Tablets

Tablets are a new kind of computer. Smaller and lighter than a laptop, they swap a traditional keyboard for a touch screen. Versatile and fun, tablets are portable and can be used when you’re standing up, sitting down, on the couch … in ways and places you’d never consider using a normal computer.

Tablets explained

In many ways, tablet computers resemble a scaled-up smartphone. There’s a big bright touch screen and few other buttons – and while you can’t fit a tablet into your pocket, they’re still small and light enough to slip into your bag.

However, tablets are closer to ordinary computers in terms of abilities. They have a Wi-Fi connection built in, and many can connect to the internet over mobile phone networks, effectively giving you the freedom to get online nearly anywhere.

That means tablets lend themselves well to internet-based applications. They’re ideal for viewing websites, checking your email and performing other tasks online. The lack of a proper keyboard means working on documents can be a pain, but also makes tablets great for multimedia uses.

Do more with tablets

Watching online video and viewing photos are just two ways to take advantage of the vibrant screens that tablets have. Built in cameras and microphones also allow you to record audio and video.

But the real versatility of tablets becomes apparent when you stop thinking of them as just another computer. For a start, you can use them like a clipboard, while you stand up. And most tablets offer lots of applications (‘apps’) to download and install – covering everything from captivating games to maps, video editing tools and more.

Although it’s easy to get carried away by their ‘cool factor’, think about the practical aspects of tablets too. Check how long the battery lasts and how easy it is to recharge.

You’ll probably need to use your tablet alongside another computer, but if you plan to store lots of large files on it, look for a memory card slot so you can add extra storage.

Practicalities aside, the truth is that tablets are cool. Once you’ve used one, you won’t be in a hurry to go back to your old laptop.