Real-world use case
You're looking for an affordable tablet to give as a gift: here's why I chose the Google Nexus 7 (2013) for Christmas.
The Google Nexus 7:
The Google Nexus 7 is a tablet released in July 2013, developed by Google and Asus. Its resolution is above Full HD, it uses a quad-core Snapdragon S4 Pro processor, and runs with 2GB of RAM. Two models exist: 16GB or 32GB. The product's finish is pleasant, with a very thin rubberized layer on the back of the device. The thickness of 8.7mm on the Google Nexus 7 gives it a premium feel right from the first touch. You can find this tablet for €229 on Google Play or from major high-tech retailers.
A high-tech Christmas gift (2013):
The first mass-market tablet was released in 2010. Mobile devices, and tablets in particular, replace (for beginners) a PC, a TV, or a radio. The tablet is a top choice of gift for Christmas 2013, and many models are competing for attention. Budget at least €200 for a tablet purchase, for the experience to be pleasant and smooth. I personally reviewed the current models I was interested in for Christmas in the 16GB range. The list is not exhaustive and reflects my personal opinion: must-haves vs challengers!
The must-have models
- Apple: iPad Mini (€300), iPad Mini 2 (€400), iPad 2 (€390), iPad Air (€490)
- Samsung Galaxy: Tab 3 (7-inch, €220), Tab 3 (10.1-inch, €380), Note 3 (8-inch, €320)
- Nexus lineup: Google Nexus 10 (€400), Google Nexus 7 (€229)
The challenger models
- Asus Transformer Pad TF300 (€380), Asus Memo Pad FHD 10 (€310)
- Sony Xperia Tablet Z (€380)
- LG G Pad 8.3 (€300)
- Amazon Kindle Fire HDX (€380)
The challengers' prices are similar to those of the market's must-have models. I quickly ruled them out of my choice! At that price, I would much rather go with a must-have model! The Google Nexus 7 is a tablet that stands out from the two categories above. It's both a must-have thanks to its build quality, and even superior on certain points, while its price sits well below the main challengers. For more information, check out this link: les numériques.
Why I gave the Nexus 7 as a gift:
The Google Nexus 7 has a lot going for it, here's what convinced me:
- The Nexus lineup offers the latest Android updates (unlike others).
- Components worthy of the biggest high-end tablets (Full HD screen and 2GB RAM).
- The system: Android 4.4.2, available on the Google Nexus 7 with no manufacturer overlay.
- A successful product finish, a very pleasant rubberized feel, and the product's thinness (8.5mm).
- The price of €229 is very attractive (well below the challengers).
- Manufacturing by ASUS (I've always trusted ASUS motherboards for their reliability).
- Product design by Google and ASUS (released in July 2013).
The truly successful marketing side of the Google Nexus 7:
https://i.ytimg.com/vi/90BjqRSf3Xc/0.jpg
The features and components the Google Nexus 7 is missing:
- With 8 hours of battery life under normal use, it falls short of high-end tablets.
- A 5-megapixel rear camera of average quality, not on par with the must-haves.
- A front-facing camera that's just barely acceptable (with no real point in the end, since you don't really use it).
- No micro SD expansion available (though you can buy a micro USB / USB adapter).
The flaws are minimal, and the strengths more than make up for this gap. Since I gave it to a relative who isn't a tech enthusiast, I pre-configured the tablet. Once unboxed, here's the bundle, with the basic accessories:
I created a Google account without Gmail and removed unnecessary apps like Google+. I also set up a Google Music account and added apps. Setting up ActiveSync-type email via Zpush/Zimbra let me sync all the contacts onto the Google Nexus 7.
Conclusion: For anyone looking for a good tablet, consider the Google Nexus 7.
