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tbayrgs

macrumors 604
Jul 5, 2009
7,467
5,097
To get back on topic, just pulled the trigger myself. This was exactly what I'd originally hoped the Nexus tablet would be and the extra screen real estate along with the expandable memory is more than worth the extra $120 in price vs. the base Nexus 7 and a far better value than the rMini, IMO.

Looks like my Nexus 7 LTE is hitting the marketplace and/or eBay. :D
 

Vegastouch

macrumors 603
Jul 12, 2008
6,185
992
Las Vegas, NV
Nexus 5 is the only device getting GEL (and yes, I know I can side-load it but why do I have to?). Also, last year's Nexus 7 does have ART. The two year old Galaxy Nexus doesn't even get KK.

And where did I mention Apple or compare what Google's doing with the Nexus updates to anyone else? It's pretty amusing how the many of the rank and file of the Alternative's forum are critical of the Apple apologists yet resort to exactly the same behavior when some criticizes anything Android.

Believe it or not, criticism of Google doesn't automatically mean it's a comparison to Apple's practices. I'm personally just as critical of Apple for the very same behavior when they cripple certain features on older devices but you know why I didn't mention it? Because it has nothing to do with this discussion. :rolleyes:

Just comparing a OS that nobody says is fragmented and yet does the same thing. I mean what else can we compare it to? Nothing else matters right now. Sorry you don't like it, but, oh well.
And you don't have to sideload it, it seems to be getting out well now since they updated the update.

----------

Will this LG 510 come with 4.4? I doubt it. I wonder how fast it will get it since it is in their store.
 

zbarvian

macrumors 68010
Jul 23, 2011
2,004
2
Pretty cool, but they should've priced it a bit more competitively. The rMini is clearly superior from a hardware perspective unless you really want those extra .4 inches, and Apple still has the upper hand with the App Store. At $299 this could've been a big hit.
 

hashholly

macrumors 6502
Oct 13, 2008
436
119
Pretty cool, but they should've priced it a bit more competitively. The rMini is clearly superior from a hardware perspective unless you really want those extra .4 inches, and Apple still has the upper hand with the App Store. At $299 this could've been a big hit.


Agreed. At $299 It would be an easy buy, but I'm still waiting for the tablet apps to get better before I make the plunge for the 8/10"
 

mattopotamus

macrumors G5
Jun 12, 2012
14,738
6,109
Pretty cool, but they should've priced it a bit more competitively. The rMini is clearly superior from a hardware perspective unless you really want those extra .4 inches, and Apple still has the upper hand with the App Store. At $299 this could've been a big hit.



Agreed. At $299 It would be an easy buy, but I'm still waiting for the tablet apps to get better before I make the plunge for the 8/10"

Agreed. I held off b.c the price
 

tbayrgs

macrumors 604
Jul 5, 2009
7,467
5,097
Well, that was faster than expected--just received my G Pad, after placing my order at 5 pm yesterday. I did select the 1 day shipping option but considering the expected processing was 1-2 business days, figured I'd see it Friday.

I'll share my initial impressions after spending some time with it.
 

Sensamic

macrumors 68040
Mar 26, 2010
3,072
689
Well, that was faster than expected--just received my G Pad, after placing my order at 5 pm yesterday. I did select the 1 day shipping option but considering the expected processing was 1-2 business days, figured I'd see it Friday.

I'll share my initial impressions after spending some time with it.

Exciting!! :D:D

Tell us everything you can. Is it as smooth as the Nexus 7 (or any other Nexus device)? Do games run good (MacRumorsuser said games run badly on the stock version of LGs skin)? Does it have NFC?

Overall, after playing with it, would you say it's a better option than the Nexus 7?

It would be great if you could do a quick youtube review!! I want to see that machine in action!! :D:D
 

tbayrgs

macrumors 604
Jul 5, 2009
7,467
5,097
Exciting!! :D:D

Tell us everything you can. Is it as smooth as the Nexus 7 (or any other Nexus device)? Do games run good (MacRumorsuser said games run badly on the stock version of LGs skin)? Does it have NFC?

Overall, after playing with it, would you say it's a better option than the Nexus 7?

