Toshiba Excite 13 AT335 Comprehensive Specs Pricing & Reviews

Design and Build

The Toshiba Excite 13 AT335 is a unique tablet given its large size and sturdy build. With dimensions measuring 343.8 x 211.2 x 9.8 mm, it is a substantial device designed to stand out, providing a significant screen real estate for an enhanced viewing experience. Weighing in at 998 grams (2.20 lbs), the Excite 13's weight might be a trade-off for some users, but it speaks to the solid construction typically seen in Toshiba's hardware. The dark gray metallic finish gives it a sleek and professional appearance, complemented by its relatively slim profile of just under 10 mm.

Display

One of the most striking features of the Toshiba Excite 13 is its 13.3-inch display. Employing LED-backlit IPS LCD technology, the screen offers vibrant colors and wide viewing angles. With a resolution of 1600 x 900 pixels and a 16:9 aspect ratio, users can enjoy crisp visuals whether watching videos, surfing the internet, or playing games. Although the pixel density is approximately 120 ppi, which is lower than many smaller tablets, the large display provides an immersive experience that is further augmented by Corning Gorilla Glass protection, ensuring durability against scratches and minor impacts.

Performance

Under the hood, the Excite 13 is powered by the Nvidia Tegra 3 chipset, which includes a quad-core 1.5 GHz CPU and ULP GeForce 2 GPU. This configuration offers adequate performance for most applications, including media consumption, web browsing, and productivity tasks. Equipped with 1GB of RAM, the tablet is capable of multitasking, though modern app demands might show its limitations. Available in 32GB or 64GB storage configurations, the device also supports external expansion via an SD/microSDHC card slot, providing flexibility for users with extensive media libraries.

Camera Capabilities

The Excite 13 includes a 5 MP rear camera with autofocus and an LED flash, capable of recording 1080p video at 30fps. While not groundbreaking, this camera is suitable for casual photography and video recording needs. On the front, a 2 MP camera enables video calling and basic selfies. While not emphasized for modern photography standards, these cameras provide functional support for essential tasks and applications.

Sound and Multimedia

In terms of audio, the Toshiba Excite 13 does not disappoint. It features four integrated loudspeakers, which deliver a robust audio experience, making it well-suited for watching movies or streaming music. Additionally, the presence of a 3.5mm headphone jack ensures compatibility with a wide range of audio peripherals, catering to personal listening preferences.

Connectivity Options

The tablet is equipped with multiple connectivity options, including Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n for internet access and the ability to function as a hotspot. Bluetooth 3.0 support is present for pairing with other devices, such as headphones or keyboards. Although it does not include a radio, it supports GPS and A-GPS for location-based services. Physical connectivity includes a miniUSB 2.0 port, which facilitates data transfer and charging.

Sensors and Additional Features

In terms of sensors, the Excite 13 includes an accelerometer, a gyro, and a compass. These components enable various functionalities, enhancing user interaction with applications by providing orientation and motion-based data. These sensors are particularly useful for gaming and navigation apps.

Battery Life

The tablet is powered by a non-removable Li-Po 38 Wh battery, promising up to 168 hours of standby time and up to 13 hours of talk time. This battery capacity aligns well with the tablet's intended use as a media device, allowing for extended periods of entertainment consumption without frequent recharges. However, the non-removable nature of the battery might be a limitation for some users, as it restricts replacing the battery in case of degradation over time.

Operating System and Software

Running on Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich at launch, the Excite 13 provides users with access to a wide array of applications through the Google Play Store. While this version of Android is now outdated, at the time of release, it was equipped with features designed to improve user interface performance and robustness. However, the lack of updates to newer OS versions may restrict access to some modern apps and security updates.

Market Position and Historical Context

Announced in April 2012 and released by July of the same year, the Toshiba Excite 13 entered the market as a bold step in the realm of large-screen tablets. It aimed to cater to users seeking an alternative to traditional laptops, offering a blend of portability and functionality, albeit with a larger footprint. Despite being discontinued, the Excite 13 remains a testament to Toshiba's ambition to explore unconventional form factors in the tablet market. Its release price point of approximately 540 EUR reflects its positioning as a premium device, aiming to provide significant value through its expansive display and solid features.