Asus Eee Pad Transformer review: First Look

The first Android 3.0 tablet to reach the UK is also a netbook in disguise. The Eee Pad Transformer could be the iPad 2's first serious rival that's actually available and we take a sneak peek at the WiFi-only model.

One extra bundled app included by Asus is a VNC client so you can remotely control any computer with a VNC server installed. Another app allows you to access files stored on Asus' cloud storage service - a one year free subscription is included with the tablet. This will be a useful app for small businesses, but larger companies will want apps for their own preferred cloud storage systems.

The Eee Pad Transformer will be available shortly. The 16GB WiFi-only version will cost 379 inc VAT - 20 less than the equivalent iPad 2. The 32GB model will cost 429, 50 less than the 32GB iPad 2. A 16GB model bundled with the keyboard dock will cost 429.

So what's our verdict?

Verdict

The Eee Pad Transformer is one of the most promising alternatives to the iPad 2 that we've seen yet. Unlike many other rival tablets it doesn't feel like an iPad knock-off. We'll hold our final judgment until we see a final production unit, but we have high hopes for the Transformer.