Cost-effective?
Even so, a backlit screen isn’t ideal for reading, so the Amazon Kindle is arguably better than the HomeSurf or even the iPad. The screen served video playback better, but the lack of pin-sharp resolution didn’t help. Similarly, the single loudspeaker was quiet and under-powered.
Cut price inevitably means cut corners
Battery life on Android devices is always tricky, though later editions of the software have improved power usage. The HomeSurf flattened the battery in less than a day, and recharging was through a dedicated charger not USB, which may limit your options.
Verdict
Although it’s great to see competent computing power in a light, well-priced machine, it’s hard to recommend the HomeSurf Tablet 7. It works well as an e-book reader, but doesn’t compare to the similarly-priced Kindle. The Android system is effective and inviting but this early edition feels hobbled by the lack of many decent features. The screen is uninspiring and the build quality decidedly average. It’s a great price, but you may be better off saving for a more accomplished machine. ®
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Binatone HomeSurf 7 Android tablet
Carphone Warehouse's Binatone's HomeSurf 7 page
COMMENTS
I remember when
the Binatone name adorned cheap and nasty stereo systems. This looks to me like the 21st century equivalent: A cheap and nasty tablet
Name game
similar here -- I initially read the company name as Bin at once -- not a promising first impression.
Happy memories...
...of Binatone, Bush, Crown, Saisho. Cheap and cheerful bits of consumer kit, like stereo tower systems that we so light that the whole unit moved when you pushed a button. Loudspeakers that weighed almost nothing and were probably about 1W each.
Shame about the name
Probably just me, but every time I saw the name, I read it as HomeSmurf.. And now can't get that image out of my head.
