ASUS Zen Pad thread [general + accessories + dev] - Device Reviews and Information

It has not shown up at ASUS US site yet, but it's available at Best Buy.
http://www.bestbuy.com/site/asus-ze...lack/7650139.p?id=1219681450081&skuId=7650139
http://www.bestbuy.com/site/asus-ze...lack/7649882.p?id=1219681443557&skuId=7649882
The spec looks very promising for 8" model:
4k (2048 * 1536) IPS touchscreen
2GB (4GB for 64GB model) RAM
choice of 16GB ($180), 32GB ($200), and 64GB ($300) NAND + micro SD
Android Lollipop
7" model is very cheap ($100)
1024 * 600 IPS touchscreen
1GB RAM
16GB NAND + micro SD
Android Lollipop
The question is the bootloader locked or not; if so, we may have hard time to root.

I am basically waiting for atleast a root or something. But I might not be able to wait that long, I really want to buy this.

Takinato said:
I am basically waiting for atleast a root or something. But I might not be able to wait that long, I really want to buy this.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Actually, I don't really need root as 5.x has a new method to allow the app to save data to memory card as long as the app supported.
I tried the unit in person and I really like the screen (very sharp and bright), but it's difficult to get accessories even the size is similar with iPad mini (front speakers killed it).

mingkee said:
Actually, I don't really need root as 5.x has a new method to allow the app to save data to memory card as long as the app supported.
I tried the unit in person and I really like the screen (very sharp and bright), but it's difficult to get accessories even the size is similar with iPad mini (front speakers killed it).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I was more so speaking in terms with titanium backup to freeze some of the Bloatware

i've already rooted it here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/android/development/zenpad-s-root-achieved-t3160422/post61941689
you should probably do a nandroid as your first step for just in case. i haven't done one so i have no clue if it restores properly.
you achieve root through a temp/tethered cwm.
hopefully someone can take all that and maybe make it simpler. i'd love to have a perm cwm or twrp.
i think it may have been more appropriate to have posted it to this subforum.

madsquabbles said:
i've already rooted it here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/android/development/zenpad-s-root-achieved-t3160422/post61941689
you should probably do a nandroid as your first step for just in case. i haven't done one so i have no clue if it restores properly.
you achieve root through a temp/tethered cwm.
hopefully someone can take all that and maybe make it simpler. i'd love to have a perm cwm or twrp.
i think it may have been more appropriate to have posted it to this subforum.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Unfortunately, there's no dedicated forum, but I requested one.

mingkee said:
Unfortunately, there's no dedicated forum, but I requested one.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How do you do that? I'd love to add my name to the list. I know I should wait and see before buying, but I couldn't resist. Moved from a Lenovo Yoga Tablet 10 to this one. Still have 14 days to play with it, so we'll see how it goes. Even though the Tab S 2 is coming in the same 4:3 ratio, I'm sure it'll be priced well above this one, since its got the octacore and whatnot.

dubbactrumpetmsu said:
How do you do that? I'd love to add my name to the list. I know I should wait and see before buying, but I couldn't resist. Moved from a Lenovo Yoga Tablet 10 to this one. Still have 14 days to play with it, so we'll see how it goes. Even though the Tab S 2 is coming in the same 4:3 ratio, I'm sure it'll be priced well above this one, since its got the octacore and whatnot.
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Click to collapse
samsung is juicing the hell out of that exnyos5. sad thing is that almost all their "premium" tablets run pretty much on the same hardware but they've abandoned the galaxy note 10.1 2014 - the first with that processor.
i'v read that tablet is gonna be over $500.

madsquabbles said:
samsung is juicing the hell out of that exnyos5. sad thing is that almost all their "premium" tablets run pretty much on the same hardware but they've abandoned the galaxy note 10.1 2014 - the first with that processor.
i'v read that tablet is gonna be over $500.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's true. $500?! Wtf. I know they have an 8 and 9.7" version...I'm guessing 399 for the 8 and 499 for the 9.7"? Back to trying to compete with Apple, I suppose. I wanted something different to go with my 6+, so I've been bouncing around tablets using the 14-day return policy (though two were defective anyway so they didn't sount). Maybe I should just wait for the 4GB version of this one. Here's hoping we get a forum and some major interest soon. I'd love to run CM and a few others on this thing.

madsquabbles said:
samsung is juicing the hell out of that exnyos5. sad thing is that almost all their "premium" tablets run pretty much on the same hardware but they've abandoned the galaxy note 10.1 2014 - the first with that processor.
i'v read that tablet is gonna be over $500.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hey,
You can check out bestbuy for Tab Pro 10.1 which is similar EXCEPT S Pen.
I really don't want Samsh*t, but, unfortunately, most of manufacturers are digging on basic models (720P screen, 1GB RAM, 8-16GB NAND).
I used to own two Asus ME572c, but both are broken (and one of them thrown out of window). I wanted the third one but it's no more.
The only thing I don't like is 4:3 ratio which leaves HUGE black stripes when watching TV and video.

Samsung makes good hardware bt lack in support and charge near apple prices. at least with an apple you'll get some support for the money you dump into it.
I love 4:3 for web browsing and reading. portrait is easier to hold and having the extra width (compared to a 16:10 of the same diag size) is great. but when you watch movies you do feel like you're losing some real estate... unless you're watching an old TV show like Oz.
I considered getting the tab s 10.5 but gaining an amoled wasn't worth giving up the pen. the note pro 12.2 is exactly the same hardware as the 10.1 but has a more recent OS last I looked.

