Tell me about tablet computers

1two3four
1two3four Posts: 413 Member
in Chit-Chat
I want a mobile computer. I've had a laptop in the past but it was big, heavy and I never took it anywhere for that reason and I hated lugging an additional mouse (I don't have enough fine-motor ability to use a trackpad. I no longer have it and in my mind another laptop is out of the question. I also own an old AlphaSmart if I truly want to type a novel in a cafe or something.

I bought an iMac 8-years ago and I love it to bits. It and Apple have served me well, that said, I'm not necessarily brand loyal. If someone sells me on a MS/Google/Amazon/Other product that fits my needs for a great price I'm not going to say, "But, it's not an Apple!" I also do not have a smart phone, so I have little knowledge of mobile OSs or apps.

This summer I used an iPad for a few weeks, at first I hated it with a passion, then I got to know it and love it. I know what works and doesn't work for me about it.

Want List

Must have available physical keyboard, I'm not looking to type a novel on it but I can't compose an email or a message board post via the onscreen keyboard.
Must be able to use a stylus
Must be able to zoom more than just text
Must be compatible with my iMac
Must have a basic word processor
Durability is a consideration, it must be able to withstand a small fall (like 3ft or less on a carpeted surface while in a case/cover)

Would be nice to have more than 16 GB storage
Lighter is definitely better
Smaller is probably better (although, I'm not sure about this)
Longer battery life is nice


Ability to purchase at Best Buy is a plus, I have a small gift card I'd like use.
I understand technology changes overnight but I'd hope to be able to get 3 to 5 years use out of whatever tablet I end up with.
I am willing to purchase a refurbished Apple product to get a better price. I'd consider buying another brand refurbished if they're willing to stand behind their product.
I don't want some cheapo tablet but I don't want to spend an outrageous amount, either.

As it stands right now I'm looking to replace my iPod and portable DVD player and ever present spiral notebook/pen with this tablet. I already subscribe to several video streaming services. I'd also like to be able to use MFP. I don't think I'd really play much on it in the way of games. I would for sure start using it as an E-reader, I have a small library of free Nook books via the desktop reader. I'm also wondering, do you HAVE to have internet access to use the MFP app? I ask because I don't always have internet access when traveling and it would be nice to be able to use it when I don't now.

Thanks in advance!

Replies

  • valandario
    valandario Posts: 30 Member
    iPad air (mini if you want smaller). Get a case with keyboard in it. You can use mfp offline and then sync when you have connection. Most expensive tablet but definitely the best. Based on what you said though I would go for an iPad 2, heavier than the air but not "heavy" and significantly cheaper.
  • _taylorlydia
    _taylorlydia Posts: 24
    I work in Geek Squad at Best Buy, so let me just put on that hat right now. it sounds like an iPad would be nice for you and it would be very compatible with your iMac, but if you're looking for a tablet that works more like a computer I would suggest a Microsoft Surface. they're nice because you can load programs like Microsoft Word and Excel, etc. on them, which you can't load onto iPads and other tablets. you can get other programs that act like the Office suite but you won't get the full experience. it depends which operating system you're more comfortable with. we sell "open-box" items too, which means they just don't have a box and they're at a discounted price. :wink:
    both have detachable keyboards that you can buy and can connect to any printers you may have.

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