Home Blog Page 3

Best 10 Inch Tablet to Purchase Today

Man is using a 10 Inch tablet while drinking a cup of coffee

Tablets have become ubiquitous in many households. They can be a great way to entertain your child and keep your cell phone off limits.

Or give you a bigger space to look at if you’ve been staring at your smaller mobile screen.

[amazon box= “B07NHNG1GJ,B01EUC7NAI,B01M6YJEAH,B07BD4FQGJ” template=”table”]

How We Chose Our Ratings

Woman is holding a 10 inch apple ipad and flashed on the screen is some downloaded apps

Image by kropekk_pl from Pixabay

Accuracy is essential to us, so to come up with our ratings, we thoroughly examined customer reviews and testimonials. Who better to tell you if a product is worth it than your fellow consumers? We also look at data or news about tablets and the general brand reputation and combine all that into our final score.

Best 10-Inch Tablets

Apple Ipad Air

[amazon box=”B07NHNG1GJ”]

Just over ten inches, measuring 10.5 inches, the Apple iPad Air is very user-friendly and powerful. It could be the right tablet for you if you have an iPhone and are already familiar with iOS systems because using the tablet will be a breeze. You may also enjoy the iPad Air if you like the streamlined design and for your electronics to have a minimalistic appearance but look slick at the same time.

The Air’s screen is about 9.8 inches long by 6.8 inches wide. It measures 10.5 inches diagonally and is LED-backlit. The tablet is less than a quarter inch thick and weighs around a pound, so it’s very lightweight and portable.

The only buttons on the iPad are the home button on the face of the tablet, the volume adjusters on the side, and a small power button on the top edge. You can save your fingerprint to the home button so that only you can unlock and open the device. The Air is compatible with an Apple Pencil that you can use to “write” or “draw” on the tablet.

The iPad Air is available in silver, gray, or gold and depending on how much storage space you need, you can choose either a 64 or 256-gigabyte capacity. The built-in lithium battery can provide you with up to ten hours of use, and you can recharge the tablet with its power adapter or connect the USB to a laptop or computer.

The tablet has an eight-megapixel camera so that you can snap images and capture video. You can use HDR for your pictures, set a timer to delay your shot, and take live photos so that your images are in motion for a few seconds. You can record videos in 1080p HD so that they look crisp and clear, you can use slo-mo to slow things down, and you can shoot a time-lapse video.

If you want to use Facetime (Apple’s video chat app) or take selfies, the iPad Air also has a seven-megapixel front facing camera with flash, automatic HDR for videos and pictures, and burst mode so that you can quickly snap ten or more photos by holding down the button and choose the best-looking one later.

You can use Siri, Apple’s voice assistant, to power searches, make hands-free phone calls, and listen to music. Siri can also be a helpful tool, along with other features included on the iPad Air, for people with disabilities. You can also customize the display to be more user-friendly for anyone who may experience issues with their vision.

If you have an older iPad, you might be able to trade in the one you have for credit towards purchasing the iPad Air.

Samsung Galaxy Tab A 

[amazon box=”B01EUC7NAI”]

This Tablet uses the Android operating system, so if you’re comfortable using that, then you might enjoy this tablet. A full charge should net you about 13 hours of use.

Similar to the Apple iPad Air, the tablet only has one tactile button on its face, but there are two sensor-type buttons on either side of the home button to bring up all your recently opened apps or to go back on your current screen. The Galaxy is compatible with the S pen that you can use to jot down notes or draw on your tablet.

The Galaxy Tab A has two-gigabytes of RAM and comes with a capacity of 16-gigabytes. However, you can extend your storage to 256GB by buying a MicroSD card. If you need to multitask, this tablet lets you have two apps open on the screen so that you can do things like chat and stream a television show at the same time.

The tablet has an eight-megapixel rear-facing camera and a two-megapixel front-facing camera so that you can take pictures or be in the shot too.

If you have a Samsung Smart TV from 2015 or newer, the Galaxy Tab A has a feature called Quick Connect that lets you put whatever is on your tablet screen onto the television’s display. It also works in reverse. You can continue watching your television show on your tablet.

Almost 3,000 Amazon customers provided feedback on their experience with the Samsung Galaxy Tab A, and about 80 percent of them give it four or five stars. Many buyers say that it’s effortless to use, has a great battery life that lets them use it all day without having to recharge constantly, and that the screen resolution is excellent.

A lot of people who comparison shopped, read reviews and did their research felt that the Galaxy Tab A was a better purchase than some of the other tablets they had considered because of its lower price. Many shoppers thought that they were getting pretty much the same features as some of the other pricier options.

Some of the highest rated features for the tablet were the sound clarity from the stereo speakers, resolution of photos and videos taken, and quality of the materials for the construction of the tablet itself. However, some buyers had issues with the tablet’s longevity and experienced problems where it would shut off on its own.

Amazon Fire HD 10

[amazon box=”B01M6YJEAH”]

If you love all things Amazon (think Kindle, Alexa, Prime), and plan to use the tablet mostly for streaming movies or playing games, then you might be interested in Amazon Fire Tablets. It comes with a 10.1-inch display with more than two million pixels in full HD 1080p resolution, and you can select from a 32-gigabyte or 64-gigabyte capacity. However, you can expand to 256GB with a microSD card.

You can choose from:

  • Black
  • Red
  • Blue

There are no buttons on the face of the Fire HD 10. The power and volume buttons are on the top edge of the tablet.

