Samsung’s latest tablet is certainly
the biggest we’ve ever seen, but is it the best?
The NotePro 12.2’s keyboard is also far and
away the best we’ve seen on a tablet. It’s simply fantastic, almost to the
point where it’s as good as a regular external keyboard. It makes full use of
the large display, with keys spaced apart well, and dedicated number keys are
unendingly useful. Not only that, you can also execute standard keyboard
shortcuts thanks to a Ctrl key, just like on your PC. Typing on your NotePro
12.2 is totally different to other tablets.
Stylus &
Features
All these work-related features are great,
but that’s not to say there’s nothing here for the leisurely user. The NotePro
12.2’s stylus, or ‘S Pen’, as it’s called, is more than a simple pointer with
which to tap at your screen – there’s a whole raft of ways to use it. It’s
clear that Samsung has made an effort to integrate the stylus knowing that on a
tablet this size, users would be perfectly happy just using their fingers.
Use
the S Pen to summon a simple task which will
pop up to give a whole new definition to multitasking
Upon unsheathing the S Pen from the side of
the device, you’re given a small pop-up menu of quick actions. The most useful
of these would have to be ‘Action Memo’. Give it a quick tap and a Post-It
Note-style window opens up. You can then scribble with your stylus and once
you’re done, the NotePro 12.2 can read your handwriting and translate it into
storable information. For example, if you’re on the phone to a business contact
and need to take down an address, once you’re done, tap on your hideously
scrawled handwriting and the NotePro 12.2 magically reads it. It can even bring
up the location on Google Maps. The concept is good and the execution is
fantastic.
Multi
Window on the GALAXY NotePRO means four different screen views at the same time
There are other handy features to make use
of the S Pen such as Screen Write, which takes a screenshot of the device and
lets you write or draw over the top of it. Again, this is ideal for business
types who might need to amend documents or annotate photographs on the go. Then
there’s the S Note app, which gives you a blank canvas and allows you to do
with it as you please. The S Pen has an uncanny sense of tact to its tip, which
makes drawing or painting feel oddly genuine. It’s also pressure-sensitive,
meaning budding virtual artists will have greater control over their brush or
pencil.
Battery
Understandably, all of these features take
their toll on the NotePro 12.2’s battery. While it’s fitted with a sizeable
9,500mAh power source, most of that is dedicated to powering the extra-large
display. You can still get a good two days of medium-intensity usage from a
single charge. What’s not quite as pleasing is just how long it takes to
refill; we found that from completely drained to 100% battery required more
than 7 hours connected to the mains. It should be noted that it also connects
via USB 3.0, so while your more common USB 2.0 cables will still work, it will
take even longer to charge.
Meetings
are more productive, efficient and greener when they’re powered by e-Meeting,
a personal organizer with impressive sharing capabilities
Conclusion
Despite minor flaws and its cumbersome
build, the NotePro 12.2 could be the best tablet on the market. Its enormous,
sharp display and terrific set of unique features put it head and shoulders
above almost all other Android tablets. The only real worry for Samsung is the
iPad; Apple’s hordes of passionate fans are notoriously tough to convert. With
a price tag of £650 for the NotePro 12.2 – double that of the iPad Retina –
Samsung has hardly given them a reason to switch. Still, if it’s an Android
tablet you’re looking for, your search ends here.
Specifications: ·
OS Android 4.4 KitKat ·
Processor Octa-core (1.9GHz + 1.3GHz quad) ·
Screen 12.2 inches ·
Resolution 2,560 x 1,600 pixels ·
Memory 3GB RAM ·
Storage 32GB/64GB ·
Camera 8MP rear/2MPfront-facing ·
Video 1,080p Full HD ·
Connectivity Wi-fi only ·
Dimensions 295.6 x 204 x 7.95mm ·
Weight 750g ·
Battery 9,500mAh
|
