How To/Buy A Tablet PC
From Mobile PC Wiki
How To Buy A Tablet PC
by Alltp
Contents |
Introduction
Once a decision has been made to purchase a tablet or ultra mobile PC, the next logical question is from where to purchase it. This article will compare buying from online stores, big box stores, manufacturers’ websites, eBay and Value Added Resellers.
Rationale
For the same reason people choose different computers, you may need more or less services than the next person. Here is how to choose the vendor that will provide the product, technical support and pricing that best fits your needs
Preparation
Be honest with yourself about how tech savvy you are
Tell Me How To
Tablet and ultra mobile PCs are not yet a commodity product like desktop and laptop computers. To fully take advantage of their capabilities, you need more than just routine knowledge about using Windows software. Depending on your expertise, available time and interest, you may choose a particular vendor based on how fast they can get you up and running. I’ll address them each briefly.
Online stores
Generally their pricing is lower than the manufacturer’s list price. In exchange for lower price, you typically don’t get a very generous return policy (or a no return policy) and limited to no technical support. If you are prepared to learn on your own and go back to the manufacturer for service then you can save some money.
Big Box stores
Best Buy and Circuit City are right in your neighborhood and if they have the model you want can let you take it home the same day. Of course, that is a big “if”. Many people report tablet PCs found in the laptop configuration with no pen or power cord and with the units bolted to a display stand. Staff generally isn’t very knowledgeable unless you are using it like a laptop. Pricing is OK but selection is usually very limited.
Manufacturers’ websites
HP, Lenovo, Toshiba, Fujitsu, Motion, TabletKiosk and most other manufacturers have storefront sites for purchasing their products. They allow complete configuration of each unit, although certain customizations may delay shipping times. These Build-to-order units are exactly what you want them to be and the online price is usually not far from the “internet” or “street” price. Tech support is so-so, mostly because the folks answering the phone are using desktops and laptops – not tablet PCs. Another issue with relying on the manufacturer is that they only support the hardware. If you have a problem using a particular software application you shouldn’t expect anything but very generic help.
eBay
Provided you are looking for a unit based on price, eBay is a great resource if you won’t need any technical support. The biggest concerns are making sure the unit is as promised. Rarely do you get a guarantee of any kind, but if you can look for auctions offering a DOA (dead on arrival) policy and a seller with long term, positive feedback. Don’t expect anything but the product – that is all you will get, but then you are on eBay for the pricing.
Value Added Resellers
VARs are companies that specialize in a specific area of technology and usually combine hardware with software, support and training to create a solution in a particular industry. Some of the VARs that state they specialize in mobile technology are really just online sellers – check their website and policies to see if they provide technical support or if they simply refer you to the manufacturer after the sale. VARs that do provide support, unit customization and pre-sales consulting generally price their units close to the manufacturer’s list price. It’s up to you to decide if the value they add will justify the price as compare to other types of vendors.
How do I apply this knowledge
If you’re a “tech weenie”, go for price. If you are too busy to learn all the ins and outs of a tablet or ultra mobile PC, pay a little more and get the highest level of service since this will save you time and money in the long run.
Highlights / Review
Know what resources you will need after you purchase your tablet or ultra mobile PC and buy from the right vendor. Online stores, eBay and big box stores provide the best pricing; manfuacturers and their Value Added Resellers will provide the most post-sale service and support.
Conclusion / Next Steps
Congratulations on making the decision to invest in a tablet PC or UMPC.
References
I’m basing this information on my work with hundreds of customers who struggle with how to get the best value when purchasing a tablet or ultra mobile PC.
by Alltp 13:10, 14 August 2006 (GMT-8)
