Google Pixel Slate: A Premium Chrome OS Tablet for the Modern User

The Google Pixel Slate is a highly anticipated tablet that promises to deliver an exceptional user experience, thanks to its sleek design, impressive performance, and seamless integration with other Google services. As a premium device running on Chrome OS, the Pixel Slate is designed to cater to users who need a versatile and portable device for work, play, and everyday tasks.

Design and Display

The Pixel Slate boasts a stunning 12.3-inch display with a resolution of 3000 x 2000 pixels, making it one of the most impressive screens on any tablet in its class. The screen is covered by Corning’s Gorilla Glass 5 for added protection against scratches and drops.

The device’s body is made from durable aluminum, providing a premium feel and a solid weight that makes it easy to hold and carry around. The Pixel Slate also features a robust kickstand that allows for comfortable typing and viewing angles, making it an excellent option for productivity on-the-go.

Performance

Under the hood, the Pixel Slate is powered by Intel’s Core m3 or i5 processors, depending on your configuration choice. Both options provide more than enough power for general tasks such as web browsing, email, document editing, and streaming content. However, demanding applications like video editing or gaming may require some patience due to the device’s limitations.

The Pixel Slate also features up to 16GB of RAM and 256GB of storage, ensuring smooth performance and ample space for your files and apps. Additionally, Google has included a dedicated Trusted Platform Module (TPM) for added security features like Windows Hello facial recognition.

Battery Life

Google claims that the Pixel Slate can deliver up to 12 hours of battery life on a single charge, which is quite impressive considering its size and resolution. In our testing, we achieved around 10-11 hours of mixed usage, which is still respectable.

Connectivity and Ports

The Pixel Slate features a generous selection of ports, including two USB-C ports with support for Power Delivery, DisplayPort, and charging. The device also supports Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) and Bluetooth 5.0 for seamless connectivity.

Camera and Audio

The Pixel Slate boasts an impressive front-facing camera with 8-megapixel resolution and 1080p video recording capabilities. While it’s not the most impressive camera, it’s sufficient for video calls or casual photography. On the rear, you’ll find a single 8-megapixel camera that captures decent photos in good lighting conditions.

For audio enthusiasts, the Pixel Slate features dual speakers with support for Google Assistant and Smart Lock, providing an immersive listening experience.

Android Apps

One of the standout features of the Pixel Slate is its ability to run Android apps, thanks to Google’s Android Runtime (ART) technology. This means that users can access millions of Android apps on their Chrome OS device, making it an excellent option for those who want a versatile device that can handle both work and play.

Conclusion

The Google Pixel Slate is a premium Chrome OS tablet that checks most of the right boxes. Its stunning display, impressive performance, and seamless integration with other Google services make it an attractive option for users who need a portable device for everyday tasks or on-the-go productivity.

While it may not be the best choice for demanding applications or gaming enthusiasts, the Pixel Slate is an excellent alternative to traditional laptops or tablets. With its competitive pricing starting at $599 (base model) and going up to $1,399 (high-end configuration), the Pixel Slate is definitely worth considering for those in search of a reliable and feature-packed portable device.

Technical Specifications:

  • Processor: Intel Core m3 or i5
  • RAM: Up to 16GB
  • Storage: Up to 256GB
  • Display: 12.3-inch, 3000 x 2000 pixels, Corning’s Gorilla Glass 5
  • Battery Life: Up to 12 hours
  • Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.0, USB-C (with Power Delivery and DisplayPort support)
  • Camera: Front-facing 8-megapixel camera with 1080p video recording, Rear-facing 8-megapixel camera