The Fire HD has 2 GB RAM and up to 1.8 GHz quad-core processor so connecting to Wi-Fi and streaming content, watching high-definition movies, and playing games should be relatively smooth. If you have an Amazon Prime membership, you can connect your account to the tablet to access their videos. You can also download Android apps.

If you’ve got your hands busy, you can ask Alexa to help you out and play music, start apps, and stop videos. If you have an Echo in your house, you can pair it with the Fire to make hands-free phone calls or send messages. If you have a Fire TV, you can use the Second Screen feature to put your tablet’s display on the television.

You can read ebooks on your Fire HD with the Kindle eBook app. Fire has a feature called Blue Shade that adjusts the backlight for those who like to read before bed.

With a full charge, you should be able to enjoy the Fire for about ten hours so that you can take it with you without keeping your eyes peeled for outlets. The tablet has a two-megapixel rear-facing camera, a VGA front-facing camera, and Dolby Atmos stereo speakers. Amazon backs the Fire HD with a one-year limited warranty.

Over 33,000 customers have reviewed their Fire HD 10 purchase, and about 80 percent have rated it with four or five stars. Buyers enjoy the convenience of pairing their tablet with Alexa to have her start movies, cast to the television, and play music. The battery life may not be as long as some other tablets, but most users felt that it was sufficient and that they would highly recommend the Fire.

If you like to read books or use Amazon’s Audible, the tablet is an excellent platform for bibliophiles. One thing that many reviewers noted as a negative was that Amazon’s browser, called Silk, is not supported by many websites and is not very useful. Also, some people, even those who had previous versions of the Fire, did not feel that the HD 10 was user-friendly.

Huawei MediaPad M5

[amazon box=”B07BD4FQGJ”]

Huawei’s presence has been steadily growing on the Android scene as well as with laptops. If you like their products, then you might also enjoy their tablet.

The Huawei MediaPad M5 has a 10.8-inch display and has 2.5D curved glass to make it almost three dimensional with a resolution of 2560 x 1600. Harman/Kardon stereo speakers provide fantastic sound, and the tablet’s polished metal body keeps things sleek and simple. This powerful tablet has 4 GB RAM, a 2.1 GHz processor and a storage capacity of 64 gigabytes.

It only has a home button on its face and the power and volume buttons on one side.

You can achieve a full charge on the M5 in less than three hours, and that should last you for about 12 hours. The Huawei has ClariVu, a feature that uses algorithms to adjust the display so that you get the clearest picture when you’re watching a video. The tablet also automatically changes its display to reduce blue light strain on your eyes depending on the light in your environment.

The rear-facing camera has 13 megapixels, and the front-facing camera has eight megapixels, so both sides deliver crisp videos and images.

About 80 percent of customers rated the Huawei MediaPad M5 with four or five stars. People who purchased the tablet felt it had produced clear audio, had a long battery life and thought the tablet was well constructed with quality materials. Reviewers said that they were able to multitask without affecting the MediaPad’s performance and that any pictures taken with either camera were very sharp.

Users liked the wide display and high resolution for watching movies and that the tablet acts somewhat like a phone when you turn the screen from portrait to landscape, and it automatically goes full screen.

One thing many buyers did not like is that the tablet doesn’t come with a headphone jack which is not convenient for people who want to enjoy their content privately. Also, some people experienced issues with using Bluetooth and Wi-Fi at the same time.

Buyer’s Guide

Flashed on Samsung Galaxy Tablet Screen is a Google App

Image by Photo Mix from Pixabay

If you’re shopping around for a tablet, you can become overwhelmed by so many features. What are some basic things to keep in mind to help you narrow down the field? Think about the main things you’ll be doing with the tablet.

If you take a lot of pictures and videos and need storage, find the tablet with the most significant capacity or the option to expand with a MicroSD card.

If you like to stream videos or play games, compare the RAM numbers on your top choices to see which one is better suited for you.

If you think that you would like a smaller tablet there are also seven and eight inch tablet options, or if you’d like a larger tablet there are 12 inch tablets.

If you plan to use your tablet on the go, find the one with the most extended battery life per charge.

If you’re still on the fence about which tablet to choose, find the one with the most flexible warranty and return policy so you’ll have peace of mind should any issues come up after you’ve handed over your hard-earned money.

Featured Image by Karolina Grabowska from Pixabay

Acer Iconia One 10 Review: Everything You Need to Know

Laptops are great tools to have for when you need a balance between power and mobility, but they aren’t always the best solution.

If you do light computing work and you don’t need a lot of power, a tablet might suit your needs. It’s more portable than a laptop and is lighter. It’s also less expensive on the whole. This review focusses on the Acer’s Iconia One 10.

The Acer Iconia One 10 is a 10 inch tablet that runs on the Android 7.0 Nougat operating system. It supports many of the Google and Android applications, as well as a few third-party apps. Android is well-known to be developer-friendly when it comes to apps.

The Iconia One 10 doesn’t have the same raw power, speed, and functionality that some of its higher-priced competitors do, but for a budget tablet, you have a good deal on your hands.

Features

[amazon fields=”B014X9SME4″ value=”thumb” image_size=”large”]

[amazon fields=”B014X9SME4″ value=”button”]

Now we’ll go a little more in-depth about what this tablet can offer for the price you pay for it.

Display

The display of the Iconia One 10 is 10.1 inches diagonal and has a 1280 x 800 screen resolution, which isn’t the highest we’ve seen, but it performs well enough for average use. This tablet, however, does not have HD capability.

One point in the display’s favor is that it has a wide viewing angle. Many LCD screens have the problem of distorted color when you look at it from an angle. The Acer Iconia One 10 has a 75-degree viewing angle on each side, letting multiple people see what’s on the screen.

