Windows 7 '2goPAD' Tablet PC Officially Launched

Last week Microsoft promised several new Windows 7 tablet computers would be available to home and business consumers prior to Christmas. For those of you who simply can't wait, take note: there's a Windows 7 tablet PC available right now, so long as you don't mind a relatively short battery life.

CTL 2goPAD: Hardware Specifications

Tech company CTL recently released their 2goPAD, a device featuring a 10.1-inch display with 1,024 x 600 pixels, 1.66 GHz Intel Atom N450 (single core, 2 threads) processor and 2GB of RAM.

Internal storage of the 2goPAD is listed at 250GB, while boasting a 1.3 megapixel webcam, LAN support, WiFi, Bluetooth and an SD card reader. Interested consumers will also find two audio jacks (including microphone in, speaker out) and two USB ports. (Source: electronista.com)

Comparing 2goPAD to a Netbook

The Windows 7 2goPAD has the same display size as most netbooks, slightly better specs otherwise, and it comes in a considerably thinner package. It weighs about 2.6 pounds, which is light, but not much lighter than most current netbooks.

Reviews from LaptopMag report impressive performance but raise one major concern: a less than marathon-like battery life. During a period of constant browsing, the 2goPAD's battery tapped out after just 3 hours and 15 minutes, not great for a device that will accrue sales based on its portability. (Source: softpedia.com)

"This device showcases the comprehensive capabilities and technologies available for Intel Atom processor-based tablet form factors ... CTL is a proven leader in mobile computing technology and the 2goPad SL10 is an excellent complement to their full line of laptop computers, " said Intel's North American channel director Eric Thompson. (Source: laptopshop.co.uk)

One other major selling point of the 2goPAD (versus the iPad, for example) is that it plays Adobe Flash content, which many websites on the Internet use. The Apple iPad is said not allow Adobe Flash because it drains battery life and is thus more suitable for PCs than tablets.

Is Windows 7 Suitable for Tablet PCs?

Not escaping criticism on the lack-luster battery life of the 2goPAD is Microsoft. Reviewers suggest Windows 7 may be a bit too bulky for a tablet computer with specifications like this, and that using a leaner operating system like Windows XP or Linux might have led to a considerably longer battery life.

If you can handle the idea of plugging it in for a recharge every three hours, the CTL 2goPAD is reasonably priced at $499. Certainly the inclusion of Windows 7 will make it a familiar and thus convenient option for many consumers.