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Gadget review: HTC Windows 8X, Google Nexus 4, Kindle Fire HD and more

Gadget review: HTC Windows 8X, Google Nexus 4, Kindle Fire HD and more

Sam Abraham introduces new products to help you zero in on those that offer value for money.

HTC Windows 8X
HTC Windows 8X
Sam Abraham introduces new products to help you zero in on those that offer value for money -

HTC WINDOWS 8X
Rs 35,000
Rating: 3/5


FEATURES
>> 1.5 GHz dual-core CPU, 2 GB RAM,
>> 720 x 1280 pixel display, 8 MP camera

It's gorgeous with premium looks. HTC's Windows 8 offering is fast and smooth, especially browsing. Unfortunately, Windows still cannot compete with iOs or Android when comparing number, and utility, of third-party apps (nor are there notable apps from HTC). The primary camera is not extraordinary but there's nothing to complain about and is better than that of the Lumia 810. You also get a higher resolution screen and better sound. However, you are stuck on memory with no SD Card slot.



DELL LATITUDE 10
Rs 42,490
Rating: 3/5


FEATURES
>> 1.8 GHz dual-core CPU, 2 GB RAM
>> 8 MP front and 2 MP rear camera


The Latitude has been designed to be more functional than aesthetically appealing. It's not the lightest tab but feels solid and balanced with soft-touch rubber covering the back. This Dell is intended to be used extensively as a business tab. The Windows OS is smooth, especially Office applications. Storage options extend up to 128 GB and it has a microSD card slot for expansion. The Gorilla Glass display has a reasonable 1,366 x 768 resolution. It comes with a USB and a micro USB port. Also, the battery is replaceable.



KINDLE FIRE HD 7
Rs 20,000 (estimated)
Rating: 3/5


FEATURES
>> 1.2GHz dual-core processor, (RAM not quoted)
>> 1,280 x 800 IPS LCD, customised Android 4.0


The HD 7 is an improved sequel that's thinner, lighter, considerably faster and, for the aesthetically inclined, better looking. There's no 3G option, so you'll have to do with Wifi. But, it's no ordinary Wifi, you get multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) connectivity. This means the tab can send and receive data simultaneously over a pair (yes, two) of antennas. The HD (for high definition, over 720p resolution) offers a bright screen with wide viewing angles and good contrast. The speakers are on either side and offer a pleasing stereo separation.




GOOGLE NEXUS 4
Rs 28,850 (estimated)
Rating: 4/5


FEATURES
>> 1.5GHz CPU, 2 GB RAM
>> 4.7 inch screen, 8MP camera


The Nexus 4 is a technophile's dream. LG's design is sleek curves, unibody and scratch-resistant glass, for an exquisite machine. The processor specs are heavy with a quad-core processor that combines beautifully with vanilla Android 4.2, which in itself is an exciting user experience. The IPS PLUS 720p display has a slab of Gorilla Glass with touch sensors on the outer layer for great colour and brilliant viewing angles. The wireless charging is new as well. The 2,100mAh battery should last about 10 hours for a heavy user.



APPLE IPAD MINI
Rs 29,900 (Wifi + cellular)
Rating: 4/5


FEATURES
>>1GHz dual-core CPU, 512 MB RAM, 5MP camera


The Mini is purportedly Apple's candidate for the 7-inch bout. Not for this price (about Rs 10,000 more for similar specs). It's not a 'mini' version of the iPad but a new product in itself. The styling is unique while the display offers great colour and brightness at 163ppi (fourth gen iPad has 264ppi). Apple, of course, maintains it's glitch-free UI and a seamless user experience remains the USP despite being slower than the latest iPad. Battery life is top notch, closing in on 13 hours with Wifi on.