must have it now society".
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379.99.
Sent from my ASUS Transformer Pad TF300T using XDA
Or 399.99 for the 32gig
Sent from my ASUS Transformer Pad TF300T using XDA
leroybrute said:
379.99.
Sent from my ASUS Transformer Pad TF300T using XDA
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i got my 16GB for $345.
jblah said:
i got my 16GB for $345.
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Got my tf300t 32gig at office depot for 379.99 with Walmart online ad. So neener neener! Haha
Sent from my ASUS Transformer Pad TF300T using XDA
leroybrute said:
Got my tf300t 32gig at office depot for 379.99 with Walmart online ad. So keener keener! Haha
Sent from my ASUS Transformer Pad TF300T using XDA
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thats what i thought i was getting too but they messed up and send me the 16gb one..and said i could either send it back or they could take $35 off..so i went with that.
jblah said:
thats what i thought i was getting too but they messed up and send me the 16gb one..and said i could either send it back or they could take $35 off..so i went with that.
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I remember reading about that happening to others also.
Sent from my ASUS Transformer Pad TF300T using XDA
This is my 5th Android tablet. The first Transformer had gone directly back to Best Buy due to terrible light bleed. Transformer Prime sold in a month. It had its obvious problems plus a screen problem: when you press a little harder on the right side of the screen it would flicker into white. Probably a faulty one. This is my 3d transformer and it is not that impressive. Surprisingly there is no light bleed at all, but the Prime was much better in every way. I sense and hear a squeaky sound when I press the right side of the back camera just under the power button as though it was not fitted well. I pressed all the sides and corners of the tablet, only this spot gives that sound. There is an emptiness there. It really is annoying. I still think I will keep it but wait for the new Samsung. MY GTAB 7 and 10.1 were also made with plastic but they were sturdier and far better in build quality. Asus keeps disappointing me.
Cool story bro.
Perhaps your expectations doesn't match the design specs and price tag of this machine? To me it seems they opted for better guts then exterior and screen.
Thats very true. ASUS wanted to give a nice device to those who couldn't meet the price tag. Everything comes at a cost, this tablet is plastic :T
Sent from my HTC Sensation XE with Beats Audio using Tapatalk 2
Firstly, I am not quite sure why anyone would want to press the back right side of the tablet next to the back camera? If it squeaks, don't press it, no function on this tablet requires that part pressed, nor is it near anywhere near where one would hold it.
This is my 3rd tablet as well.
First, I had a Prime. I disagree the Prime was better in every way. No GPS, poor wifi signal, micro sd card slot poorly placed so the card kept popping out, micro hdmi port was loose - cable kept coming unplugged. Is the prime sexier, sure, but the aforementioned problems made it quite non-functional.
Second I had an Acer A510. Great tablet, just a bit bulky and had a terrible heat problem where the back of the tablet would reach over 100 degrees when 3D gaming...could not hold it anymore it was so hot. Also, due to low sales volumes, the tablet does not have much developer support, still don't have their own forum with similar launch date to this tablet.
I have had none of these problems on my TF300, it works amazingly well. I actually don't mind the plastic, it is comfortable to hold, and looks much better than I thought it would. The sound is great for a tablet, I had the a510 and believe this is comparable, even without the speaker separation. Is this tablet perfect, no: Battery life could be better and they could have used Gorilla glass, but those are minor nuisances compared to what I have dealt with on my other 2 two tablets and I don't think any tablet is perfect. I am not a budget buyer and purchased this tablet originally to check it out, but it is so good compared to anything else I have used, I plan to keep it and enjoy it.
I did press to get it out from its keyboard dock. Thats how I realized it was not fitted well. Do we really have to accept something with its flaws because it is cheaper? ASUS is a brand name I respect. I had more than 6 laptops, netbooks and now an ultrabook which I LOVE!!!! But we have to accept that Asus is less attentive when it comes to Android. We will see how they will try hard this fall or next year with their Windows 8 tablets and stuff.
