Acer Iconia W3 : First Look

Acer, the world's fourth largest PC vendor was already making tablet computers for a long time. We have seen Iconia B1, a 7-inch low end Android running tablet recently. Being a trusted OEM partner of Microsoft; it is legitimate to see the Taiwanese giant getting something exclusive before anyone else.

So here is the world's first 8-inch Windows 8 running tablet. Yes, you heard it right. Earlier the competition was between Apple iPad Mini and Samsung Galaxy Note 510, as both devices have 8-inch display.

There is a perception in the minds of people that Windows 8 OS, is primarily meant for traditional PCs. Microsoft is trying to make it's Windows 8 OS more friendlily to touch. The biggest advantage of Windows 8 is that it is not like Android or iOS. And when it comes to tablets then Windows 8 is the best suited OS because you can create content. Microsoft Office is the biggest advantage to own Windows 8 powered tablet.

Acer in association with Microsoft announced Iconia W3 on June 25 at New Delhi. GizBot was there to cover the event live. We had informed you that Acer could announce Iconia W3 in India in the coming days. We broke the news first when Iconia W3 was spotted on Croma catalogue.

The Acer Iconia W3 was announced last month at Computex tech show. Earlier in the year, it was reported that Microsoft wants its OEM partners to make Windows 8 tablets less than 10-inches, so that regular customers can afford.

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Generally, it is seen that tech vendors are coming up with Windows 8 running tablets, but most of them (tablets) costs as expensive as a regular UltraBook. With Acer Iconia W3 both Acer and Microsoft can place this device against Apple iPad and Samsung Galaxy Tabs. We spent some time with Iconia W3. To be frank, it was not a bad experience.

This is the right time for Microsoft to answer Google's Android. Why? The biggest problem a consumer face with Android tablets is the inability to create a word document. For that matter, typing on a tablet is a tedious job.

The Iconia comes with an optional wireless keyword which fits in perfectly. The keyboard is designed in such a manner that it doubles as a dock connector. It would be great, if Acer announce an optional detachable keyboard. We liked the way how a keyboard transformed Microsoft's Surface tablet.

Talking about the Iconia W3, it is not like any regular Android powered tablet. The design is completely different from some of the best selling tablet models. It's a complete different take on a tablet device. Acer could have gone for metal chassis instead of plastic body.

However, the rear back has aluminum finish given to it. The build quality is nice. Even though the device is made of plastic still it feels solid to hold. We find the Iconia W3 a bit heavy in weight (540grams). The device is not slim by chance. It is way thicker than iPad 4.

The device display comes with a resolution of 1,280 x 800 pixels. Though, an 8.1-inch WXVGA display is an average hooker. We unable to find crispness and colors look washed out too. However, the screen responds to touch. Another problem is that screen is reflective.

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The heated discussion here is how Windows 8 works with an 8-inch tablet. As far as first impression is concerned, it looks like we are working on a notebook device, a regular one powered by same Windows 8 OS. So, our experience with Windows 8, in general, was great. Acer is bundling Microsoft Office 2013 with every purchase of Iconia W3.

Performance wise, we are impressed with Intel Atom Atom Clover Trail 72760 dual -core chip (clocked at 1.8GHz). Due to 2GB of RAM, it operation went smooth. We did not find any fault or lag during our brief time spent with the tablet device.

If you want to use Iconia W3 to take photographs; Acer provides with that option as well. There are two cameras (2MP each) given on the front and on the rear back. We are disappointed with the camera quality.

Acer says the tablet can run up to 8 hours on a single charge. While, the Apple iPad 4 gives you 10 hours of battery life on a single charge.

In the name of connectivity, you will find ample number of options: HDMI, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB 2.0, and expandable storage via microSD card. Unfortunately, the tablet is aloof to 3G connectivity. The internal memory stands at 32GB which can be expanded further. We expect the 64GB version will be soon available. The company is yet to disclose such plans. The Iconia W3 is priced attractively at Rs. 30,499. The competition is rather tough at this price point. Stay tuned to GizBot.