Tablets to get excited about

Price: TBD

Availability: Winter 2013

The outlook: LG took a time-out from tablets but is stepping back in the scene with an 8.3-inch device that boasts some promising specs. The G Pad 8.3 houses a 1.7GHz quad-core processor with 2GB of RAM, and a Google Nexus 7 (2013)-matching 1,920x1,200-pixel resolution.

Price: TBD

Availability: TBD

The outlook: The 2013 version of the Asus Transformer Infinity is a promising powerhouse with an impressive spec sheet. The 10-inch tablet dons a 2,560x1,600-pixel resolution, while housing Nvidia's speedy Tegra 4 processor with a 72-core GeForce GPU and USB 3.0.

Price: TBD

Availability: Fall 2013

The outlook: The new Samsung Galaxy Note 10.1 rocks some impressively upgraded specs, including a sharp 2,560x1,600-pixel screen resolution, improved multi-tasking abilities, and sleek leather-effect plastic back. The Wi-Fi version will house the Exynos 5 Octa chip.

Price: TBD

Availability: 2013 October

The outlook: The Acer Iconia A3 isn't going to win any top tablet awards, however, it might appease some budget shoppers. The 10-inch tablet offers some average specs and mediocre build quality, but is expected to be priced competitively.

Price: TBD

Availability: TBD

The outlook: The Asus Transformer Book Trio is one of the most ambitious and innovative tablets to date, considering it can additionally be used as a laptop and monitor. When docked, the device can be used running Windows 8 or Android, and it can be connected as a monitor using the Mini DisplayPort or Micro-HDMI ports on the keyboard.

Price: TBD

Availability: September

The outlook: The Sony Vaio Tap 11 is a Windows 8 tablet that has a larger screen than the Microsoft Surface, but manages to weigh less at the same time. The 11-inch slate has a sleek design, reminiscent of the Sony Xperia Z Ultra phablet, and features a digitizer stylus, 1,920x1,080-pixel resolution IPS screen, and NFC capabilities.