The best shelves in the UK 2023

How to choose your tablet

Portable and intuitive, the touchscreen tablet is one of the most popular electronic devices today. And the good news is that there's something for everyone. That said, finding the model that really suits your needs is no easy task, given the stiff competition from manufacturers. Our advice to help you make your choice!

#1 - The use

Before looking at the technical specifications, the first thing to do is to define the use of your future touchscreen tablet. Depending on whether you want to use it as a work tool for your travels, a screen for watching movies or a game support for your children, you should know that for each use there are better adapted models. In doing so, you should make your selection based on key criteria such as weight, battery life, ergonomics and storage capacity.

#2 - The screen

You'll note thata tablet is typically between 7" and 12". But more than a question of size, it is a question of determining the format and resolution of the screen. The first parameter depends greatly on the use, because to view videos with maximum comfort, a 16/10 orientation (1280 x 800 px) is perfect. Conversely, for navigation, 4/3 (1024 x 768 px) is preferable.

As for the resolution, it remains very variable, but the latest models generally offer Full HD. Remember that resolutions that are too low degrade the quality of images and make viewing less pleasant.

The choice of the screen must also take into account the touch technology used. There are 2 main ones, namely :

• Capacitive technology, which is the most common and most responsive, and allows Multitouch or the recognition of several fingers placed simultaneously on the screen.
• The resistive technology, which is becoming increasingly rare on the market, equips the tablets of first choice that offers less responsiveness. This type of screen does not have Multitouch and is used with a stylus.

#3 - The weight

Often between 7 and 12", the size of the screen of a tablet systematically influences its weight. In other words, the bigger the screen, the heavier and more cumbersome the tablet. Furthermore, a tablet with several ports is heavier than one with fewer connections.

In this sense, it is important to choose the right size to find the right compromise between transportability and ergonomics. However, when it comes to refinement, manufacturers (especially Apple) are constantly innovating with ultra-thin design models, for a reduced footprint.

#4 - The operating system

Today, the most common operating systems are those of the major brands, including iOS (Apple), Android (Google), Windows (Microsoft) and Linux (for developers). However, it's worth mentioning that the offer is getting bigger and bigger in this field.

If you are not a connoisseur of new technologies, you should know that this criterion plays an important role in the user-friendliness and ease of use of the tablet. For this reason, we strongly advise you to pay special attention to the main features. This includes:

• The regularity of updates.
• Security.
• Customization options.
• The number of applications available on the store.
• The type of handling (100% touch or hybrid with mouse and keyboard).
• The fluidity of navigation.

#5 - The features

Not all tablets are the same and offer options that are mostly different from each other. The choice of features will depend mainly on your uses, as some people only use them to surf the web and make calls. On the other hand, others use them on a daily basis for broader needs. For example, you can integrate the camera function (to take pictures or videos) or the audio function (to listen to music). Beyond these basic features, some tablets can be used as reading devices, video game devices and for impressive graphics.

#6 - Connections

To make the most of your tablet's features, make sure it has full connectivity. The essentials are :

• The power jack.
• The audio port for headphones.
• The USB port.

However, for broader uses, you may need additional USB ports, an HDMI port for connection to the TV, a memory card slot or a 3G/4G SIM card port, in order to benefit from a faster and more autonomous Internet connection than that offered by Wi-Fi.

#7 - Autonomy

This parameter is decisive whether or not you are a nomad by nature, because in all cases, you will need a durable battery to enjoy the device as much as possible. Generally, the autonomy announced by the manufacturers of tablets varies between 4 to 10 hours in normal use (navigation, mailing, video playback). But the models that can be connected to a keyboard dock (Asus Transformer for example) have an autonomy that can reach 15 to 18 h, because of the additional battery of their keyboard.

On the other hand, you will also have to take into account the connection to a wifi network or via mobile data, without forgetting the multitasking uses. To get a more accurate estimate, feel free to compare these figures with those provided by independent testers.

#8 - Wireless connectivity

It mainly concerns Internet access and Bluetooth. If all tablets are automatically compatible with wifi, it is not always the case with 3G/4G. It is necessary that the device has a SIM card port so that you can connect to the mobile network. This type of connection offers greater flexibility in terms of mobility, as you don't have to be next to a WiFi hotspot all the time to access the Internet.

Bluetooth connectivity is also interesting, especially for linking the tablet to other connected objects and wireless peripherals (mouse, keyboard, headphones, speakers, etc.). Depending on your needs, it is also possible to have other wireless functions such as GPS or NFC technology.

#9 - Storage capacity

Whatever your use, it's essential to choose a tablet with a larger or smaller storage capacity. For example, if you plan to use it for browsing, occasional video playback, storing photos and audio files, 16 or 32 GB will be enough. Otherwise, if you want to store video files or space-intensive applications, you'll need a larger capacity. For example, you can choose between 64 GB, 128 GB or even more. Make sure you have an SD/SSD port so you can benefit from additional memory.

#10 -

Over time, you may need to add accessories to your tablet to align your gadget with innovations, or simply for more optimal use. The major brands (Apple, Samsung, Acer, Asus, Sony, etc.) usually offer different types of accessories that can be purchased separately. These are usually protective covers and cases, stands, keyboard docks, styluses, adapters, etc. To prepare for your changing needs, find out what accessories are available.

The different types of shelves

With a larger size than smartphones, but smaller than laptops, tablets are the best compromise between mobility and practicality. Everyone needs this gadget that makes a difference, and even the youngest cannot do without it. Here are the different types of tablets that exist to help you find the one you need.

