The Google Pixel Slate is a highly anticipated tablet designed to take on the likes of Apple’s iPad and Microsoft’s Surface Go. As a Chrome OS device, it offers a unique blend of web-based apps, Android apps, and Linux compatibility, making it an attractive option for users who want a versatile and user-friendly device.

Design and Display

The Pixel Slate boasts a stunning 12.3-inch Quad HD+ display with a resolution of 3000 x 2000 pixels. The screen is crisp and vibrant, with excellent color accuracy and wide viewing angles. The bezels are minimal, providing an immersive experience when watching videos or browsing the web.

The tablet’s design is sleek and premium, with a sturdy aluminum body that feels solid in the hand. The device measures 11 inches tall, 7.9 inches wide, and 0.3 inches thick, making it comfortable to hold and carry around. The kickstand on the Pixel Slate is adjustable, allowing users to find their perfect viewing angle.

Performance

The Pixel Slate is powered by a range of Intel Core m-series processors, including the Core i5 and Core i7 options. These processors provide more than enough power for general tasks like web browsing, email, and document editing. However, demanding applications or gaming may require some patience due to the device’s limitations.

Google has also included 4GB, 8GB, or 16GB of RAM options, depending on your configuration choice. Storage options range from 32GB to 256GB, with a microSD card slot for expansion.

Battery Life

The Pixel Slate features a decent battery life, with Google claiming up to 12 hours of use on a single charge. In our testing, we achieved around 10-11 hours of mixed usage, which is still respectable.

Connectivity and Ports

The Pixel Slate has a generous selection of ports, including two USB-C ports (one of which supports Power Delivery), a headphone jack, and a microSD card slot. The device also features Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) and Bluetooth 5.0 for seamless connectivity.

Camera and Audio

The Pixel Slate boasts an improved 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 stereo sound and support for Google Assistant.

Android App Support

One of the standout features of the Pixel Slate is its ability to run Android apps natively. This means you can access a vast library of Android games and apps on your tablet, providing endless entertainment options.

Google Assistant Integration

The Pixel Slate comes with Google Assistant built-in, allowing users to control their device with voice commands. You can ask Google Assistant to play music, set reminders, or even make phone calls using the tablet’s speakers.

Chrome OS and Linux Compatibility

As a Chrome OS device, the Pixel Slate offers seamless integration with Google’s web-based ecosystem. You can access your Google Drive files, use Google Docs and Sheets, and even install Linux apps for added functionality.

Conclusion

The Google Pixel Slate is an impressive Chrome OS tablet that checks most of the right boxes. Its stunning display, robust performance, and versatile app support make it an attractive option for users who want a device that can handle both web-based tasks and Android apps.

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 $1,699 (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 m3-8100Y, Core i5-8200Y, or Core i7-8500Y
• RAM: 4GB, 8GB, or 16GB
• Storage: 32GB, 64GB, 128GB, or 256GB (expandable via microSD card)
• Display: 12.3-inch Quad HD+ display with 3000 x 2000 pixels resolution
• Battery Life: Up to 12 hours web browsing or video playback
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.0, USB-C (with Power Delivery support), headphone jack, microSD card slot
• Camera: Front-facing 8-megapixel camera with 1080p video recording, Rear-facing 8-megapixel camera