Between iPad mini 2 and Nexus 7.7 a new tablet shopper could be confused on which tablet to buy this year. Neither of these devices has been unveiled. Every bit of information about both products on blogs and tech sites are mere rumours. Still, it is safe to assume both small tablets can wow gadget shoppers. But for which one should a first-time tablet shopper splurge?

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Google Nexus 7 (left) is holding its own against the iPad mini (right) from Apple. (Images: Google, Apple)

New tablet buyers in 2013 probably used to think the iPad mini and the Nexus 7 are unnecessary devices. This depends largely on one's lifestyle and nature of work. Many people use them for productivity with entertainment on the side; others use them for media consumption with productivity as secondary purpose. How do you intend to use your tablet - mostly for work or media consumption?

The iPad mini 2 is believed to be ready for unveiling as early as April or mid-year after once the iPad 5 is out. Reports on the Nexus 7.7, however, have been scarce since gaining momentum a month ago. Still, Google is expected to release a new small tablet in its upcoming big conference in May. Here are some of the gadget shopping considerations often encountered in rumours and updates:

1. Processor, memory, storage. You'd probably want a quad-core processor, at least 1 GB of RAM, and a minimum of 16GB built-in storage space. Both the first iPad mini and the Nexus 7 don't offer external storage, so see if that's something that won't bother you.

2. OS, UI, Screen Display. The iPad mini and Nexus 7 runs on different operating systems (OS) and features different user interfaces (UI). Try out both Android and iOS platforms if you want to find out which environment is more intuitive for you. The mini has a diagonal screen display size of 7.9-inch. It is rumoured the next small Nexus tablet will feature a 7.7-inch screen. Which size is better for your grip?

3. Battery. Many reviews are saying the iPad mini battery lasts longer than the Nexus 7 juice. If you want to be sure, watch out for hands-on reviews before making any pre-orders.

4. Chassis Look and Feel. Sometimes, you just have to touch the gadget body to know whether it's worth your money or not. (At least this is what many Apple buyers often say.)

5. Apps store. The iOS App Store offers a wider range of apps selection, but Google Play has more free apps. But many of the popular apps are available in both stores.

The year 2013 is a great year to start gadget shopping. So much improvement has happened to the tablet scene since the first generation iPad was released in April 2010. If you think you can use a tablet at work or to improve your business, now is the time to start exploring.

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