Get a Google Nexus 7 (16GB) tablet for $149
Or get the 32GB model for $169. Either way, is that enough of a deal to compete with the $129 Nook HD?
Among the Android faithful, Google's Nexus 7 remains the tablet of choice, the flagship model stocked with a "pure" install of the OS.
Surprisingly, though, Google hasn't budged on Nexus pricing, even in the face of big cuts from Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and other competitors in the 7-inch tablet space.
But with new Nexus models imminent, resellers are looking to clear inventory. That's my guess, anyway, as evidenced by this: Staples is offering the Google Nexus 7 (16GB) for $149 shipped and the Nexus 7 (32GB) for $169 shipped when you use coupon code 20098 at checkout. Sales tax applies to both.
Those are definitely the lowest prices I've seen for non-refurbished Nexuses (Nexi?), but even if you've been waiting patiently for a deal like this, you have to ask whether the Nexus 7 is still a smart buy.
Its key specs include a 1.2GHz Tegra 3 quad-core processor, 1GB of RAM, a 1,280x800-pixel screen, a front-facing camera, Bluetooth, and Android 4.2.2.
Missing from the equation: an expansion slot, rear-facing camera, and GPS (at least in these Wi-Fi-only models). Update: Several readers have pointed out that the Wi-Fi models do have GPS.
Even so, $149 (or $169) for such a powerful tablet is nothing to sneeze at. (My take: spring for the 32GB model.) But consider that Amazon's Kindle Fire HD is currently on sale for $169 (albeit with only 16GB of storage), while the Nook HD (8GB) is the deal to beat at $129 (B&N's one-week sale has apparently become permanent). Actually, the fairer comparison is the 16GB Nook HD at $149. Although it lacks a camera, it does have an expansion slot and higher-resolution display.
Indeed, there are pros and cons for all these models. I think the key takeaway here is that if you've been waiting for a sweet deal on a Nexus 7, you've found it. Personally, I'm eager to see what's next from Amazon, Google, and Apple.
Bonus deal: Need a little extra power for your Nexus (or smartphone or other mobile gadget) when you're out and about? Today only, and while supplies last, All4Cellular has a 2,200mAh USB backup battery for $5.99, plus $2 for shipping. It's available in your choice of colors (save for pink, which is, surprisingly, sold out). I've seen similar tube-shaped chargers selling for three times the price.
Deals found on The Cheapskate are subject to availability, expiration, and other terms determined by sellers.
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