The Iconia W700 differs from other hybrid tablets by not having a
keyboard that attaches to the body of the tablet to create a
laptop-style device. Instead it looks like any normal tablet, albeit
bulkier and 11.6 inches across. It docks into a stand that props it up
at a usable angle and acts as a charging stand and USB hub.
The
idea is that you keep the dock and keyboard at work or in your home, and
use it like a full PC. The added HDMI means you can connect it to an
external monitor so you'd have no idea you were using a tablet at all.
When you leave, just pull the tablet out from the dock, for games, apps
and browsing on the move.
The Acer Iconia W700 measures 11.9 x 295 x 191mm (0.5 x 11.6 x 7.5 inches) and weighs 925g (33oz), making it one slab of slate.The only problem with the Acer's way of working is that when you do
need to take the dock on the move with you, it's one of the most awkward
pieces of equipment to transport.
The square dock is made from
flimsy white plastic and is propped up by a white plastic stand, which
is a single piece of angled plastic that slots in the back.
It
seems as if it's designed to take up the maximum room in your bag, and
due to the plastic, feels that it could emerge in two pieces after
you've shoved something on top of it. Add the power supply and any extra
peripherals and your bag will be filled to the brim.
