Reviews

HP TouchPad review: First Look

Does HP have the ability to make its mark in the tablet wars with this webOS-based device? We have a closer look to see if it will suit business users.

17 Feb 2011

An adequate 1.3 megapixel camera is present on the front of the TouchPad for making video calls. However, for some reason, HP neglected to add a rear facing camera, which is steadily becoming the standard for tablets. Although we don't expect many people to regularly take photos and shoot video with a tablet, we were still disappointed not to see one.

The preinstalled QuickOffice suite will be appreciated by most users. The on-screen QWERTY keyboard is large enough to include a number line, cutting down on the constant switching between keyboard types often necessary on a smartphone.

The HP TouchPad really is a delight to behold. However, the heaviness compared to other new tablets is a little disappointing. HP should have attempted to make it thinner and lighter. It should be available this summer in 16 and 32GB versions, both of which will be available either with or without integrated 3G. Pricing has yet to be confirmed.

If you want to see the HP TouchPad in action, we managed to capture some footage of it at MWC in Barcelona.

So what are our first impressions?