My husband and I are travelling to Europe for 10 weeks. We want to take a communication device with us and I am not sure what to purchase. Our needs are:
- We are travelling with backpacks so the unit must be sturdy
- Internet Access, WiFi, & Bluetooth
- USB port at least (1) & Standard SD Card (ability to download photo's from my camera)
- Email, Facebook, Skype (camera)
- Ereader (want to download travel books to minimize weight & bulk in packpack)
- Word & Spreadsheet software (so I can keep track of budget etc.)
- If possible load a few English speaking movies or at least access via external device
- I've been told I should have FLASH memory
- Stand-alone keyboard (I don't want to type on a screen)
- Need to be able to charge from a wall outlet w/ European adapter
I originally looked at the 11.6" Sony VAIO Y Series Netbook: I thought this would be sturdy and was told I could download books - but I think it might be bulky for reading - especially in bed? I picked the Sony because I liked the keyboard but perhaps there is a better option?
Next, I looked at ACER 10.1" 32GB Windows 7 w/slider keyboard Tablet. I was told that windows takes up too much room - so it takes a long time to boot up, is slower running and leaves very little room to install other software? Not sure if this is an issue or if some of the background stuff can be removed to speed the Tablet up and free space?
So then I looked at the ASUS10.1" 32GB Android 3.1 Eee Pad Transformer with WiFi & Keyboard Dock Tablet. Thought I had finally made a decision and then was told that I would be limited by whatever APPS are offered by Android and that it isn't compatible with any Windows product should I need it? However, Android seems to be taking the market by storm and I am not sure if we should get on board with it?
I've also been told by others that the tablets with the docking stations are not as sturdy as the netbook? We live 2 hours from a Future Shop - we stopped in at Christmas time but there weren't any Tablets set-up with the docking station/keyboard. It was crazy busy in the store so I was not able to physically see these units to decide for myself - I only typed a bit on the Sony Netbook.
I am trying to do my best homework - long distance - before my purchase, but I am now confused. Any insite, guidance, expertise you can offer me would be greatly appreciated.
