I'm stuck in a decision between the NC or the Atrix laptop dock. Money is not an issue in this decision.
Honeycomb 7" tablet or accessory that is useless without the phone?
Thank you all for your time.
Sent from my MB860 using XDA App
Well there ya go. Highly customizable device, or a laptop dock that has webtop.
You can install Cyanogen and stuff like that, plus it's much less than the dock.
However, you can have the laptop which charges your phone. I bought one yesterday and tried it out. I like it, but kind of wish I spent the money on a new tablet.
If money isn't an issue, get both!
I love my lapdock. I use it instead of a PC now (no joke). Yeah it's slower than a quad core intel box but who cares. Pimpn' aint easy..
hallfleming said:
I love my lapdock. I use it instead of a PC now (no joke). Yeah it's slower than a quad core intel box but who cares. Pimpn' aint easy..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not to mention all the looks you'll get when you have a laptop with a phone sticking out of it
I'm responding to you on my laptop dock. I have a nook color, a laptop dock and a decent laptop and it may just be the novelty but I like the laptop dock. I should note I'm also biased because I got the lapdock with the letstalk firesale so it was pretty cheap.
the nook color is great but I cant find uses for it other than reading and playing casual games on it. The lapdock gives me a charger/normal dock when its closed, and when its opened I can take notes in google docks and text in class without the professor stopping class to admonish me. I bought a datel wireless wii retro controller and I've got all my emulators on here now, its all very neat package. It reminds me of an apple product, it does what I want, and not much else.Oh I should say, hulu works but its slower than a decent pc.
I'm going to sell the nook color, its got gingerbread on it but I hardly use it with the lapdock around and 4" is big enough to read on. The nook color is a great device and I'll sell you mine in fact if you decide on it but I wouldnt blame you if you went with the lapdock.
I don't have a laptop dock so I can't speak for that, but I am really diggin' my Nook Color rooted with a custom Froyo2.2 rom tethered to my Atrix. I travel some and on a plane and the Nook is perfect for that imho. At home someone ALWAYS has my Nook. If it isn't my Wife catching up on her soaps it is my Daughter watching some Hannah Montana. Then the Boy gets it when (if) the girls let it down and he goes to town playing games. I had to wait for quite some time today just to put a custom bootimage on the darn thing.
Good thing that I have the Atrix to play with...
That dock has to be so cool it hurts. But I wouldn't trade my Nook for it. Maybe 2laptop docks, if there was an extra phone included. But that's the only way. Now if that dock was touchscreen as well as keyboard/mouse then I might fold.
For $250 bucks the nook color is a steal. But then again obviously im bias . But seriously the xoom is sweet and all but it isnt $700 cool. 250 and its a a good ereader and can run froyo, cm7 (2.3) and honey comb.....you can even dual boot it. Right now I've been playing n64 on it a ton, never knew I missed star fox so much :-(. Oh, and battery...right now im at 73% unplugged for 3 days 12 hours. And you can now tether it to your phone and use the gps on your nook. IMO if you want the latop dock just buy a netbook and use the phone portal.
Sent from my Nook Color on Honeycomb 1.1 OC
Now that Bluetooth's working, you should get a Nook Color, a case that lets you prop it up in landscape, and a small BT keyboard (the Motorola one maybe?). But I'm also biased
Hmm little hard too decide if i had too make a decision, Which i have the laptop dock which i use it everyday because i watch movies on it and it even charges my phone at the same time and sometimes i don't even have too charge the laptop dock for up too 2 days sense the battery on it lasts really long. I like too see a netbook do that Which i have 2 and the battery life on them don't compare too the laptop dock life.
But i also have the samsung galaxy tab which is overclocked too 1.4ghzs and running voodoo kernel and i really like it which i take with me also but i mostly use the atrix and dock more than it lol.
Laptop dock ain't for everyone but i like mine.
Cant wait till custom roms and the webtop gets customized which should make it run so much better and im sure it will happen. Even a overclock kernel will make the webtop run better.
Oh dear, Oh dear, I am so pleased I came here. And I am basically clueless having just arrived from the iPhone world. Thank you for the guidance. Heading out for a Nook.
On another note, for purely aesthetic reasons, I could not resist buying an Apple bluetooth keyboard last night and trying to get it to get with it with the Atrix. It ain't happening; any wise offerings would be great.
Sent from my MB860 using XDA Premium App
gordesky1 said:
Hmm little hard too decide if i had too make a decision, Which i have the laptop dock which i use it everyday because i watch movies on it and it even charges my phone at the same time and sometimes i don't even have too charge the laptop dock for up too 2 days sense the battery on it lasts really long. I like too see a netbook do that Which i have 2 and the battery life on them don't compare too the laptop dock life.