The In-Plane Switching (IPS) technology of the display allows a wider viewing angle, but it sacrifices some refresh rate. This is why the tablet doesn’t have HD enabled. HD tablets and high-end displays use Twisted Nematic (TN) layouts in their screens. There is a faster refresh rate, but viewing the screen at an angle is difficult

Sound

The Iconia One 10 has internal speakers, but they are thin at the higher registers of sound. They have about 90 dB of volume, which is enough to fill a medium-sized room. However, we wouldn’t recommend using this tablet for serious music playing or as a sound system component. If you use earbuds with your tablet, it might have better sound quality.

Operating System and Utilities

As mentioned, the Acer Iconia One 10 uses Android 7.0. Included with this operating system are a set of useful tools, chief among which is the EZ Splitter utility. It allows you to have two or more windows open at once without having to switch between them, and this program works with most Google tools and Android apps.

You’ll need to experiment and find out what setup works best for you when dealing with the EZ Splitter utility because it can affect the tablet’s performance depending on which two apps you have paired together.

The Nougat operating system supports cloud connectivity and support, meaning that you can upload and download your data using the cloud.

Memory and Storage

Even if you plan on using the cloud, you’ll still need to have some onboard storage and RAM. RAM, or Random Access Memory, refers to the memory you have available for currently-open and cached apps and data. The tablet we looked at for this Acer Iconia One 10 review had 2GB of RAM.

It also has 16GB of internal storage, not including a potential microSD card. This addition can add up to 32 GB of storage space to your total. While not up to the standards of laptops or desktops, you can get a healthy amount of music, movies, or photos onto your tablet for your enjoyment.

For processing power, this tablet has a quad-core processor. The more cores a processor has, the more streamlined its operation can be because tasks get split between the cores, allowing them to run simultaneously.

Cameras

No mobile device is complete without digital cameras to snap pictures of your favorite and treasured moments. The Acer Iconia One 10 has two cameras: one in the front and one in the back. The front-facing camera is the weaker and lower-resolution one of the pair, at only 2 megapixels.

The other camera, facing the back, has a 5-megapixel screen resolution, which is considerably better. The resolution refers to how sharp an image a camera can take, in terms of how many pixels the image contains. The higher the number, the more the image can be zoomed in and still remain clear.

Battery Life

Because a tablet is portable and you presumably want to use it for a reasonable length of time, you need to have a long battery life. Luckily for the Acer Iconia One 10, it does extremely well in this area. The lithium-ion battery recharges through a micro-USB port and has up to 9 hours of battery life when running at its maximum performance.

The battery is stated to have a 6,100 mAh capacity, or milliamperes per hour. This is the maximum amount of current it can pass with an hour of battery life. As tablets go, we haven’t found many that exceed this battery life. If you expect to be without access to AC power, you’re in good hands.

Temperature

The biggest problem we have with this tablet is the temperature. Although it’s larger than similar models, it doesn’t seem to have as much cooling capacity as it should. One temperature measurement we took after high-demand use was 110 degrees Fahrenheit. This is hotter than is comfortable or safe; overheating electronics can ruin them or cause a fire.

You can buy this tablet on various markets and retail outlets, such as Amazon, Newegg, WalMart, Best Buy, and others.

Comparably Priced Models

In this Acer Iconia One 10 review, we’ll also provide you other recommendations and comparisons to other, similar models so you can decide which fits your needs best.

Internal Storage

[amazon fields=”B07Z63W3K8″ value=”thumb” image_size=”large”]

[amazon fields=”B07Z63W3K8″ value=”button”]

If you want something with more internal storage, try the Lenovo Tab 4. Where the Acer Iconia One 10 has 16GB of internal storage without SD adapter, the Lenovo Tab 4 has 32GB of storage. It’s possible that internal storage can be slightly faster than SD cards. In most applications, even a small speed advantage can help with performance. Lenovo is a trusted brand that excels in making budget notebooks, laptops, desktops, and tablets.

Perks and Camera

[amazon fields=”B00V49LNCU” value=”thumb” image_size=”large”]

[amazon fields=”B00V49LNCU” value=”button”]

Tablet manufacturers often partner with software developers to provide free trials of software to users that purchase their devices. The Samsung Galaxy Tab A provides users with a three-month free trial of several different subscriptions and software pieces, mainly Google Play Music and YouTube Red. Normally, this would cost about an additional fee.

The Galaxy Tab A also has two cameras like the Iconia. However, the rear camera is 8 megapixels, and the front is 5 megapixels. The tradeoff for more powerful cameras is that the Galaxy has an 8-inch display compared to the Iconia’s 10-inch display.

Higher Screen Resolution

[amazon fields=”B011TVF5QC” value=”thumb” image_size=”large”]

[amazon fields=”B011TVF5QC” value=”button”]

As we’ve mentioned with the Iconia, it has a relatively low resolution: 1280 x 800. If you want to be able to watch HD movies or YouTube clips you’ll want something with a higher screen resolution. This is where the Asu​​s ZenPad S 8.0 comes in. With its 2048 x 1536 screen resolution, every image you view will be as clear as if you were there in person to see it.

