In a few months' time, gadget shoppers will be choosing between the iPad mini 2 and Galaxy Note 8. The former is an Apple iOS device, the latter is a Samsung Android tablet. Both gadgets come in 3G/4G variants if you want more extensive connectivity features. How do you choose which small tablet is the right one for you?

Between the iPad mini 2 and Galaxy Note 8, the case is still rumours versus facts, for now. The new iPad mini could be unveiled between April and December this year. But the Note 8 has been showcased. Pre-orders are already being accepted in Australia and other countries. Would you pre-order for the Note 8 now or wait for the mini 2? Here are 5 of the most important factors to consider when shopping for a tablet.

Price. The Samsung Galaxy Note 8 price tag is marked $449 on MobiCity. This amount is for the 16GB WiFi-only tablet. The Apple iPad mini costs $379 in the same store. This gives shoppers the idea that the Note 8 could be slightly more expensive that the small iPad.

Bonus features. The iPad mini 2 and Note 8 could run mostly the same apps. But the big difference between the two will be defined by the N8's S-Pen and the apps bundled with it. If you are into digitized-doodling, you will enjoy the Note 8 better.

Display. The Note 8 sports an 8-inch screen with resolution of 1280 x 800 px. It translates to about 188 pixels per inch. In contrast, the mini iPad displays 163 ppi. Rumours suggest that the next small Apple tablet will soar in ppi figures, but that remains to be seen.

Device communications. If you are shopping for a tablet for your kids or spouse, you might want to consider the dominant OS at home for smoother device communications. Then again, if you are enjoying both iOS and Android at home, this should not be much of an issue.

Battery life. The current iPad mini can stay on for about 10 hours with its 16.3-watt-hour lithium-polymer battery. The next mini could have a more powerful battery to support the rumoured Retina or IGZO display technology. It will be better if you could wait for battery tests of both devices before shelling out some cash. The Note 8 comes with Li-Ion 4600 mAh battery.

What other factors do you consider when shopping for a gadget?

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