The Google Pixel Slate i5 premium 2-in-1 tablet was released in 2018 as Google’s flagship model. Positioned against rivals such as Microsoft Surface Pro and Apple iPad Pro, this tablet boasts a mighty Intel Core i5 processor, bright display, and versatility for a tablet or laptop with its optional keyboard attachment.
The Pixel Slate i5’s compatibility with apps from Google Play Store and complete desktop-class applications such as Adobe Photoshop and Microsoft Office is a standout feature. Furthermore, this tablet comes equipped with Google Assistant built-in, which enables users to access it using voice commands.
The Pixel Slate is an impressive and versatile tablet for work and play. Although it was released a few years ago, its performance still makes it an attractive option for anyone searching for a high-end tablet.
Best Deal Today
- Google Pixel Slate i5 (Best Buy): $799.00
- Google Pixel Slate i5 (NewEgg): $883.65
- Google Pixel Slate i5 (Amazon): $749.00
- 12.3- inch 3000x2000 resolution display
- 10-hour battery life
- Chrome OS
- Two front-facing speakers provide superior audio quality
- Fingerprint reader for secure access
Google Pixel Slate i5 Overview
The Google Pixel Slate i5 is an impressive tablet running Chrome OS, boasting a stunning display, superior performance, and versatile capabilities. This versatile device can simultaneously serve as a tablet and laptop – perfect for those who want one device that does it all!
Release Date and Price
The Pixel Slate i5 was released in October 2018 with a launch price of $599. However, prices for this device vary depending on where you shop and its configuration; some models can be purchased for as low as $749.
Different Models
The Pixel Slate has various configurations with different processors and RAM sizes. Other models in the lineup include:
- Google Pixel Slate 12.3″ Intel Core m3
- Google Pixel Slate 12.3″ 256GB, Intel Core i7
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Features
The Pixel Slate i5 stands out among other tablets on the market with several features that set it apart. It boasts a 12.3-inch display with a 3000 x 2000 pixel resolution, making it perfect for watching videos and browsing the web.
Plus, two front speakers provide superior audio quality. Furthermore, this tablet has an inbuilt fingerprint reader, providing secure access to your device.
Specifications
| Specification | Details |
| Size | Height: 7.0mm Length: 290.85mm Width: 202.04mm |
| Weight | 1.6 pounds |
| Screen type/size | LTPS LCD, 12.3 inches, 3000 x 2000 pixels |
| Video output | USB-C |
| Audio output | Two front speakers |
| Speakers | Yes |
| Internal battery | Lithium-ion, 48 Wh |
| Operating system | Chrome OS |
| Memory | 8GB RAM |
| Storage | 128GB |
| Battery life | Up to 12 hours of use |
| Charging time | Up to 2 hours in 15 min |
Google Pixel Slate i5 Review
The Pixel Slate i5 is a top-of-the-line tablet that promises an enjoyable computing experience for its users. From its stylish design to powerful hardware, this tablet has been engineered with perfection in mind. Let’s look at various aspects of the Pixel Slate i5 to help you decide if it suits you.
Design
The design of the Google Pixel Slate i5 is one of its most impressive features, boasting clean lines and a slim profile. Measuring just 7mm thick, it’s lightweight at 1.6 pounds — ideal for users who require portability and ease of use on the go.
The Pixel Slate i5’s back has a matte texture that provides an enjoyable grip, making it comfortable to hold for extended periods.
The Pixel Slate’s design is awe-inspiring. Its sleek and minimal aesthetic appeals visually and functionally, making it an excellent option for users who desire both portability and style in one tablet.
Display
The 12.3-inch touchscreen display of the Pixel Slate i5 is genuinely outstanding, boasting a high resolution of 3000 x 2000 pixels for sharp visuals — ideal for tasks such as photo editing or watching HD videos. Plus, with an optimal brightness level of 400 nits, this device is easy to use in bright environments.
The display also boasts a 3:2 aspect ratio, ideal for tasks like writing or editing documents. This taller aspect ratio provides more vertical space so users can view more content without having to scroll as often. Furthermore, the display reproduces 72% of the NTSC color gamut, creating vibrant and accurate colors.
The Pixel Slate i5 also boasts adaptive display technology, which adjusts the screen’s color temperature according to environmental conditions. This can reduce eye strain and make it easier to use the tablet for extended periods.
