PERFORMANCE. We evaluate how fast a tablet can perform calculations and see how long it takes to complete different tasks. The Lenovo Tab 4 8 (TB-8504F) (16GB, 2GB RAM) has speeds acceptable for running everyday tasks, such as web browsing or email. Copying a set of files was fast.
DISPLAY. We also score the attributes of a tablet's display. This device has a display resolution of 1280 x 800, and produces typical detail at 185 pixels per inch. The very bright screen and its reduced glare will be easy to view when used outdoors or in bright rooms. Testers found the display quality is vibrant, although text lacks some contrast. Viewing angles are very wide with minimal changes in color, good for sharing a slideshow or movie.
CONVENIENCE. To gauge a tablet's ease of use, we look at the intuitiveness of its controls, as well as how quickly it takes to perform common tasks, such as connecting to a WiFi router or transferring files. The on-screen keyboard had a less comfortable size than on other tablets, and buttons were intuitively placed or easy to use. The touchscreen accurately interpreted touch gestures and it showed little, if any, lag in response. This tablet's initial setup process was quick and simple to personalize. It was fast in connecting to a wireless network. There were few, if any, issues when transferring files to and from different computers or storage solutions. You can display two apps at once on this tablet, making it easier to multi-task and view more information on the screen.
SPECIFIC TASKS. Looking at how easy it is to perform a set of everyday tasks can show how functional a tablet will be. This tablet scored very good, with some tasks easy to perform. Almost all common file types are supported by default without needing to install additional apps to view them. The tablet includes a video conference app by default for making video calls. The camera video records in HD, good for creating movies for playback on TV. The webcam video records in HD, good for making video calls. Video playback was smooth and had little lag, and sound quality from the built-in speakers is very thin. Photos produced from the camera had unnatural colors, and videos lacked detail and had inaccurate colors. Text was somewhat hard to read under various lighting conditions. There was some sluggishness when using the web browser.
VERSATILITY. The features that are available on a tablet and other physical characteristics can affect its usability. It has no USB port. It has no HDMI port. Without a keyboard, it weighs 0.8 lbs. The tablet has a solid feel, with little to no flex in its construction.
BATTERY LIFE. A longer battery life is important for mobility, whether using it while outside traveling, or even just at home as you carry the tablet between rooms. While browsing the web, the tablet can last 10.8 hours, and while playing back movies, it can last 15.5 hours. After partially charging a drained battery for 30 minutes, the tablet can last 1.6 hours. The tablet has a battery-saving mode, but it took testers some time to find and activate it.