But i also have the samsung galaxy tab which is overclocked too 1.4ghzs and running voodoo kernel and i really like it which i take with me also but i mostly use the atrix and dock more than it lol.
Laptop dock ain't for everyone but i like mine.
Cant wait till custom roms and the webtop gets customized which should make it run so much better and im sure it will happen. Even a overclock kernel will make the webtop run better.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I never knew the laptop dock got that much battery, that's pretty cool though. I guess it comes down to the individual. I'm already lugging my m11x (I use the term lugging loosely since it's only like a 4 lb laptop/netbook) to work everyday so for me to have that laptop dock with me isn't practical but I can see how it could be to people. Obviously my atrix is noticibly faster than my NC but it isn't slow by any means, but for $250 it fits my needs for random movies, angry birds, and the n64 emulator.
So honestly I think both are great, just pick one that fits your life and needs more..... Then buy the other with the next check :-D
Sent from my Nook Color on Honeycomb 1.1 OC
Maybe wait and get one of the new tablets or galaxy tab. I do have the nook color myself and like it, the bt will work decent soon, the only downside is you cant put it on a tv, or can you? On the other hand laptop dock can be done via webtop hack+usb charger and some bt kb and mouse.
Clienterror said:
I never knew the laptop dock got that much battery, that's pretty cool though. I guess it comes down to the individual. I'm already lugging my m11x (I use the term lugging loosely since it's only like a 4 lb laptop/netbook) to work everyday so for me to have that laptop dock with me isn't practical but I can see how it could be to people. Obviously my atrix is noticibly faster than my NC but it isn't slow by any means, but for $250 it fits my needs for random movies, angry birds, and the n64 emulator.
So honestly I think both are great, just pick one that fits your life and needs more..... Then buy the other with the next check :-D
Sent from my Nook Color on Honeycomb 1.1 OC
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ya wouldn't make sense too get the laptop dock if you already have the m11x which is also good on battery life from what i herd, Almost got one myself couple days ago but decided just too get a 9cell for my asus 1201n for now which does decent on most games and i do like to play my windows games when im on the go sometimes.
Ya i was surprised how well the battery is on the laptop dock is, Because from what i herd its around 4000mah ony but i guess from having just the screen and keyboard and mouse ony helps alot and than the phone which ony takes couple watts probably.
crnkoj said:
Maybe wait and get one of the new tablets or galaxy tab. I do have the nook color myself and like it, the bt will work decent soon, the only downside is you cant put it on a tv, or can you? On the other hand laptop dock can be done via webtop hack+usb charger and some bt kb and mouse.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yep you can go that way which i knew about it before i got the laptop dock but you wont have the nice big 11.6 screen too watch videos or browse the web on the go
Watching videos on the 4in screen now feels a bit weird too me even tho i did watch alot of movies on my zune hd which is 3in but than i got the galaxy tab 7in and wouldn't go back anything smaller for watching videos well more like movies sense i could watch youtube videos and stuff on the 4in screen.
Than i would have too carry more stuff with me mouse keyboard and a usb charger with the laptop dock i have a all in one.
Alot of people that wouldn't bother them, But i hate carrying alot of stuff with me than when i have too leave from somewhere i have too put all that stuff away lol
DoingAlright said:
Oh dear, Oh dear, I am so pleased I came here. And I am basically clueless having just arrived from the iPhone world. Thank you for the guidance. Heading out for a Nook.
On another note, for purely aesthetic reasons, I could not resist buying an Apple bluetooth keyboard last night and trying to get it to get with it with the Atrix. It ain't happening; any wise offerings would be great.
Sent from my MB860 using XDA Premium App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
try this:
1.) turn on bluetooth on phone (check 'make discoverable' box)
2.) turn on keyboard in pairing mode (led should be blinking)
3.) scan for devices on phone
4.) select the keyboard, and when pairing request comes up type '1234' or '0000'
5.) immediately after type the same 4 digit code from above into the keyboard and press return, and you should be connected.
let me know if that works, i had similar issues trying to pair a microsoft bluetooth keyboard (wireless entertainment keyboard 7000, awesome btw, touchpad and shortcuts all work) but following those steps works every time for me now.
Thank you, Thank you, worked like a charm. Much appreciated. I can take the plastic wrapper off this keyboard. Pause, I'll check out your reccommended keyboard first.
