What to Consider When Selecting a Dell Windows 8 Tablet
If you're looking for a tablet to add to your electronic gear, a tablet with Windows 8 software can be a useful choice. Whether you want a tablet to read e-books and browse the internet or something with more computing power to use with a keyboard, a Dell Windows 8 tablet might fit your needs.
What features can you find in these tablets?The features you'll want to look for depend on how you'd like to use a tablet. If you're looking for a tablet to read e-books, you won't need advanced performance features or a large screen. If you want something to type short documents and emails using a Bluetooth keyboard, you'll want to find a tablet with a larger screen and ample system memory. Here are the basic features to consider for any tablet:
- Screen size: A tablet used for reading text doesn't need to be large, while a tablet used for productivity apps may perform better with a larger screen.
- Processor: The processor's speed determines the performance of the tablet when running apps.
- System memory: For mobile devices, system memory determines both the amount of software that can be installed and how much RAM is available for the processor to use.
- Bluetooth and Wi-Fi: You'll want Bluetooth connectivity to use a mouse or keyboard with a tablet, and Wi-Fi is the minimum you need to connect to the internet.
Tablets with updated Windows 8.1 software include the Dell Venue 8 Pro and the Dell Venue 11 Pro. The 8 Pro, designed to let you work from anywhere, has Intel power and an 8-inch HD screen with wide-angle viewing; available accessories include a keyboard and a Dell Active Stylus. It's possible to run Android on a Venue 8 Pro, and Dell also offers an Android version of the Venue 8. The 11 Pro, designed to combine the functions of a tablet, Ultrabook, and desktop, has a 10.8-inch full-HD screen and a wider viewing angle. Its Intel Atom Core processor is designed to deliver long battery life and fast web browsing. Accessories like keyboards and docks are available.
Two lines of Windows tablets released in the past are the Dell Venue's earlier versions and the Dell Latitude, both of which ran for several years before being discontinued or replaced. The Venue began its life in 2011 as a line of smartphones that lasted for a couple of years. In 2013, the Venue brand was changed into a line of tablets that was discontinued in June 2016. The Latitude was a line of productivity tablets that was replaced with convertible laptops.
How can you extend the battery life of a tablet?How long a battery charge lasts depends on the age of the battery and your use of the tablet. Some user habits can help conserve battery power. Here are a few tips for getting the most out of a battery's charge:
- Turn the screen's brightness down.
- Set the screen time-out to a shorter delay.
- Turn off Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connections.
- Don't use live screensavers.