The Asus Transformer series revolutionized the tablet market with its innovative keyboard docks. But which model, the TF201 or the TF101, offers the better experience? We're diving deep into a head-to-head comparison to help you decide.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Transformer Prime TF201 clearly wins thanks to its significantly faster quad-core processor, improved battery life, and slightly better display. While the TF101 was a groundbreaking device in its time, the TF201 represents a substantial upgrade for performance-focused users.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | N/A | N/A |
| EDGE | No | No |
| GPRS | No | No |
| Technology | No cellular connectivity | No cellular connectivity |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2011, October. Released 2011, December | 2011, January. Released 2011, April |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 263 x 180.8 x 8.3 mm (10.35 x 7.12 x 0.33 in) | 271 x 171 x 13 mm (10.67 x 6.73 x 0.51 in) |
| SIM | No | No |
| Weight | 586 g (1.29 lb) | 680 g (1.50 lb) |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass | Scratch-resistant glass |
| Resolution | 1280 x 800 pixels, 16:10 ratio (~149 ppi density) | 1280 x 800 pixels, 16:10 ratio (~149 ppi density) |
| Size | 10.1 inches, 295.8 cm2 (~62.2% screen-to-body ratio) | 10.1 inches, 295.8 cm2 (~63.8% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | Super IPS+ LCD, | LED-backlit IPS LCD, |
| | ASUS Waveshare UI | ASUS Waveshare UI |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 1.3 GHz Cortex-A9 | Dual-core 1.0 GHz Cortex-A9 |
| Chipset | Nvidia Tegra 3 | Nvidia Tegra 2 T20 |
| GPU | ULP GeForce | ULP GeForce |
| OS | Android 3.2 (Honeycomb), upgradable to 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich) | Android 3.0 (Honeycomb), 3.2 (Honeycomb), upgradable to 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich) |
| Memory |
|---|
| Call records | Yes | - |
| Card slot | microSDHC (dedicated slot) | microSDHC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 32GB 1GB RAM, 64GB 1GB RAM | 16GB 1GB RAM, 32GB 1GB RAM |
| Phonebook | 500 entries | - |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | - |
| Single | 8 MP, AF | 5 MP, AF |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | Yes |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 1.2 MP | 1.2 MP |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes, with stereo speakers | Yes, with stereo speakers |
| | SRS audio | SRS audio |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | Yes | 2.1, A2DP, EDR |
| NFC | No | - |
| Positioning | GPS, A-GPS | GPS, A-GPS |
| Radio | No | No |
| USB | 2.0 | 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n | Wi-Fi 802.11b/g/n |
| Features |
|---|
| Browser | - | HTML, Adobe Flash |
| Games | Yes | - |
| Java | Yes | - |
| Messaging | SMS, MMS | - |
| Sensors | Accelerometer, gyro, compass | Accelerometer, gyro, compass |
| | HDMI port
MP3/WAV/WMA/AAC player
MP4/H.264 player
Document editor
Organizer
Voice memo
Predictive text input | mini HDMI port
MP3/MP4 player
Polaris Office 3.0 editor
Organizer
Predictive text input |
| Battery |
|---|
| Stand-by | Up to 300 h | - |
| Talk time | Up to 12 h | Up to 9 h 30 min (multimedia) |
| Type | Non-removable Li-Po battery (25 Wh) | Non-removable Li-Po battery (24.4 Wh) |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Amethyst Gray, Champagne Gold | Black |
| Price | About 350 EUR | About 280 EUR |
| SAR EU | 0.70 W/kg (head) | - |
Asus Transformer Prime TF201
- Faster Quad-Core Processor
- Longer Battery Life (especially with dock)
- Slightly Better Display
- Improved Multitasking
- Older Device - Limited App Support
- Can be difficult to find replacement parts
- Design is a bit dated
Asus Transformer TF101
- More Affordable (if found used)
- Compact and Lightweight
- Still Functional for Basic Tasks
- Slower Dual-Core Processor
- Shorter Battery Life
- Outdated Software
- Limited App Compatibility
Display Comparison
Both tablets feature a 10.1-inch IPS display, but the TF201 boasts a slightly higher resolution (1280x800 vs 1280x800). Color accuracy and viewing angles are comparable on both, offering a decent visual experience. The TF201's display is marginally brighter.
Camera Comparison
Camera quality on both devices is unremarkable by today's standards. Both feature 8MP rear cameras and 1.2MP front cameras. Image quality is adequate for casual snapshots, but don't expect exceptional results. Low-light performance is poor on both.
Performance
This is where the TF201 shines. Its Nvidia Tegra 3 quad-core processor provides a substantial performance boost over the TF101's dual-core Tegra 2. Expect smoother multitasking, faster app loading times, and better gaming performance on the TF201. The TF101 can still handle basic tasks, but struggles with more demanding applications.
Battery Life
The TF201 offers significantly better battery life than the TF101. With the keyboard dock, the TF201 can achieve up to 18 hours of battery life, while the TF101 typically lasts around 8-10 hours. Even without the dock, the TF201 provides longer usage time.
Buying Guide
The Asus Transformer Prime TF201 is ideal for users who prioritize performance, multitasking, and longer battery life. It's great for students, professionals, and anyone who wants a tablet that can handle demanding apps and games. The Asus Transformer TF101 is a good option for budget-conscious buyers looking for a basic tablet experience, especially if they can find it at a very low price.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Transformer Prime TF201 still worth buying?
If you can find it at a reasonable price, the TF201 is still a capable tablet, especially for tasks like web browsing, email, and light gaming. However, consider newer tablets for better app support and features.
❓ What is the difference between the TF101 and TF201 docks?
The docks are largely similar in design, but the TF201 dock offers improved battery life and sometimes includes additional ports or features depending on the specific dock model.
