ASUS Transformer vs Motorola XOOM

Overview

When comparing the ASUS Transformer with the Motorola XOOM, it mostly comes down to hardware differences since the two pretty much have the same exact specs and software. The main thing that sets the ASUS Transformer apart is the fact that it has an optional keyboard dock accessory that essentially transforms the device into an Android-powered laptop. The XOOM on the other hand, sets itself apart with a more solid design and options for 3G and 4G wireless.

Check the ASUS Transformer review and Motorola XOOM review for more details, photos, screenshots, and videos.

ASUS Transformer vs Motorola XOOM: Specs

	ASUS Transformer	Motorola XOOM
Screen Size	10.1-inch LED-backlit IPS	10.1-inch LCD
Resolution	1280 x 800	1280 x 800
Processor	1GHz dual-core NVIDIA Tegra 2	1GHz dual-core NVIDIA Tegra 2
Operating System	Android 3.0 (3.1 update pending)	Android 3.1
Storage	16GB/32GB, microSD card slot	32GB, microSD card slot (16GB model pending)
Memory	1GB DDR2 RAM	1GB DDR2 RAM
Wireless	WiFi, Bluetooth (3G pending)	WiFi, Bluetooth, optional 3G (4G LTE pending)
Front Camera	1.2 megapixel	2 megapixel
Rear Camera	5 megapixel, 720p video capture	5 megapixel with LED flash, 720p video capture
Input/Output	mini-HDMI, proprietary USB, 3.5mm headphone jack, 2 speakers, mic, keyboard dock (optional; $149)	mini-HDMI, mini-USB, charger, 3.5mm headphone jack, 2 speakers, mic, SIM card (optional)
Battery	8-10 hours, 16 with keyboard dock	8-10 hours
Weight	24 oz	25 oz
Thickness	0.51"	0.50"
MSRP	$399/$499	$599/$799

ASUS Transformer vs Motorola XOOM Video Review

Where the ASUS Transformer Wins

Where the Motorola XOOM Wins

ASUS Transformer vs Motorola XOOM: Conclusion

From a personal standpoint, I had hoped the ASUS Transformer would replace my Motorola XOOM because I really like the idea of the keyboard dock for using the device to create documents in addition to using it as a proper tablet. It is simply too time consuming and awkward to use an on-screen keyboard for writing long reviews and news articles. But there a couple of things that keep the Transformer from replacing my XOOM.

I wouldn't say the Transformer feels cheap, but compared directly to the XOOM and iPad the plastic back and overall design does feel a lot less solid. Secondly, while the IPS display is better than the XOOM's typical LCD display, the lack of touch responsiveness at times is a real turnoff. I frequently have to press more than once to get something to react. Plus the fact that my Transformer suffers from light bleed issues doesn't help its cause.

In the end, it all comes down to how much money you want to spend and how exactly you want to use the device. If you want a slightly better screen with wider viewing angles and want to do a lot of typing, the ASUS Transformer with the keyboard dock is the clear winner. If you don't want the option of a keyboard dock and can afford the extra cost, I would suggest the Motorola XOOM because it feels more comfortable to hold, has a higher quality build, and has not given me any troubles at all using it everyday for two months, whereas the Transformer has frozen up 3 times in the first week.