Tablet Recommendation - Android, non-polarized

[TheDory]

Hello TF,

I'm looking for a new tablet as a backup to my Raymarine Chart plotter which I can no longer update. I currently use a few Android tablets that I've had laying around but I want to buy one specifically for the boat.

One of the challenges with my current tablets (Lenovo) is the screens are polarized so I can't see the screen in portrait mode while wearing sunglasses. Some of the apps don't work great in landscape mode.

I also had an issue at night where even on the dimmest setting it was too bright for nighttime navigation.

Is anyone using an Android tablet that works with polarized glasses, and gets dim enough for night use but still bright enough for daylight?

Thanks.

 

[Scottwb96]

I tried Android options early on. Felt like the fell short in a lot of areas. Tried out a friends 12.9" Ipad Pro and was SOLD!!! So much so, that I bought 2... Gives me great visibility day/night while driving up top on the flybridge... If you go w/ Ipads, get the cellular versions so that they have the GPS chip inside. I picked up mine off of OfferUp about 2 years ago. I think they were about $350 each.
I moved to all digital gauges. The 2 axiom 7's below provide all my engine(s) information/data. The ipads connect to my 2 axiom 9's down at the lower helm. so in essence I get 4 fully autonomous screens (up or down helm).

 

[psneeld]

Have a 10.1 Samsung Tab A, use it for just about everything including Nav. Has built in GPS.

Though Android touch screen is tough with OpenCPN ...but I could just be doing it wrong...not a lot of time using it.

Both my son (IT wizard for large corp) an I see no advantage to more expensive Apple products. They have their cult and they are welcome to it.

Most of my friends that have Apple, spend more time asking questions and on tech support than using their stuff (OK well maybe a slight exageration )

 

[Scottwb96]

Have a 10.1 Samsung Tab A, use it for just about everything including Nav. Has built in GPS.

Though Android touch screen is tough with OpenCPN ...but I could just be doing it wrong...not a lot of time using it.

Both my son (IT wizard for large corp) an I see no advantage to more expensive Apple products. They have their cult and they are welcome to it.

Most of my friends that have Apple, spend more time asking questions and on tech support than using their stuff (OK well maybe a slight exageration )

I am 99% Android/PC... But, the ipad pro 12.9" screens REALLY do work well and look nice for sync'ing to the Axiom's... These are the ONLY iOS (Apple) products I own/use...

 

[TheDory]

From what I understand, ipads have the same problem with polarized sunglasses. I have plenty of experience with apple but not interested in an iPad unless this solves my sunglasses issue.

Can anyone confirm with their android tablet that they don't have an issue viewing in landscape and portrait with polarized glasses? I read online that the Samsung's might work.

 

[Portage_Bay]

Have a 10.1 Samsung Tab A, use it for just about everything including Nav. Has built in GPS.

Though Android touch screen is tough with OpenCPN ...but I could just be doing it wrong...not a lot of time using it.

Both my son (IT wizard for large corp) an I see no advantage to more expensive Apple products. They have their cult and they are welcome to it.

Most of my friends that have Apple, spend more time asking questions and on tech support than using their stuff (OK well maybe a slight exageration )

I use an Android tablet with OpenCPN and Navionics. I generally don't like touch screens for anything other than smart phones so I've added a Logitech USB track ball. Solves the usability issue with navigation apps.

 

[syjos]

I think all flat screens have Polaroid coatings to decrease glare.

I have the same issue with my sunglasses interfering with flat screens and looked for a non polarized screen without success.

Experimenting with various screen orientation, I found an angle where the interference is minimized.

 

[TheDory]

I read that some manufacturers (maybe Samsung) align the polarization at 45° so it can be viewed in landscape or portrait. Also, that it depends on weather the screen is LCD or another technology. I'm hoping to get some first hand confirmations because the specs don't mention this.

 

[psneeld]

PHolding my 3 yr old Samsung Tab A right now with my Polaroid sunglasses on....no change in portrait, slight dimming in landscape. But device and glasses could vary the results a bit.

Go to the store with your sunglasses and check out the ones you are interested in.

For years...I just look under my glasses if they interfere with the screen.

 

[TheDory]

Thanks Psneeld,

That's what I needed to hear. It seems like nothing is ever in stock anymore, or the store models are all dummy models, so I was hoping for some confirmation before I headed to Best Buy.

 

[catalinajack]

I am 99% Android/PC... But, the ipad pro 12.9" screens REALLY do work well and look nice for sync'ing to the Axiom's... These are the ONLY iOS (Apple) products I own/use...

So does my Samsung Tab S7+. Easily viewed in sunlight and with polarized sunglasses. Yes, the I-Pads work well but the price point is ridiculous for no functional advantage.

 

[Hi Ho]

I use a Samsung with Aquamaps and like it lot, so much that I broke down and spent $5 for a clip on flip up sunglasses for my prescription glasses.