Best,
DA
P.s. Typing this msg with the Mac keyboard
Sent from my MB860 using XDA Premium App
DoingAlright said:
Thank you, Thank you, worked like a charm. Much appreciated. I can take the plastic wrapper off this keyboard. Pause, I'll check out your reccommended keyboard first.
Best,
DA
P.s. Typing this msg with the Mac keyboard
Sent from my MB860 using XDA Premium App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
you're welcome!
and to chime in on the original poster's question, i would go with the nook color now for the price/customizability. The laptop dock still continues to intrigue me... however i refuse to buy at its current price.
Related
It seems like the keyboard should be able to connect to the tablet via blue tooth when it's not connected to the tablet.
I wonder if there is anyway to mod it be a blue tooth keyboard?
There are times where it's nice to use the transformer as a tablet, but during that time the keyboard is totally useless.
Can the keyboard even be connected to the tablet via cable to use the battery but without having to hold up the extra bulk and such?
No, if you want a simple keyboard buy one. This dock is a dock, not simply an external keyboard. Bluetooth would just rape the battery on both and limit the functionality of it.
tazmeister said:
It seems like the keyboard should be able to connect to the tablet via blue tooth when it's not connected to the tablet.
I wonder if there is anyway to mod it be a blue tooth keyboard?
There are times where it's nice to use the transformer as a tablet, but during that time the keyboard is totally useless.
Can the keyboard even be connected to the tablet via cable to use the battery but without having to hold up the extra bulk and such?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
In one word...No
There are lots of bluetooth keyboards you can find if you want one. As they say ...it is what it is.
I still use mine as a tablet. I usually plug the charger into the dock when I'm using it as a tablet only.
You can pick up bluetooth keyboards for cheap. Doesnt hurt to have several options.
LG G2x - Miui
www.SnapSiteAdmins.com
www.MiiWiiChat.com
it's really diapointing to see how little thought went in to the few responses.
does this sort of lack of thought and imagination really epitomize the general population here?
has anyone heard of the idea of a dual or multi-use tool?
and what about an on/off switch for blue tooth?
oh well, dead topic at this point
Sent from my Transformer TF101 using xda premium
tazmeister said:
it's really diapointing to see how little thought went in to the few responses.
does this sort of lack of thought and imagination really epitomize the general population here?
has anyone heard of the idea of a dual or multi-use tool?
and what about an on/off switch for blue tooth?
oh well, dead topic at this point
Sent from my Transformer TF101 using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
so you made a thread asking if people agree with your opinion; they don't, and you call them dumb?
Also, yes, we are the epitome of the general population (...lol, wut?)
but to answer your question, the keyboard could have been a Bluetooth keyboard as well as a dock. no one is denying that. could it have been better if it were, probably. would it cost even more, most likely. would the additional cost justify the very limited uses of bluetooth-mode (uses that can't already be accomplished by the dock, in a close-range configuration) ?
nope.
so in conclusion, no.
I think the dock should have bluetooth so the keyboard could be used even when the tablet is detached. It's a shame, they didn't think of it.
@finalhit - the dock already is overpriced. I think they could easily added bluetooth without changing the price.
Get an ipad. It's probably got the most number of choices for bluetooth keyboard.
IRT the topic title: no.
Why? The Bluetooth stuff is in the tablet. To use the keyboard dock undocked via Bluetooth would be a cool feature, even if the battery drain would surge.
Versus how much that feature would increase the cost of the dock, I don't think it is a good idea: versus letting people buy a seperate Bluetooth keyboard if they need that sort of thing. My Transformer's dock is a pretty cheap piece of equipment, few moving parts if you please. The most expensive thing is probably the battery/charging stuff.
$150 extra for the dock makes a very good ROI versus just getting a standard netbook or tablet.
Spidey01 said:
IRT the topic title: no.
Why? The Bluetooth stuff is in the tablet. To use the keyboard dock undocked via Bluetooth would be a cool feature, even if the battery drain would surge.
Versus how much that feature would increase the cost of the dock, I don't think it is a good idea: versus letting people buy a seperate Bluetooth keyboard if they need that sort of thing. My Transformer's dock is a pretty cheap piece of equipment, few moving parts if you please. The most expensive thing is probably the battery/charging stuff.
$150 extra for the dock makes a very good ROI versus just getting a standard netbook or tablet.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
agreed, why would i want to rape the dock which is essentially a back up battery? makes no sense
tazmeister said:
it's really diapointing to see how little thought went in to the few responses.
does this sort of lack of thought and imagination really epitomize the general population here?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, I thought about it. I just thought it was a stupid idea. I like the way the dock works now (actually, I should say my girlfriend does since she stole mine and I haven't used it in months).
