Looking for a TABLET ?

Looking for a tablet this year end. Confused by the huge portfolio and the market options available. We have arranged the few options based on the OS the tablet’s run, hope it helps to alleviate some quandary in your mind, regarding the right tablet you want.

Apple's iOS

The iPad remains top of the line among tablets. The apps designed specifically for it is unmatched. Those who already have iPhones will appreciate the ability to start email and other tasks on one device and finish on the other. You can even make phone calls from iPads, if you have an iPhone on the same Wi-Fi network.

The downside is the high price tag for the latest full-size model, the iPad Air 2. Many Android tablets are cheaper. You do get a light and skinny device for the price, with a camera that matches the iPhone's 8 megapixels (though the iPad still lacks a flash). The new Air also has a fingerprint sensor to bypass security passcodes and to authorize online purchases using Apple Pay. It won't work with in-store payments, though.

If you are on a budget or want a smaller device, consider last year's iPad Mini 2. This year's Mini doesn't have many improvements over last year's model, except for the fingerprint and Apple Pay capabilities. The convenience might not be worth spending more for the device.

You might consider putting the savings toward a mid-tier or higher-end model. With both the Air 2 and the Mini 3, you can upgrade to 64 gigabytes of storage from 16 GB for just $100 more. 

Google's Android

Android phones and tablets don't let you switch back and forth as easily as Apple devices do. The advantage of sticking with an Android tablet for Android phone owners is having a unified library of apps.

Samsung's Galaxy Tab S is the best of the Android tablets I've tried. The display uses a technology called AMOLED to produce colors that pop out as you view video or browse the Web. But the Tab S also comes with a high price tag for the full-size model and also for the smaller one.

Samsung does offer an even-pricier Pro series, with screens of up to 12.2 inches diagonally, but that's really aimed at professionals. Full-size models tend to be nine or 10 inches, while mini models are seven or eight inches. At the small and cheap end, Samsung offers the 7-inch Galaxy Tab 4 for an affordable price. Book lovers can choose a Nook edition, made in partnership with Barnes & Noble.

Google's $399 Nexus 9 has the advantage of running an Android version that's closest to Google's vision. Samsung and other manufacturers typically add their own twists, which can confuse consumers. The Nexus does have a wireless chip for in-store mobile payments using Google Wallet, if you feel like waving it around in the checkout line.

I'm including Amazon's Fire HDX tablets under Android, even though the system's been modified so much that there's little resemblance. App selection isn't as good as what you get on purer Android devices. But Amazon is able to add such features as one-button access to live video help. It is great for first-time tablet owners and comes at a nice price.

Microsoft's Windows

Until Windows 10 comes out next year, there's a huge divide between Windows phones and Windows tablets. Apps aren't compatible, and Windows tablets have more in common with Windows desktops and laptops. A Windows tablet is best suited for someone looking to replace a PC. In fact, many Windows tablets are just laptops with detachable keyboards.

There are too many models to list, so I'll use Microsoft's own Surface Pro 3 as an example. The Surface itself starts at a very high price and at some configurations is costlier than Apple. The Surface's built-in kickstand can be adjusted to a range of positions, some better for desks and others for the lap. The best thing about Windows tablets is their ability to run regular Windows software, such as Office and Photoshop. Other tablets have, at best, a light version.