Tablets

Memory-card reader

A slot for a standard memory card (usually a micro-SD) to expand storage or transfer files.

Fingerprint-resistant screen

Screen coating reduces adhesion of skin oils and makes cleaning easier.

Detachable keyboard included

Price includes a detachable keyboard that folds like a laptop.

Detachable keyboard optional

A detachable keyboard that folds like a laptop is available at additional cost.

Swype-capable keyboard

Offers an alternative way to type by sliding a finger to each letter in a word.

Approved app market

Can access a rich variety of apps authorized by the operating system manufacturer.

Camera

An outward-facing camera for shooting photos or video recordings.

Detachable carrying case

Includes a detachable carrying case.

Active stylus optional

An optional stylus ("pen") is available that can interact with the screen to draw lines of varying width.

Active stylus included

Includes a stylus ("pen") that can interact with the screen to draw lines of varying width.

Webcam

An inward-facing camera for video chat or selfies.

GPS

Can receive satellite data for precise navigation.

Capacitive touchscreen

A capacitive touchscreen requires less pressure and is more precise than the resistive type, but cannot sense gloved fingers.

Internal storage

Storage for the operating system, downloaded apps and user content.

Operating system

The underlying program that runs the user interface and applications.

Operating system (as tested)

The underlying program that runs the user interface and applications. Version is the installed OS at time of testing.

Length

The longest edge of the tablet measured in inches.

Width

The medium-sized edge of the tablet measured in inches.

Depth

The shortest edge of the tablet measured in inches.

Resolution

The pixel dimensions of the screen, length by width. Combined with the screen size, this determines the pixel density, which is the true measure of the ability to display image detail.

Pixel density

A measure of observable detail on the screen. Pixel density of about 300 pixels per inch or higher eliminates any detail loss due to screen resolution limitations if viewed about 10 inches away.

Mobile data

Can use a cellular carrier's data plan to connect to the Internet.

Camera MP

Megapixel resolution of the outward-facing camera.

Color

Indicates the available colors of the case of the tablet. A slash separates multiple colors on the same unit, while a comma separates available color choices.

Camera: Video definition

Largest height available to the outward-facing camera for recording video. 720 and above can display in HD; values below display in SD.

Webcam MP

Megapixel resolution of the user-facing webcam.

Webcam: Video definition

Largest height available to the user-facing webcam for recording video. 720 and above can display in HD; values below display in SD.

Act as WiFi hotspot

Can use a mobile data plan to connect other devices to the Internet. Some carriers charge extra for this.

WiFi type

The type of built-in 802.11 wireless networking supported. Tablets with 802.11n also support 802.11g routers. Some models with 802.11n also support the 5GHz "high band," a standard suitable for apartments and other crowded areas.

Mobile Type

Highest level cellular network the tablet can connect to using a carrier's data plan.