I honestly think the build quality is great with the 399 price tag. I have no issues with light bleeding, creaking or loose parts. So far my experience is great and have no complaints.
Love my tab after unlocking and installing cm9. How much more could you ask for with a guad core processor and 399.99 price tag for a 32 gb! all the tablets I see are dual core for 399.99 for 16gb.
Asus, in my opinion gave us a budget tablet and then some. The realm of this tablet was to cut cost so everyone could afford Tegra 3 without buying a 700$ unit. I love my tablet
Sent from my VS910 4G using xda premium
Great, cheap, tablet.
Always fun to see how people can differ.
Some like the building quality and others think everything is cr*p. I think this is purely what you expect of it and what you want to spend. If you buy an IPad it is not comparable to a Asus because as the manufacturer is different the buildingprocess is different.
I think you (the topicstarter) just want to get a almost undestructible tablet. But tablets are just fragile and if you have a technical problem with one you just bring it back to the shop because you have warrenty.
At this point in time there is no better tablet to buy, yes i had the cash to get a prime, but i need good wifi coverage, which the prime has not, so i bought this one. I don't want older technology , and surely not at the same price (all other tabs are dual core at maximum)
I just didnt feel the thrill I felt when I held my Samsung 10.1 for the first time or even the TR Prime. TR Prime just for a couple of days.... But I agree with most views here. It is a very good tablet for its price. I like the battery usage. I havent charged it for more than 2 days now. Unnoticeable light bleed, etc... Just that squeaky sound
BTW. No Riptide onboard was a bum!
I think mine is fine, besides some uncomfortable cracking I tend to hear with the keyboard dock. Then again, I was not very impressed by my Asus laptop in terms of build quality either. I feel weird buying another Asus product after that laptop but there is nothing else that compares as far as I am concerned when it comes to tablets. I deal with it.
Well I was greeted with a busted pixel upon opening package still gave a try then started to have small bleed then by third week serious bleed, then when I hold on certain spots in landscape and portrait at different angles I get this blur like bleed as if im pressing to hard felt like if I held any looser I would drop it, also can barely see in the sun light other than that it works like heaven which really bugs me because I want it but dont believe it will last so im sending back and waiting for the reviews for the 700 when it releases after atleast a month has passed till then I will be pad less...........
bigwalt12 said:
Well I was greeted with a busted pixel upon opening package still gave a try then started to have small bleed then by third week serious bleed, then when I hold on certain spots in landscape and portrait at different angles I get this blur like bleed as if im pressing to hard felt like if I held any looser I would drop it, also can barely see in the sun light other than that it works like heaven which really bugs me because I want it but dont believe it will last so im sending back and waiting for the reviews for the 700 when it releases after atleast a month has passed till then I will be pad less...........
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I have none of those problems. You must have a defective unit, try exchanging for another one before final judgment.
Sent from my HTC Vision using XDA
I honestly love this pad but I see im not the only one experiencing this only bought this because the wifi issue with prime if the 700 solves this without a dongle with a better and brighter screen then I will get that one instead. I have a good relationship with amazon hate returning things multiple times I dont want to take another risk but you guys got a great pad for the price that is if you got a good one. Im gonna miss this pad but im hoping the 700 is worth the wait?????
Psyloid said:
At this point in time there is no better tablet to buy, yes i had the cash to get a prime, but i need good wifi coverage, which the prime has not, so i bought this one. I don't want older technology , and surely not at the same price (all other tabs are dual core at maximum)
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You nailed it! The only other tablets to compare to this one is the prime (poor GPS and wifi at $500) and the Acer a510 (no keyboard dock, overheat issues stalled sales at $450) and the Toshiba excite( screen issues, OS issues for I think $500- $550).
NO BRAINER to me.
Even if I dont thing 400 is cheap, it is a very good Pad. I dont have any dead pixels and not one other Problem. Wifi is is even better than my last tablet (Hannspad ). Would recommend it at any time.
The 300 is pretty much built the same way as the 101 plastic back..