The tradeoff here is the earlier operating system. The Iconia One 10 has the 7.0 Nougat, but the Asus model uses the Android 5.0 system. It also has 2GB of RAM

Peripherals

[amazon fields=”B0193YMHUO” value=”thumb” image_size=”large”]

[amazon fields=”B0193YMHUO” value=”button”]

The biggest drawback of any tablet is the lack of a keyboard. If you’re used to working on a laptop, the lack of a keyboard and trackpad can drastically reduce your efficiency. Although many tablets support a keyboard attachment, you have to buy it separately. The Nextbook Flexx 9 comes packaged with a keyboard and trackpad attachment, saving you this purchasing step.

If you do a lot of regular typing and don’t want to use Google Docs or a similar service, the Flexx comes preinstalled with a year’s subscription to Office 365. The tradeoff it has with the Iconia is the slightly smaller display: 9 inches rather than 10.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose a Good Tablet

When you’re choosing tablets, you have hundreds of options from which to choose. Picking the right one can be challenging, so we have a few basic tips to get you started on your shopping for a new tablet.

Operating Systems – Android or iOS?

Although tablets can support Windows, the two big competitors for operating systems are Android and iOS. Android tablets are often more general-purpose and support the download of third-party apps. If you prefer a more customizable user experience, then Android is likely your better bet.

On the other hand, iOS is more insular, as are most Apple products. Apple’s proprietary operating system only supports apps hosted on the Apple store created by in-house developers. Apple products are clean and sleek-looking, both on the outside and within the operating system. If you want a streamlined experience, an iOS tablet might be a good option for you.

Possible Uses for a Tablet

Next, you have to consider what your primary activity is with the tablet. Depending on what you’re doing, you’ll want to focus on different technical specifications, just as you would with a laptop. Here are some of the things you’ll want to check:

  • Amount of storage
  • Amount of RAM
  • Screen resolution
  • Operating system
  • Processor speed

If you intend to do a lot of high-performance work, you’ll want a powerful processor – at least 1.2GHz and at least 2 GB of RAM. This processor speed may not seem like much, but it’s powerful for tablet processors. Mobile devices trade in power and speed what they receive in portability.

If you’re going to use your tablet to do visual work or just watch movies, your primary criteria should be RAM, processing power, and screen resolution. Having a high resolution lets you have a clearer image and zoom in to see things more closely.

Also, pay attention to the operating system. Once you’ve decided on Android or iOS, you have to figure out which version you’ll need. The more recent one you can get, the better, because they add support for more apps with each iteration. An app designed for Android 7.0 Nougat, for example, won’t work for the 5.0 Marshmallow version.

Ergonomics

Finally, you should look at the ergonomics of the tablet: that is, how comfortable it is to hold and use. You don’t want it to be too heavy. It should weigh no more than about a pound, and it should be no more than about 0.6 inches thick.

You also should get a tablet with a slightly rough finish on the back. For one thing, it allows you to maintain a good grip. More importantly. If you set your tablet on an elevated surface, a rougher surface prevents it from sliding off due to an errant swipe of the hand. If this happens, you could end up with an expensive paperweight shaped like a broken tablet.

Another feature you might want is a support stand. A support stand lets you prop the tablet up without having to hold it.

Final Thoughts

From our analysis, we can conclude that the best value for your money in all-around performance and aesthetics is the Acer Iconia One 10. Although some other tablets outperform it in certain categories, you likely couldn’t find a better general-use tablet.

Top 10 Best Tablets for Reading: Everything You Need to Know

Reading a story on tablet while drinking coffee

Are you looking for your next e-reader to upgrade to? Check out our top choices for e-readers that you can choose from.

There is little doubt that tablet readers are a very convenient way to keep your favorite books and audible books on hand at all times. Thankfully these tablet readers come with extended batteries that allow you hours of uninterrupted reading, and they’re easy to tote around so you will have access to your books whenever you might want them.

In this article will be reviewing 10 of the best tablet specifically meant for reading and everything that you need to know about them when you get faced with a choice of choosing one to purchase.

How We Rate Our Choices

We rate our choices based on a few factors that determine which is the best out of everything we’ve selected. These ratings include:

​Functionality

​Can you put a cellular plan on your chosen e-reader or are you forced to stick to only Wi-Fi? These are just some of the questions that we ask when we are rating our products.

Top 10 Best Tablets for Reading

Man wearing business suit browsing using tablet

​Image Source: Pixabay.com

[amazon link=”B075M8FDWM” title=”​Kindle Oasis” /]

[amazon box=”B075M8FDWM”]

Anyone who’s familiar with e-readers knows the name Kindle and all of the models in their lineup. Amazon has done amazing things to upgrade their e-readers, and the Kindle Oasis is not an exception. Currently, the Kindle Oasis only comes in two colors, which are graphite or champagne gold which gives its owner and elegant and refined appearance.

As far as Kindles are concerned, this is the first in their lineup that’s waterproof up to two meters for as long as 60 minutes. This design element enables you to enjoy a book by the pool or by the ocean without much worried about it getting damaged.

That’s also one of the largest and highest revolutions displays that kindle has out currently. At seven-inches and 30 pixels per inch, you’ll get over 30 percent more words per page than in previous Kindle models and a regular reading session that doesn’t have glare or makes it difficult to read due to bright sunlight.

The Kindle Oasis also comes with audible which allows you to access the most extensive library of audiobooks that you can take with you anywhere that you want. This fact is true thanks to the Bluetooth capabilities that the Kindle Oasis comes with, so you can connect it to your car, or any Bluetooth supported headphones.

You can pick up the Kindle Oasis on Amazon, and you have a choice between the eight-gigabyte or the 32-gigabyte storage options.

