In the war of the tablets, Apple’s iPad and iPad 2 have reigned supreme without any serious competition for some time now. Android devices have attempted to challenge Apple for this crown, but few have found any success, with the exception of the Samsung Galaxy 10.1 Tab. Samsung’s second version of the Galaxy tablet offers nearly all the features of the iPad 2, with an Android operating system that many people prefer. So which tablet reigns supreme?
Both tablets have similar price points at the moment, so pricing isn’t the main deciding factor. If you are interested in design and screen quality the iPad edges out its competition slightly, offering better graphics and a more sturdy aluminum backing. While the Galaxy Tab has a plastic shell, many people carry their tablets in a protective case. The Galaxy Tab takes the crown for lightest tablet, weighing in at 19.9 oz., as compared with the iPad 2′s 21.3 oz. The Galaxy Tab 10.1 features a higher quality front and rear camera than that offered on the iPad 2 and the Galaxy’s screen is slightly larger.
Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1
Galaxy 10.1 Tab (Wi-Fi + 3G)
The battery life on the Apple iPad 2 is longer than that of the Galaxy 10.1 (a reported ten hours for Apple and nine for Samsung), and on both devices, the battery cannot be removed by the user and the device must be shipped away if a replacement or repair is needed. Both tablets come fully loaded with a number of free apps, and both give you the option to choose your free eReader. The iPad 2 has more available apps with the Apple App Store than that of its Android counterpart, but many of the Android apps available to the Galaxy 10.1 allow for greater customization and freedom for the user.
Apple iPad 2
Apple iPad 2 in Black & White (Wi-Fi + 3G)
In the end, the winning tablet depends largely on user preference. If you are used to, and satisfied with, Apple’s OS then the iPad 2 will likely offer all the apps and functions you require. If you prefer a more customized experience, the Galaxy Tab’s Android platform is likely to please you. Because they’re priced within $100 of one another, the choice is yours. Either way, you won’t be disappointed.