subject: Cheap Ipad Alternatives 2012 [print this page] Up until 2010, there was only one tablet worthy of consideration, the iPad, and it cost $400 to $800. However, today's tablet landscape is drastically different. There are at least a few worthy iPad alternatives that go for $200. The most notable of these are the Google Nexus 7 and the Amazon Kindle Fire HD. But, unbeknownst to most consumers, there are many quality tablets available on the market that offer a greater value at a lower price.
Here, we compare the top two iPad tablet competitors, the Nexus 7 & Kindle Fire HD, to two of the most popular sub-$200 budget tablets on the market: The Ainol Novo 7 Crystal & Flame. Fight!
If you're looking for value and power, this tablet cannot be beat. Prior to the introduction of the Nexus 7 earlier this year, 1280x800 resolution screens were available on $400 tablets or higher. However, the Flame offers a beautiful IPS 1280x800 screen for less than $200! It also offers more flexibility than the Nexus 7 with an integrated MicroSD slot, HDMI port and both front and back cameras. On top of that, it offers double the memory at 16GB and is the smallest tablet both in terms of dimensions and weight!
This budget tablet offers less in terms of features, but packs an amazing punch for less than 60% of the retail price of the Kindle Fire HD and Nexus 7. It's almost unbelievable that such a quality tablet can be had for less than $120 when 2 years ago, it would have easily sold for $400. How times have changed!
If you're looking for raw power, the Nexus 7 is the clear winner. Feature wise, the only real distinguishing point is the Tegra 3 Quad Core processor that is unmatched by the competition. Overall, it is a good value, but in terms of bang for the buck, it loses out to the Flame.
The Kindle Fire HD is bigger, heavier and less featured than the Nexus 7 and the Flame, but it does have complete integration with the Amazon ecosystem. In that regard, if your ebook collection is primarily through Amazon and you like the simplicity of an integrated system, the Kindle is your best bet. However, be forewarned that Kindles do not have access to Google Play, where the vast majority of games and applications are sold.
Which Is The Best iPad Alternative For You?
In the end, it comes down to personal preference. However, what might have been a simple choice between the two big contenders, the Nexus 7 and the Kindle Fire HD, may no longer be so simple. With two very strong candidates, each with their own distinct advantages, many people may be swayed to save a few bucks (or a lot) and get an Ainol Novo 7 Crystal or Ainol Novo 7 Flame.