[amazon link=”B01L2VGDZQ” title=”iPad Mini 4″ /]

[amazon box=”B01L2VGDZQ”]

If you’re an iPad fan, then you know that the iPad Mini 4 is probably the best option if you’re looking for a good eReader. Well, it’s called a mini, it does have a 7.9-inch retina display that has an anti-reflective coating, so you don’t have to worry about glare is getting in the way of your story.

Of course, this is much more than just a simple e-reader; the iPad Mini can do much more than let you enjoy books. And thanks to the fact that it comes with 128 GB internal storage, you can take advantage of things like your favorite books, movies, and apps that you wanted you to use while you’re out and about.

It comes with an eight-megapixel camera with HDR and 1080p HD video which makes the Mini perfect for capturing Unforgettable moments that you can reflect on. My front camera features a 1.2-megapixel camera so you can take advantage of the Facetime features that the Mini 4 comes pre-installed.

You’ll average 10 hours of battery life while just using it to read or surf the web off of a Wi-Fi network. You’ll go down to nine hours when you go off of cellular service to do the same. It’s small enough to fit in your hand, and you can choose between three different color options:

  • ​Silver
  • ​Slate Grey
  • ​Gold

[amazon link=”B077Y84B2C” title=”Barnes and Noble Nook Glowlight 3″ /]

[amazon box=”B077Y84B2C”]

The Barnes & Noble Nook GlowLight 3 is one of the latest models that’s come out for the Nook series. You can read comfortably at any time of the day thanks to the seamless day-to-night reading that you can get from the night mode feature. A soft-touch finish on the front and back which makes it easier to grip onto, so you don’t accidentally drop it.

On either side of the device are buttons specifically meant for page-turning which gives you a faster reading experience. You get to read your favorite books on a 6-inch screen what up gif 8 gigabytes of storage space for all your books. Battery works great too, you’ll on average get over 50 days on a single charge of your neck which equates to a lot of reading.

After the purchase of your Nook, you can access the free Nook app that you can put on any Android or iPhone device. If you should ever forget your Nook, you can continue where you left off on your phone or another mobile device, and when you switch back to your Nook, it picks up where you left off last.

With the Nook you’ll also be able to get free lifetime in store support by visiting your local Barnes & Noble store where they can help you get started and fix any technical problems.

[amazon link=”B07CXG6C9W” title=”Kindle Paperwhite” /]

[amazon box=”B07CXG6C9W”]

Amazon’s Kindle Paperwhite features a lot of the same features as the Oasis including the new and improved waterproofing feature which protects your device from Sudden weather changes or an accidental drop into the pool. The Paperwhite is one of the thinnest Kindles on the market, and this one is explicitly the thinnest Paperwhite that they’ve produced.

You’ll get a 300 PPI glare-free display that reads like paper thanks to its innovative design. Not even bright sunlight will disturb your reading. You can get 8 gigabytes of storage with this model, or you can choose the 32 gigabytes storage option to hold more of your favorite ebooks and audiobooks.

With Audible paired with the device, you can listen to any of your favorite audiobooks, and the Bluetooth capabilities that come with the tablet can connect seamlessly with your car or any Bluetooth related speakers or headphones. A single charge will last you weeks before you need to do it again, even with the adjustable light features that come built into the system.

[amazon link=”B01M6YJEAH” title=”Amazon Kindle Fire 10 HD” /]

[amazon box=”B01M6YJEAH”]

The Kindle HD Fire 10 has one of the most popular Kindle Fires that Amazon has produced, featuring a beautiful HD 10-inch screen that allows you to watch all of your favorite movies and play all of your favorite apps and beautiful color and resolution.

You have a few options when it comes to purchasing your new Kindle Fire 10; you can choose between a 32GB storage space or a 64GB storage space, additionally with whether or not you wish to have the standing case with it.

There are also three colors to choose from, marine blue, punch red, are black. A Kindle Fire HD 10 also comes with Alexa support where you can utilize the hands-free mode to pause videos, open apps, display the weather, or open up the Amazon Kindle app to access your favorite books.

It features a lovely quad-core processor that allows your tablet to run up to 30% faster than previous generations thanks to additional RAM that they implemented.  I will also be able to enjoy up to 10 hours of battery life, even if you are using your tablet for other things then just reading.

  • ​Kindle Books
  • ​Adobe Reader
  • ​Youboox
  • ​Google Books

[amazon link=”B01NBH5QE8″ title=”Lenovo Yoga Book 10.1″ /]

[amazon box=”B01NBH5QE8″]

The Lenovo Yoga book 10.1 is the lightest and thinnest Android tablet on the market, weighing no more than two pounds. Not only does this feature make it easier to hold for long periods while reading, but it also means that it’s easy to tote around wherever you may need to go which means you can bring the library of your favorite books with you.

Just because the frame is thin doesn’t mean that it doesn’t perform well. The tablet has a 64- gigabyte solid state hard drive and a four- gigabyte IP DDR3 stick of RAM for faster and stable app performance. The Lenovo Yoga Book also provides up to an incredible 15 hours of battery life based off of one charge.

You can digitize all of your notes thanks to the Pen stylus that comes with it which conveniently turns your tablet into a notebook at any time that you might need to take notes. The tablet itself is 10-inch and has full high-definition display features in case you feel like binge-watching your favorite TV show while you’re out and about.

[amazon link=”B00ZY7ZUIG” title=”Samsung Galaxy Tab ​​A” /]

[amazon box=”B00ZY7ZUIG”]

With 14 hours of battery life and 32 gigabytes of built-in storage what’s the ability to expand your room up to 256 gigabytes, the Samsung Galaxy Tab a is an excellent choice if you need to take your favorite books and games on the go. When you purchase this tablet, you’ll get three months of YouTube Red for free, as well as Google, play music.

