[Eee Pad Transformer General] ayman07:
For those who want yet ANOTHER review, heres my article from my website... http://asustransform.com

It’s safe to say that the Asus Transformer has definitely been making waves in the small pool that is, Android tablets. Though Asus did disappoint many potential customers with the lack of product availability, the tablet has proven to be worth the wait and worth the effort to get your hands on one.

Having had the Transformer for roughly two weeks now (just over a week with the keyboard dock), I have gathered enough information to do a thorough review of both. Though the video review is a bit lengthy; I tried my best to touch upon every aspect of the tablet and dock.

I’ve provided a brief written summary to compliment the video review. The Asus Transformer has really changed my lifestyle (for the better) just as much as the 7″ Samsung Galaxy Tab did. But without further adieu, check out my video review below and the written summary below it.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dCMSRNchwco&feature=player_embedded

Build Quality & Design:

When I first received the Asus Transformer, I was quick to give it an “A-” score to gauge the build quality. It’s apparent today that the score was clouded by my excitement to have finally gotten the tablet in my hands. After reevaluation, I consider the build quality of the tablet to be a mid “B”-I am a student, I think in terms of letter grades! Overall the build quality of the tablet is good, but sadly not as good as my iPad 1 nor the Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1.

I do notice some “squeaking” when pressing down on the textured backing; perhaps it’s due to it being plastic rather than a metallic build. This in no way means that the tablet is cheap. On the contrary, when coupled with the optional keyboard dock, the build of the two units as a whole feels exceptional. The dock is extremely well build; we will get to the dock a little bit later. There is one flaw in the design and that is the relatively sharp edges of the tab. This makes typing with keyboard apps such as Thumb Keyboard a little bit difficult and slightly painful after prolonged use. It’s common to develop marks on your hands from holding it for too long because of this issue.

Sound:

The speakers on the Transformer are average at best. While music does sound a bit muffled, the annoying “popping” sound takes the cake. This popping & crackling sound happens frequently and it usually occurs when getting a notification after leaving the tablet idling for a while. Hopefully this will be addressed in the update that is promised in June. On the flip side, the audio output via headphones or using the HDMI out feature do not disappoint. Music sounds crisp and lively; this shouldn’t disappoint any serious audiophiles.

Camera:

The front facing 1.2 MP camera is enough to have a decent video conversation. I video chat using Google Talk very frequently and the quality is very good for such a low resolution camera. The rear 5 MP camera takes great photos and shoots decent 720p video. This in no way will replace your standalone digital camera or flip cam but it’s there if you need it.

Screen Quality:

If you have seen other reviews about the Transformer, they usually have one thing in common; they all rave about the screen. While I do agree that the screen is gorgeous and nice to look at, I feel as if the screen is not as sensitive as it could be. I usually have to tap an icon twice or sometimes three time just to get it to register. I am not sure if it has to do with me tapping the icon rather than pressing it (different surface areas) but either way, it’s a bit annoying. It seems to be better with the latest update but here’s hoping for a permanent fix in the upcoming update.

Dock:

Even with the flaws that I’ve mentioned with this tablet, it redeems itself when coupled with the keyboard dock. The seamless integration of the the tablet with the keyboard is truly nothing less than brilliant engineering. Asus really took the time to get this right! The two 2 full-sized USB ports provide great functionality. I can even use it to charge my HTC Thunderbolt via the USB cable. Sure it charges it up slowly, but the point is that it charges it! It also detects portable hard drives as well as thumb drives. I have even connected a USB mouse to it and it all works well. It comes with a SD card reader which provides with yet another way of expanding the memory. While docked, the Transformer actually gets charged by the dock’s build in battery so you will never run out of battery; just another reason why the dock is worth the $150 price tag. Typing long papers or reviews such as this one is comfortable. The keyboard is spacious and the trackpad is a good size. There is no distinction between my Apple bluetooth keyboard and the Transformer’s; it’s just that good!

Overall:

The Asus Transformer is fantastic tablet which truly obliterates any competitor that attempts to mimic its functionality; such as the Samsung 10.1 keyboard. For $400 it holds it’s own as a great tablet for those on a budget. It may not be as light as the Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 but with features such as HDMI out, a microSD card slot, the dock, and a lower price tag, its obvious who the clear winner is. I highly recommend checking out the Asus EEE Pad Transformer for yourselves. You will not be disappointed.

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