When purchasing a tablet PC, you should factor in the cost of the various accessories you will also need. You can't simply buy a tablet PC, carry it with you everywhere, and expect it not to get scratched or damaged, for example. Additionally, you'll probably want it to be a bit more functional than the default "out of the box" status. That's where the following accessories for your tablet computer will come in handy.
1. Protective Case
Tablet PCs aren't cheap so spend the extra money for a case to protect it. The number one thing to guard against is scratches. With the whole thing basically being one big screen, you don't want to end up with scratches all over it, do you? Tossing your sleek new tablet in your bag with your keys, pens, loose change and whatever else is a sure-fire way to destroy your screen in no time.
You can buy cheap cases for under 10 bucks. But why would you when you've just shelled out a couple of hundred for your tablet? Most cases are between $20 and $50. Spend the extra money. There are plenty of stylish leather cases and many of them fold back to work as a kind of stand (ideal for watching movies!) There are even waterproof cases, but I'm not sure I'll be taking mine in the pool or the bath anytime soon, personally.
2. External Keyboard
Unfortunately, one of the drawbacks of tablet pcs is not being able to type very easily. Yes, there's a keyboard that comes up on the screen with all the keys, but you don't want to be doing an extended amount of typing with it. The portability of a tablet is fantastic, but if you're going to be typing a lot, it might be worth investing in a portable external keyboard.
Make sure the tablet you're considering buying is configured to accept an external keyboard dock. If not, you might like to review your options again. If so, you should be able to purchase one fairly inexpensively. Some models may even be compatible with a standard wireless keyboard. Check with the manufacturer.
3. Camera Connector
This varies quite a lot across the different models of tablet PCs. Some make it very easy to transfer your photos using USB or some other standard technology whereas others require the purchase of additional accessories. As with the external keyboard, make sure you are clear on whether you need to buy any extras if you plan to take a lot of pictures with your tablet (or need to add pictures to your tablet).
Also, is it simple to transfer directly from your digital camera? Is there direct connectivity between devices or do you have to download from your camera to your computer and then transfer to your tablet? Apple, for example, has a special "kit" making it easy for iPad users to transfer directly between camera and tablet. If you need to transfer files from your camera often, make sure you find out the exact process otherwise it might end up being quite frustrating. If you think you'll only need to do that once in a while, it's probably not a big issue.
4. HDMI Cable
Similarly, if you need or want to display your photos, movies, presentations, etc. on a large screen (at work, for example), you will definitely need to check the specifications of the tablet you're considering. What ports does it have? Will you be able to connect an HDMI cable directly or will you need some kind of adaptor?
Most home-users of tablet PCs probably won't have any great need for this, but if you will be using your tablet in a professional environment, having the ability to connect via HDMI is a must-have feature. Adaptors and cables are cheap, but you need to ensure your device is able to handle HDMI.
5. Digital Stylus (pen)
There are three reasons a stylus is useful. Firstly, anyone doing design work or needing to sketch concepts at meetings, etc. will find a stylus an invaluable accessory. Secondly, if you prefer to take notes with a pen (and/or don't have an external keyboard), this will be a comfortable way to take notes directly to your tablet device. And lastly, some people prefer using a "pen" to navigate around the screen and control what they're doing.
Fortunately, a stylus isn't an expensive accessory so if you think you'd prefer controlling things with a pen, this "digital compromise" might be for you. And if you have a need to add handwritten notes to your reports, brochures, presentations, etc. then this is the simplest way to do that!
To find how different tablets handle these accessories, cast your eye over these tablet PC reviews.
And if you don't already own a tablet PC, see how the various models stack up against each other here: http://techgadgetrecon.com/tablet-pc-comparison-chart. You can even download a free 32-page Buyer's Guide & Checklist.