It would be great if you could do a quick youtube review!! I want to see that machine in action!! :D:D

Well, after only using it for a couple minutes of going through the initial setup and just a minute or two using Chrome, barring any not yet seen defects or performance issue, this tablet is replacing my Nexus 7.

My biggest gripe about the Nexus 7 was display size and ratio. I found the narrow 16:10 ratio to be too narrow for effective use in portrait orientation. The G Pad, while also employing a 16:10 ratio, is far more usable. The increase in screen real estate is dramatic, yet the difference in hardware size less so. The G Pad as smaller bezels all around so yes, the device is bigger but not at the same proportion as the larger display.

A quick comparison of the two displays shows the LG to have a bit warmer tone. When looking at them side by side I tend to prefer the cooler hue on the Nexus but really don't have a problem with either and honestly, probably wouldn't have noticed the difference if I didn't put them next to each other.

The hardware feels great in hand--still very comfortable to hold in one hand and the materials are terrific. I like the soft touch plastic used in the Nexus--no problems with it whatsoever. The LG feels a touch more sophisticated, using the brushed aluminum (might be faux, not sure but I can't tell) and the plastic used isn't the great soft touch found on recent Nexus devices but it's not hard and glossy either, has a matte finish to it and complements the brushed metal.

Alright, let me put it through a serious workout over the next day or two and I'll try post a more thorough review--maybe even a video for you Sensamic. ;)
 

Sensamic

macrumors 68040
Mar 26, 2010
3,072
689
Have fun!

Oh, and if by any chance you end up not wanting it tell me and I'll buy it from you! :D:D
 

Stooby Mcdoobie

macrumors 6502a
Jun 26, 2012
834
45
Well, that was faster than expected--just received my G Pad, after placing my order at 5 pm yesterday. I did select the 1 day shipping option but considering the expected processing was 1-2 business days, figured I'd see it Friday.

I'll share my initial impressions after spending some time with it.
Out of curiousity, how much did Google charge for one day shipping? I didn't even think to check when I purchased mine. Did get notification that mine has shipped though so I'm expecting to get it by Saturday.
 

tbayrgs

macrumors 604
Jul 5, 2009
7,467
5,097
Out of curiousity, how much did Google charge for one day shipping? I didn't even think to check when I purchased mine. Did get notification that mine has shipped though so I'm expecting to get it by Saturday.

Can't recall off the top of my head--$13 or $18 seems to stand out in my mind.
 

Sensamic

macrumors 68040
Mar 26, 2010
3,072
689
Can't recall off the top of my head--$13 or $18 seems to stand out in my mind.

Any new impressions on the device?

Better than Nexus 7 or worse? :D:D

Does it overheat like the original G Pad?

Yesterday I read about the blue line problem on XDA. After 30-60 minutes of using the tablet (no turning the screen off during all that time) a blue line appears on one of the sides of the screen. Have you seen this problem?

 

tbayrgs

macrumors 604
Jul 5, 2009
7,467
5,097
Any new impressions on the device?

Better than Nexus 7 or worse? :D:D

Does it overheat like the original G Pad?

Yesterday I read about the blue line problem on XDA. After 30-60 minutes of using the tablet (no turning the screen off during all that time) a blue line appears on one of the sides of the screen. Have you seen this problem?

[url=http://s23.postimg.org/ohtztec47/Blue_Line.jpg]Image[/url]

Yeah, I'm definitely selling my Nexus 7 and replacing it with the G Pad. Still haven't put enough time in to put together a detail review but since you asked, I'll bullet point advantages/disadvantages vs. the Nexus 7.