Go into the hardware mod and do it yourself, I dont want to add $50 for a feature that would drain both batteries faster and I would never use. How hard is it to have the TF in the dock if you are using the dock? I dont see a need to have the TF across the room while typing on the keyboard dock.
Magnesus said:
@finalhit - the dock already is overpriced. I think they could easily added bluetooth without changing the price.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Been hearing this since day 1, asked for someone to produce evidence (or product) of something that does the same for less, still haven't seen one example. Only bad examples of USB keyboards that don't provide the USB host control, SD card reader, stand and 6 hour battery functionality (with pass through charging).
I'm sure it is possible with enough effort to take a Bluetooth keyboard, replace the bottom with a custom module that provides mounthing for hard drive, card reader, battery, etc; or perhaps fashion a custom USB 3 hub you can rig for docking+charging.
In the end, unless you're the kind the get hackish at a work bench (I wish I had one), just using the dock when you want a keyboard, is a good idea. Much further away then docked somewhat minimizes the utility of a TOUCHSCREEN as well, unless you go bluetooth rat as well.
I think most people don't understand what we want - the dock should work as intentended when attached but switch to bluetooth when detached (could be switchable to preserve battery). There is no reason it would be in any way worse than it is now. Cost - as I said, it's already overpriced, so adding bluetooth doesn't have to increase it.
What value do you see in doing it that way? From what I can think of, I'd still opt to just pay less for the dock.
I could see the dock having bluetooth when detached beneficial when the tablet is hooked to my TV and I want to control it from my couch and the tablet is across the room hooked to the TV. Does someone make a bluetooth remote that can do this?
Magnesus said:
I think most people don't understand what we want - the dock should work as intentended when attached but switch to bluetooth when detached (could be switchable to preserve battery). There is no reason it would be in any way worse than it is now. Cost - as I said, it's already overpriced, so adding bluetooth doesn't have to increase it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, we understand. We just dont agree with either the usefulness or your judgement about them being able to do it without any cost impact.
if its that easy put it in yourself.
The whole purpose of the dock is to bring netbook like functionality and portable to the tablet. Using the dock/keyboard with bluetooth would defeat that purpose. Imagine sitting on a bus or train and trying to support the tablet and use both hands to type on the keyboard. You wouldn't be able to do it, unless you have extra arms, but as far as I know, I only have two.
Same thing with connecting the dock to the tablet with a cable. Defeats the whole portability the Transformer was made for. Portability is one of the Transformer's major selling points. And let's be honest, do you really need 16 hours of life on your tablet? Mine is off the charger from 7 am to around 11pm when I go to bed, and since I hardly use it at school, it can still have 85% battery when I plug it back in.
---------- Post added at 10:14 PM ---------- Previous post was at 10:07 PM ----------
Magnesus said:
I think most people don't understand what we want - the dock should work as intentended when attached but switch to bluetooth when detached (could be switchable to preserve battery). There is no reason it would be in any way worse than it is now. Cost - as I said, it's already overpriced, so adding bluetooth doesn't have to increase it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Again, Bluetooth defeats the whole point of the dock. The dock wasn't meant to be used detached from the tablet. If that's the case, Asus would've just installed a little touchscreen LCD where the touchpad is and let it run HC as well. That's like saying a car should be able to run on apple juice, even though they are built to run on gas -.-
You think a keyboard that gives you USB ports, an extra 9 hours of battery (?), and the ability to add another 128GB+ to your tablet is overpriced at $100? Wow.
jimbobalu said:
I could see the dock having bluetooth when detached beneficial when the tablet is hooked to my TV and I want to control it from my couch and the tablet is across the room hooked to the TV. Does someone make a bluetooth remote that can do this?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
FWIW I saw this and thought it might be useful to you; didn't have time to look at the thread very closely though!
I thought of the same thing and even posted this idea to the Design Team of Asus. But I didn't get a response.
It would be a brilliant idea. I even tried to connect a BT dongle and see if they could pair up. Didnt work.
Suppose I want to read a book and didn't fancy swiping across the screen - I could use the dock remotely and turn the pages.
That still makes little sense? Who reads a book on this thing without holding it in their hands or having it in their lap?
About the only scenario that has made any sense at all was the one using the TF to power the TV with the dock remotely connected but even then I doubt 99.999% of the users would ever do that (ive only even powered a TV twice. once to test and a second at a friends house to show them something).
I just stumbled on this - has anyone tried it, or done business with this company?
