While the Samsung Galaxy S4, the original edition and the Google Play Edition, are the unanimous choices of tech experts for smartphones for September 2013, in the tablet category, the winner is the new Google Nexus 7.

In its latest review of tablets, ZDNET named the new Google Nexus 7 because the device just got better from the original Nexus 7 following the updates from manufacturer Asus. The new specs include a 7-inch screen with a higher resolution of up to 1920x1200 HD and pixel density of 323 pixels per pinch, 1.5GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon S3 Pro quad-core processor, Adreno 320 GPU, 16GB or 32GB of storage, 5 megapixel rear shooter and 1.2 megapixel front-facing camera.

The other pluses of the updated device are that it runs on Android 4.3 Jelly Bean OS, an improved and very efficient software keyboard, guaranteed software updates, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC and optional cellular connectivity, powered by a battery that could last up to 10 hours.

ZDNET described the new Nexus 7 as a powerful tablet in a small, easy-to-carry form factor, but cited its downside of lacking a card slot to allow the user to expand storage.

The next 6 on ZDNET's list are:

  • Google Nexus 10 - Being designed by Google, it offers the best, purest Android experience possible and receives OS updated directly from Google.
  • Samsung Galaxy Tab 3 8-inch - Although a bit pricey at $299, it is a good competitor to the iPad Mini for users who want to avoid the iOS/App Store lock-in web.
  • Samsung Galaxy Mega - For people with large hands as well as those who want a smartphone but can also use the device as a tablet.
  • Samsung Galaxy Note 10.1 - Features topnotch hardware, and comes with the stylus called S Pen designed to work with a number of applications, making the device a great machine for taking notes, planning and sketching out ideas.
  • Ainol Novo 7 Venus - Not a big-name brand, although its specs indicate this tablet is quite well put together and has a very reasonable price of $129.
  • Asus Transformer Pad Infinity TF700T - The slimmest and lightest full HD Android tablet on the market that is also very stylish and well put together.
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