ASUS VivoTab RT Pro Reviews

It turns out that when I wished for an Asus Transformer Pad Infinity running the new version of Windows, I was half-right. I love the idea of the convertible form factor, and the fact that the Vivo Tab feels like both a tablet and a laptop. But it's not a great example of either: the tablet has some build quality issues, and the whole laptop element is subpar because a 10.1-inch laptop doesn't work. Plus I'm convinced that if you only want to have one device, it can't run Windows RT. The more time I spend with this first run of Windows 8 / RT devices, the more I'm excited for what's coming next. Asus's own Transformer Books may solve all my problems: they run full-blown Windows 8 on Intel's 3rd-generation processors, come in larger screen sizes (I'm eying 11.6 inches), and still have the tablet / dock paradigm that Asus seems to do better than anyone. After spending some time with the Vivo Tab RT, my wallet's still in my pocket, but I'm also still glued to the Asus website.

In the upcoming avalanche of tablets with various versions of Windows, Asus has the advantage of having a good reputation, built on its devices with the Android OS. It has managed to maintain this level of credibility with the VivoTab RT -- this is a practical 10-inch tablet and notebook hybrid. Its biggest advantages are its exceptionally slim design and small weight, highly practical add-on keyboard, and some little things that offer great comparative advantage in relation to competing models, like USB, NFC and certain pre-installed Asus applications. The device's flaws refer to the low display resolution, insufficiently polished docking touchpad and, regardless of the hardware, the currently humble offer of Windows RT applications. All in all, this is surely one of the most attractive 10-inch tablets at the moment, which is a direct competition for Microsoft Surface RT and a worthy equal to the Transformer Pad on the market of devices with the Microsoft operating system for tablets.

Asus harnesses its expertise to deliver the best Windows RT tablet yet, but the immature OS and high price diminish its appeal

The keyboard dock provides lengthy battery life, but the VivoTab can't compete with Microsoft's Surface

Microsoft pointed the way for the other tablet manufacturers with the Surface RT and clearly shows just what is possible with the new Windows RT operating system. It is now up to the engineers and product designers from the innumerable device manufacturers to make something out of the specifications and adopt the operating system to their own tablets. Asus sticks to its hitherto successful concept of a tablet and optional keyboard dock hybrid. The final result comes very close to the Surface RT in terms of looks.

For better and worse, the VivoTab RT replicated everything we loved and didn't love about the company's Android-based Transformer tablets. This, too, is exceptionally thin, light and easy to hold, with long battery life and a good camera. Still, the fact that ASUS hasn't changed the layout on its keyboard dock means you'll have to brace yourself for a cramped typing experience -- which is a shame since Microsoft's own Surface tablet is offered with not one, but two comfortable keyboards. The performance also feels far more buggy than on the competing Surface tablet. Finally, too, we'd caution prospective buyers that the selection of Windows RT-compatible apps is far from complete, though the fact that Netflix, HuluPlus, Angry Birds, Fruit Ninja and The New York Times were all added within the past two weeks gives us reason to believe that Microsoft fans won't be left hanging -- at least not when it comes to the important stuff. If you have faith that Windows RT will eventually run every app you could need or want, the VivoTab RT is one of at least two promising choices -- or at least it will be, if ASUS and Microsoft can manage to iron out the software glitches.

Though we weren't able to fully quantify the numbers in dedicated benchmark tests, the ASUS Vivo Tab RT offered a very responsive, fluid and satisfying tablet experience overall. Switching between applications and multitasking in general was very impressive, actually besting or matching virtually any competitive tablet solution on the market currently, in general use. Though there were a few application glitches along the way for Windows RT and the Vivo Tab RT's camera didn't impress us much, overall Windows RT and the NVIDIA Tegra 3-power ASUS Vivo Tab RT is an impressive combination in terms of usability and general performance.

Before we get into the nitty gritty, we’d like to point out that Asus is offering a special promotion on the VivoTab RT, which enables any buyer of the tablet to get the keyboard dock for free. Yes folks, you heard that right! If you pick up the tablet before the end of the year (December 31st, 2012), you’ll be able to nab it au gratis! All in all, it’s really giving the Surface RT a good run for its money. Heck, the more we think about it, at the same price that Microsoft is selling its Surface RT tablet with its touch cover, we actually find more value in Asus’ offering. Not only are you getting a versatile netbook replacement, but the extra battery power is significant in making it a true portable powerhouse. At the same time, the sleek figure of the VivoTab RT works well in keeping it manageable to carry around. And lastly, it’s packing a much better camera than the Surface RT as well When it comes down to it, the VivoTab RT merely goes to show that Asus can always stand tall in the face of competition – even if it’s from the direct source. If you’re considering picking up a Windows RT tablet, this is surely going to be one you’ll want to check out. Frankly, there’s a fair amount of value seen in this $599.99 tablet, which again, is bundled with the keyboard dock.

With Windows RT, the Vivo Tab RT takes some getting used to. There's a high learning curve and access to several key features is either unintuitive or buried. But once you get the hang of it, there are a lot of things to like as well. Despite being somewhat hidden, the features are useful, and what we liked best of all was the refreshingly elegant user interface. Navigating through the Start screen feels especially silky and the dynamic live tiles are fun and informative. Software aside, however, the Tab RT falls barely short of the Surface. Though the former has a brighter screen, other factors give the Surface that extra sliver and edge. For example, its novel keyboard is much more portable and comfortable to type on. And its larger screen offers a more cinematic, immersive experience. Just as with any flagship product, it's no surprise that when it comes to creating a better Windows RT experience, look to Microsoft itself to carry the torch.

Tablets are all about the experience of software married to hardware. The Asus Vivo Tab's solid hardware provides the makings of a good experience, and Windows RT is a good foundation for that experience. But Windows RT's many software quirks and omissions may limit the Vivo Tab's audience to dedicated PC users who've recently purchased a Windows 8 laptop or desktop, and want to extend their new Modern UI software purchases across both systems. The inclusion of Office Home & Student 2014 RT gives the Vivi Tab RT an edge, but that edge would have been greater still with a better keyboard dock.

Tablets are all about the experience of software married to hardware. The Asus Vivo Tab's solid hardware provides the makings of a good experience, and Windows RT is a good foundation for that experience. But Windows RT's many software quirks and omissions may limit the Vivo Tab's audience to dedicated PC users who've recently purchased a Windows 8 laptop or desktop, and want to extend their new Modern UI software purchases across both systems. The inclusion of Office Home & Student 2014 RT gives the Vivi Tab RT an edge, but that edge would have been greater still with a better keyboard dock.

The Asus Vivo Tab RT tablet adds a clamshell laptop dock to the mix, which both extends battery life and adds a few rough edges.