Are HTC on to a winner with their first tablet, the HTC Flyer?
Although aesthetically pleasing, the device fails to bring anything new to the table, but does that really matter? Well, maybe.
We’re used to HTC bringing out devices of style and quality, and this is no exception, but like most tablets you can’t help but think you should wait until their next release.
The first thing that drew me to the HTC Flyer was the design. It’s smooth and sleek lines make it look impressive but its the rear of the device, complete with aluminium and top and bottom white plastic bumpers, that make it really stand out.
The device features a front-facing 1.3 megapixel camera and 5 megapixel rear camera, both good, but lacking clarity. Video is also not of the greatest quality, and even though the camcorder keeps up with motion, it fails to pick up any sort of sharp resolution.
How does it compare to other tablets such as the iPad2 and Motorola Xoom? For me screen size is a one of the main things I look for, and unfortunately the Flyer posses the smallest screen of the three devices. Its 7-inch display dwarfs in comparison to the Xoom (10.1in) and iPad (9.7in), but this also makes it extra portable for those not consumed by the size.
Models
Wi-fi – 16GB storage
3G – 32GB storage
Specifications
Android 2.3 (Gingerbread)
Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 1.5GHz
Screen: 7-inch LCD Touchscreen(1024 x 600)
Weight: 420g
Front Camera: 1.3 megapixels
Rear Camera: 5 megapixels
Flash support
No HDMI output
No video/TV output
Price
Compared to other tablets, is the HTC Flyer worth the price? A lot of consumers say no. Priced at around £450-599, depending on model, it may be a little pricey when compared to similar devices on the market.
Should you buy?
The HTC looks good and is good, but like anything, could use improvement. The size makes is ultra-portable, but may not be what everyone is looking for. The cost could also prove a sticking point, with many tablets on the market offering more competitive pricing.
There are rumours the company’s next offering, the HTC Puccini, could be out as soon as September and it may be worth waiting until then to make your decision.
