Asus Transformer Pad TF103 review: A good 10-inch option

Price: Rs. 19,999

It’s Not Really A Transformer Right Now

The weird thing about the Transformer Pad TF103 is that it’s not a transformer. The “Transformer” series by Asus is all about hybrid devices, tablets that can be docked with a keyboard to be used as a laptop. The TF103 does have the slots for it, but Asus does not sell it with the keyboard dock—it’s a strange decision and basically, this just becomes another 10-inch tablet now.

As a 10-inch Android tablet though, the TF103 gets several things right. The large screen is the most important aspect, of course, and it has good viewing angles and is responsive to touch. The colours aren’t accurate enough for photographers to work with this tablet, but for casual users looking to watch a few movies, it gets the job done.

The overall build quality is decent; it doesn’t feel flimsy, but the buttons don’t feel like they will last a long time. Disappointingly, the TF103 is a little heavy compared to other 10-inch tablets.

There are no heating issues, even while playing games.

Gaming performance is smooth, but that’s because the dual-core processor does not support high quality graphics. We played the Asphalt 8, Modern Combat 5, Riptide GP2 and a few other games on the TF103 while comparing it to the Galaxy Note 4, Nexus 7, iPad Mini and the iPad 3 alongside. The TF103 is a smooth gaming performance at the cost of a high-quality graphics experience.

In terms of general performance, you won’t find the Transformer Pad lacking in any aspect. Even with just 1GB of RAM, there is no lag while multi-tasking. Zen UI is good to use and doesn’t slow down the system. At all times, while it doesn’t feel zippy, it feels fluid.

Asus has also provided for a micro SIM slot, so you can get 3G connectivity while on the move. It’s something that really raises the usability of a tablet. There’s also a microSD slot, in addition to the 8GB of internal memory.

However, the moment you’re using 3G, the battery goes for a toss. The antenna seems to draw a lot of power and the battery levels dropped almost twice as fast as when it was connected on Wi-Fi. Generally though, the battery life is decent. It plays back video continuously for just under 7 hours, which isn’t great, but not bad either.

Should You Buy The Asus Transformer Pad TF103?

The TF103 finds itself in a good place, mainly out of a lack of choice. You see, there is a dearth of good 10-inch Android tablets, and the TF103 is the cheapest among those we would recommend. At Rs. 20,000, it still costs more than what we think is value for money. But when you don’t have a choice, there’s little you can do.

If it was up to us, we would compromise on the screen size and the 3G connectivity and buy an iPad Mini. But if you want a 10-inch screen and mobile internet, along with the option of some day buying a keyboard dock, then the TF103 is a good choice.