Asus Transformer Prime Tablet Review

Asus Eee Pad Transformer

Device & Specs

From a hardware standpoint, the Asus Transformer Prime TF-201 has its predecessor beat in just about every category, as its processor, screen, form factor, memory, OS, and even its weight is better than its predecessor. That's not to say that the elder Transformer is bad, just that the Asus Transformer Prime TF-201 is an incredibly powerful piece of hardware. Both have keyboard accessories to enhance their capabilities as well.

Screen

Both have an identically-sized screen with the exact same resolution. So, what's different? For one, the Asus Transformer Prime TF-201 has the brightest tablet screen we've ever seen by a large margin. That being said, though, the original Transformer has a wider contrast ratio, so if you value picture quality over visibility in sunlight, you may want to give the older Transformer a look.

Battery

Well, the Transformer has an easier time managing its power than does the Transformer Prime, but a lot of this is due to the insane amount of power needed to display a mostly white screen at ~600cd/m2. That being said, if you're smart about managing your settings, you can get far more battery life out of the Transformer Prime.

eReader

Because both units have access to the same eReader applications, this comparison comes down to the physical devices, and the Asus Transformer Prime TF-201 is far easier to hold in your hand than the much-heavier predecessor. Keep in mind, though, that you'll have to throttle way back on the settings for the Transformer Prime to even approach the battery life you'd get with the older Transformer.

Internet

Though both tablets theoretically should have the same access to applications as the other, the Asus Transformer Prime TF-201 has already been upgraded to the newest Android operating system, Ice Cream Sandwich. While that doesn't necessarily mean it has more internet features, it's definitely worth checking out on your own.