Dell Streak 7 Review

A Review Of The Dell Streak 7 Tablet PC

The Dell Streak 7 Tablet is among the smallest tablet pcs available on the market with a 7 inch screen. For some people this may be a downside, but for many it helps to make it a really portable device. In addition, it boosts several top rated specifications, including 4G connectivity, a powerful processor, sleek and stylish design as well as a reasonably low price level. So how does it compete with the other high end Android operating system tablet pcs available on the market today?

Main Specifications Of The Dell Streak 7 Tablet

* Costs $298 - $450
* Released in 2011
* Operates on Google Android 2.2
* 7.87 by 4.72 by 0.49 inches in size
* Weighs 1 lb / 0.45 kg
* 7 inch display screen
* 800 by 480 resolution
* 16GB storage space (up to 32GB additional)
* NVidia Tegra 2 Dual 1 GHz processor
* Wi-Fi/ 4G & Bluetooth connectivity
* 5 MP & 1 MP cameras
* Battery life has not been publicized - tests suggest around 3.5 - 4 hours

Dell Streak 7 Review - The Advantages

SD Card Slot

Although the Dell Streak 7 Tablet is sold only with the one base option for inbuilt 16GB memory, users are able to increase this up to an additional of 32GB, thanks to the integrated SD card slot. This slot supports SD, MMC and SDHC memory card types, which is great for people who want to transfer photographs. The SD card tend to be the more commonly used type of memory cards in digital cameras. As opposed to other rival tablet pcs which provide only the micro-SD slot.

Design

The 7 inch screen is definitely smaller compared to the majority of tablet pcs out there today, and the screen resolution is proportionately lower too. However, this is a feature which has been purposely designed to make this tablet pc as portable and lightweight as possible. However, the quality of the display screen doesn't really disappoint. The colors appear bright and strong, though the viewing angle is not as excellent as some of the other tablet pcs out there. It makes use of Gorilla Glass to minimize and reduce scratches that inevitably show up on any tablet pc screen. It appears solid and well built but can look a little plasticy.

Connectivity

This really is by far the most awesome feature of the Dell Streak 7. It has the capability to connect to the latest 4G networks, besides the standard 3G as well as the Wi-Fi hotspots. Currently, its only competitor in this area is the Motorola Xoom, which means this feature will certainly attract potential buyers for the Dell Streak 7.

4G broadband is an extremely new technology, and at present is only accessible to about a third of all people in America. However, the network keeps growing all the time, and taking advantage of it means that you will be able to download entire movies across a mobile network! This does come at a cost in the form of a more pricey tablet pc along with a monthly data plan, but it's going to be well worth it especially for people who need to stay connected wherever they are. You simply cannot beat 4G technology!

Camera

At 5 megapixels, the rear digital camera is certainly among the top for tablet computers. It includes additional features to help enhance photo and video quality, such as LED flash, auto focus as well as multi shot function. It can even record HD quality video. The front facing camera is decent at 1.3 megapixels which is enough for what it is intended for, that is, video chats.

USB Port

A USB port is another most pleasant addition to any tablet pc, which means you are able to connect it up to external storage devices for quick file transfers as well as backups. A USB port also allows users to hook up to external keyboards which will make the tablet pc a whole lot easier to use.

Price

Although the Dell Streak 7 Tablet comes with a smaller sized display screen and less storage space than its rivals, it is much more affordable starting at $300. The 4G alternative is also a good bargain at about $450 - considerably cheaper than any 3G versions of the Apple iPad, even though they do not even have the option for 4G. This is an excellent "in-between" option for those people on a smaller spending budget who don't wish to compromise on processing power.

Dell Streak 7 Review - The Disadvantages

Operating System

The Dell Streak 7 Tablet runs on Google Android 2.2 operating system. This is not the latest version of Android, and does not work as efficiently as alternatives such as Apple iOS. Nevertheless, you will still gain access to the Android Market app store which has a great collection of apps. However, do take note that some apps may not work with the older Android 2.2 OS.

Battery Life

There seems to be a valid reason why Dell do not make it simple to find out just how long the battery will probably last. It is simply because it does not last for very long at all. Tests have revealed it's going to last approximately 3.5 to 4 hours on average, and that is not even half of what you can get from Apple iPad, Samsung Galaxy Tab or Motorola Xoom. All of them are offering a good 10 hours of battery life. This really isn't terrific especially if you are out and about for long periods of time, as you will certainly have to charge it up more frequently.

Ease Of Use

Although the touchscreen display works well, the virtual keyboard does, to some extent, let the Dell Streak 7 down. It is small, somewhat cramped, and this is not surprising as the 7 inch display screen is considerably smaller than what we are used to seeing on various other tablet computers. You will want to remain in landscape mode for the bulk of your typing.

Should You Choose Dell Streak 7 Tablet PC?

The Dell Streak 7 Tablet is actually a decent tablet pc along with a great price level. The price tag on its own will probably be enough to acquire a few buyers away from the likes of Apple as well as Samsung, right onto this smaller sized yet still well built tablet pc. Sadly, the battery life will certainly turn an equal amount of potential buyers away from the tablet pc.

Generally, this tablet pc features a good display screen, decent features along with a powerful processor. However, the absence of the latest Google Android OS version, a smaller screen and also the life of the battery are all significant concerns for you to take into account prior to making your final decision.

To order your Dell Streak 7 Tablet PC today - click here.