Toshiba has just unveiled two new Windows tablets, the 8-inch and 10-inch Encore 2 slates, which come with very aggressive pricing.
While Toshiba has previously received praise for its high-end tablets with prices to match, this time the company is dipping into the low-end segment of the market with some pretty neat budget offerings. It's always great to see a big player launch more affordable devices, and the two new Encore 2 slates are definitely targeted at budget shoppers.
As expected, these two slates don't boast any high-end specifications, but they do hold their own considering their dirt-cheap price tags. The 8-inch model will cost just $200, while the larger 10-inch version will be available for $270. Compared to the original 8-inch Encore tablet, which launched with a $330 price tag, these two new additions are very affordable especially considering that they pack virtually the same specs as the original 8-inch model.
"Our Encore 2 tablets are the perfect complement to a customer's arsenal of devices, giving them the familiarity and common functionality of Windows for a more seamless computing experience, whether they're editing or creating documents, enjoying movies and games or staying in touch with friends and family," touted Philip Osako, senior director of product marketing, Toshiba America Information Systems, Inc., Digital Products Division.
"The mobility provided by the Toshiba Encore 2 family, 8- and 10-inch, deliver a flexible solution for customers in a mobile-first world," added Microsoft vice president of worldwide OEM marketing, Peter Han. "Toshiba's continued innovation combined with touch and the capabilities in Windows 8.1 delivers an experience that will delight customers."
Toshiba Encore 2 Specs
Both Toshiba Encore 2 tablets pack Intel Atom processors under the hood and sport bright HD 1280 x 800 multi-touch displays. The slates offer up to 10 hours of battery life for general use, and up to 8 hours of video playback. Both slates have Wi-Fi 802.11n connectivity, built-in micro HDMI port, micro USB 2.0, wireless display support, and Dolby Digital Plus audio for a superior experience.
Both tablets can be configured with up to 64GB of internal storage capacity, and both have micro SD support for additional memory of up to 128GB. The slates also feature HD webcams on the front and 5-megapixel rear cameras with auto focus.
Toshiba Encore 2 Pricing and Availability
The two new tablets from Toshiba will go on sale in early July at select retailers and the company's own website. As previously mentioned, the 8-inch Encore 2 will start at $199.99, while the 10-inch model will start at $269.99.