The multimedia tablet

Without doubt the best known on the market, the multimedia tablet is distinguished by its ultra portable and lightweight design. But its greatest asset is the ability to download a multitude of applications from the online store

. Available in different screen sizes depending on the intended use, some models even have a memory card slot, making it easy to store movies or videos.

Depending on the brand, each tablet has its own operating system

, which allows you to combine your iPad with your Mac to work in similar environments. The only downside is that the majority of these electronic devices offer screens that are far too large and inevitably become cumbersome.

Tablet PCs

The

tablet PC is a hybrid device that can act as a computer and a traditional tablet at the same time

. It is the device that mobile professionals and seasoned workers who want to keep everything at hand cannot do without. Less expensive than a regular computer and smaller in size, it often comes with a detachable keyboard and has almost all the features available on a PC.

In addition to being easier to carry and use in mobile situations, it is a stand-alone device par excellence

. Unfortunately, the screen is most often small and the storage capacity often limited.

The reading tablet

With

the size of a paperback book, the tablet reader is a digital device capable of storing hundreds of books that can be consulted from anywhere and at any time. Equipped with a user-friendly and ergonomic screen thanks to the special ink used and the backlighting for certain models, the tablet reader allows you to read comfortably in the dark

.

It also allows to feed the integrated library with free or purchased electronic books. However, its functionalities are limited to this idea of reading. You can't use it otherwise, and for reading enthusiasts, it's not necessarily a choice that will dethrone physical books.

The smartphone tablet

Very

fashionable, the smartphone tablet combines the functions usually found in a tablet and a phone

. Long considered unsuitable for taking calls, tablets have been redesigned by some manufacturers like Huawei or Asus. They then tried to fill this limitation of the tablet by introducing on the market models compatible with SIM card and that allow hands-free calling. It's a small thing, it allows you to make hands-free phone calls, but you might as well mention that it's still more cumbersome than a classic smartphone and its price is more or less high.

The tablet for children

Since everyone is

entitled to them, children's tablets have also made their grand entrance into the world of electronics. These are educational devices designed to introduce children of a certain age to the digital world

. Often accompanied by numerous games, these tablets can also be used to take photos and make films, but also to read and listen to music.

Some models include a secure browser that allows children to learn how to surf the Internet under the supervision of their parents. In any case, they can become harmful and cause early addiction to digital devices provided limits are set for children.

The graphic tablet

Designed

to make drawing and photo editing easier

, the graphics tablet is aimed at beginning and advanced computer graphic designers, artists and draftsmen. Offering a grip similar to that of a pencil, the graphics tablet has a zoom function, but also allows easy rectification of errors and guarantees better color rendering.

The device is therefore very handy and offers excellent color rendition. In addition, various functions are included to improve accuracy. Of course, you should expect an extremely high price for this type of device.

Why buy a tablet?

The tablet is a device that is becoming more and more important in professional environments as well as in everyday life. It must be said that it has many advantages; discover which ones!

For the comfort of use

Light and easy to handle, the tablet is attractive thanks to its ergonomics. On the borderline between a PC and a smartphone, it can easily be slipped into a bag, a satchel or a pouch. It doesn't require any particular position to use: standing, sitting or lying down, you can read, surf the Internet, listen to music or play. Some models can even be used with stands or keyboard docks, allowing you to enter text, make video calls or search the Internet just like with a regular computer.

For ease of use

As both a business tool and an entertainment device, the touchscreen tablet can go anywhere. With its lightweight, ultra-portable design, it doesn't require a special carrying case. It doesn't require a stand, let alone a large space, to use, even in tight spaces. The fact that you can use the touchscreen without a keyboard is also a real plus, as it becomes easier to hold the tablet with one hand and navigate through the menus with the other.

For mobility

Although competing with the smartphone, especially in terms of transportability and functionality, the tablet remains in the race. It keeps the argument of the size of its screen and the readability of information, without forgetting its remarkable autonomy. A key factor for some professionals, the autonomy of a touch tablet is estimated at 10 hours on average, whereas a laptop only offers a very limited time. The result: you can use it even outdoors, with good battery life and no clutter.

For simplicity

Using a touchscreen tablet, even for the first time, is practically child's play. Everything is simplified, from turning it on to the layout of the applications and the navigation that doesn't require a mouse or keyboard. Much easier to master than a computer, it is designed in an almost intuitive way and is particularly suitable for seniors, technophobes and young children who are taking their first steps into the world of ICT.

For quick access to data

With a tablet, the start-up time is much shorter than with a computer. Very effective when you are in a hurry and need to access information in a hurry. It is often used as a secondary support by many professionals. In fact, when travelling in the field, the tablet offers greater convenience and flexibility to access content without having to wait for colleagues or clients.

For functionality

As explained in the previous lines, the touch tablet benefits from a perfect hybridity, integrating features of the computer and the smartphone. In terms of functionality, it has practically all the options offered by a PC, whether it's browsing the Internet, performing office tasks, accessing applications, watching movies or playing video games. Its wireless connectivity is just as complete, with the possibility of connecting via wifi, Bluetooth, 3G or 4G, in addition to GPS and NFC.

For reliability

The reliability of systems is often questioned, but the tablet stands out from the crowd and offers better insurance than some Windows-based computers. Indeed, with an iPad, a Surface or a Nexus 7, we suffer much less from the phenomenon of the Blue Screen. Although they are not totally safe from malware, tablets are less exposed to data loss due to viruses or hard drive crashes.

For the affordable price

One of the arguments for choosing a tablet over a computer is probably the very affordable cost. Many people are surprised by the price difference between these two pieces of equipment, even though they offer practically the same services. Although very dependent on brands and ranges, the price of tablets remains very affordable. This makes them an inexpensive alternative to laptops. Even companies wishing to equip their commercial fleets are increasingly turning to tablets.