Google has aggressively entered the tablet market in a partnership with Asus (itself renowned for quality hardware) and has managed to offer the Google Nexus 7 for a price that is approximately 2/3 of the cost of the Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 7.0.
However, while both models offer distinct advantages, the final purchase decision has to be based on the required purpose of the product. For example, the Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 has 3G capability and online access is also possible using Wi-Fi but the Google Nexus 7 has Wi-Fi and Bluetooth only, as the device is designed primarily as a tablet not a smartphone.
Google Nexus 7 Limitations
Google has made conscious decisions when creating its Nexus Range and the Nexus 7 is designed to act as a gaming tablet, with full integration with Google applications such as Google Play and YouTube.
As a result, the provided internal Ram (8Gb or 16Gb) cannot be expanded (the Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 can be expanded up to 32Gb with a micro-SD card) and the only way to connect to the internet is to use Wi-Fi, as this device will not act as a smartphone.
In comparison, the Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 acts as a complete solution with smartphone, camera, media player and tablet functions – Google decided to break this down into three separate products in the Nexus range.
Google Nexus 7 Advantages
The Nexus has the latest Android OS codenamed Jellybean (Version 4.1) while the Samsung Galaxy 2 7.0 runs on Android 4.0. In addition, the Nexus has a faster processor and clock speed, making it faster than the Galaxy overall.
The Nexus has scratch resistant glass and seems more resistant to damage if dropped onto a hard surface. The Nexus has a micro-USB port that supports mass storage device to swap files without additional software installation.
The Nexus includes Near Field Communication (NFC), the future of digital payments, while the Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 does not. Free GPS solutions are also included in the Nexus but not in the Galaxy Tab 2.
Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 7.0 Advantages
In addition to enhanced connectivity features, the Galaxy Tab 2 has a micro-SD slot for memory expansion (max. 32 GB), a compass and a much better camera. In fact, the Galaxy has two cameras (a 3,4MP and a 2MP for video chat) while the Nexus has only a single 1,2MP front-facing camera for video chat.
Verdict
Both systems are running smooth without noticeable stutters, thanks to the well-chosen hardware and software combination.
Therefore, it is fair to say that while Google has sacrificed many features to reduce costs, what is offered is not a smartphone solution, more a mobile gaming and entertainment solution that is fully integrated with Google applications.
Both products involve well-respected manufacturers (Asus and Samsung) so product quality is not an issue; both have a nearly similar weight, thickness, and display sizes.
Base your purchase on the features you require and remember to always check for the best pricing on comparison sites such as PricePanda Malaysia.
[[Google Nexus 7 VS. Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 7.0 is an article from: LiewCF Tech Blog. For more updates, please follow @liewcf on Twitter, join Facebook page and subscribe free newsletter.]]