Pros:
  • Love the increase screen real estate, make a huge difference vs. 7" found on the Nexus
  • Hardware is terrific--feels great in hand, a bit more premium vs. the Nexus. Not necessarily better, just different and every bit as good
  • Better proporations. It has the same display ratio (iPad Mini wins in this area using 4:3) but it has smaller bezels all the way around so the overall increase in size is proportionally less than the increase is display size. Still very comfortable to hold one handed.
  • Expandable memory
  • Speaker placement is better on the G Pad as I find my hands often covering the speakers on the ends of the Nexus when holding in landscape. Quality though isn't quite as good (will discuss later)

Cons:
  • Less onboard storage available for apps. I don't plan on gaming much on it so 16GB is enough for me, certainly could understand someone needing more though.
  • Display color tone--it's a bit warmer (towards yellow vs. blue on the Nexus). The Nexus is also slightly brighter. I'm not terribly picky and only really notice when using side-by-side. One's preference/tolerance will come into play here.
  • No LED notification light. Not a big deal for me on my tablet, generally check my notifications on my phone.
  • No wireless charging. Again, not a big deal for me but I have enjoyed the convenience of using it with my Nexus 7.
  • No NFC. Again, I don't use it so no loss for me personally
  • Speakers are a touch better on the Nexus 7. I honestly don't rely on them (use earphones when watching video or use bluetooth to stream content) so I had to actively test them to compare. The G Pad's speakers are a touch louder but also less accurate--sound a bit tinny vs. the Nexus 7.

Everything else is a wash, IMO. I won't compare cameras because I refuse to use my tablets to take photos. Haven't noticed any overheating issues but I also haven't had any long sessions that would overly tax it. Thankfully, no blue line issues to speak of (yet). Also, the version of KitKat on the G Pad is nearly identical, with the only differences I've noticed being the absence of the Gallery app, and a X.X.2. ;)

My list of cons/disadvantages is obviously a bit longer but they also have little impact on my personal usage. Display size carries far more weight in my preferences and is the primary reason why I'll be keeping the G Pad.

I've included a couple of quick and dirty photos--sorry quality isn't top notch, took 'em quickly so I could include something for reference. The first photo also includes a first gen iPad Mini for reference.
 

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mattopotamus

macrumors G5
Jun 12, 2012
14,738
6,109
Thanks for the update. The screen real estate really does look like a massive difference. The yellow tint would bother me, but only if I had them side by side...otherwise I probably would not notice.
 

tbayrgs

macrumors 604
Jul 5, 2009
7,467
5,097
Thanks for the update. The screen real estate really does look like a massive difference. The yellow tint would bother me, but only if I had them side by side...otherwise I probably would not notice.

Yeah, I don't notice the color temp differences unless they are hugely different or side by side. I'm sure it would bother some people and won't fault them for that criticism of the device--just not a big deal for me. For me, the screen size difference is more bothersome.
 

Sensamic

macrumors 68040
Mar 26, 2010
3,072
689
Great review!

I think the original G Pad doesn't have NFC either. I checked on the gsmarena.com specs sheet and it doesn't appear.

I think I'm gonna keep trying with the Nexus 7 until I find a good one. Too much trouble trying to buy this tablet online.
 

Vegastouch

macrumors 603
Jul 12, 2008
6,185
992
Las Vegas, NV
Any new impressions on the device?

Better than Nexus 7 or worse? :D:D

Does it overheat like the original G Pad?

Yesterday I read about the blue line problem on XDA. After 30-60 minutes of using the tablet (no turning the screen off during all that time) a blue line appears on one of the sides of the screen. Have you seen this problem?

[url=http://s23.postimg.org/ohtztec47/Blue_Line.jpg]Image[/url]

Not sure what I'm supposed to be looking at here. Do you have something better to show than that screen shot? Maybe something with no big blue section in it so we can see what kind of blue line your talking about?

----------

Yeah, I'm definitely selling my Nexus 7 and replacing it with the G Pad. Still haven't put enough time in to put together a detail review but since you asked, I'll bullet point advantages/disadvantages vs. the Nexus 7.

Pros:
  • Love the increase screen real estate, make a huge difference vs. 7" found on the Nexus
  • Hardware is terrific--feels great in hand, a bit more premium vs. the Nexus. Not necessarily better, just different and every bit as good
  • Better proporations. It has the same display ratio (iPad Mini wins in this area using 4:3) but it has smaller bezels all the way around so the overall increase in size is proportionally less than the increase is display size. Still very comfortable to hold one handed.
  • Expandable memory
  • Speaker placement is better on the G Pad as I find my hands often covering the speakers on the ends of the Nexus when holding in landscape. Quality though isn't quite as good (will discuss later)