I don't need a cradle with HDMI connectivity, and prefer not to pay $99 for the Motorola HD Multimedia Dock.
http://www.smartphonebay.net/Cradle-Dock-for-Motorola-Photon-p/crad-motopht4g.htm
levman said:
I just stumbled on this - has anyone tried it, or done business with this company?
I don't need a cradle with HDMI connectivity, and prefer not to pay $99 for the Motorola HD Multimedia Dock.
http://www.smartphonebay.net/Cradle-Dock-for-Motorola-Photon-p/crad-motopht4g.htm
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
nice find...if it were a little cheaper i would jump on it...
Want!z
Sent from my MB855 using xda premium
the moto dock is here ... still pricey for me
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dl...y=123417&_trksid=p5197.c0.m619#ht_3014wt_1085
I have all the motorola photon accessories I bought them from sprint, and they are all fan freakin tastic, the docking station the car cradle and the motorola blue tooth keyboard, everything is from motorola. I have my photon set up to use as a web tv on my flatscreen its absolutely amazing, I am using it right now typing on the bluetooth keyboard, there are no downfalls to this surfing is fast and snappy but I will tell you this I have netflix also and I have to open the app from the phone and switch it to full screen because if you use the mozilla firefox web browser to go to the netflix site it won't register a an authorized device so open the app from the phone and switch to full screen I am fortunate enough to live in a great 4g coverage area and I have no lags whatsoever or buffering, and. Jsut so you know I am running the stock rom the only thing I did was root the photon for the free wifi, I have had my photon for about 2 weeks, since I broke my epic, and was a die hard epic fan now I have both I started a new line of service and it only cost me an extra 15dollars a month for 2 lines so I switch back and forth when the battery gets low and I don't want to wait I just grab the other phone and off I go, but I will tell you this that having the docking station and the keyboard I don't use my laptop as much anymore, I work in web based IT so I am always on the net and this setup does averything I need, I walk up to my next project pop out the kick stand and pull out the keyboard and off to work I go, its really simplified my life a whole lot I hardly ever use my epic anymore, but it was my favorite so I can't see myself giving it up. Well my friends as for the car dock its amazing once you put the photon in the car dock it turns into a gps automatically and it comes with all the wires you need if you want to hook it up to the auxhillary port (hmm don't think I spelled that right!!!) Then the main screen give you 4 slots to put whatever app you use most, I use my phone to listen to my music thru the car speakers so that's how I have mine set up, well that's the end of this long post I hope it was helpful, if so don't forget to hit the thanks button, Later!!!!!
Motorola 89501 Photon Station
Great phone love this thing, did not even know about the docking station did some research and found this one at $29.95 anyone heard of this or do you have one and how does it compare
I cannot post the link but it is for sale at IncrediCell [/url])
Donkeyloco said:
Great phone love this thing, did not even know about the docking station did some research and found this one at $29.95 anyone heard of this or do you have one and how does it compare
I cannot post the link but it is for sale at IncrediCell [/url])
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I actually found this a few months back. here's the link
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1475723
Currently I just have the tablet and have been thinking about buying the keyboard dock.
Is it worth $130? I currently have a laptop here at school, along with a desktop, and my tablet. My brother thinks it would be dumb to get the keyboard dock, because I would essentially have 3 computers.
Opinions?
I've heard people say that once you use the dock, you "almost" forget about using your other options. I just got my wife a TF101 and the dock for Valentine's Day and she doesn't want to use the tablet without the dock. I plan on picking up a dock for my Transformer soon because after playing with hers, I definitely need to have one. Hope that helps but at the end of the day, it's your decision and your wallet that's being affected.
I got both..
The question is
Is this replacing your laptop? If so i would say get a dock.. Its easier for me to type with the dock.. I only have it out the dock when going outside or gaming.
Other plus is the battery in the dock.
Just my 2cents.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I777 using xda premium
i thought i will get the dock play with it for a week and leave and idont its one of the best buys i had and consider the fact that here is costs 250 us dollars
ifind the dock a very good replacement for my other 2 laptops first of all its quite smaller than a mini laptop so its great for me to carry around
second the battery is awesome im working with it almost every day all day and the battery never died
even when im browsing the internet listening to music and downloading torrents
the time here is 18:20 right now im using it since around 4:30 i have 74 battery on dock
also it supports a few games so it nice to play with it
there are also 2 usb ports for DOK or xbox controller or ps3 controller for gaming
even some 3g dongles are supported
i pesonally find the dock one of the best buys for me
now it up for you to decide
p.s sorry for writing too much lol
You can never have enough computers
I bought the dock three days ago and am very pleased with it.
