Asus Transformer Pad TF103C review

With students getting ready to head back to school, it’s the time of year where everyone is looking for that next awesome piece of technology that will not only help them in the classroom, but be fund to use outside of it as well.

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Meet the Asus Transformer Pad TF103C.

This device, which starts at a price point of just $299, is Asus’ attempt to grab those who are still using smaller notebook and netbook computers. It runs Google’s Android kit-kat operating system, and comes with many of Google’s popular applications like G-mail and Chrome already installed.

The hybrid tablet also includes an Intel Atom processor, which allows the Transformer to open apps as well as switch between open apps without breaking a sweat. It is definitely one of the more responsive entry-level tablets available.

The Asus Transformer comes with a a 1280 x 800 display that, although not as nice to look at as those that boast 1080p displays, still gives off beautiful visuals. It’s also a tablet that is quite responsive to the touch, with the exception of its dreadful on-screen keyboard.

Luckily, the Transformer ships with its own separate keyboard, which is sure to pique the interests of those who want a tablet, but don’t want to give up the use of a keyboard for typing. The tablet docks right onto the keyboard, and it’s a very reliable and sturdy device that doesn’t really seem to be at risk of breaking from flimsy design.

Unfortunately, the keyboard does add a bit of extra weight to the Transformer. It could become a nuisance when trying to carry the device around at first, but it’s something you get used to pretty fast.

If you want this tablet to listen to music and/or watch videos on, make sure you are doing it with headphones in your ears or you’re in the quietest room known to man.

The built in speakers, which sit on the back of the device, are some of the quietest speakers that have been included on a tablet. Even at full volume, it’s hard to hear anything coming out of the device without the assistance of external headphones or speakers.

The battery life of the Asus Transformer is another drawback for this powerful device. Even when solely browsing the internet, the Transformer had to be thrown on the charge after just three-to-four hours of use. Other tablets have been able to last seven-to-eight hours, at least.

At the end of the day, the Asus Transformer Pad TF103C is a nice entry-level tablet for various entertainment and web-browsing uses. However, it’s not going to be a device that makes people consider giving up their standard laptop anytime soon.