The concept of mobile phones has changed dramatically. From just a gadget which was used to make calls, the current generation of phones have become the “multi-talented do it all’s” of the gadget world. Smartphones, as we call these uber cool gadgets, that we flaunt now and then are becoming the preferred phones to use, may it be the super iPhones,the trendy Blackberrys or the stormy Androids! And just when everyone is getting the hang of these smartphones, the tablets come out. Having the power of a computer in your palm, how awesome is that! Tablets have done something like bridging the gap between the smartphones and a laptop/computer. So the obvious question is, what should I use. A tablet? Or a smartphone? Let us see a comparison between these two super gadgets, from a neutral point of view.
- Oh will that fit in my pocket ?
That is something one wonders when one looks at the size of a tablet. The smallest tablets come in a 5” body while the largest smartphone is of 9.7”. But with bigger screen comes better resolution, better picture quality and more functionality. The portability factor is a key. Smartphones are very convenient, slip it in your pocket, keep it in the bag/purse wherever you put it, it is good to go.
- Do I need that ?
When it comes to buying a tablet, the one question you need to ask yourself is do I really need a tablet? Tablets are larger, much easier to use as keyboard is more user-friendly. They are also portable and can ideally be a substitute for a Personal Computer. But if you want it exclusively for phone use, you won’t like to be holding a 8” tablet at your ear! That would look stupid.
- Cool! What about the specifications ?
With the current technology out there, any smartphone can compete with the tablets. Large 32 GB memory with 1 Ghz processor is something both have there to offer. Smartphones have a limited memory as compared to the tablets, as the tablets have additional USB slot(s) to fit in external hard disks.
- All right, what about internet ?
Smartphones have the SIM card capability, so they have access to 3G as well as 2G/EDGE network. No need to say that they also come with WiFi. The tablets have the USB port, so we can use the USB netconnect broadband services (dongle’s). They also come with wi-fi support. Some tablets come with a SIM slot, so they can be configured for 3G/2G/EDGE network.
- What about messaging and calling ?
Instant messaging/SMS is always an option. Smartphones adapt this well. Some smartphones even can make video calls. But why settle for SMS/voice calls when you can make video calls. Who says we cannot call from a tablet? Voice call/video call feature is offered using internet connection(eg : skype). So you can video call all your online friends, on the go. Even to the friends sitting at home in front of their PC’s.
- Err! What about the price ?
Currently, in the market you can get a good smartphone starting for about Rs 5k. See Tablet under Rs 5000.
At the same price, many companies offer their tablets, of course with certain shortcomings.
Seeing the current trend, the smartphones getting bigger and the tablets getting smaller, it is inevitable that one day, there will be no smartphones or tablets, there would be just the fusion of both of them: “smablets” or “tabphones” or, whatever you wish to call them! The gadget that will replace tablets, computers and phones. That would be a great day, not far away, when people will go “The new smablet way”!
Have a good day, and post in your comments and queries.