Typing is faster than the onscreen keyboard and battery life has doubled.
I also use it as a stand, so I don't have to use a case as a stand.
not sure if this has been answered before but can the dock charge other thing through usb like say a phone
i had the tablet for about 3 months without the dock and loved it. I got it about 2 months ago and its awesome. great build quality, battery is great, you can plug just about anything usb into it, thumb/hard drives, wireless mice, etc.
you wont use your laptop except to burn dvd's.
Hell, its great even to have as a charging station, its so easy to take on and off.
If you've got the money to spend, you wont regret it.
---------- Post added at 07:53 PM ---------- Previous post was at 07:49 PM ----------
Ligerblue said:
not sure if this has been answered before but can the dock charge other thing through usb like say a phone
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
yes, when the tablet is on the dock it will charge phones etc.
if you remove the tablet it becomes useless, except to charge itself.
I agree with the other posters; the dock rocks! I use my tablet pretty much exclusively with the dock. With it the Transformer can easily replace a laptop.
One advantage I haven't seen mentioned yet (at least in this thread) is the dock also protects the tablet's screen, when they are folded together.
Hermit, when the transformer is folded into the keyboard dock, is it secured by some mechanism?
LeoBloom. said:
Hermit, when the transformer is folded into the keyboard dock, is it secured by some mechanism?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
its kinda like spring loaded. Its a very firm hold, it doesn't flap around or anything.
If thats what you mean,
if your talking about how the tf attaches to the dock, then there are two hooks on the dock that lock into the bottom of the tf. then you have to slide the switch over to get it out. again very secure and firm.
Get the dock! I bought tablet alone at first but after a two months I decided to get the dock - and it changed the whole game! More juice, easier typing when needed, usb ports, card reader, even (rom based) 3g dongle!
Deffinetely go for it!
BTW - since I got TF (and the dock later) I didn't touched my laptop more than few times!
Bought it yesterday and got it today (F'yeah Amazon Prime)
It's awesome! I don't know why I have a laptop now >_<
dock is really awesome
it looks and feels amazing with tab attached to it! and battery life is incredible
I have to agree with everyone's comments about the dock - and as to "replacing" or having an extra computer......I have a dual screen I7, TF101, a hand me down Toshiba Tecra running as a home server, and a now dead Asus Slate (still trying to fix).
I have a Dell Studio XPS laptop that always overheats and runs out of battery way too fast. It's great and all but not practical for school use. I don't get much time near a charger so it's annoying to lug around a dead laptop.
I bought the tf in my first semester of college and absolutely adored it. I used it for everything and used it all day to bring it home with still 60-70% charge. 6 months later I bought the dock and it's just the cherry on top. It works beautifully, it's small, it's fast, it does everything I need it to do (Web surfing, music, study, gaming) and last days without charging (Doesn't heat up at all, only a little tiny bit when charging)
My laptop now stays at home as my webserver as an alternative to buying another desktop.
It's all up to you if you're going to use it enough to pay the $130 for the dock.
I just got the dock yesterday and have to say, it is very nice indeed.. I have a question though.
How do the little doors/flaps hold up for the USB connectors? They seem a bit flimsy and I was wondering if anyone has had any problems with those?
Get the dock.
The Transformer is only as good as the other offerings (Xoom/Tab/iPad) without it. With it, it's the best tablet on the market bar none...
Sell one of your laptops to fund it
Just to echo what everyone else is saying,
When I first saw the TF at I think it was CES (or MWC) last year, I thought it was just another android tablet. Its got a keyboard? Great, iPad has stuff like that too, so whatever.
But then my friend got one in the summer AND IT FOLDS UP LIKE A LAPTOP?! Sold! AND ITS A BATTERY?! AND A TRACKPAD?! USB PORTS?!
Needless to say, I was incredulous. The keyboard I think is what sets it apart from everything else on the market (save the prime). You can have your galaxy tabs and your xooms and xyboards - have fun typing on them. Not to mention all the function keys along the top row with shortcuts for the browser, settings, volume, brightness, probably some other stuff.
And it probably wouldn't be the worst idea in the world to throw a sizable SD into the dock to supplement your storage.
I wouldn't wait a second to buy the dock. Best addition to a tab ever. So much easier to type and the screen is protected during travel. Only downside is the additional $$$ really.
The extra battery life alone makes the dock worth it. Since getting the dock, I've put my Macbook pro up for sale and am just using my tablet (use my media pc for everything else).
