Price and specifications of Samsung Galaxy Tab 4 7.0 3G advantages, disadvantages, and a comprehensive explanation

Overview of the Samsung Galaxy Tab 4 7.0 3G

The Samsung Galaxy Tab 4 7.0 3G is a compact and user-friendly tablet that was announced in April 2014 and released in May 2014. This device is known for its practicality and convenience for everyday use, which makes it suitable for a wide range of users, including students, business professionals, and entertainment enthusiasts. Despite being discontinued, its features are still worthy of discussion, especially for those who are looking for a reliable secondary device or something for basic use.

Network and Connectivity

The Samsung Galaxy Tab 4 7.0 3G operates on GSM and HSPA technologies. It supports a variety of 2G bands (GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900) and 3G bands (HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100), allowing for adequate network coverage in diverse geographic locations. With HSPA support of 21.1/5.76 Mbps, this device provides acceptable browsing speeds suitable for most online applications.

Design and Build

The tablet features dimensions of 186.9 x 107.9 x 9 mm (7.36 x 4.25 x 0.35 in), giving it a sleek and easy-to-hold profile. Weighing in at 276 g (9.74 oz), the device is lightweight, making it portable and convenient for users on the go. The inclusion of a micro-SIM slot ensures that this device can be easily integrated into cellular networks.

Display

The Samsung Galaxy Tab 4 7.0 3G is equipped with a 7.0-inch TFT display that boasts a resolution of 800 x 1280 pixels with a 16:10 ratio (~216 ppi density). The display may not be the most advanced, but it delivers clear visuals suitable for most standard media consumptions such as watching videos and browsing the web.

Platform and Performance

Running on Android 4.4.2 (KitKat) with Samsung's custom TouchWiz UI, the tablet offers a straightforward user experience. It is powered by the Marvell PXA1088 chipset and a quad-core 1.2 GHz Cortex-A7 CPU, alongside the Vivante GC1000 GPU. These specifications ensure that the device can handle basic multitasking, gaming, and media consumption adequately.

Memory and Storage

The tablet includes 1.5GB of RAM, offering sufficient memory for casual use and multitasking. It provides internal storage options of 8GB and 16GB, which can be expanded via a dedicated microSDHC slot, allowing users to increase storage capacity according to their needs, making it suitable for storing apps, media files, and documents.

Camera Specifications

On the camera front, the Samsung Galaxy Tab 4 7.0 3G is equipped with a 3.15 MP rear camera that can record video at 720p@30fps. It also sports a 1.3 MP front-facing camera, which, while modest, can be used for basic video calling and selfies. The camera quality reflects the device's market segment focus as an entry-level tablet.

Sound and Multimedia

The tablet offers stereo speakers, ensuring users enjoy a reasonable audio experience while watching videos or listening to music. It also includes a 3.5mm audio jack, allowing users to connect wired headphones or audio devices, adding to the multimedia versatility of the device.

Connectivity Options

The Samsung Galaxy Tab 4 7.0 3G is equipped with a range of connectivity features such as Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n with dual-band and Wi-Fi Direct support. It also features Bluetooth 4.0 with A2DP, GPS with GLONASS, an infrared port for remote control functionality, and a microUSB 2.0 for charging and data transfer. It lacks NFC and a radio but includes adequate alternatives for most standard connectivity needs.

Battery Life

This tablet is powered by a non-removable Li-Po 4000 mAh battery that provides up to 10 hours of multimedia usage and close to 190 hours of music playback time, making it highly suitable for extended use without frequent charging interruptions.

Additional Features

The Samsung Galaxy Tab 4 7.0 3G features an accelerometer sensor, which is useful for motion-based applications and games. It is available in two color options, white and black, catering to the aesthetic preferences of a variety of users. The model number for this device is SM-T231, which was priced around EUR 240 at launch.

Conclusion

The Samsung Galaxy Tab 4 7.0 3G, though discontinued, remains a reliable device for basic needs such as browsing, media consumption, and connectivity. Its affordable pricing and functional design make it a noteworthy option for those seeking a secondary tablet or a user-friendly device for casual use. While it may not compare to more recent tablets in terms of specifications and features, its balance of performance and portability ensures it remains a choice worth considering for specific consumer needs.