Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 70 I705 InDepth Review Specs & Price

Introduction to Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 7.0 (I705)

The Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 7.0 I705 is a blend of portability and functionality, delivering a compact yet robust package. Released in August 2012, this device offered an impressive feature set for its time, targeting users who need a versatile tablet for both productivity and leisure.

Design and Build

The Galaxy Tab 2 7.0's design is built around practicality and comfort. Its dimensions—193.8 x 122.4 x 10.4 mm—strike a balance between screen size and portability, making it a comfortable fit for one-handed use. Weighing in at 345.7 g, this device is light enough to carry around without feeling cumbersome. The choice of materials reflects Samsung's commitment to quality, ensuring that even though the device is no longer new, it remains resilient against everyday wear.

Display Features

At the heart of the Galaxy Tab 2 7.0 is its 7.0-inch PLS LCD screen. This display offers a resolution of 600 x 1024 pixels, providing clear and vibrant visuals. Its screen-to-body ratio of approximately 58.1% ensures that the device maintains a balance between content viewing area and overall device size. While its 170 ppi density may not match modern pixel densities, it was adequate for everyday tasks like web browsing and multimedia consumption at the time of its release.

Performance

Under the hood, the Galaxy Tab 2 7.0 is powered by a Qualcomm MSM8960 Snapdragon S4 Plus chipset, which includes a dual-core 1.2 GHz Krait CPU and an Adreno 225 GPU. This combination was satisfactory for handling various applications and multitasking. Paired with 1GB of RAM, it allowed the tablet to run most apps available during its prime with relative ease, though high-end gaming and resource-heavy applications could challenge the device's limits.

Operating System and User Interface

The device originally shipped with Android 4.0.3 (Ice Cream Sandwich), and users had the option to upgrade to Android 4.1.2 (Jelly Bean). This operating system upgrade brought improvements in terms of performance enhancements and added features, such as Google Now. The user interface was intuitive, with Samsung’s minimal customizations allowing for a user-friendly experience.

Storage Capacity

Storage options were modest, with 8GB of internal memory. However, the inclusion of a microSDHC slot allowed users to expand storage by up to 32GB, a valuable feature for those needing extra space for apps, media, and documents. This flexibility ensured that the tablet could serve both personal and professional needs efficiently.

Camera Specifications

The Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 7.0 I705 features a 3.15 MP rear camera capable of recording 720p videos at 30fps, adequate for capturing basic photography needs. The VGA front-facing camera, though limited, served well enough for video calls, a key feature for keeping in touch with friends and family.

Battery Life

Equipped with a non-removable Li-Ion 4000 mAh battery, the Galaxy Tab 2 7.0 boasts a commendable battery life of up to 432 hours on standby in 3G mode. This extended battery performance made it suitable for travel and extended use without frequent charges.

Connectivity Options

Connectivity was one of the strengths of the Galaxy Tab 2 7.0. It supported Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n with Wi-Fi Direct and DLNA functionality. This allowed users to connect effortlessly to home networks and stream media content. Bluetooth 4.0 ensured easy pairing with peripherals. The device also included GPS and A-GPS for navigation and location-based services. While it lacked a radio, the microUSB 2.0 port with OTG support added to its functionality as it allowed for additional accessories and data transfer options.

Additional Features and Pricing

The device included several sensors such as an accelerometer, gyro, proximity, and compass, enriching the user experience with enhanced app interactions and everyday functionality. Priced at around 200 EUR at launch, it provided good value for its features. Available in black, it appealed to those desiring an understated aesthetic combined with functionality.

The Galaxy Tab 2 7.0's SIM card support under the Mini-SIM format and its compatibility with CDMA, EVDO, and LTE networks ensured broad connectivity options, making it a versatile companion for both personal and professional use.

Conclusion

Overall, the Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 7.0 I705, despite its eventual discontinuation, represented a well-rounded and durable tablet option in the early 2010s. It combined essential smart features with robust design, serving as a reliable companion for a diverse array of activities. Even by today's standards, it can still handle basic tasks effectively, appreciated by those looking for a straightforward, no-nonsense tablet.