First of all, for me it was obvious my type of use would require a Windows 8 tablet. An iPad, Android or Windows RT tablet would not meet my needs. For more information about differences, please read my previous post.

At the Microsoft Objectives 2012 event that was held at the 25th of October in Amsterdam, I was able to test numerous new devices from companies like Sony, Dell, HP, Lenovo, Fujitsu and Acer. This included all-in-ones, tablets, convertibles, ultraportables and notebooks. The approach/design choices of the companies differs greatly. To get a better idea of the different types and models and these differences, check out the Windows website.

Since I was looking for a Windows 8 tablet, I’ve tried many different ones intended either for consumers or companies/professionals. My favourite among all these tablets was the new Samsung Series 7 slate with a i5 processor and a S-pen for digital note taking/writing.

Since I saw all these great devices and Windows 8 would be released the day after, I went to multiple stores on launch day and ultimately came back home disappointed because there were no Windows 8 tablets in the stores yet.

Still I decided to order an Acer Iconia Tab W700 tablet (NT.L0EEH.002) because:

+Full Windows 8 version (not Windows RT).
+Good specs (i3 CPU, 4GB RAM, 64GB SSD, 11.6″ screen, 1920*1080 resolution).
+MicroSD Memory card slot.
+Dock and keyboard included.
+No other Windows 8 tablet with similar specs and peripherals comes even close to its price (599 euros at the time I bought it, but now it is 699 euros which could make other alternatives viable).
+Available relatively quickly (November 8th , November 23rd, November 28th).

There are however compromises as well:

-Not an i5 CPU.
-No GPS
-No built-in 3G (can use USB dongle though).
-No memory card slot (can use USB flashdrive / USB disk though).
-No digitizer in the screen / pen support.
-Keyboard is seperate (not a docking, and therefore also no additional battery).
-Previous experiences with Acer with regards to build quality and warranty leave much to desire.
-It is a bit unclear whether the tablet will have a 10.1″ or 11.6″ screen because of contradicting specs on different websites. I assumed it will be 10.1″ because of the price, but I hope I’m wrong 🙂

I chose to accept these compromises because it meets my needs and because I expect a lot of better and cheaper Windows 8 tablets in the near future (including AMD Hono CPU with better integrated graphics). By then I will probably get a new Windows 8 tablet and sell or repurpose this one.

Beware: It seems there are different models of the Acer Iconia Tab W700 in different regions around the world, so pricing and specs may differ. Once again, this article is regarding the NT.L0EEH.002 model.

[UPDATE 09-11-2012]

• Apparently the Acer is expected to be available from November 23rd from Dixons instead of the previously advertised November 8th.
• Screen will be 11.6 inch.

[UPDATE 24-11-2012]

• New expected delivery is 28th of November 😦
• Acoording to specs, there will be a MicroSD memory card.