Tablets

Tablets are the next generation of mobile computing. They aim to remove the need for a traditional mouse and keyboard in favor of a more intuitive touch interface, and can easily be carried in a briefcase, purse, or backpack. The key feature of a tablet is the touchscreen, which allows you to swipe and use specific gestures with your finger to perform basic tasks like entering text, clicking a button, or zooming in or out instead of scrolling and pointing with a mouse or using a physical keyboard.

Tablets allow you to read your email and browse the web, but also listen to music, read your favorite books, do word processing, play video games, and much more. Tablets are offered by many popular manufacturers, providing you with a variety of options to choose from.

Tablet Considerations

Key considerations to consider when purchasing a tablet include:

• Screen size and resolution
• Operating system
• Input/output ports
• Battery life
• 3G/4G data plan
• Price

Careful consideration of your specific needs will allow you to choose the best device for you.

3G/4G Data Plan

Tablets work best when connected to the Internet. Since wireless Internet is not always available, many tablets support a 3G/4G data service. You can purchase a specialized data plan for your tablet through a cell phone provider. With a data plan, the tablet will always be connected to the Internet as long as there is cellular coverage, allowing you to be productive wherever you go.

It is important to note that the 3G/4G data plans are optional and are meant for people who often find themselves in areas with no wireless connectivity. If you only use the device on campus and at home, an additional 3G/4G data plan may not be necessary.

Tablet Breakdown

	Apple iPad	Microsoft Surface	Google Nexus	Kindle Fire	Samsung Galaxy Tab
Screen Size(s)	Base:9.7" Mini:7.9"	Pro: 10.6" RT: 10.6"	Nexus10:10" Nexus7: 7"	FireHD 8.9: 8.9" FireHD 7: 7" Fire 7: 7"	Tab7: 7" Tab10.1: 10.1"
Screen Resolution(s)	Base: 2048X1536 Mini: 1024X768	Pro: 1920X1080 RT: 1366X768	Nexus10: 2560X1600 Nexus7: 1280X800	FireHD 8.9: 1920X1080 FireHD 7: 1280X800 Fire7: 1024X600	Tab7: 1024X600 Tab10.1: 1280X800
Operating System	iOS	Pro: Windows 8 Pro RT: Windows RT	Android 4.2 (Jelly Bean)	Custom Android OS	Android 4.1 (Ice Cream Sandwich)
Battery	Base: 42.5Wh Mini: 16.3Wh	Pro: 42Wh RT: 31.5Wh	Nexus10: 33Wh Nexus7: 16Wh		Tab7: 4000mAh Tab10.1: 7000mAh
3G/4G plan	Yes	No	Nexus7: Yes Nexus10: No	Yes	No
Ports	Lightning Connector 3.5mm headphone jack	USB 3.5mm headphone jack MicroSD slot	MicroUSB 3.5mm headphone jack	MicroUSB 3.5mm headphone jack	MicroUSB 3.5mm headphone jack