Apple or Android Purchase?
Often people ask me whether they should buy and iPad... or something else... or an iPhone or Android phoneI currently have these:
WikiPedia:Sony_Tablet_S
WikiPedia:Galaxy_Note
WikiPedia:Xperia_X10
I also have a cheepie tablet based on Google:WM8650 (see also WonderMediaTablet)
Others I know have one of these:
WikiPedia:Toshiba_Thrive
WikiPedia:Transformer_Prime
WikiPedia:Galaxy_Tab
WikiPedia:HTC_One_X
WikiPedia:Samsung_Galaxy_S_II
WikiPedia:Kindle_fire
It generally comes down to preference (or philosophy) – but in summary, if the teenage kids, trendy missus or techno limited grandma are going to be using the device then you may be better off with the iPad, as it ‘just works’ and if they ever pick up another iPad or iphone, it will be the same. Not nearly as much fun for a techo though.
Advantages and Disadvantages below:
Apple iPad:
- Generally more expensive for functionality
- Easier to use for family (although my 6yr old is fine with android tab and phone)
- Most useful apps will cost a small amount
- Only can install apps from the 'vetted' apple itunes store
- Matches iPhones etc so easy to sync. Have an iphone or iPod already? Get an iPad.
- Better for people who ‘just want it to work’ with minimal tweaking
- Lots of things you can use to dock it in and lots of accessories
- Need to use itunes to do anything (PC or Mac)
- Only comes in one size
Android Pad
- Cheaper for similar (or often better) benefits
- Huge range of choice of devices (which can make it confusing or even daunting to choose)
- Majority of apps, even good ones are free (or option to donate). There are sometimes lots of crappy ones to wade through though.
- Can install apps from Google Play store, Amazon store... or hundreds of other stores. Even just find a dodgy app file on the net and install it.
- Better for techos. Can tweak everything.
- Will likely be useable longer as you will usually get lots of software upgrades that will in time improve things. You can even get third party builds for the firmware made by enthusiasts.
- Very fast paced software development so new features being added by the day.
- Fewer dock options, fewer accessories (as they have to be product specific)
- Generally more options for plugging in (e.g. full USB ports to read port hard drives, full SD cards – the Tablet S takes PS3 controllers...)
- Can just plug into a computer and transfer stuff (no itunes like software needed – it is just like a USB stick)
- Comes in lots of sizes (e.g. my tablet S is an odd size at 9.4, most are 10.1 or 7 inch)
CategoryAndroid
CategoryApple