This tablet is light and Sleek which makes it easy to hold onto for long periods, or conveniently stow it away in your purse or bag to take it with you wherever you want to go. You’ll get to enjoy 8 inches of crystal clear display with a highly Interactive touch-screen. The screen itself is anti-glare and adjust to the light to make it easier on your eyes.

[amazon link=”B01AZ8ERHI” title=”Samsung Galaxy Tab A7″ /]

[amazon box=”B01AZ8ERHI”]

A Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 is another multifunctional tablet, but you can utilize for reading purposes, and we find that it’s ideal for rating because it fits perfectly in hand with its lightweight design. The Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 features a crisp 7-in multi-touch screen display with a resolution of 1280 by 800 pixels.

If you have an Amazon account and you like to read Kindle books, you can download the app right onto the device and read all of your favorite titles and genres Within a few quick moments. The quad-core processor that this device feature allows the tablet to boot up quickly which will enable you to get to your favorite books faster.

The battery allows you up to 11 hours of consistent use which means that you don’t have to charge it to enjoy reading for long sessions continuously.

Featured Image Source: Pixabay.com

How to Install Google Play on Kindle Fire

google play on kindle fire

Installing Google Play on Kindle Fire is possible, but you’ll need some instructions. In this detailed guide, we’ll show you how in minutes!

Google Play is the most popular app store in the world. But despite Kindle utilizing Android, it doesn’t come with the Google Play Store. However, there is a simple workaround.

In this guide, we’ll be showing you how to complete it. All you’ll need is a solid internet connection and your Kindle device. It shouldn’t take longer than 30-minutes, especially if you have some existing technical knowledge.

Why Isn’t the Play Store Pre-Installed?

Amazon, the inventor of the Kindle Fire, wants you to use their proprietary software and to install applications through their store. By doing so, they can ensure that they get more revenue for their business. Likewise, they don’t want people to overload their machine and then complain that certain apps are not functioning correctly when they weren’t intended to be.

Remember, the Android operating system which runs on the Kindle is owned by Google, which is why the Play Store will work correctly on it. Therefore, you shouldn’t worry about whether it is compatible or whether it should function as expected.

Is This Illegal?

legal and illegal word on a piece of paper

Image Source: Pixabay.com

No, downloading these files isn’t illegal. However, depending on your region it might be against the terms of service of Amazon and what they want you to do with their Kindle. However, there is little to no chance that they will find out that you have downloaded and are using the Google Play on Kindle Fire.

The Kindle operates entirely on Android, which is the operating system which was invented and is run by Google itself. Therefore, installing a Google application onto a Google property is highly unlikely to be in contradiction to any contracts or terms of service. Thousands of people do this every day without any fear.

How Does This Work?

This installation isn’t overly complicated. It doesn’t involve any hacking, rooting or scripting. All you are doing is downloading the Google Play store through a third-party website, where the files are separate. If you were on an Android device and downloaded it, it would come from Google. Otherwise, there is no practical difference in how it works.

Each of the files serves a specific purpose and will install the entirety of the software onto the Kindle machine that you’re using. To get these files, you’ll need to navigate to the relevant mirrors on your Kindle tablet. You could alternatively do this using a Windows PC. However, this would involve a rooting script, which is more complicated.

Plus, we believe that it will take you far longer. Downloading a few files on a Kindle takes minutes at most, especially if you are on a solid connection. Once the files are on the Kindle Fire, you can install them through the Downloads folder. They will unpack, and then you can open the Play Store, which will initiate any updates which you will need to continue.

Installing Google Play on Kindle Fire Devices

The process to install Google Play on Kindle Fire isn’t complicated, and you can do it entirely from your Fire device with little fuss. The only thing you’ll need is a stable connection to the internet, which is why we would recommend that you do this installation in your home when you have time to spare. It shouldn’t take more than 30-minutes, much of which will be waiting.

Unlike other workarounds, there is no need for rooting of the device. It also doesn’t require any scripting or advanced knowledge. You’ll simply be clicking a few buttons and downloading a file or two. Installing the store will take only a few minutes of effort, and then you’ll need to wait for the files to download and install. Meanwhile, you can relax.

We are confident that this will work on the version 5.3.2, although there are reports that it works on all newer versions as well. As long as they don’t drastically change the operating system, this workaround should work properly for years to come. To check your version, you can go into Settings > Device Options > System Updates and see the number at the top of the screen.

Step One: Downloading the Files

download word on keyboard

​Image Source:  Pixabay.com

Before you are able to install the files, you must change your settings slightly to allow your device to install files that aren’t directly from Amazon. To do so, go to Settings and then into Security, and enable the setting called “Apps from Unknown Sources.” Don’t worry; you can always disable this later to add extra protection to your Kindle machine

You’ll need to download and install the necessary APK files, which are extra libraries which will start to installation sequence. To do so, open the Silk browser on the tablet and navigate to this very page. You’ll then need to go to the following links:

To download these files, you should click the link and then scroll down. You’ll see a link called “Download APK,” and you should tap this button which will start grabbing the file for you. When it does, a pop-up will appear on your device telling you that the file could be harmful because it can install files. Ignore this and tap on “OK” to proceed.

You need to get all four of these files before you can proceed. Each is a necessary component of this process, and without every file, you will get an error message if you try to continue and skip this step.

