All Discount Tablet Computers

Tablet computers are some of the most useful and sought after computer gadgets in the world. They provide a handheld solution to Internet, gaming, email and business uses, and are an excellent option for students, much better than a laptop. If you are unsure about the model or brand of tablet you want to buy then check out our handy comparison chart and compare tablet computers and you can also read our Tablet Computer Reviews. While many times tablet computers can be expensive as far as retail price tags go, it's easy to save by shopping online and get discount tablet computers, like those listed below. Read on futher down the page for the bull tablet buyers guide with the important features to look for.

Discount Tablet Computers

10 Things to Look for In Tablet Computers -Buyer's Guide

If you are looking for a tablet to read eBooks, listen to music and connect for the occasional Internet or email session; then your tablet’s display, storage capacity and portability will be your main concern.  Need a tablet for daily business use?  Then you will a fast processor, access to business applications, display and connectivity will be your priorities.  Want to use the tablet for gaming or media streaming?  Your concerns will again be display, processor speed, RAM and connectivity.  First, determine what you want to use your tablet for then rank order your qualities or specs that are important for that use.

1. Operating System (OS):
There are three main operating systems or OS available on tablets today.  These are Microsoft’s Windows OS, Google’s Android OS and Apple’s iOS.  The Apple iOS is available on their signature iPad, iPhone and iPod portable devices and will appeal to Apple fans.  The Android OS 3.0 and higher were developed for the tablet market and power many commercial tablets.  The Windows OS is a version of their personal computer OS optimized for tablet devices and ensures compatibility with their Windows PCs.

2. Core Processor:
Processors work with RAM to keep the tablet running apps and files quickly and smoothly.  Processors are also in charge of multitasking or how many things you can be doing on your tablet at one time.  Measures in gigahertz (GHz), the faster a processor is the faster and smoother your tablet will run.  If you are only interested in reading or music, then a slower processor may be a trade off for a lower price, but if you need to run serious applications or stream video, then a faster processor of 1.0GHz or better is recommended.

3. Memory:
RAM is the memory doing all the work on your tablet.  Just like on PCs, RAM temporarily stores files to speed processing.  It also runs the OS.  With plenty of RAM, the tablet runs faster and can handle multitasking and large apps.

4. Display Size and Resolution:
Tablet display screens measure diagonally between seven and twelve inches.  The diagonal measurement is the same standard used for TV and PC monitors.  It gives you an idea of the size of the screen overall and a good indication of the device’s physical dimensions.

5. Touchscreen Tablets:
Play with several tablets in the store and check to see how sensitive the screens are to your touch.  Some screens are really sensitive, and others may require a stylus or fingernail to react to your touch.  Touchscreens are either resistive or capacitive.  Resistive touch screens are generally more accurate, but may require a stylus or fingernail with physical pressure.  Capacitive touchscreens respond to bare fingers or a metallic stylus but can't be used with gloves.

6. Cameras:
Tablets usually have one or two cameras with resolution measured in megapixels, so the more megapixels the better quality.  If you will be using your tablet for video chat or video calls, you will need one with a front facing camera.  Normally front facing cameras run between 1 and 2 megapixels.  Rear cameras of at least 5 megapixels with autofocus and LED flash capability are necessary if you want to shoot decent digital images and video with your tablet.

7. Applications:
The OS usually govern the availability of applications or software for your tablet.  Thus, the “apps” available to an iPad tablet must come from the Apple Apps Store.  Similarly, Android OS tablets only have access to apps available from Google’s Android Market. In addition, you will need to consider if the apps you can use are “restricted” by the tablet maker.   If your tablet uses a wireless data network provider, the tablet may be restricted to running apps only form that data provider like Verizon or Sprint.

8. Internal or User Storage:
Your tablet will have internal storage space and maybe removable storage in the form of SD cards.  Internal storage allows you to install apps and store files, and removable storage allows you to expand this capacity.  Most tablets use a solid-state drive (SSD) that is instantly available from power up.  Depending on how you use your tablet, storage may be a concern.  Most tablets start at 16 gigabytes for internal storage, but if you store a lot of files like video or images, the more the better.  SD storage adds capacity to your tablet, but not all tablets offer SD storage.  You can use large storage cards, but not all apps can run from removable storage.

9. Connectivity:
Most tablets ship with Wi-Fi capability allowing you to access Internet data and services using the tablet’s radio transceiver to connect to an Internet Wi-Fi hotspot or your home network Wi-Fi hub.  Tablets supported by a wireless data plan from a cell phone provider.  Using the provider’s 3G or 4G data network will make your tablet truly portable.

10. Data Ports:
HDMI stands for High Definition Multimedia Interface, and it's the cable used by most modern HDTVs and many computer monitors and projectors to stream pictures and sound.  If you need to project video or presentations then you should look for a tablet with HDMI out. A USB connection in tablets is used to synchronize with a PC for transferring files.  Nearly every tablet will have a USB connection.  You want to make sure it's a standard connection, so you can use third party cords and accessories.  The USB port on many tablets is also used to charge the tablet battery.