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Tablet PCs vs. notebooks

2005/02/08 16:40:00

Question

What can you tell me about tablet PCs vs. notebooks as far as price, performance, utility, durability and downsides?


-- Submitted by: Jeff

Designed for truly mobile computing, there are two types:

  • Convertible tablets, such as the Toshiba Portege M200, look like traditional notebooks but have displays that swivel and fold flat facing outward.

  • Slate tablets, like the Fujitsu Stylistic ST5011, have no attached keyboard and are basically all screen.

Both types use a special version of Windows XP that makes it possible to navigate and enter data using a stylus--no keyboard necessary.

Tablets account for only about 3 percent of notebook sales (US statistics - source: IDC). They cost significantly more than traditional laptops, and they usually offer inferior performance and battery life.

The questions to ask to determine whether you should consider a tablet are: Do you regularly use a clipboard? Is the ability to take signatures important to you? If so, the tablet form factor and handwriting-recognition software offer a nice way to digitise your notes and files on the fly. Otherwise, you're probably better off with a more traditional ultraportable laptop.

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