Android Tablet Review – Creative ZiiO 7
In this article we talk about the 7-inch version of the Creative ZiiO, an entertainment tablet that was launched last year. It is also available in a 10-inch version and each with a choice of 8GB of 16GB of built-in memory. The 7-inch, 8GB model measures 8.16 x 5.24 x 0.54 inches (HWD) and weighs 14.4 ounces, making it considerably bigger than other 7-inch competitors, like the Dell Streak 7 and the Samsung Galaxy Tab. The reason why it is bigger is due to the wide bezel around the display which makes the screen smaller than it really is.
Creative ZiiO 7″ (Source: tiboys.com)
Speaking of the screen, the 7-inch display has a resolution of 800 x 480 pixels and it is a resistive LCD, rather than a capacitive one. The screen unfortunately is prone to glare and it makes videos and images look quite dim. You can forget about multi-touch capability because the tablet doesn’t have it, plus you’ll have to get used to pressing a button a couple of times until the tablet registers what you want to do.
The power and the volume keys are the only hardware buttons you will find on this Creative Ziio 7” tablet, both being installed near the top-right corner. On top you’ll notice a microphone, the headphone jack, a miniHDMI port and a miniUSB port. On the left side the manufacturer installed a microSD card slot that can accommodate cards up to a capacity of 32GB. We should also mention that there is a front-facing camera that has a VGA resolution.
The tablet is running on Android 2.2 but unfortunately you won’t be getting access to the official Android Market. Instead, you will get the Creative’s ZiiO Space app store which features a browser-based collection of applications that you are able to install on your tablet. Also on board is an Amazon Marketplace which also offers a collection of Android apps without having to access the Market.
Creative ZiiO 7″ (Source: image.tabletsetc.com)
Creative uses its X-Fi technology and the apt-x codec for enhancing the audio output from videos, music and games. That X-Fi effect is great, improving not only stereo effect but also the overall clarity. The effect is even more noticeable once you plug in your headphones.
That problematic display we’ve mentioned can be solved by using the bundled stylus which will allow more accurate pressing of keys and buttons. Another way to go would be by using the aforementioned miniHDMI port which will allow you to output photos and videos to an HDTV. We should mention that it supports videos up to 720p.
All things considered, the Creative ZiiO 7” tablet is a decent product, but in order to make it in this segment it needs some serious upgrades.
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