The upcoming Google Nexus 7 has already been making waves even before its release. Even with the rumored specs gearing for a minor change-up, the next-gen Nexus tablet seems like a great option for potential buyers.

But the recently released Kobo Arc, priced at $200, is meant for the ebook reader and lover, but with the advantage of sideloading content, installing other apps, and loading competitor's apps.

Display resolutions and screen

In terms of its display resolution, the Nexus 7 stands at a 1280x800 pixel display. Admittedly, it does not match with the iPad's resolutions, but compared to tablets of its kind, it has the edge with fingerprint resistance, reports Digital Trends.

But compared to the Kobo Arc, it stands on the same ground, considering how Kobo Arc has the same resolutions, and an IPS screen. However, with the Kobo Arc, make sure to keep your fingerprints dry, as without the oleophobic layer, you will see fingerprint smudges after some swipes.

Size for travel

As a travel buddy, the Nexus 7 is also the better option, weighing only 340 grams compared to Kobo Arc's massive 364g. It doesn't seem much, but when you're prone to use the tablet in one hand for travel purposes, it can get a little tiring after a while, reports Information Week.

Connectivity

Considering how Kobo, the company, is really more adept as an eReader maker, and Google has already had a hand at creating tablets that are for a more multimedia use, there's already that distinction between the two.

When compared to the Kobo Arc, one startling difference that gives it the upper hand is connectivity. You already get Bluetooth, GPS, NFC, and wi-fi, with other models even including 3G, and HSPA+ networks.

For instance, in terms of connectivity, Kobo Arc takes a backseat to the Nexus 7. For a tablet that aims to make it in its class, Kobo Arc only features the wi-fi.

Customizability

Most tablets are just limited to the black or white look, with few color options in between. However, Trusted Reviews reports that Kobo Arc allows you to change the plastic rear and replace it with other colors, so those who want to be limited to just a black tablet rear, the Kobo Arc can give you that advantage.

Overall, both tablets have their moments and their ruts-unimpressive cameras for both, but also equal playing field for resolutions at 1,280x800 pixels-but it may come down to two things: brand loyalty and price. For those who have fallen in love with the Nexus 4 may be harder to sway away from upgrading to the next-gen.

Kobo also has its fan base, and it rocks a pretty solid tablet compared to what is already in the market. However, given the newly revealed potential that Nexus 7 will have, there may be a skew in that direction, if the price tag becomes permanent.

Google Nexus 7 price revealed by insiders

With the expected release date for the Nexus 7 already on the horizon-supposedly a July release-sources are now vying after the possible price of the device.

According to TechSpot, an insider source has claimed that the Nexus 7 will be released for a more affordable price of $149, albeit $50 cheaper than the current 16GB model.

The price tag will put it at a very advantageous position, as Amazon's recently released 7-inch Kindle Fire HD is on the market for $199.

However, this doesn't mean that nothing has changed with the expected features and design. Considering how the Nexus 4 is already sporting a Nvidia Tegra 3 SoC, the common assumption was that its next-gen counterpart would sport the higher Tegra 4.

But according to reports, there may be a switch to a Qualcomm Snapdragon chip instead.

Hopefully the changes made will be done for a good reason, and with the pricing put at a tempting angle, the next Google Nexus 7 may be a fire-starter and killer tablet.