Step Two: Installing the Google Play Store

Now that you have all of the files you need to open them. To do so, close the Silk browser and navigate to the Docs application which should be on your Home tab. Inside, tap on “Local Storage” and then “Download” to find the new files. Remember, you need to install them in the order that they are listed above which should be:

  • ​Google Account Manager (com.google.android.gsf.login)
  • ​Google Services Framework (com.google.android.gsf)
  • ​Google Play Services (com.google.android.gms)
  • ​Google Play Store (com.android.vending)

Failing to follow this order will lead to errors. Each following file relies on resources and integrations from the previous, making it mission critical that you do it in the right order, without skipping any steps.

Tap the first file to begin, and you’ll then need to tap “Install” at the bottom. Towards the upper-left of the screen, you’ll see which file is processing. Once it finishes, start the next and so on, until all are complete.

If you are struggling, restart the device. You should always check that you aren’t set the install apps to an SD card. You can check this setting in Storage > SD Card.

Step Three: Open Google Play on Kindle Fire

Once you have installed the final file, you can navigate to your home screen. You should see that the Google Play is right there like it would be on any Android device. You should tap to open it and then sign into the application with your usual Google account. It might operate slowly at first or seem bugged, but give it a little time to process, and it will work.

They usually need to update and download multiple files, which can take ten minutes or more. Be patient, and it will soon complete. Otherwise, start searching through the store and find the apps that you need. We would recommend that you download and install one quickly to test that it’s working properly. If not, uninstall and start from the beginning to complete the steps.

Installing Through a Windows PC

Desktp computer

​Image Source: Unsplash.com

There is an alternative method for getting the Google Play Store onto your Kindle device, but it’s more complicated. It requires a higher number of parts and also some technical knowledge. For this reason, we’d only recommend it to those who are confident using a little more tech experience to get this working.

To begin, go into the settings and tap “Device Options” and locate the serial number field. Tap it repeatedly until a “Developer Options” appears below it. Go into this and locate “Enable ADB” and activate it. By doing so, you’ll be able to connect your tablet to your computer using a USB cable.

You’ll need to visit the Root Junk site now and download the necessary .zip with the included files. Extract this .zip and then double click on the .bat file to start the process. On your Fire tablet, you should “Allow USB debugging” and then type “2” into the first screen that appears and press Enter. The script automatically installs the files and sets the correct permissions.

You’ll now need to wait until it’s complete. Reboot your Fire when you are told to do so and then unplug the USB cable and restart it. When it turns back on you should go back into your settings and disable and ADB option that you enabled earlier. Finally, head to the Google Play Store application that should be on your home screen and start it up.

You’ll be prompted to sign into your account. After doing so, download an app that you want and make sure that it works. You might need to wait a few moments while it completes any updates that were not in the script file that you got from Root Junk. Typically, this shouldn’t take longer than a couple of minutes if you are on a good internet connection.

The Best Stylus Pens To Use With Your Tablet

best stylus

If you’re looking for the best stylus pens to use on your tablet, you came to the right place. We looked at hundreds to help you make the right choice.

Tablets are becoming more popular each year, especially as the technology improves. What was once a gimmick has now turned into a must-have, particularly among students and retirees. But the precision that you can get with your fingers can leave you wanting. Stylus pens are a great alternative, but unfortunately, the branded products are incredibly expensive.

If you’re looking to skip the Apple and Galaxy pens, hopefully, saving yourself hundreds of dollars, we’ve got a range of options for you. 

In this guide, we’ll show you a vast array of different price points and styles — each with their unique advantages. We’ve ranked them in the order that will appeal to the majority of users, but if you have uncommon needs, then you might find that an alternative is superior for yourself.

​Comparison Table

[amazon box=”B00N1BRWLA,B01N2OJX82,B07N4GNGDR,B01IHBVGOM,B008ULX012,B07528YXC1,B00ZGL6FIE,B01JUJR9X2″ template=”table”]

How We Chose Our Rankings

We believe that the best way to conduct research is to use the largest data set possible. Rather than trialing products individually, we rely on the reviews that are posted online across a variety of different sites. By doing so, we can aggregate hundreds and thousands of opinions, rather than relying on a single person’s subjective experience.

To begin, we must narrow down the products into a manageable list. By doing so, we give ourselves much more time to dive into the specificities of each item. We then score them against a list of factors:

  • ​Affordability
  • ​Effectiveness
  • ​Durability
  • ​Comfort
  • ​Precision

For this item, we believe these are the most important considerations. Again, depending on your needs, say if you’re an artist or a student, you might find that one pen is better than another which could be superior for the masses.

The Top 8 Best Stylus Pens

[amazon link=”B00N1BRWLA” title=”MEKO Universal Stylus” /]

[amazon box=”B00N1BRWLA”]

In our opinion, this is by far the best stylus pen for the vast majority of users. It combines a large thumb style button at the top of the pen, which is good for non-precise actions like selection apps and typing. But for more precision work like writing and drawing, the fine tip on the end of the pen is excellent and gives you accuracy that wouldn’t be possible otherwise.

We believe that most users of stylus pens are looking to write as well as to point. Therefore, having this pen on end is vital. While it’s not as precise as very expensive options, primarily due to the size, it does give you plenty of precision, more than enough for writing and taking notes. You’ll also see that it has a plastic cover over the tip to prevent scratching.

But it’s not just effectiveness that matters, the value for money is also fantastic. At this price point, for a pack of two pens, it’s hard to find a close competitor. You can buy cheaper alternatives, but they offer weak performance and aren’t durable and long lasting like this product. In our opinion, it’s the best stylus on the market.

