One of my Christmas presents was a Nook Tablet. I should say, technically it was a Christmas present, although I’ve been using it for the last 4 weeks. I had previously owned a Nook Color (my DH now owns that device), so I was familiar with the basic operation of the device. I decided to upgrade to the Nook Tablet for the sharper screen and increased capacities of the device.
I was surprised at how much sharper the screen was. I didn’t have any complaints with the Nook Color screen, but the Nook Table screen is so sharp that I almost don’t need my reading glasses to use the device. It’s that easy on my eyes. I watched the first episode of the original version of “The Office” on Hulu Plus last night. Nice clear screen, good audio.
I’m finally getting to the point where it is no longer just an e-reader. I am now exploring the computer-like components of the system. I can read a couple email accounts on the device, use Facebook, and browse the web as long as I have a wi-fi connection or I have my cell phone tethered to it.
My main complaint with the Nook-Tablet-as-a-computer is the keyboard. One finger typing, seriously? I’m a (semi-sloppy) 55 wpm typist. So other than short responses on Facebook, I don’t use the Nook Tablet as an input device. Maybe this is the intention of Barnes and Noble: output vs. input. However, that feels like they are limiting the device’s usability — it’s just dying for a standard keyboard attachment or a keyboard that you can Bluetooth to it. Even the first iPad had a keyboard attachment for those who prefer that type of input device.
I give the Nook Tablet a solid B. I really like this device, but just one small change would put it over the top for me. Barnes and Noble, get the Nook Tablet a keyboard.