Good afternoon (or morning depending on where you are LOL)
For those of you who purchased this tablet, how do you like it so far? I am looking to replace my boyfriend's nexus 7 (also made by ASUS) since the charging port stopped working. He doesn't care about rooting, and basically uses it to browse the net, facebook and play games like Candycrush lol I'm thinking the 32GB model for $199 will suffice, although he may end up with the $99 one if there's expandable memory. I didn't see anything about a MicroSD slot on it. Is there one?

yes it has a mSD slot. I think it only supports up to 64GB. I'm loving mine. main use is book and comic reafing, plus web browsing. I've tested a couple games- Minecraft and soul calibre and both ran flawlessly. don't let the speaker size fool you, this thing is loud and clear!
no regrets buying mine. trying to get my daughter to let me buy her one but she won't let go of her memopad!
only downside right now is lack of accessories. I can't find anyone that can get me a case until after August. I love how thin this tablet is, but it feels so dainty without a case,lol.

madsquabbles said:
yes it has a mSD slot. I think it only supports up to 64GB. I'm loving mine. main use is book and comic reafing, plus web browsing. I've tested a couple games- Minecraft and soul calibre and both ran flawlessly. don't let the speaker size fool you, this thing is loud and clear!
no regrets buying mine. trying to get my daughter to let me buy her one but she won't let go of her memopad!
only downside right now is lack of accessories. I can't find anyone that can get me a case until after August. I love how thin this tablet is, but it feels so dainty without a case,lol.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Wow not even amazon? That's where I always find cases.
Sent from my Nexus 6 using Tapatalk

rachelm920 said:
Wow not even amazon? That's where I always find cases.
Sent from my Nexus 6 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
that's where I've been keeping an eye out. nothing yet except stuff in china.

madsquabbles said:
i've already rooted it here: http://forum.xda-developers.com/android/development/zenpad-s-root-achieved-t3160422/post61941689
you should probably do a nandroid as your first step for just in case. i haven't done one so i have no clue if it restores properly.
you achieve root through a temp/tethered cwm.
hopefully someone can take all that and maybe make it simpler. i'd love to have a perm cwm or twrp.
i think it may have been more appropriate to have posted it to this subforum.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Finally I got mine from Best Buy.
The way I root is following the instructions above, but...
1. choose T2 in command prompt
2. MAKE SURE YOU HAVE 32GB or lower SD card (CWM does not support FAT64).
Compared with ME572c:
572 is a bit louder
Quadrant is around 14000 (572 got 18000)
Antutu is 37000
It's recommended to have protection on the back
Bootloader is not locked (as of now even after updated to latest ROM)
The viewing area is about the same with 9:16 videos
It only supports B/G/N Wi-Fi, no 5GHz
Backup from 572 can be restored in this unit except system apps
You can tap the screen twice to wake like LG units.
The store rep told me Z580c is selling pretty fast, and I found it's already sold out in many stores in Manhattan (I got mine at Atlantic Terminal store where only has one unit left)

mingkee said:
The store rep told me Z580c is selling pretty fast, and I found it's already sold out in many stores in Manhattan (I got mine at Atlantic Terminal store where only has one unit left)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
congrats on your new toy. good to hear it's selling well. hopefully someone with some skills will pick one up soon.

madsquabbles said:
congrats on your new toy. good to hear it's selling well. hopefully someone with some skills will pick one up soon.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Actually, I'd like to get the 10.1" model as well, but BH (bhphotovideo.com) doesn't have it in stock yet.
$180 with 2GB RAM is pretty unusual.
If 10.1 models came with unlocked bootloader, it will attract a lot of developers.

mingkee said:
Actually, I'd like to get the 10.1" model as well, but BH (bhphotovideo.com) doesn't have it in stock yet.
$180 with 2GB RAM is pretty unusual.
If 10.1 models came with unlocked bootloader, it will attract a lot of developers.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
pretty good specs for under $200. i'm supposing they didn't include 5ghz on this model either given how cheap it is. 1280x800 isn't as bad a resolution as some people make it out to be at such a small size unless you're looking at tiny old fonts. movies have very little benefit going to 1080 at this size.

madsquabbles said:
that's where I've been keeping an eye out. nothing yet except stuff in china.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It seems that it fits in the generic 8 inch tablet cases. Bought one at Five below yesterday... Said it fit the kindle HD and iPad mini. The hole for the camera even lined up. I brought the tablet with me to make sure it fit.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk

Related

Thinking of getting the an A100... things I should know?

