The Hot & the not so Happening

SAMSUNG GALAXY TAB
Rs 38,000

FEATURES
>>Android 2.2, 1 GHz Cortex A8 processor, 16 GB or 32 GB internal storage
>>7-inch TFT LCD, 1,024 x 600 resolution, 3G, Bluetooth and 5 GHz dual-band Wi-Fi

Samsung's tablet has a solid build and looks good. The pixel density is higher than the iPad owing to the former's smaller screen and offers a satisfying viewing experience. The applications are impressive and have been designed to take advantage of its screen. The Tab is also a tad cheaper than the iPad.

MAHINDRA STALLIO
Rs 44,699

FEATURES
>> Single cylinder, 110 cc engine
>> 4-speed, 13.7-litre tank capacity

The Mojo signals Mahindra's entry into the two-wheeler market, but the Stallio is the one expected to bring in customers. The specifications are typical of its segment, but the bike scores by being the only one to sport digital instrumentation. The Stallio is also very stylish for its class. Unfortunately, there is no option of disk brakes. It will be prudent to wait for a few months for performance feedback before buying one.

MACBOOK AIR
Rs 60,900

FEATURES
>> 1.4 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo processor,
>> 11-inch, 64 GB flash storage, 2 GB RAM, USB 2.0

The Apple notebook is all about essentials. While the processors in both the 11-inch and 13-inch versions can't be categorised as muscled, they are glitch-free. The battery life is stellar (5 hours for the 11-inch version) and the build quality is excellent. The flash drive also reduces boot time considerably. Overall, a good product.

NOKIA N8
Rs 26,259

FEATURES
>> Symbian ^3 touch revolution, 12 megapixel camera
>> 16 GB internal memory, MicroSD memory card slot up to 32 GB

The Symbian software has definitely improved the N8's touchscreen experience. It also has the largest image sensor for a smartphone. The specifications keep pouring in and include Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 3.0 and USB support. Complementing the hardware is the appealing design. The price, however, is a dampener.

IOMEGA SKIN
Rs 5,900

FEATURES
>> 500 GB, USB 2.0, vClone software
>> Multiple colour and pattern options

The Iomega hard drive is not about performance alone, which, is satisfactory. The Skin sheds the usual drab exterior sported by drives for a stylish one. The pre-loaded vClone allows you to make a virtual image of your PC, thereby letting you access data and saved settings on any machine. The data transfer speed averages between 30 Mbps and 40 Mbps, normal for a USB 2.0. The price is also reasonable.