There are so many reasons why Apple’s iPad is one of the best choices for anyone who is interested in an effective gadget for work. For the creative entrepreneur, it is a great way to create or edit webpages, there are an abundance of apps that can simplify your life (and it seems as if more and more apps are being released on iOS first), it’s a great productive tool for your business, and as if these aren’t reason enough, it is just plain fun to use!
Not everyone, however, has the budget for an iPad, nor is it always a great fit for everyone. Your business needs may be different from someone else’s, which means that even if you can afford to start with an iPad, it may not be for you. If you are looking for alternatives or simply want to try something new, one of these 5 may be for you.
Alcatel OneTouch Xess
I live for gadgets that allow me to multitask. It is a must for me because I juggle multiple duties throughout the day, from my freelance work to social media, my own growing community, and my little ones. That is precisely why I love the Alcatel Xess tablet. The 17.3-inch device is more reminiscent of an all-in-one than a tablet, but it offers flexibility with a stand that is easily maneuverable.
I can move fluidly from managing my social media accounts to putting on a show for the girls to watch while I get lunch ready with very little effort. Although it is larger than its counterparts, I love having a larger screen with the ability to pick up and to move from one room to the next easily.
At $499, it is $100 less than the smaller iPad pro, and $200 less than the larger one.
Microsoft Surface 3
Why did I go with the Microsoft Surface 3 rather than the 4 Pro? Because having the newest model is not always necessary, especially when you are working on a budget.
These Microsoft tablets are top of the line for productivity, with the option of transforming your tablet into a small laptop. The keyboard allows you to work a lot faster, and with the surface pen and several ports, it is made for a busy entrepreneur on the go. A great tool for multitasking, the Surface comes with a full version of Windows 10.
There are also more options to customize the device, which starts at $799 for the base Surface Pro 3 model and $499 for the base Surface 3 model.
Samsung Galaxy S2
With the smaller model starting as $399, the Samsung Galaxy X2 is affordable, with options to expand your device to fit your lifestyle and business needs. From a USB converter to using a microSD card, you can also expand your storage. Get the entire Microsoft Office App suite in order to use your favorite business tools on the go.
The Samsung Galaxy S2 tablet is great for anyone who wants the performance and quality of an iPad Air 2, but on the Android ecosystem.
Dell Venue Pro 8
Perfect for the creative entrepreneur on a strict budget, the Dell Pro 8 Pro 3000 series is currently available on Amazon for $149.00. With the trusted dependability of Dell, the Venue Pro is for the entrepreneur who needs quick access and simplicity. Get access to the full Windows suite in a compact device without the bulk and size, along with a quad-core intel processor. With options to pair your device with a bluetooth keyboard and mouse, or expand your storage with an SD card, this device offers flexibility at an affordable price.
For a larger option, check out the Pro-10.
Asus Transformer Book Flip 2-in-1
For $349, you can own the Asus equivalent of the Microsoft Surface Pro. The Asus Transformer has many models, but the versatility of the Flip captivated me instantly. Smaller than a sheet of A4 Paper and feather light, it is the perfect tool to take along with me as I juggle motherhood and business. It can slip easily into the side of a diaper bag or take very little space in a packed bag. It looks amazing and is power-packed with goodies, including an 8-hour battery life, 46% larger touchpad, a Windows 10 experience and a Quad Core or Dual Core Processor.
Featured photo credit: Kārlis Dambrāns via flickr.com