Been looking around for a new tablet and have been looking at the A100 since the price has dropped. Anything I should know about this? I like the 7inch form factor. So is it rootable? Will ICS run on it? Is it overclockable/upgradeable? Just wondering if its worth getting or if there is another 7" tablet that coming out soon that will be a better deal. You get the idea of what I'm asking. Thanks for any info!
KDOG2020 said:
Been looking around for a new tablet and have been looking at the A100 since the price has dropped. Anything I should know about this? I like the 7inch form factor. So is it rootable? Will ICS run on it? Is it overclockable/upgradeable? Just wondering if its worth getting or if there is another 7" tablet that coming out soon that will be a better deal. You get the idea of what I'm asking. Thanks for any info!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you know where to get one at a decent price please PM me. They looked to be sold out everywhere!
If your not going to get jealous of the quad core tablets coming out this year then you shouldn't worry too much.
Things to loom out for: Viewing angles- it doesn't sound like a big deal till you buy it, but in landscape the viewing angles are pretty bad, portrait is fine.
Development- currently it is capable of gaining root access, but there is no bootloader unlock as of yet (which means no ROMs/Kernels) I suspect(hope) development will pick up after the ICS updates come out.
Overall, for the price I cant complain much, its a nice tablet that has the specs of the 10 inchers , has the tegra 2 chip so games play wonderfully and no need for an app like Chainfire. Viewing angles is really the only thing that pisses me off from time to time.
Sent from my Iconia A100 using Tapatalk
Pm ill link you to one on eBay
Sent from my A500 using xda premium
Well I'm only going to buy something like that new. As far as the quadcores, that sounds great but is there going to be any 7" tablets with the quads that don't cost $600 coming out soon/
[email protected] said:
If you know where to get one at a decent price please PM me. They looked to be sold out everywhere!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Your best bet it probably in store at Walmart(and maybe, but less likely, Best Buy), but probably don't plan on getting one online for the $250 price.
But getting back to the OP's question, the biggest issue I've seen with the tablet is the terrible battery life that has me missing my old Nook Color at the end of the day when I don't have a charger handy. The other nitpick is that the screen isn't great, but unless you're a videophile, most people won't care once they get used to it(though again I'm missing the Nook Color at times, but not as bad as with the battery).
Otherwise it seems like a decent little 7" Honeycomb tablet especially for the new $250 price that many are carrying it for. I wouldn't pay much more than $250 for it though(got mine for $189). Sure there are cases to be made for the Kindle Fire and Nook Tablet/Color in that general price range, but it's a trade off in each direction. What the others gain in battery life or display(at least for the Nook), they loose in not having a hassle free full tablet experience.
KDOG2020 said:
Well I'm only going to buy something like that new. As far as the quadcores, that sounds great but is there going to be any 7" tablets with the quads that don't cost $600 coming out soon/
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Havent seen one yet. But ya its probably gonna be in the $400s. Since IMO 10.1's are roughly gonna be in the $500s. I'm considering selling mine since I want a 16gb instead. Anyone here with a 16gb they wanna sell? And anyone wanna offer me something for my 8gb that I bought Nov 26th? I should post this as a separate thread.
When I was shopping for a Nook Tab or Kindle Fire, the A100 was available for the Black Friday special. So it was a no-brainer getting the cheapest tab that included GPS, Bluetooth, microSD slot, hard buttons for volume and screen rotate, HDMI and Honeycomb. (Plus Android 4.0 expected within a month.)
Plenty of Walmarts have it in stock at $259, although I expect it to be under $200 when CES is over in two weeks and new models are announced.
Compared to anything in the price range, I'm still thrilled with the A100. If I'm spending $500, I'll get an iPad and take advantage of having more support with apps and accessories than anything else. (I love the way Apple still updates software on my nearly ten-year-old iBook.) But for a bargain tablet you can easily fit in a slightly oversize pocket, the A100 remains the winner. If you want more, you will have to pay more.
RangerJay said:
When I was shopping for a Nook Tab or Kindle Fire, the A100 was available for the Black Friday special. So it was a no-brainer getting the cheapest tab that included GPS, Bluetooth, microSD slot, hard buttons for volume and screen rotate, HDMI and Honeycomb. (Plus Android 4.0 expected within a month.)
Plenty of Walmarts have it in stock at $259, although I expect it to be under $200 when CES is over in two weeks and new models are announced.
Compared to anything in the price range, I'm still thrilled with the A100. If I'm spending $500, I'll get an iPad and take advantage of having more support with apps and accessories than anything else. (I love the way Apple still updates software on my nearly ten-year-old iBook.) But for a bargain tablet you can easily fit in a slightly oversize pocket, the A100 remains the winner. If you want more, you will have to pay more.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
He's right on the money. For this price you can't really find better
Sent from my Iconia A100 using Tapatalk
aznmode said:
I'm considering selling mine since I want a 16gb instead. Anyone here with a 16gb they wanna sell?.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Why don't you just add a 32GB microSD card?
Tikerz said:
Why don't you just add a 32GB microSD card?
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Click to collapse
My 32gb is almost full lol. Currently using GL to SD for my game data. I bought 8 gameloft games since theyre only 99 cents. So I'm running out of room. Internal I only have 2gb left. So an additional internal would be great.
dropbox + google music helps too. an extra 10gb isn't going to give you much more room, plus by the time you format it, in reality your only getting around an extra 8gb.
Sent from my MB860 using XDA App
crossix said:
dropbox + google music helps too. an extra 10gb isn't going to give you much more room, plus by the time you format it, in reality your only getting around an extra 8gb.
Sent from my MB860 using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I thought if we have 5gb left on our 8gb Acer that 3gb is used by system. So a 16gb Acer should give me total of 13 unused ?
Sent from my PG86100 using XDA App
it's not a full 8gb when they partition and format the drive. Its more like 7.4gb and then they take about 2gb of it for /system /data and other various mount points. leaving us with a measily 5.4gb.
Sure, you'll get a 16gb device, when they format internal storage that'll leave you with roughly 14.5gb, at least 2gb of that will be taken up by the system leaving you with 12.5gb (depending on if they decide to add a recovery partition and any additinal software).
An example of this is the atrix, its a 16gb device, yet you only get 10gb of storage space. The rest is takin up by system files. So at most you'll only get 7gb more space than what you currently have, is it worth buying a new device for just that?
Sent from my MB860 using XDA App

Acer Iconia 7" for $190 a good deal?

