Google Nexus 7


Unveiled in June this year, Google partnered with Asus to release an affordable tablet that doesn't compromise on performance, build quality or firmware. It's expected to launch in India next month.

Core specs
OS: Android 4.1 Jelly Bean
Display: 7-inch IPS, 1,280x800 pixels (216 ppi)
Chipset: Quad-core Nvidia Tegra 3
Storage: 8GB or 16GB; 
RAM: 1GB RAM
Camera: 1.2-megapixel front-facing
Connectivity: NFC, Wi-Fi n, Bluetooth 3.0,  
Battery:  4,325 mAh; 10.1 hours video battery life
Weight: 340 grams
Size: 7.8 x 4.7 x 0.41 inches
Price: $199 (8GB), $249 (16GB)

Pros and Cons
(+) Higher pixel density screen
(+) Quad core chipset
(+) Early firmware updates.

(-) Starts at 8 GB, no expandable storage
(-) Wi-Fi-only for now
(-) No rear camera

Verdict: Expected to launch sometime next month in India, the Nexus 7 is 130-$80 cheaper depending on storage options - that should translate to a lower price point compared to the iPad mini.  

Apple iPad Mini


Launched yesterday, the iPad mini is their most affordable tablet yet, starting at $329 for the 16GB Wi-Fi only version. It has the optics of the iPad 3G and the display resolution of the iPad 2.

Core specs
OS: iOS 6
Display: 7.9-inch IPS, 1,024x768 pixels (163 ppi)
Chipset: Dual core A5x processor
Storage: 16/32/64GB options
RAM: ??
Camera: 5-mp 1080p rear; 1.2-mp 720p front camera, 
Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.0, Lightning port
Battery: "16.3-watt-hour"; 10 hours battery life (rated)
Weight: 308 grams 
Size: 7.9 x 5.3 x 0.28 inches
Prices: $329, $429, $529 (Wifi) 

Pros and Cons
(+) 5-megapixel 1080p rear camera
(+) Starts at 16 GB
(+) Cellular option supports 4G LTE networks

(-) No expandable storage
(-) Relatively expensive at higher storage capacites
(-) First world gets first dibs 

Verdict: We're kind of elated that the iPad Mini starts at 16 GB. Based on today's currency conversion rates the entry-level version can be expected to cost around Rs. 17,600, but India is not in the list of 34 countries that will see retail availability by Nov 2.