One thing I wish is that the trackpad worked more like a real mouse (ie. when you're trying to drag something on the screen (to select text or drag the screen of a flash window). Right now it just acts as though you are touching the screen with your finger. It's still a lot better though. I find myself using the touchscreen more than the trackpad though (unless I need to make more precise touches).
I have no regrets of getting the dock.
Be warned though, if you let the battery in the dock completely die, you will need to plug it into a 5V power adapter to get the tablet to communicate properly with the dock's battery (will show up as 0% even if it's fully charged). I just plug my USB cable into my USB-110V adapter for my blackberry for a few seconds and it's good to go again.
Hey guys i am very curious those of you that own a Transformer Prime, along with the keyboard dock as well as a Zenbook or a similar Ultrabook. I ask this because i am thinking of also getting a entry model Asus UX31 Zenbook "good price". However i am asking myself do i really need one? Those of you who have one have you used it much since you have had your Prime?
Now the Zenbook or a similar Ultrabook will not be used for work or anything school related. I just would like to have a "main center" where i can sorta get my Windows Experience as well as my Root/Rom files . And all that blah blah stuff. And some occasional Minecraft gaming nothing more serious than that. Thats what my Xbox is for.
I currently have a Transformer Prime with the keyboard dock which i have been using as my main daily machine for fun & web browsing etc.... I do have a 2011 Mac mini hooked up to my main media center TV. But i haven't really used it since i got my Prime other than some random Minecraft gaming. So i did think about selling my Mac Mini if i got a Zenbook. I could always hook the Zenbook up to the TV & browse XDA while i have my TP in my lap checking emails. Just kidding lol.
So basically is it worth it really to own both for someone like me who dosen't need it for "work" so to say. I usually just use my GF's windows laptop for my root files & such but was thinking on getting myself a ultrabook. But honestly the more i think of it it could be a waste of money. Id much rather use that money towards a new international Galaxy Note phone Thoughts?
So far i have done so much with my Prime from hooking up a full size wireless keyboard & mouse up to it. Mini HDMI to my TV (Really cool!). Used my wireless Xbox controller with Emulators & even hooked up my portable Hard drive. The things you can do are almost endless. Other than actually run Windows. I ask myself do i really need Windows? The mobile Minecraft is fun but its not the full shabang.
Can you use any wireless keyboard and mouse? I dont have keyboard dock and would be interested in knowing more about it. How do you connect portable hard drive? Is that over wireless?
Yes even I have used micro HDMI to HDMI for HDTV and it is cool
Yes you can use a wireless keyboard & mouse. I bought a $25 microsoft keyboard/mouse that came with a little tiny usb dongle. I just plug it in the keyboard dock & works great. Keeps the screen clean .
Same thing with the hard drive, plug it in and it picks it up the same way if you were to slip in a micro SD card.
Now, i do have the keyboard dock which makes life easier which comes with the built in USB & SD card reader.. But if that is not something you aren't interested in i believe you can by ASUS USB connection kit. Which would plug into the charging pin. I think the kit is $14.99 at New Egg.
I highly recommend the keyboard dock thought if you can find one. So much you can do with it & not to mention the added battery life & netbook type experience it gives the TP.
Hope that helps.
Here is that USB connector that i was talking about. If you can find one though the keyboard dock is the way to go it would be less cumbersome.
http://www.excaliberpc.com/607966/asus-external-usb-adapter-for.html
I was considering a zenbook but decided on a transformer instead.
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using Tapatalk
Spidey01 said:
I was considering a zenbook but decided on a transformer instead.
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Same here. They ASUS ultrabook is super nice & my local BB had in on sale for $999 for the 13". But being i would basically have to add a extra $500, thats basically another Transformer Prime!
I just wish we could get these bugs ironed out!
I have had this prime since they first came out. I never bought the matching keyboard. I'm wondering if I would like the prime better if I had the keyboard dock? I find myself reverting to my junk laptop a lot of the time (windows vista home premium) mostly for web browsing. I don't think it's screen size (15 vs 10?). I like using a physical keyboard at times. I can use my finger as a mouse but the physical keyboard seems to be what drives me to the laptop.
Those of you that have the keyboard what do you think?
Sent from my SCH-I545 using xda app-developers app
b4u2 said:
I have had this prime since they first came out. I never bought the matching keyboard. I'm wondering if I would like the prime better if I had the keyboard dock? I find myself reverting to my junk laptop a lot of the time (windows vista home premium) mostly for web browsing. I don't think it's screen size (15 vs 10?). I like using a physical keyboard at times. I can use my finger as a mouse but the physical keyboard seems to be what drives me to the laptop.
Those of you that have the keyboard what do you think?