I saw this in slickdeals.net and wanted to know if this was a good deal from those who own one. Maybe a first hand experience. The cameras and specs are what's attracting me. There's some discrepancy whether its new or refurbished. Thanks.
http://item.mobileweb.ebay.com/viewitem?itemId=220986061457&cmd=VIDESC
Sent via Tapatalk Pro on my *voided* HTC Evo running CM7
I paid $189 for mine on black Friday, and while it's definitly not the best tablet out there, for that price it's not so bad. I'd pick it over a Nook Color or a Kindle Fire becasue you get a morefully funtional tablet.
Main weaknesses are batterly life and just a rather low quality screen. The only only thing I might consider is that Asus is coming out with a $250 tablet sometime this year that should meet and probably beat the specs of of the A100. Unless they just really cut some corners, it'll probably be worth the extra $60. But if you want a tablet today for $200 and can get an A100 for that, I'd say for for it. You probaly won't get anything better for that price.
iamdestruktor said:
I saw this in slickdeals.net and wanted to know if this was a good deal from those who own one. Maybe a first hand experience. The cameras and specs are what's attracting me. There's some discrepancy whether its new or refurbished. Thanks.
http://item.mobileweb.ebay.com/viewitem?itemId=220986061457&cmd=VIDESC
Sent via Tapatalk Pro on my *voided* HTC Evo running CM7
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, that is a great deal.
bsharitt said:
I paid $189 for mine on black Friday, and while it's definitly not the best tablet out there, for that price it's not so bad. I'd pick it over a Nook Color or a Kindle Fire becasue you get a morefully funtional tablet.
Main weaknesses are batterly life and just a rather low quality screen. The only only thing I might consider is that Asus is coming out with a $250 tablet sometime this year that should meet and probably beat the specs of of the A100. Unless they just really cut some corners, it'll probably be worth the extra $60. But if you want a tablet today for $200 and can get an A100 for that, I'd say for for it. You probaly won't get anything better for that price.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Anyone would pick it over a nook color, and it seems better than the kindle fire (It is in my opinion). Also, that tablet which you are talking about - The Asus Memo - has probably been "canceled" (It may still come, but stripped down of the most attractive features in previous rumors.There are various places discussing this).
iamdestruktor said:
I saw this in slickdeals.net and wanted to know if this was a good deal from those who own one. Maybe a first hand experience. The cameras and specs are what's attracting me. There's some discrepancy whether its new or refurbished. Thanks.
http://item.mobileweb.ebay.com/viewitem?itemId=220986061457&cmd=VIDESC
Sent via Tapatalk Pro on my *voided* HTC Evo running CM7
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Its not a bad deal but it is a refurb. Just make sure Acer will still provide you the 1 year warranty for it. It says refurbished by manufacturer OR manufacturer approved vendor so check also with the seller who refurbed it if it makes a difference to you. Or you can always try craigslist but you'll probably get used ones only but they wont be refurbs however warranty will not be a full year on them anymore.
I've already gotten a Nook Color and put CM7 on it. While its great and stuff, I just feel like it's not a fully functional tablet like when it comes to videos and even gaming. Ah damn decisions, decisions!
Sent via Tapatalk Pro on my *voided* HTC Evo running CM7
If rumors are to be believed, the Asus MeMo has been cancelled in favor of whatever Google Nexus tablet is being prepared.
iamdestruktor said:
I've already gotten a Nook Color and put CM7 on it. While its great and stuff, I just feel like it's not a fully functional tablet like when it comes to videos and even gaming. Ah damn decisions, decisions!
Sent via Tapatalk Pro on my *voided* HTC Evo running CM7
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That was quick lol. My coworker has a nook tablet with cm7 also and I wasnt overly impressed with it. It was kinda choppy. Browsing wasn't great on it either. I told him to exchange it for an a100 but he never did. It was for his gf so I guess as long as she was happy with it he didn't care too much lol.
littleemp said:
If rumors are to be believed, the Asus MeMo has been cancelled in favor of whatever Google Nexus tablet is being prepared.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Rumors are strongly indicating that the Asus MeMo has been cancelled and is going to be the basis for the sub-$200 Google Nexus tablet, but the most attractive feature -the Tegra 3 processor - will be removed in favor of a Snapdragon dual core.
If true that is a total bummer, I was planning on getting one but now think I'll just stick with the A100 until the next generation comes out, probably Q3 or Q4.
For under $200 I think the A100 is still probably the best 7" fully functional dual core tablet out there (w/ GPS, microSD slot, full HC / soon-to-be stock ICS system, etc); most comparable tabs are still over $300 at this point. It blows the Kindle Fire away for sure (we have two of those for wife and kid, there is no comparison).
I've had a Nook Color for a while now.. went from CM7 to CM9, and it is nice. But, it lacks the "horsepower" that the A100 has, without breaking the bank.
I got my A100 today. Paid about $180 after shipping after seeing it on Woot. I have a feeling my NC will become very lonely... so, a gift for the girlfriend!
Pretty good deal from what I can tell. It is a Refurb but still a great price. I grabbed one. Did anyone notice that this is for the VanGogh edition?
Other than 1GB instead of 512MB Ram is there any other differences?
Will this affect any of the Development (unlock, custom recovery, Rom's, ETC) that are in this forum?
In other words I would hate to flash something that was developed for the "standard" device and have it "brick" my VanGogh unit. If anyone can offer details I would appreciate it.
TIA
Land Master said:
Pretty good deal from what I can tell. It is a Refurb but still a great price. I grabbed one. Did anyone notice that this is for the VanGogh edition?
Other than 1GB instead of 512MB Ram is there any other differences?
Will this affect any of the Development (unlock, custom recovery, Rom's, ETC) that are in this forum?
In other words I would hate to flash something that was developed for the "standard" device and have it "brick" my VanGogh unit. If anyone can offer details I would appreciate it.
TIA
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What's the VanGogh edition? I'm having mixed thoughts this morning after purchasing last night. Please tell me its special or something!
Sent via Tapatalk Pro on my *voided* HTC Evo running CM7
How would you guys compare the a100 to a 16 gb HP touchpad running CM 9? Let's say one could find them for around the same price.
iamdestruktor said:
What's the VanGogh edition? I'm having mixed thoughts this morning after purchasing last night. Please tell me its special or something!
Sent via Tapatalk Pro on my *voided* HTC Evo running CM7
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's special . I have the "vangogh" edition but there's no real difference from what you can tell. NB.: It is the GEN2 version (GEN1 roms still work though). Even though it didn't recieve the 3.2.1 update, I haven't noticed the issues mentioned by users of the GEN1 while running 3.2 (which the GEN2 also comes with).
Slooop said:
How would you guys compare the a100 to a 16 gb HP touchpad running CM 9? Let's say one could find them for around the same price.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I would go for the Acer a100 since it is natively android and will have support for more apps (especially when running the modified build.prop). It's size provides more comfort for doing many things (also more portable) plus it's camera is much better than that of the touchpad.
Slooop said:
How would you guys compare the a100 to a 16 gb HP touchpad running CM 9? Let's say one could find them for around the same price.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
IMO the size difference will make the biggest difference. The touchpad is very heavy and is a 10 inch tablet. You will never take it anywhere with you. After you put a case on it itll feel like you're carrying a laptop. My brother has one and he only uses it at home but from what he tells me it is pretty smooth with cm9. I've only gotten to play around with it for a few minutes but not with cm9. But wow it is heavy.
In comparison I have a transformer prime. Even though it is much faster and thinner its still a 10 inch tablet and its not easy to carry around with me. I mainly use it at home or work but I never take it with me anywhere else. The a100 however I can easily put in my pocket or give it to my gf to put in her purse for me. So a lot of times thats what I take with me. So you may need to consider what you want to use it for since you're really not gonna se a huge major difference in software (unless you get a prime). Portability might be the key for you.
A100 does or will have ICS natively in the future?
I've seen some youtube vids of the A100 running ICS fairly smoothly.
So performance wise, an overclocked/stock clock Touchpad running ICS should be equal to an A100 running ICS?
720p/1080p video, same thing?
Which one is easier to type short emails on? I'm guessing the touchpad's larger interface, multitouch would be better suited for it?
How is battery life during use and sleep?
Good deal. I've got a fire but honestly I would buy this over a fire for that price.
Just got one for my wife and thinking about getting one for myself now since I played around with it. Nice size and weight. Use to have the a500 but didn't like the weight of it. 7" is a perfect size for me. If what everybody is saying us true about the Asus 7" tab then I will more likely get the a100..
If you wanting to type on any tablet take a look at thumb keyboard. It splits the keyboard apart making it easier to type with your thumbs. No stretching across the screen to get at letters.
Sent from my SPH-D710 using XDA

