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01-31-2013 10:30 PM - editado 01-31-2013 10:30 PM
Hi everyone. I'm making a decision soon on whether to buy the Acer W700 or the Surface Pro. It's not so easy to dash out $1000 so I was wondering if anyone could help with some easy questions I have concerning the W700 for those who own it. I can't seem to find a single store that has one on display.
Even if you can only answer 1 or 2, it would be greatly appreciated!
Thanks in advance. This will really help me make a more calculated decision
em 01-31-2013 11:34 PM
8- If you have had an issue, how have you found Acer customer support? I have no experience with them
A very bad attention. It took 1 ½ months to give an answer that still does not fix the problem of WiFi
9- What's your personal vote? W700 or Surface Pro?
Surface Pro
02-01-2013 01:50 AM - editado 02-01-2013 02:24 AM
Anyone have more answers? Even if you only have time to answer 1 or 2 questions that would be a great help
em 02-01-2013 02:43 AM
em 02-01-2013 03:35 AM
Thanks cylemmulo! I appreciate your answers. You even answered all of them. Hope to hear from a few others as well!
em 02-01-2013 03:03 PM
Ok, here is my perspective.
1. I also only have 64GB. I don't use a lot of programs but tons of data. I store my data on TB HD's that are attached to the dock or to 64GB's USB drives. Also, whatever the amount, you can delete a lot of bloatware.
2. I've only had it 3 weeks but the build quality looks excellent. It matches ultrabook specs and is contained in unibody aluminum.
3.The only issue I had were the wifi/bluetooth issues discussed here. I replaced the wifi driver with the 221 version and I use generic bluetooth. I tested the wifi with my ipad and they are now both about the same. I doubt the wifi is as good as an external device or even a laptop but its now ok for my use. I have a 2 story house with a basement. The router is in the top level. I can receive the net in the basement, although I just tested it there. I use my W700 all over the main level without an issue. I assume future drivers will make it even better but even now its like other tablets - at least my ipad.
4. The size is the main issue - both for and against it. Its large compared to other tablets but small compared to other laptops. It can almost be considered a unique device. My main reason for getting it was the larger screen. The issue isn't whats better but how you use it. Its 11.6 inch 16:9 size makes it fantastic for horizontal use but poorer for portrait use. I mainly use it on my lap. Depending on the chair, I use it with the keyboard or the keyboard folded underneath. Although you can carry it in one hand, it would be uncomfortable to hold it too long with one hand. I wouldn't recommend using it on a bus, especially if you are standing. However, when sitting in my chair it runs all my legacy programs and new apps very well. When I first got it, it seemed bulky and unwieldy for a tablet. Howver, after the first day, I was comfortable with it and my ipad seemed small and boxy. Its how you intend to use it - not whats better.
5. I only use the bluetooth keyboard and occasionaly a mouse. Since I've changed the drivers they have worked fine.
6. I have got a maximum 8 hours but I agree with cylemmulo that 7 hours is reasonable for normal use.
7. I have had a few Acer machines over the years but I've never had a problem with the machines so I've never dealt with Acer support.
8. There is no right answer. I chose Acer W700. The build quality seemed similar. Acer was cheaper and had twice the battery life. Also, I wanted a larger screen as it suited my use. I am happy with my choice. YMMV.
em 02-01-2013 03:19 PM
Always appreciate your help happyboy. Those are some excellent answers. You've really gotten 8 hours of battery? That is prettty outstanding. Even 7 would be great. This could be the single reason I choose the W700 over the the Surface Pro. Can you keep it on like an ipad, or do you have to hibernate/sleep/shutdown throughout the day?
I guess the perfect device would be the one that can transform and take on different sizes for all situations lol. I like the bigger screen size so that you have more space to do serious work, but then in certain situations it seems too big as a tablet. I guess there are really always trade offs.
Thank's again happyboy!
em 02-01-2013 03:39 PM
The 8 hours was when I was researching something and was on the net all day - just research no programs. I also think bluetooth was off as that was when I was having trouble with drivers. Normal use is really about 7 hours now. Yes, I really think nothing is perfect. You buy something that matches your particular requirements.
You have control over the hibernate, sleep, shutdown times and also control over what the external button controls. So, the choice is yours.
em 02-05-2013 05:31 PM
After doing a lot of weighing, I decided to go for the Surface Pro, unless anyone here can convince me otherwise. Thanks for everyones help
em 02-08-2013 12:04 AM
dont get a acer tablet u will regret it. if u recieve a faulty tablet u wll be stuck with it. just go with the microsoft surface pro. they have a much better warrenty
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