The day that tablets will take over the laptops is yet to emerge but with some tips and tricks you can configure your tablet and make is as your main computer. With the longer battery life, instant boot-up and the lighter weight of tablet, the building blocks of a productivity device is already set.

Choose a Tablet

First things first, you need to choose a tablet. Two of the best tablets in the market today are the Apple iPad Air and the Google Nexus 10. You can have the iPad at $499 for the 16GB model while the Google Nexus 10 is relatively cheaper at $399 for the 16GB model and $499 32GB model.

You have to keep in mind that using a tablet as a main computer means a couple of compromise. For one, you will be working on a significantly smaller screen. However, most high-end tablets in the market today offer sky-high screen resolutions which means that you are not actually losing the ability to accomplish ultra-detailed work.

Furthermore, the tablet you choose dictates the accessories that you can incorporate with the device. For instance, the Google Nexus 10 supports USB OTG (USB on-the-go) which allows users to connect mouse, flash drive and a wired keyboard.

Add a Keyboard

While both iOS and Android tablets provide onscreen keys, for serious main computer data entry, you will definitely need a keyboard for your tablet to handle the arduous tasks.

iPad users can choose from third-part keyboards that can also be used as carrying cases and covers like the Logitech and Belkin keyboard cases. On the other hand, Nexus users have the option of having the VSTN Aluminum Nexus 10 Keyboard Case and the MiniSuit Bluetooth Keyboard Stand Case.

Add Productivity Apps

Software represents the biggest challenge in turning your tablet into your main computer. You need to be creative in choosing app equivalents of your computer programmes.

Microsoft Office

Currently, Microsoft Office is still not available for Android or iOS but there are other apps that help you handle tasks that include spreadsheets, documents and presentations.

CloudOn

If you really need a Microsoft Office you can use CloudOn. CloudOn offers a virtualised copy of the Microsoft Office 2010. It is available in app from for both iOS and Android and the basic service is free. The only catch is that, the CloudOn cannot be used offline.

Google Quickoffice

The Google Quickoffice suite offers Microsoft Office compatible basic editing and document creation for iOS and Android. If you plan to use this, you need to sync your account with a Google Drive Account.

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