[Q] Is the Note 8 worth the money now?

So, basically, I'm in the process of quitting smoking. As a "congratulations" type gift, my parents are purchasing me a tablet. I'm stuck choosing between the Nexus 7 (2013) and the Galaxy Note 8.0 right now. I already know the Nexus is worth the money, but I like the features and such on the Note.
If you saw my other thread asking about ROMs for a Note, that was part of trying to make my decision. Now that I've seen that I can keep the functionality, gain some more, and improve performance, I have to decide if it's going to be it or the Nexus.
At $330, is the Galaxy Note 8.0 worth the money at this point in its life cycle? Please try to avoid just straight yes or no answers, I would love you to elaborate. I know it also depends what I'm using it for, so just assume that I like to draw, am not fantastic at it but it's a fun hobby, and I would make use of the office suite included.
I had the Note 8.0 and the Nexus 7 2013. The Note 8.0 has much ore functionality and a MicroSD slot. The Nexus has the better screen. They are similar speed wise. Best Buy has the Note 8.0 for $299 right now. I assume because the Galaxy Tab Pro 8.4 launched last week. I like Multiwindow of the Note also.
nrage23 said:
I had the Note 8.0 and the Nexus 7 2013. The Note 8.0 has much ore functionality and a MicroSD slot. The Nexus has the better screen. They are similar speed wise. Best Buy has the Note 8.0 for $299 right now. I assume because the Galaxy Tab Pro 8.4 launched last week. I like Multiwindow of the Note also.
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Thanks very much for your input. At Best Buy here, the Note 8.0 is $330, but I'm Canadian so that's just the crappy exchange rate.
I've done extensive reading on both of these tablets, and that's something that really stood out, just how much more functionality the Note has over the Nexus. The SD card slot is a huge thing, too. Being able to spend $40 and slap a 64gb class 10 MicroSD card in it would be nice. Speed wise, I heard TouchWiz can be laggy, get hung up here and there, but that custom ROMs fix that with improved performance, removing some bloatware, etc.
As it stands, I'm still slightly on the fence between the two, but I'm leaning toward the Note. I figure I don't need to make this thread in the Nexus forums, because I already know the Nexus is worth the money (minus that there's no SD card slot) and it's got its own advantages. I'm glad the Note 8.0 community is willing to give me some insight
Amazon has refurbished models for $250US.
IMHO, the only reason to chose a Note 8.0 over a Nexus 7 is the stylus/handwriting recognition. it's what makes the Note truly unique the 7-8" tablet range. If pen computing is 'nice, but not essential', then go with the Nexus 7. It's cheaper, a better screen, just as powerful, and slightly better battery life. The speakers suck compared to the Note, but then most people use headphones or powered speakers than listen to the tablet 'naked'.
Spookymonster said:
Amazon has refurbished models for $250US.
IMHO, the only reason to chose a Note 8.0 over a Nexus 7 is the stylus/handwriting recognition. it's what makes the Note truly unique the 7-8" tablet range. If pen computing is 'nice, but not essential', then go with the Nexus 7. It's cheaper, a better screen, just as powerful, and slightly better battery life. The speakers suck compared to the Note, but then most people use headphones or powered speakers than listen to the tablet 'naked'.
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Thanks muchly for your input! From what I've heard, the speakers on the Note 8.0 are pretty crap, very tinny. That's not much of a concern though because, as you said, headphones or external speakers are what I'd be using when I'm using it for movies or music.
For me, the advantages from the stylus are that I can use it to draw, to learn to draw because kindergarten kids probably do better work lol, and various small functions like improved web browsing and such. I've also got a thing for teaching myself random things because... well... I'm a nerd lol, so the S pen will be good for general stylus uses in that regard as well, like highlighting, etc.
Now, one thing I've noticed is people talk so much about how the Nexus 7 has a much better display and that text is hard to read on the Note 8.0. However... if you look at reviews from before the Nexus 7 or iPad Mini Retina came out, you see everybody saying how nice the display looks and how easy it is to read all sizes of text. To me, that says that focusing on the resolution and the PPI is more a marketing scheme than anything. Don't get me wrong, the Nexus 7 and iPad Mini Retina DO have sharper screens, the numbers don't lie, but the people talking about those numbers tend to exaggerate just how much a difference it is.
I have the note and my wife has the nexus. I much prefer my note over hers. The extra inch of screen males a huge difference. I also use the pen a lot at work highlighting material, writing logs but mostly writing on pictures.
The resolution on the nexus is better but the functionality of the pen makes this the tablet to have IMHO.
Sent from my GT-N5110 using Tapatalk
Well I paid half price before Christmas for a new boxed 5110 and in January half price for a new boxed SGH-i467. Could not touch those deals with any other product that is like the Note 8.0. Though there is not many like it to choose from.
Well, it's decided! You've all helped me solidify my thoughts about the Note 8.0, I'm not just crazy and making myself think it's good. That's what I'm getting then! I'll just have to figure out how to get updates manually, since in Canada we don't seem to get them very fast. From what I've heard, we don't even have 4.2.2 available for OTA updates here.
If I were buying a tablet now, I'd highly consider the Tab Pro 8.4, which was just released in the US yesterday for $399.
It looks to be everything the Note 8 is, except with a much nicer screen and an updated processor; but no pen. Although personally, I found I don't even use the pen on the N8.
The N8 is a great tablet, and I use it every day, sometimes for hours. But its getting close to last gen specs, having been released April 2013. And I typically don't recommend buying last gen technology.
