Compatibility
Windows OS and Mac OS are constantly being updated to handle new hardware and software. Even with a tablet dock which has a full SD card slot and typically two USB ports, not all hardware is compatible. For example, you can’t connect a printer through the USB port to a tablet. Besides hardware, software compatibility is another major issue. Most programs you use on your computer like Adobe Photoshop, Microsoft Suite, and the Sims aren’t compatible with the Android OS. Tablets are still in the first few years of development, so we will likely see changes and improvements come about in the next few years. However, for right now, laptops are much more convenient for software reasons as well as printing tasks.
Media and Entertainment
The tablet is great for Facebook, Twitter, Pandora, and games in the app section. It makes it easy to read E-Books while on the go and watch videos. However, you obviously can’t play computer games, watch DVDs, or playback CDs like you can with a laptop. Tablets are nice for entertainment on the go, but laptops can offer more options when it comes to media and entertainment—plus they generally have larger screens than tablets which is optimal for watching videos.
Lack of Form
Form factor is by far one of the most crucial points when comparing a tablet and a laptop. This biggest difference is the lack of a physical keyboard when dealing with a tablet. Although a tablet has an on-screen keyboard or attachable keyboards, nothing beats a physical keyboard that you can put your fingers on like with a laptop or netbook. Being able to set your computer in your lap and type away without having to worry about it wobbling is really convenient. If you need to do a lot of typing, the tablet isn’t optimal, and the laptop is far more accessible.
Space
Storage space is a huge difference between a tablet and a laptop. Tablets that are affordable for the normal consumer typically hold anywhere from 4 GB internal storage to 16 GB or 32 GB internal storage. A 32 GB tablet is roughly $350 and up. For that price, you can get a brand new laptop with over 500 GB of hard drive space. Typically 1T in a laptop would cost you less than only 64 GB on a tablet. If you need a lot of storage space for data or files, a tablet will only get you so far before you have to make adjustments.
Productivity
While the tablet is a great tool to send quick emails, check your bank statement, social media networking, and even jot down quick notes, it’s no match for the productivity a laptop can provide for business and school use. Research, writing, editing, creating, and design are easier with a full-functioning laptop. A tablet is helpful for little on-the-go tasks, however, when you’re ready to hunker down and do some real work, a laptop is going to help you get the job done. For the productive techy, a laptop is definitely the number one tool.
So here’s the question: can you replace a laptop with a tablet? Simply put, no. A tablet is great for independence and light tasks. But the fact is you’re going to need a laptop at some point or another. Laptops are more flexible, compatible, faster, and offer more space and performance. Although the tablet craze is still sweeping the nation (and the world for that matter), the laptop has not been deemed dead or useless. Laptops might not be in the spotlight of the world of technology right now, but they still have a place, and they are here to stay!
About the author -:
This article was written by Dixie Somers, a freelance writer who loves to write for business, finance, women’s interests, and technology. She lives in Arizona with her husband and three beautiful daughters. Dixie got her advice for this article from the professionals of Local Circuit Computer Repair, who specialize in laptop repair in Denton, TX.