Technology is an area of our society that can never stay stagnate. As years progress, consumers expect hot innovations in their favorite mobile devices. Cell phones are expected to have tablet-like behaviors, with the convenience of a larger screen for gaming and streaming. Likewise, electronic users expect their tablets to give them the portability of a cell phone with all the functionality of a computer. With these hefty demands, makers of tablets have their work cut out for them.
In 2014, Sony appealed to these demands with the Sony Xperia Z4 tablet. It was equipped with a quad-core snapdragon processor with a beautiful 10-inch 2K display. Its water resistance truly made it a standout, and the battery life and camera were competitive features in the tablet market. The optional keyboard attachment appealed to the consumers who wanted a computer disguised as a tablet. Users raved about Sony’s latest triumph.
The Xperia Z4 is difficult to find, even when shopping online through Amazon. While Sony is hard at work on their next innovation, we took to the market to find the best alternatives to this once robust tablet.
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FAQs
In preparing our list, we considered alternatives that possessed many of the same bells and whistles that the Xperia Z4 offered. We found options at a similar price point with comparable size and storage specifications. Our focus centered on tablets with powerful processors and crystal-clear displays.
1. What is Snapdragon?
Snapdragon is a powerful processor that is usually found in premium mobile devices. It supports fast connectivity without putting an excessive drain on the battery. Devices with Snapdragon are usually more expensive.
2. What are the benefits of an Android operating system?
Android loyalists prefer the operating system due to its customizability. Those who use their device for business love the task management features that allow them to work in multiple apps at once. The Android operating system is used by numerous tablet makers, giving consumers an abundance of choices.
3. What are the pros and cons of a 10-inch tablet screen?
The 10-inch screen is on the larger end of the size spectrum for tablet screens. Larger mobile screens allow you to get that computer experience you may be wanting. They’re also perfect for watching videos. On the other hand, a 10-inch tablet is less portable than its 7-inch competitors are.
4. Can a tablet really be water resistant?
Most mobile devices that are considered water resistant have an IP rating between 6 and 7. What this means is that while the device can withstand accidental spills, and even handle the powerful stream of a sink faucet, it is not protected against complete submersion. Ports are usually not protected, and once water enters the ports, the device will likely malfunction.
How We Reviewed
Sony is a big player in the electronics industry, so we wanted to offer alternatives that had the same kind of brand name recognition. We chose tablets that are known for premium expectations, and include the best features available. Because the Xperia Z4 included a keyboard options, we also considered the potential of using each tablet like a small computer. We wanted to show you the best, so we also factored in customer reviews into our scores.
The Top 5 Xperia Z4 Tablet Alternatives
The Samsung Galaxy Tab S3
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Key Features
This popular tablet offers two internal storage options of 32GB and 128GB. It comes in both black and silver and boasts a 2048 x 1536 resolution on its 9.7-inch screen. It runs on the Android 7.0 operating system.
Pros
- This tablet has the Snapdragon processor
- It has fingerprint recognition for security
- Can last up to 12 hours before it needs a recharge
Cons
- The screen size is on the smaller end of those on our list, which can be troublesome for those who want that laptop experience
Microsoft Surface Go
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Key Features
This new offering from Microsoft is a lighter, slimmer version of their popular Surface Pro. The screen is only 10 inches and weighs in at just over one pound. It has a built-in kickstand with the option of purchasing a keyboard case for the full laptop experience.
Pros
- Battery life of this device is fair at about 9 hours
- With a reliable Intel Pentium Gold processor
- Screen resolution is 1800 x 1200, which is certainly not the best on our list
Cons
- Still HD so you can expect a crisp, clear image output
iPad Pro 10.5-inch
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Key Features
The iPad Pro features the Mac operating system. It comes in Apple’s four classic colors: gold, rose gold, silver, and space gray. Like the Samsung Galaxy on our list, it also comes equipped with fingerprint security.
Pros
- This tablet has the capability of recording in 4K resolution, so it’s great for artists who expect to make a lot of videos.
- Like most Apple products, it has voice recognition.
- Set up for Apple Pay.
Cons
- Perhaps the biggest con is the price, as this tablet is the most expensive on our list.
- Storage options are also limited.
Huawei MediaPad M5 Pro Android Tablet
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Key Features
This Android OS tablet includes 64GB of internal storage. The body has a sophisticated gold sheen, and it’s both thin and lightweight for easy portability. Audio is sent through four built-in, surround-sound speakers.
Pros
- When playing videos, the Huawei MediaPad lasts about 10.5 hours.
- Once low, it’ll charge fully in only 3 hours.
Cons
- The speakers are a huge draw for users interested in audio and video playback or production.
Asus Transformer Book Chi 12.5-Inch
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Key Features
This device runs Windows 10 operating system and features 128GB of internal storage. Though marketed as a laptop, the keyboard is detachable, and the design is slim and lightweight.
Pros
- Asus touts this as a 2-in-1 laptop and tablet, you’re getting the operating system of a computer. This can be beneficial for those with demanding needs
- Screen is large at 12.5 inches, which can be either a good thing
Cons
- The increased power to run the device means your battery will only last about 8 hours.
The Verdict
These top-of-the-line tablets offer something different for everyone. For graphic artists or videographers, Apple is a trusted brand to create stunning content. If you’re a business professional, Microsoft is the standout with its efficient operating system and powerful processing speeds. Casual customers who want to use their tablets for streaming and gaming can have a fulfilling experience with some of the less expensive models on our list.
For overall performance on a variety of tasks, however, we trust the Samsung Galaxy to check all the boxes. You have the expandable storage that’s missing from Apple’s iPads, along with a brilliant screen display, reliable operating system and an extensive battery life. While it’s expensive, the deals you can find by shopping around make the purchase reasonable, and the lifespan of Samsung’s products make it worth it.