redpoint73 said:
If I were buying a tablet now, I'd highly consider the Tab Pro 8.4, which was just released in the US yesterday for $399.
It looks to be everything the Note 8 is, except with a much nicer screen and an updated processor; but no pen. Although personally, I found I don't even use the pen on the N8.
The N8 is a great tablet, and I use it every day, sometimes for hours. But its getting close to last gen specs, having been released April 2013. And I typically don't recommend buying last gen technology.
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I would certainly consider the Tab Pro 8.4, but my problem is price. I'm stuck with a firm $350 price limit (tax not included), and it's unfortunate because an extra $50 would open up my options immensely, but beggars can't be choosers right?
ArobeeTV said:
I would certainly consider the Tab Pro 8.4, but my problem is price. I'm stuck with a firm $350 price limit (tax not included), and it's unfortunate because an extra $50 would open up my options immensely, but beggars can't be choosers right?
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You should have quit smoking earlier, then you would have plenty of money (those things are expensive!!!).
But seriously, I realize everyone has different budget requirements (one of the main reasons your question "is the N8 worth the money" is ultimately a decision only you can make). But to me, an extra $100 to get the new generation hardware (versus something almost a year old), is a bargain. Although if you think you will use the pen, that is obviously a consideration as well.
redpoint73 said:
You should have quit smoking earlier, then you would have plenty of money (those things are expensive!!!).
But seriously, I realize everyone has different budget requirements (one of the main reasons your question "is the N8 worth the money" is ultimately a decision only you can make). But to me, an extra $100 to get the new generation hardware (versus something almost a year old), is a bargain. Although if you think you will use the pen, that is obviously a consideration as well.
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Click to collapse
Fair point. I appreciate the input!
Like nrage, I had both at the holidays. First I had the new Nexus 7 lte, and I was wondering what I might be missing with the note 8, so I bought one of them and compared. I kept the Note 8 simply due to the larger screen, and the sd card slot. I figured, I can always tether for data, and I didn't see much difference in the screens side by side, or the audio side by side.
Also, the Note 8 will be getting kitkat 4.4.
sashusmom said:
Like nrage, I had both at the holidays. First I had the new Nexus 7 lte, and I was wondering what I might be missing with the note 8, so I bought one of them and compared. I kept the Note 8 simply due to the larger screen, and the sd card slot. I figured, I can always tether for data, and I didn't see much difference in the screens side by side, or the audio side by side.
Also, the Note 8 will be getting kitkat 4.4.
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I was kind of having the same thoughts. I recently saw a Note 8.0 and a Nexus 7 in a local computer store, and the screens aren't that different in quality. In fact, I liked the Note screen better, because it was bigger and more accurate with colors, and still very clear. The SD card slot is a big thing too, that's for sure. As for the Note 8.0 getting KitKat, that's a good thing I suppose. I don't know that it'll improve it much, or how long it'll take before we get it in Canada (we still don't have 4.2.2 on Note 8.0 here, I believe), but one can hope.
I wish you woud have posted this back in August. I bought my note 8 from staples for $240 with tax and be honest the note 8 is going to updated to kitkat soon.
Sent from my GT-N5110 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
evolishesh said:
I wish you woud have posted this back in August. I bought my note 8 from staples for $240 with tax and be honest the note 8 is going to updated to kitkat soon.
Sent from my GT-N5110 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
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$240? I wish. For some reason, everybody appears to have RAISED their price on it today. From a business standpoint, that doesn't make sense.
ArobeeTV said:
$240? I wish. For some reason, everybody appears to have RAISED their price on it today. From a business standpoint, that doesn't make sense.
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Trust me. They had it for $299-75 dollars coupon, plus taxes. It all came out to $240.
Sent from my GT-N5110 using XDA Premium 4 mobile app
For someone who just bought this note yesterday l will say it is worth the money as there are no other Comparable tablet you can find and left for a hander the handwriting recognition is superb.
Sent from my GT-N5100 using Tapatalk
biggiebro said:
For someone who just bought this note yesterday l will say it is worth the money as there are no other Comparable tablet you can find and left for a hander the handwriting recognition is superb.
Sent from my GT-N5100 using Tapatalk
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Thanks muchly for the input! I've been wondering about that handwriting recognition thing, even though I probably won't use it that much. In case I do end up using that feature, it's good to know it works well!
@ ArobeeTV- I forgot!!!!! A huge :highfive: and congratulations on quitting smoking. You won't be sorry:victory: Since your parents are buying your tablet, I will assume you are young enough to be able to heal all your lung tissue and have a healthy life!
My mom smoked her whole life. I fought with her to quit since I was 16. She died of a heart attack. Lung cancer doesn't always get you. For her it was periph. artery disease- she couldn't walk more than 20 feet at once, and emphysema, and a clogged heart that got her in the end. Very poor quality of life for her last 10 years. :crying: I am a nurse and witnessed an autopsy of a smoker with lung cancer. Very ugly.
OK. I'm done with my speech!
Please keep up the good work and be healthy while you use your shiny new tablet!! Whatever one you choose.

