TechSource: ASUS Transformer Prime vs. Motorola XOOM 2

ASUS Transformer Prime vs. Motorola XOOM 2

Posted: 14 Dec 2011 10:36 PM PST

Android tablet computers haven't quite gained the same amount of popularity that the Apple iPad did. That said, it doesn't mean that there aren't any quality Android tablets around. In fact, this November, two big companies, ASUS and Motorola, launched their own tablets that are powerful enough to give the iPad a run for its money.

ASUS's Transformer Prime and Motorola's XOOM 2 are battling it out to become the top Android tablet of 2011. While the battle may be an exciting thing to watch, when it comes to buying a top-notch tablet, there's often a dilemma about which one to choose. So, if you're an Android lover and are planning to buy any of the two tablets (or both), read on as we compare them head to head.

Motorola XOOM, which was the first tablet to feature the somewhat contentious Honeycomb UI, has a new successor. Simply called XOOM 2, the 10.1 Android-based device promises to be 33 percent thinner and 10 percent lighter than its predecessor. Loaded with Honeycomb 3.2, XOOM 2 comes with some impressive specs, and even though the steep pricing leaves a lot to be desired, it's still one of the most coveted tablet computers around.

Despite some amazing features, the XOOM 2 does pale out when pitted against the much-hyped ASUS Transformer Prime. Currently selling in the UK, the Transformer boasts of even more features at a much lower price. Also running Honeycomb 3.2, the tablet-cum-laptop device comes with a 1.3 GHz Quad-core Nvidia Tegra 3 processor. Showing off the device performance is a 10.1-inch Gorilla Glass display with a 1280x800 resolution.

Operating System

Though specs are top of the line, the only thing common between both the devices is that they're running Honeycomb 3.2. Don't worry if you hate the OS, as both devices will soon be getting upgraded to Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich, which runs on the Samsung / Google Galaxy Nexus.

The Specs

The Motorola XOOM 2 is backed by a 1.2 GHz OMAP4 processor whereas the Asus Transformer Prime sports a 1.3 GHz Quad-core Tegra 3 processor. In terms of storage capacity, the Prime comes in 2 versions: 32 GB and 64 GB. The XOOM2 on the other hand, only offers 16 GB of internal storage. The RAM on both the devices is 1GB and both come with a micro-HDMI port. As usual, there's Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and a 3.5 mm headphone jack on both devices. Undoubtedly, the Prime completely outmatches the XOOM 2 when it comes to the specs.

Unique Features

Though the XOOM 2 is not nearly as impressive as the Prime, there are some areas where it stands out. The Motorola-made tablet, apart from being a full-fledged reading and work device, does serve as a good multimedia gadget. With a 3D virtual surround sound and a nice display, the XOOM 2 makes a good device for watching movies. Moreover, the Motorola XOOM 2 is also available as a Media Edition. The Media Edition comes with an additional feature that streams files from the PC to the device. Also in the special edition is an 8.2-inch HD display with Adaptive Surround Sound technology. Though there's not much to boast of, the Xoom 2 Media Edition does manage to make some iPad users a tad jealous.

Heading off to the ASUS Transformer Prime, the biggest selling point of this device is its ability to transform itself into a full-fledged laptop. The keyboard dock, which is bundled separately, allows the tablet to be used as a laptop while extending its battery life. Of course, the dock adds to the price, but still, the Transformer Prime is a great investment for any tablet fan.

Price

Though not yet confirmed, the ASUS Transformer Prime will be priced at around $500, while the Motorola XOOM 2 will probably set you back by $618. The keyboard dock for the Transformer Prime will be priced at $150.

So, what gives the Asus Transformer Prime the edge over the Motorola XOOM 2?

Well, pretty much everything. The battery life, the lower price point, the Tegra 3 processor, and the shiny aluminum design at the back make the Asus Transformer Prime one of the best tablets around. In fact, popular gadget site Engadget has even deemed it as the best Android tablet computer around. Oh, and don't forget, it's a laptop too!

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