[amazon link=”B01N2OJX82″ title=”Mixoo Capacitive Stylus Pen” /]

[amazon box=”B01N2OJX82″]

The Mixoo is very similar to the MEKO. The difference is that it’s noticeably more expensive, considering you only get a single item rather than a dual pack. However, the quality is slightly higher, according to the reviews that we saw. Plus, you’ll get a few replacements in the packaging which are fantastic and will extend its lifespan.

[amazon link=”B07N4GNGDR” title=”Active Stylus Digital Pen” /]

[amazon box=”B07N4GNGDR”]

If you’re looking for the highest level of performance, you need this pen. With a copper mesh button on the top and a tiny and precise copper tip, you’ll be able to tap comfortably and quickly switch to an incredibly accurate tool for drawing and writing. By far the best on this list in terms of effectiveness, you’ll experience no skipping or jumping.

With a high-quality and sturdy copper point, you’ll get maximum conductivity. The result is that you won’t lose connection, ensuring that what you write or draw appears on the screen. Cheaper tools often disconnect, meaning that you’ll see jumps or gaps, even though you kept contact throughout the entire movement.

For artists, we don’t think there is a better option at this price range. You need the most precise tool you can get, and this is the answer. The smaller the point, the better you’ll be able to draw, and this has the smallest tip that we’ve seen on any stylus. For this reason, we would recommend that every artist stretches their budget to get this pen.

While it doesn’t have a physical ink pen, this is an upper tier device for dedicated users who spend long periods on their tablets. If you’re looking for a pointer to replace your thumb, you don’t need to spend this much and would benefit more from the MEKO pen rather than spending more on this item.

[amazon link=”B01IHBVGOM” title=”LIBERRWAY Stylus Pen 10 Pack” /]

[amazon box=”B01IHBVGOM”]

We want to start by being honest; this isn’t the best stylus on the market. It’s not even good, but it’s incredibly affordable. If you’re the kind of person who wants one for the sole person of not having to use your finger for pressing the screen, this is the right choice. You don’t need exceptional conductivity; you need a decent tool at a bargain price.

This pack comes with ten within it, making them pennies per piece. The truth is that the vast majority of users will lose their stylus within a month. They are tiny and can easily fall under a cushion, never to be seen again. But with a huge value pack like this, you’ll never have to worry about misplacing one.

Given the ridiculously low price that they charge for this product, what you get is quite good. The build quality is average, they have a decent weighting, and the conductivity is acceptable. Plus, with a clip on the top like a normal ink pen, you can attach it to your pants or shirt and decrease the chance of you losing or misplacing it.

For non-technical users who never intend to write or draw, we highly recommend that you try these first. If they don’t suit your purpose, you’ve only wasted a few bucks and can stretch for a pricier model. But for most people, they will be more than adequate and can save you money in the long run.

[amazon link=”B008ULX012″ title=”AmazonBasics Executive Stylus” /]

[amazon box=”B008ULX012″]

Nearly identical to the LIBERRWAY tools that we just reviewed, it comes in a stylish and professional color. Other than that, you’re paying more for a single unit compared to what you pay for a ten pack from the previous brand. For this reason, there is no way that we can recommend it unless you are a working professional and value your appearance supremely.

[amazon link=”B07528YXC1″ title=”Evach Active Stylus Digital” /]

[amazon box=”B07528YXC1″]

At first glance you might think this is the Active Stylus Digital Pen, it certainly looks nearly identical. However, when you read the reviews, you’ll recognize that it doesn’t offer the same performance. On the other hand, that’s not to say that it’s bad. It’s very good, but it’s not competitive to the previous Active stylus while costing more.

Therefore, anyone that would benefit from a tool like this, particularly writers and artists, would be wise to opt for the Active. The problem with this tool is that durability isn’t fantastic. Many found that it skipped or jumped across the screen because of a poor connection to the device. Likewise, some users had their pens break within a week or less of use.

Given the price that you pay, it’s not reasonable to assume that you would only get such a short lifetime. 

[amazon link=”B00ZGL6FIE” title=”Stylus Pen 2 in 1″ /]

[amazon box=”B00ZGL6FIE”]

At first glance, these 2-in-1 tools are pretty nifty. Reviews suggest that the ink portion of the device works as intended, which is a huge plus for users who need to swap between their tablet and paper quickly. 

Multiple reviewers filed complaints because it fell off within a couple of days of them receiving the product. Given that the entire purpose of getting this product is to use as a stylus, it’s not acceptable. For this reason, we don’t recommend that you get this item.

[amazon link=”B01JUJR9X2″ title=”UROPHYLLA 10pcs Universal 2 in 1″ /]

[amazon box=”B01JUJR9X2″]

Buyers Guide: Choosing the Best Stylus

Pointing on tablet using a tablet pen

​Image Source: Unsplash.com

When you’re deciding on a product like a stylus, where there a multitude of options, you need to consider your needs. How often do you write on paper? Do you draw or require maximal precision? How big are your hands? All of these considerations will play a role in deciding which is the right item for you.

If you need to draw, for example, you can instantly rule out a vast number of options. You need a small point end for maximum dexterity. Likewise, if you swap between a tablet and paper, as many doctors and vets do, you’ll need a stylus that combines ink with a rubberized end for the screen. By doing this first, you can save yourself a huge amount of time.

From there, you should decide how much you are willing to spend. In this market, the more you spend, the better the product will be, up to a point. But especially towards the bottom of the market, bargain items are going to give you terrible results. Finally, weigh up the remaining products and their benefits to find which offers the best value for your money.

​Featured Image Source: Unsplash.com