Around this time of year, many people are looking to buy the perfect gift for a loved one, hoping to spend some of that Christmas bonus, or just trying to buy themselves something they actually want for Christmas. So, naturally a tablet makes it on the list of potential purchases. But how can you figure out whether or not you or your loved one actually needs a tablet. Sure, we all could like a beautiful new Galaxy Note 10.1 or Nexus 10, but if money is an issue how can you know if it is a good investment of your limited capital? There are three criteria you should be looking to fulfill with your tablet purchase: screen size, capabilities, and price.
There are so many smartphones, tablets, and laptops on the market now with so many different specs, features, and screen sizes that you can be forgiven for getting a little tech greedy. If you're like me and want more than a couple gadgets, it's important to make sure you space out your screen sizes. For example, if you own a netbook, chromebook, or even an ultrabook, getting a whopping 10 in. Tablet or the rumored 11-12 in. Tablets of 2014. Likewise, of you own the Galaxy. Note 3, Mega 6.3, or LG Optimus Pro, getting a 7 inch tablet may be a waste of money since you already have a device around that size. I prefer spacing out my screen sizes with a ~5 inch phone, 10 inch tablet, and 17 inch PC. If you own a big phone and a small computer, you may not need a tablet. If you don't own a laptop however, you should definitely get one. Another thing to think about is portability. Trying to fit that Tab 3 10.1 in your purse? Not happening. Did you buy a new backpack with a tablet pocket for your Nexus 7? It'll be sliding everywhere! Think about how you want to store your tablet for travel before buying.
Also be thinking about what you're looking for. If you just want a screen to watch movies on, there are plenty of inexpensive options with great screens. If you want a small tablet with a great resolution, try the Kindle Fire HDX 7" or the Nexus 7. If you're looking larger, the Nexus 10 or Kindle Fire HDX 8.9 would work. If you just want a sofa companion for browsing or reading, the Samsung Galaxy Tab 3 line has many sizes at multiple prices from 7-8-10.1. Sometime you want something in between, like the LG G Pad. If you need a machine with maximum performance for work, stick with the Galaxy Note line, like the 8 inch and 10.1 inch. The key here is finding the right tool for the job, and if you don't see any tablet being a huge help in any way, it may not be the best choice.
Like every other hot holiday device, tablets cost money. A lot of money. So, when trying to figure out whether or not to purchase one, look at how much you're willing to spend. $50? Just keep saving your money. $100? If you're lucky, you'll find a used 2012 Nexus 7 or Galaxy Tab 2. If you have $200 or more then you're in business. However, the more you have, the better tablet you're going to get. Obviously the Note 10.1 trumps the Tab 3 10.1 in every way. Just make sure you don't spend more just for the sake of it. Sure, you get what you pay for, but you may not need all the bells and whistles if you're just looking for a larger browsing screen.
I hope this guide to purchasing a tablet was helpful. If you have any questions or ideas, just let me know in the comment section below.
