So You Want an Android Tablet

Right now, the rage for attorneys is the iPad. It's sleek, efficient, and frankly, packed with easy-to-install options that "make it run out of the box." I wouldn't blame you for being even slightly envious.

However, manufacturers are starting to build sleek, useful, and similarly situated Android OS tablets, that will compete with, and exceed the capabilities of the iPad (whether the apps match is still a debate).

If you're looking to purchase an Android tablet, there are a few things to be aware of:

1. Screen size. The standard (to match the iPad) is a 10.1" viewable screen. All of the new tablets have this.
2. Memory. 16 gb of storage is a must. I purchased an additional 16 gb microSD card for my gTablet to expand it to 32 gb. This enables you to save and move all of your files, programs and documents, to your heart's content.
3. HD. All of the new tablets have at least 720p for high definition viewing, and most of them (can't think of one that doesn't) have 1080p.
4. Operating System (ROM). Unfortunately, not all Android devices are equally (something Apple does well). New tablets, like the Motorola Xoom and Asus eee Transformer, have Android 3.0, also known as Honeycomb. Android 3.0 is customized for tablets. Older models, like my gTablet, come stocked with Android 2.1 or 2.2. While the trend will be for tablets to move and adopt the Honeycomb OS, you still need to know which OS you're working with.
5. Price. While prices are dropping on Android tablets, you're still going to need to commit some serious cash. Most will cost you between $399 and $799.
6. WiFi v. 3G. You need to consider where/when you're going to use the device, and whether you're okay with a WiFi connection or whether you need a 3g connection. I think most people, unless you're highly mobile, can get away with a WiFi device and tether it to your smartphone.

With all of the basics sorted out, it's time to pick a device. I predict that by the end of 2011, prices on Android tablets will drop, while selection will increase. Already, Samsung, Dell, Amazon, and Vizio, are preparing for the release of their Android 3.0 devices.

So, how would I rank the tablets currently on the market? The champion ribbon goes to the Asus Transformer ($435 from Amazon). This baby is awesome in power and features. It has an expandable/attachable keyboard and all the bells of other devices.

My runner up is the Viewsonic gTablet. I own this device (although I covet the Transformer, anyone want to sponsor my purchase?) and LOVE IT. There's a number of options available, and it works with pretty much with every scenario I've given it. There are a number of ROMs available (needs rooting for sure see my posts here and here), which make it an effective device. Plus, you can watch Netflix. This is a great, cheap (find it for around $270) option.

Finally, my third option (and trailing far behind the others) is the Motorola Xoom. This is the original Honeycomb tablet, but with a price point of $599-plus, there's other better options. Quite simply, it's a good device. The bonus of the device is that it's 3g-enabled, with a number of other bells. However, if you're considering this device, you should take a long, thoughtful look at the new Samsung Galaxy 10.1.

Hope this helps your decision a little. I'd love to hear what your top pick is.