BlackBerry Playbook

Born to much fanfare and high expectations, the PlayBook was RIM's first attempt at a tablet. The operating system was smooth, pretty, and efficient, but the device was hampered by its small display and frustrating controls. And even worse, some stalwart features were available only when pairing it with a BlackBerry phone.

Released: 2011

CNET review bottom line: The BlackBerry PlayBook ably showcases RIM's powerful new mobile operating system, but its middling size diminishes many of its best features.