Sent from my SCH-I545 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Got my keyboard for Christmas. It totally "transforms" the experience. USB port, full size SD card slot and an extra battery. How can you go wrong? Typing this reply on it now. Totally worth it. I can't remember the last time I charged just my tablet. People always ask if I like my "netbook" and thats when I pop the tablet off the dock and it amazes them.
BTW the TF701 keyboard and the Prime are compatible.
theandies said:
Got my keyboard for Christmas. It totally "transforms" the experience. USB port, full size SD card slot and an extra battery. How can you go wrong? Typing this reply on it now. Totally worth it. I can't remember the last time I charged just my tablet. People always ask if I like my "netbook" and thats when I pop the tablet off the dock and it amazes them.
BTW the TF701 keyboard and the Prime are compatible.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Should I get the TF700 or the TF200 dock? I'm trying to find the differences on google right now.
The TF201 has a slightly bigger battery. There is a small balance issue with the 201's dock meaning the tablet can fall over when docked. I don't think it's a big deal. Mine has never fallen over. The 701's dock is said to have fixed that problem. I don't know, I've only messed with a friends 701 with the dock and didn't try to test that.
Well I would have dumped the whole tablet to trash can if it had no keyboard dock. The keyboard is really good and it is pleasure to write with.
I'm a little confused on the keyboard dock. I see the TF200 and TF700 dock but not finding TF701 docks for sale. Am I missing something? It looks like the TF701 was just unveiled this month?
Think I might buy a referb TF700 dock from Best Buy. It has a really good price on it.
Sorry, the Infinity Pad is a TF700. For some reason I've always call it a TF701.
The Prime is a TF201
Using my Prime without keyboard too. I think it will not replace computer anyway. I'm ok with its battery life and never needed USB or SD slot before.
I dont own a dock, but i got to use one on a TF101, I personally dont like the size of the keyboard (or using the trackpad)
so what i did was i ordered a transformer USB adapter off amazon for 10$, a hub for another 10$, and i connected everything up (mouse, keyboard, mem. card reader, etc [it was a 8 port hub)
just note that the adapter was meant for ALL transformer tablets, so it might be a little wiggly, which can be solved by making a cast out of hot plastic (the kind used in 3d printers)
Just an update.
I did go with a transformer dock. A TF700 dock. So far I like it. Only problem I have so far is integration with touch screen and non touchscreen control. Some thins I have to still use my finger (like scrolling a page). Tried using Facebook and it was annoying ( I could be using something wrong). I am still getting used to it but overall I have to say I really do like it better with the dock. Some games/apps change rotation when I need to use a chat function in them (annoying). I will continue to work with and get used to it's functions. The shortcuts on the keyboard are nice at times.
b4u2 said:
Just an update.
I did go with a transformer dock. A TF700 dock. So far I like it. Only problem I have so far is integration with touch screen and non touchscreen control. Some thins I have to still use my finger (like scrolling a page). Tried using Facebook and it was annoying ( I could be using something wrong). I am still getting used to it but overall I have to say I really do like it better with the dock. Some games/apps change rotation when I need to use a chat function in them (annoying). I will continue to work with and get used to it's functions. The shortcuts on the keyboard are nice at times.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Put you dock into gesture mode (asus customised settings) and then use 2 fingers on the touch pad to scroll
b4u2 said:
Just an update.
I did go with a transformer dock. A TF700 dock. So far I like it. Only problem I have so far is integration with touch screen and non touchscreen control. Some thins I have to still use my finger (like scrolling a page). Tried using Facebook and it was annoying ( I could be using something wrong). I am still getting used to it but overall I have to say I really do like it better with the dock. Some games/apps change rotation when I need to use a chat function in them (annoying). I will continue to work with and get used to it's functions. The shortcuts on the keyboard are nice at times.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The dock shines when using in conjunction with remote desktop to a decent computer. I run windows 8 on my desktop and using splashtop remote (which makes for a nearly lag free and pretty remote desktop experience) it feels like the transformer prime is running an i5 with ssd and 4gig ram. If you are on local network, it's even possible to stream youtube and video and stuff without any lag, just a very slight delay in sound/image.
So I have a desktop computer which is always on. When I need a tablet I just use the tablet. When I need a laptop I put it in the dock and remote into my desktop and I have a full desktop.
It's even better with a small travel mouse connected to the usb of the dock.
Very versatile this thing, just a shame of the memory and the lag when using it as a tablet.
And of course, when I want a desktop with full size keyboard and no lag big screen gaming ... I just go to my desktop and start where I left of on my tablet. It's great!