Asus Eee Pad Transformer Prime (32GB, gray)

Pros: Class-leading specs; Connectivity (MicroSD, MicroHDMI, BTooth); size and speed.

Cons: ICS still slightly "buggy" on this hardware; most apps have yet to take advantage of ICS and quadcore; weak WiFi reception.

Summary: Background/Rationale: I've had the Transformer Prime (TP) since 12/23/11 and it is my first tablet. I had been waiting and reviewing Android tablets ever since the MOT Galaxy 10.1 hit the shelves at Costco. Nothing appeared optimal until Asus released the specs of the TP. Note that I loathe Apple due to the offensively closed nature of iTunes (admire the hardware however). Also, I believe that HTC has done the best job of optimizing Android for mobile devices, but was very disappointed in the specs of the small HTC Flyer (HTC may yet have a worthy 10.1" device in the future). Since I had a very good experience with Asus laptops (2 in the family), pre-ordering the TP was an easy decision (also ordered a 32GB MicroSD card for instant upgrade to 64GB).

Have taken the TP on several trips and I love it. It replaced my MP3 player, Kindle and personal laptop. Can easily show/take pictures & movies, video chats, connect to hotel TVs, handle various email accounts, stream music, play games, etc... Battery lasts for cross-USA flights and can stay on top of news & weather. Easily tethers to my 4G phone so lack of built-in 4G not an issue (wouldn't use the TP as a phone anyway).

At home, use BTooth to conncet to the home entertainment system which allows for access to music library and assorted net radio to be heard & controlled throughout the house. Also nice to sit outside and watch Netflix or lay in bed and read newspapers.

Finally, I've noticed tons of complaints over supposed "WiFi probloems". I have noticed that the reception is not as good as my other devices (smartphone, laptops, etc...) running on my home network (Zoom 802.11b/g/n router) which results in a diminished range for the TP. However, I have not observed any instances where other devices are receiving "full strength" and the TP is at zero/one bar. I suspect that it may be an issue with the antennae design and/or placement within the TP. Since I have decent reception throught the house and yard, it's not been a problem for me.