Help Me Decide

Howdy, folks.
I'm in the market for a tablet, and not familiar with the Samsung lineup, so I could use some guidance here.
First, I'm not sure I understand the difference between the A and S series. I assume it's a CPU issue, and I seem to recall a Tab A that I played around with didn't have an accelerometer and/or GPS, which are both critical for me.
Then we get to the firmware. I need to run Xposed and Xprivacy. Obviously that means I'll need to be able to root the machine. Would I be correct in assuming that I'm stuck with getting an S2, or is it possible to downgrade an S3 so I can benefit from the better hardware specs?
My choices seem to be an S2 at $480 or an S3 at $550 except that the S3 ships with a pen and LP, if I'm not mistaken, which knocks me out of the box in terms of running Xprivacy unless I can downgrade the OS.
Anyway, your input here would be helpful, and any pointers on unlocking / rooting would be appreciated.
Thanks in advance!
I think since late 2014, the Samsung tablets were split into just two lines, the Tab S, the high-end line, and the Tab A, the low cost line. In my humble opinion, the Tab A line is utter crap and it hasn't been updated effectively since 2015. If you want a cheap low end tablet, you might as well just buy one of those sub-100 dollar Amazon Fire tablets. Their specs are in the neighborhood of those Tab A tablets, but Fire tablets are much cheaper. Quite sadly, I think Samsung's high end line Tab S has also lost its way. I mean, I certainly love the idea of a high end Android tablet, but not at 500-600USD, specially when it comes with outdated flagship SoC, like the Snapdragon 820.
I love my Tab S 10.5, but if I am forced to replace it tomorrow, I'll probably get the Huawei Mediapad M3. Its hardware specs are high end enough to check nearly every box, and it costs under 300USD.
Excellent suggestion. I was wondering about alternatives to Samsung.
How would you compare the M3 to the S3? Can it be rooted? The new Samsung got excellent reviews for both construction and performance, and I confess the pen has appeal. I also wanted a 10"-ish screen, and the Huawei comes in at 8, so while the price is right, you give up a fair amount of screen.
I can pick up the S3 32 gig with a keyboard case for $550, which was more than I wanted to spend, but i can live with it since I'm not the type to buy a new device every year. Or even every two or three years, for that matter.
Sent from my HTC 10 using Tapatalk
I have purchased 5 Tab A devices, 3 T280 and 2 T555. Me the missus and little one have the T280, my mother and I have the T555. Both have an accelerometer and GPS. I don't know of a Samsung tablet that doesn't unless you meant gyroscope?
The Tab A T280 is stuck on Lollipop and the T550 runs Nougat.
I don't have issues with either for how I use them.
I also own the Tab S, but I use the Tab A T555 far more as it's light, comfortable to hold and runs just fine.
BillTheCat said:
Excellent suggestion. I was wondering about alternatives to Samsung.
How would you compare the M3 to the S3? Can it be rooted? The new Samsung got excellent reviews for both construction and performance, and I confess the pen has appeal. I also wanted a 10"-ish screen, and the Huawei comes in at 8, so while the price is right, you give up a fair amount of screen.
I can pick up the S3 32 gig with a keyboard case for $550, which was more than I wanted to spend, but i can live with it since I'm not the type to buy a new device every year. Or even every two or three years, for that matter.
Sent from my HTC 10 using Tapatalk
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The first thing I do when looking for a new tab is xda support, if you can't get a custom rom for it, forget it!
M3 support is thin to non-existant, they are just getting it to root, and no TWRP ( I think) , other than that its the best hardware for the price. Tab s2 is good, Tab A fair, s3 just starting.
Xposed is now officially on NU, the main framework has been released, modules compatibility varies.
For that amount of cash, your in ultrabook / chromebook territory.
A tablet that does not fit in a pocket, and costs the same as a dell ultrabook with 256 gb hdd and an i5, is a bad choice maybe?
I use my t705 as a pocket device, with the aspect ratio it just fits, and the fact that's its also a very cool phone makes it a nobrainer.
Also remember the folding screens are just months away, once they are out most of the current tabs will be obselete real quick.
I want something larger format (~10") for use when doing demos for customers, casual browsing or web work away from my desk or when traveling for short spans. An 8" screen is not of interest.
Sent from my HTC 10 using Tapatalk

