Galaxy Tab an affordable iPad alternative

— -- Samsung's new Galaxy Tab 2 7.0 tablet isn't meant to take on the iPad head-on. Instead, it offers a more portable, more affordable alternative to the Apple juggernaut.

If you're looking for a smaller tablet that won't break the bank, this latest 7-inch tablet from Samsung is certainly worth a look.

The device is the successor to Samsung's Galaxy Tab 7.0 and Galaxy Tab 7.0 Plus. It solves many of the problems plaguing those earlier 7-inch models. The Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 7.0 (MSRP $249.99) brings better hardware and software to the table and ships with Android's latest operating system, Android 4 (Ice Cream Sandwich).

While the 7-inch screen may not be popular with the older crowd, a common complaint about larger tablets is the unwieldy heft of a nearly-10-inch screen. The Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 7.0 has a smaller profile that's better to carry around — as long as you only plan to use your tablet for a few hours at a time. If you use the tablet for more than 5 hours in one sitting, you'll notice that the battery does not last as long as many other tablets. Thankfully, the new 7-inch version of the Galaxy 2 takes only about an hour to recharge completely.

For added versatility, the Galaxy Tab 2 also offers a wide range of extras. It supports a variety of bluetooth devices and, by subscribing to a data plan, you can take your media libraries with you anywhere, and enjoy music, movies, and books on the go. At home, the Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 7.0's IR blaster can control your entire home theater much like a universal remote would, making you the ruler of the living room.

With all the tablet's capabilities and full access to Google's Play Store, the Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 7.0 should make your tablet experience a rewarding one. This smaller tablet gives a solid performance and can consolidate control of your media.

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To read Reviewed.com's in-depth review of the Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 7.0, check out TabletReaderInfo.com. Reviewed.com is a division of USA TODAY.