Cons:
  • Less onboard storage available for apps. I don't plan on gaming much on it so 16GB is enough for me, certainly could understand someone needing more though.
  • Display color tone--it's a bit warmer (towards yellow vs. blue on the Nexus). The Nexus is also slightly brighter. I'm not terribly picky and only really notice when using side-by-side. One's preference/tolerance will come into play here.
  • No LED notification light. Not a big deal for me on my tablet, generally check my notifications on my phone.
  • No wireless charging. Again, not a big deal for me but I have enjoyed the convenience of using it with my Nexus 7.
  • No NFC. I don't know if it has the hardware on board but there are no settings to control it or Android Beam. A bit puzzling since it's on the standard G Pad. Again, I don't use it so no loss for me personally
  • Speakers are a touch better on the Nexus 7. I honestly don't rely on them (use earphones when watching video or use bluetooth to stream content) so I had to actively test them to compare. The G Pad's speakers are a touch louder but also less accurate--sound a bit tinny vs. the Nexus 7.

Everything else is a wash, IMO. I won't compare cameras because I refuse to use my tablets to take photos. Haven't noticed any overheating issues but I also haven't had any long sessions that would overly tax it. Thankfully, no blue line issues to speak of (yet). Also, the version of KitKat on the G Pad is nearly identical, with the only differences I've noticed being the absence of the Gallery app, and a X.X.2. ;)

My list of cons/disadvantages is obviously a bit longer but they also have little impact on my personal usage. Display size carries far more weight in my preferences and is the primary reason why I'll be keeping the G Pad.

I've included a couple of quick and dirty photos--sorry quality isn't top notch, took 'em quickly so I could include something for reference. The first photo also includes a first gen iPad Mini for reference.

Considering LGs are supposed to have IPS screens and be bright, I wouldn't like that yellow tint either. My Nexus 5 doesn't have that. True I might not be able to tell by itself but its ugly next to the other tablets.
 

tbayrgs

macrumors 604
Jul 5, 2009
7,467
5,097
Great review!

I think the original G Pad doesn't have NFC either. I checked on the gsmarena.com specs sheet and it doesn't appear.

I think I'm gonna keep trying with the Nexus 7 until I find a good one. Too much trouble trying to buy this tablet online.

I believe you're right--was reading a thread concerning it on another forum where OP thought the original had it, didn't actually double check it myself.
 

Sensamic

macrumors 68040
Mar 26, 2010
3,072
689
Not sure what I'm supposed to be looking at here. Do you have something better to show than that screen shot? Maybe something with no big blue section in it so we can see what kind of blue line your talking about?




You can see more pictures on XDA, on the G Pad 8.3 forum. That's where I saw them. There are several there, which show the problem very clearly.

Some say it's a hardware problem and that it was fixed after the first batch, but who knows.


subir fotos gratis


subir imagenes gratis
 

Vegastouch

macrumors 603
Jul 12, 2008
6,185
992
Las Vegas, NV
You can see more pictures on XDA, on the G Pad 8.3 forum. That's where I saw them. There are several there, which show the problem very clearly.

Some say it's a hardware problem and that it was fixed after the first batch, but who knows.

[url=http://s23.postimg.org/hkpaqsyqj/Blue_Line.jpg]Image[/url]
subir fotos gratis

[url=http://s24.postimg.org/rool0j6hh/20131129_223822.jpg]Image[/url]
subir imagenes gratis

I didnt find any pics of the blue line but i did find a fix for the yellow tint. Looks like there is a screen section in settings where you can adjust the colors and get rid of it.
 

tbayrgs

macrumors 604
Jul 5, 2009
7,467
5,097
I didnt find any pics of the blue line but i did find a fix for the yellow tint. Looks like there is a screen section in settings where you can adjust the colors and get rid of it.

Sadly I think those adjustments are only available on the standard LG skinned version as I don't see them in the stock KitKat settings.
 

tbayrgs

macrumors 604
Jul 5, 2009
7,467
5,097
Quick update. Just checked my G Pad and had a notification that a software update was available. Presently updating to 4.4.2--pretty quick turn around time considering I believe 4.4.2 was released to Nexus devices about 5 days ago.
 
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