If you're in the market for a small 7-inch mini tablet at a more affordable price, the Google Nexus 7 or the Kindle Fire HD may be just what you're looking for.
The Wi-Fi only 16GB version of the Google Nexus 7 is $199 and if you're looking for more storage space, you have the option of purchasing the Wi-Fi only 32GB model for $249. For Wi-FI, HSPA+ and either AT&T or T-Mobile carrier features, the higher end Nexus 7 tablet is $299.
Amazon's Kindle Fire HD is another inexpensive 7-inch tablet choice. The 16GB is $199 and the 32GB version is $249 and both are Wi-Fi capable.
When purchasing a tablet, although it's a smaller more fun version of a PC, remember that it is just that, a PC. A rule of thumb when shopping for a PC is to always look at the specifications. This same rule applies when you are seeking to purchase any type of mobile PC, including tablets. As individuals, we all have different features that we are looking for when purchasing a device depending on our usage. People tend to use their devices in different ways.
You may spend huge amounts of time on the Web or watch movies on your device so you are going to want something that has the right screen resolution.
Both the Nexus 7 and the Kindle Fire HD feature 1280 x 800 HD displays which surpass that of the iPad Mini. The iPad mini only has a display of 1024 x 768 and offers no high definition or "HD". That is just one prime example of why it's important to look at a products specs to make sure you are getting the most out of your purchase. It's rumored that Apple's iPad 2 will have an updated Retina display, but why wait when you can purchase a 7-inch tablet with crisp HD right now?
If you want something customizable, the Nexus 7 runs on Android Jelly Bean 4.2 out of the box. You can download launcher apps from the Play Store to change up the look and feel of your device. You can also customize the device's wallpaper and lock screen. The Kindle Fire HD is a good choice if you are someone who likes to read or use their tablet as an entertainment system. Amazon's Kindle Owner's Lending Library offers Kindle owners a way to borrow books for free with no due dates. Also offered is Prime Instant Video which allows Kindle owners to stream popular TV shows and movies.
Shopping for a tablet can be confusing with so many available choices. How many times have you walked into a store and felt overwhelmed by all of the choices that you had in front of you? And on top of that, the sales people in the store are not always as informed about the product as you would want them to be. It's up to you as a consumer to educate yourself about a product before you actually set foot in the store and hand over your cash.
