Toshiba Encore 2 Tablets Unveiled

When it comes to the world of tablets, most of the time we would see folks groove to Android- or iOS-powered models, with Windows 8 being an afterthought. Well, this has not stopped the folks over at Toshiba from introducing a couple of new Windows 8.1-powered tablets, where it would be known as the Toshiba Encore 2, arriving in 8” and 10.1” models. Regardless of the size, they happen to share a distinctive design from Toshiba, while sporting a Satin Gold chassis and matching slim bezel alongside rounded edges that makes it a whole lot easier to hold.

Other than the screen size difference, everything else underneath the hood remains more or less similar. We are looking at a quad core Intel Atom processor, the ability to have up to 64GB of internal memory, a maximum of 2GB RAM, a micro-USB port, a microSD memory card slot, a micro-HDMI port, a 5MP camera at the back that handles Full HD 1080p video at 30 frames per second with aplomb, Dolby Digital Plus Advanced Audio, and an echo suppressor that helps to minimize background noise whenever one is involved in a video or audio call.

Expect the smaller 8” model to tip the scales at 0.81 pounds, with the larger 10.1” model weighing 1.21 pounds. Accessories that will enhance your Encore 2 experience include a Bluetooth keyboard with clickpad, while you will also be able to enjoy a one year subscription to Office 365 Personal, giving you access to Word, Excel, Power Point, OneNote and Outlook with each purchase.

Out later this July, the 8” and 10.1” Encore 2 tablets will retail for $199.99 and $269.99 onward, respectively, depending on the hardware configuration. Folks living across the pond will have to wait until Q3 2014. [Press Release]

Edwin Kee
Categories: Tablets
Tags: encore, Toshiba