I have to admit that I’m not a fan of Apple technologies. I know that I’m in the minority and many mates find my inability to get any joy out of their impressive range of devices quite amusing. However, they are just not for me.
So imagine my disappointment and panic when I realised that the iPad, a concept that had appealed to me for years, was not to be mine. There was no way that I was going to break a century of habit for this particular slice of technology.
Then I heard that there were to be alternatives. Alternatives that weren’t packed full of proprietary software and that expected me to abandon all love for Windows 7 (yes, I love Windows 7, there will be a public lynching later). The Eee Pad EP121 is one of those alternatives.
Please note, I am not bashing Apple. Their products are so very extremely pretty and shiny. They make offices look so chic and clean. My first PC ever, way back in the 80s, was an Apple. I say PC because back then PC stood for Personal Computer, not Microsoft.
But I do prefer gadgets that give me that little more in terms of what I can put on it and what I can use it with. The EP121 caught my eye. She is so pretty (ASUS, I hope you don’t mind if I allocate a random gender here, but it is far too pretty to be anything other than a girl, or a metrosexual which doesn’t quite have the same ring to it) that I want to hold her and use her to conquer the world.
It is the ultimate productivity tool and it looks like something out of Blade Runner, only with less rain and anguish. It comes with a 12” high resolution multi-touch screen and the Windows 7 Home Premium OS. From what I’ve seen, this baby is easy to use, packed with features and a fantastic hybrid of netbook and pad.
Although reviews are plagued with issues about its usability right now, ASUS will obviously have ironed out the kinks before it starts to sidle into stores. The best thing about this device is that stylish keyboard docking station that prevents email rage and frustration. You can slot in that keyboard and get typing without crying into your cappuccino.
This little guy is well worth waiting for before you rush out and buy the first pad you can lay your hands on. Compare them, try them and then decide. For me, because of my little foibles, the decision has already been made.
