Windows 8.1 tablets VS high end android tablets
Windows 8.1 tablets VS high end android tablets
Hey there! I'm still figuring things out after turning 16 and landing my first job. I've been saving a bit and now I'm thinking about getting a tablet. I'm torn between a Windows tablet (like Dell Venue 8 Pro) and the Tegra Note 7 for Android. I really like how Android feels on touch, but I also want to be able to run full Windows 8 on it. My main use will be media—YouTube, HD anime, some games, visual novels, and music. I'm open to suggestions and checking out both options.
Find Android on 8"-7" devices since it performs better than Windows 8 at that scale.
For casual use, a tablet running Android or iPad works well. For a more professional setup, consider a Windows ultrabook convertible with a touchscreen—such as the Lenovo Yoga or Dell XPS 12—or a basic touchscreen laptop.
I own both an Android phone and a Windows tablet, and I enjoy using them both. I usually prefer my Asus Transformer T100 over my Samsung Galaxy Tab since a Windows 8 tablet lets you install a complete copy of Microsoft Office 2013 for free along with a functional keyboard and touchscreen. However, my requirements differ from yours, so I’d recommend the Nexus 7 tablet instead of the Dell model—it’s built with the latest Android version first, unlike some other manufacturers.
I owned a Dell Venue 8 Pro. It was a solid tablet, though the app store had its limits. The top picks were GTA San Andreas and some racing titles. Steam games and general titles worked well, but you can't run heavy titles like Battlefield, Dark Souls II or Skyrim. It supports older and indie games nicely. Plus it includes Office 13, making it a solid value. The main issue with the Dell Venue 8 Pro is its charging port—it gets damaged quite easily. If you choose this model, make sure to keep the warranty in mind for peace of mind.
For system tasks consider a Windows 8.1 based convertible tablet such as the Surface Pro or ASUS Transformer. For touch gaming and video watching, an Android device works well. If school use is your goal, the Surface Pro offers the best balance of laptop and tablet features. Its digitize pen stands out with a thin tip, hover detection, palm rejection, and pressure sensitivity—ideal for taking notes. Using Android or iPad for classes or Office tasks provides a smoother experience, and most educational software runs without issues. Programs like MathLab, Maple, Visual Studio, Eclipse/NetBean, and Photoshop function properly on Windows, while Android/iPad versions are reliable alternatives.
For a standard tablet, grab the Shield Tablet! The K1 is powerful, offers great value, and includes a functional stylus. Plus, it runs on Nvidia.
I intend to purchase the Asus VivoTab Note, an 8-inch Windows 8.1 tablet with a stylus. I aim to use XBMC for video playback. My choice of Windows over Android stems from Android devices' struggles with 10-bit video, especially for some anime formats. The stylus will simplify desktop work, and I tested it at Best Buy—finding the on-screen keyboard functional and the system responsive. I also appreciate compatibility with any x86 applications. I expect delivery within a week and would love to share my experience once I have it. Use case: Anime movies, manga browsing. Price details: $199 for 32GB, $280 for 64GB (previously $229 on Amazon, now out of stock).