Just ordered

They gave me a $400 trade in credit on my Tab S4, so this cost me 250. Will I notice much of a difference?????
ScottBroker said:
They gave me a $400 trade in credit on my Tab S4, so this cost me 250. Will I notice much of a difference?????
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no
ScottBroker said:
They gave me a $400 trade in credit on my Tab S4, so this cost me 250. Will I notice much of a difference?????
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Click to collapse
You wil definitely notice the shty lcd screen.
Did the same exchange (for S7+), and I do really love some stuff:
- 120Hz screen, this is very noticeable if you are used to that frequency.
- Official keyboard accessory isn't crap anymore, it won't disconnect easily and has touchpad. No more external mouse.
- Camera is best now, as its located horizontally instead of vertically
- Fingerprint reader >>>> Optical
- RAM improvement is great. Many people don't often see that, but if you are multitasking is quite easy to observe. Specially if you ran Linux inside.
- Audio is definitively better.
If you are artist (I'm not), S-Pen is noticeably better, more responsive. If you have some official cover, it won't fall easily. S-Pen protection at S4 tab was awful, I lost that S-Pen once while traveling.
I also did the exchange/trade in with my old 12.9 inch iPad Pro 2017 model. They gave me $500 for it which is like practically what I bought it for almost 4 years ago. So couldn't turn that down. Unfortunately Pro-Motion on the iPad Pro (120hz refresh) really spoiled me and there was no way I'd be able to go back to 60hz refresh. Luckily Samsung came out with these otherwise I'd of been forced to get another iPad Pro. Not that I hate iOS but man after using it for 4 years and then coming to Android again you really notice how restrictive iOS is.
Have had it for about a week and a half now. I grabbed the S7+ with 256gb storage mainly for the extra 2 gigs of ram. I don't tend to really use to much storage, but figured the extra 2gb of RAM would be nice. Not sure if it'll makes a difference but I figured it can't hurt and may help future proof the device a bit down the line as I plan on keeping this for years. I heard the LCD screen on the regular S7 is actually quite nice so you should like it. The speakers are excellent, get very loud and sound good. SD 865+ makes the device very snappy. The fact it comes with a S-Pen is also awesome. I find myself using it often even though I don't do any kind of drawing or art like stuff.
I've been very happy with everything so far and I'm sure you'll love it as well. Samsung did a great job this year with this tablet!
Ripx88 said:
I also did the exchange/trade in with my old 12.9 inch iPad Pro 2017 model. They gave me $500 for it which is like practically what I bought it for almost 4 years ago. So couldn't turn that down. Unfortunately Pro-Motion on the iPad Pro (120hz refresh) really spoiled me and there was no way I'd be able to go back to 60hz refresh. Luckily Samsung came out with these otherwise I'd of been forced to get another iPad Pro. Not that I hate iOS but man after using it for 4 years and then coming to Android again you really notice how restrictive iOS is.
Have had it for about a week and a half now. I grabbed the S7+ with 256gb storage mainly for the extra 2 gigs of ram. I don't tend to really use to much storage, but figured the extra 2gb of RAM would be nice. Not sure if it'll makes a difference but I figured it can't hurt and may help future proof the device a bit down the line as I plan on keeping this for years. I heard the LCD screen on the regular S7 is actually quite nice so you should like it. The speakers are excellent, get very loud and sound good. SD 865+ makes the device very snappy. The fact it comes with a S-Pen is also awesome. I find myself using it often even though I don't do any kind of drawing or art like stuff.
I've been very happy with everything so far and I'm sure you'll love it as well. Samsung did a great job this year with this tablet!
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Click to collapse
Did you guys buy WiFi or cellular devices? Apparently AT&T doesn't have the s7+ yet and I don't know if I get another carrier device will they be interchangeable or unlockable to another carrier??
jcrompton said:
Did you guys buy WiFi or cellular devices? Apparently AT&T doesn't have the s7+ yet and I don't know if I get another carrier device will they be interchangeable or unlockable to another carrier??
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Click to collapse
I got the WiFi only version. Surprised AT&T doesn't have it yet. That seems weird. Its been on the market for like 6 months.
I've only owned one tablet with data and that was actually the first generation of this tablet, the Tab S 10.5. I don't know if you would be able to ever change the carrier though. I was going to say I wouldn't think so but honestly I'm not sure. I had mine stolen all those years ago so I never saw if I could unlock it. I presume once its paid off they wouldn't care about it being unlockable. But what do I know lol. Hopefully someone will respond who can shed some light on this for you bud.
Ripx88 said:
I got the WiFi only version. Surprised AT&T doesn't have it yet. That seems weird. Its been on the market for like 6 months.
I've only owned one tablet with data and that was actually the first generation of this tablet, the Tab S 10.5. I don't know if you would be able to ever change the carrier though. I was going to say I wouldn't think so but honestly I'm not sure. I had mine stolen all those years ago so I never saw if I could unlock it. I presume once its paid off they wouldn't care about it being unlockable. But what do I know l---- ol. Hopefully someone will respond who can shed some light on this for you bud.
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Click to collapse
Thanks for the reply ..... I sure hope my ATT rep is correct but he said that I could order the TMO S7+ from Samsung and that it was already unlocked .... But I guess we'll see in a couple of days!! I ordered it
jcrompton said:
Did you guys buy WiFi or cellular devices? Apparently AT&T doesn't have the s7+ yet and I don't know if I get another carrier device will they be interchangeable or unlockable to another carrier??
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I just got the S7+ a few days ago, really liking it so far. I got the WiFi only model. Had a Tab S6 LTE through Verizon but I never really used the LTE as I was always in a place with WiFi. Went with the unlocked Samsung version of the S7+ since Verizon likes to remove features like Call and Text on other devices. I love that feature between my Fold 2 and S7+. Plus I wanted the larger screen of the S7+ as I use it primarily for media consumption.

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