Deciding Whether To Get A Smartphone Or A Tablet

By Author: Dave Carter
Total Articles: 55
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Portable electronic devices are perhaps some of the biggest-selling consumer products now compared to any time in the past. With the powerful applications that make many of our tasks easier to perform which are loaded into these devices, more and more people are getting into the portable bandwagon not because others are doing it, but because they really benefit from these mobile wonders. Indeed, who could have imagined the heaps of things we can do now with these small but powerful gadgets?

Among these portable devices, two of those that are getting the biggest market share are smartphones and tablets, with the latter now beginning to eat into the big market slice of the former. For some who can't decide which of the two to get, they end up buying both of them. If you're one of those who are befuddled on whether to get a smartphone or a tablet, the following comparisons of the two may help you with the decision-making:

Size - If you want something you can easily get into your pocket, the smartphone wins it. Although some tablet manufacturers are downsizing some of their models, the smallest ones may still not fit ...
... into your pants' pocket. However, if you have an eye condition that makes it hard for you to read small texts or view images even with the use of glasses, a big-sized tablet is the easy choice.

Features - There's almost no difference between these two gadgets when it comes to features and apps, but there are two things a tablet can't do: make or take calls and send or receive SMS. But if you don't want to be taking with you two devices every time you go out (which can be a hassle) but want to stay connected with everyone call and text-wise, then you should get a smartphone.

Portability - There's no question that both devices are portable. You can bring them wherever you go (well, almost, since you can't take them with you when you swim). But again, if you want something that can fit snugly in any of your pockets and in the palm of your hand, mobile phones still have the advantage.

Price - For smartphones that are loaded with powerful programs and tons of apps, the price is not that much different from a tablet. Some phones even have a heftier price tag compared to their bigger counterparts. If you don't want to shell out cash right away, though, most mobile phone plan providers now offer their phones free with a postpaid or cap plan.

These are just some of the side-by-side comparisons of smartphones and tablets. In the end, it will still be you, the user, who will decide which gadget deserves your hard-earned cash. Your decision will be based on what your portable device needs to have that will meet your needs as far as your mobile life is concerned. Consider what you really need and not just what you want so you'll get real value for your money.

Dave Carter is an independent consultant for small businesses and writes for Comparemobileplans.com.au. A techie at heart, he's up to speed with the latest releases and innovations in consumer technology, sharing his insights in language ordinary users can understand. Check the best mobile deals available and learn more about here.