The display boasts exceptional touch responsiveness and accuracy, making navigating through apps, websites, and menus easy. Furthermore, the touchscreen supports multi-touch gestures such as pinch-to-zoom or swipe gestures for interaction with the device.
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Ports and Connectivity
The Pixel Slate i5’s connectivity options are impressive, especially considering its slim design. Its two USB-C ports allow users to charge their tablets, transfer data, and connect external displays or projectors.
Its Wi-Fi capabilities are impressive. The Pixel Slate i5 supports 802.11a/b/g/n/ac, meaning it can connect to both 2.4GHz and 5GHz networks for faster download/upload speeds and more stable connections. Furthermore, Bluetooth 4.2 is built-in, allowing users to easily connect to various Bluetooth-enabled devices like wireless headphones or speakers.
One potential drawback of the Pixel Slate i5’s connectivity options is its lack of a dedicated HDMI port. To connect an external display, users must purchase a USB-C to HDMI adapter; however, this minor inconvenience should be manageable for most users.
Processor and Graphics
The Pixel Slate i5 boasts the 8th Gen Intel Core i5 processor, offering a significant performance boost over its lower-end m3 and Celeron counterparts. With four cores and eight threads, this powerful processor is ideal for multitasking and running demanding applications with its base clock speed of 1.6GHz and maximum clock speed of 3.4GHz. Also, its extended battery life of up to 12 hours makes the Pixel Slate i5 an impressive option too!
In addition to its powerful processor, the Pixel Slate i5 is furnished with an Intel HD Graphics 615 GPU. This graphics card offers smooth and fluid graphics performance for photo and video editing tasks. With its combination of i5 processor and Intel HD Graphics 615 GPU, this tablet can handle even demanding creative applications.
One thing to be mindful of with the Pixel Slate i5 is that it is not a gaming tablet. While it can handle some casual games, its lack of a dedicated graphics card means it may struggle with more demanding titles. Conversely, for those needing an all-inclusive tablet for everyday computing tasks and light to moderate creative work, the Pixel Slate i5 makes an excellent option.
RAM and Storage
The Pixel Slate i5’s 8GB of RAM ensures users can run multiple applications and browser tabs simultaneously without lag or slowdown. This is especially beneficial for productivity tasks such as writing, editing, or designing.
In addition to RAM, the Pixel Slate i5 boasts a 128GB SSD for fast storage and rapid boot times. With this ample capacity, users can load applications almost instantly and store large files like photos and videos without relying on external solutions for extra space.
The Pixel Slate i5’s 8GB RAM and 128GB SSD provide ample power and storage for everyday tasks. If more space is needed, Google offers 256GB and 512GB options at higher prices. Ultimately, Pixel Slate i5 hardware balance makes it an ideal choice for those seeking high-performance tablets that offer power and responsiveness.
Google Pixel Slate i5 Compared to Other Google Tablets
The Google Pixel C tablet was released in 2015 and the Pixelbook Go was released in 2019, and the Pixel Slate i5 was released in between in 2018. The Pixel Slate i5 is the most powerful Google tablet of the three, but because of that it is the most expensive.
The Pixel C is a good alternative because it is cheaper while still featuring a 10.2-inch display and up to 64GB of storage capacity. There is also a kickstand and detachable keyboard for portability and usability. It was discontinued in 2017 but can still be purchased secondhand at a much lower price point than the Pixel Slate i5.
The Pixelbook Go is a newer model of Google tablet, and it’s the first one to be made of lightweight and durable magnesium. It was more well-received critically than the Pixel C or Pixel Slate i5 because of how quick, portable, and affordable it is in comparison with tablets from other brands. The Pixelbook Go has the same screen size as the Slate at 12.3-inches, and also operates on Chrome OS.
Google Pixel Slate i5 Pros and Cons
Pros
- Sleek and stylish design
- High-quality 12.3-inch touchscreen with a resolution of 3000 x 2000 pixels
- Powerful 8th Gen Intel Core i5 processor and Intel HD Graphics 615 GPU for demanding tasks such as photo/video editing
- 8GB of RAM allows for smooth multitasking during high-demand times
- It runs on Chrome OS, providing an intuitive and streamlined user experience for those familiar with Google’s ecosystem.
Cons
- A high price tag may deter some budget-conscious buyers.
- Keyboard and pen accessories must be purchased separately, which adds to the cost, further increasing it beyond what many are willing to spend.
- Limited storage capacity may not be enough for users who store many files.
- Chrome OS may not be suitable for users who require specific software or applications unavailable on the platform.
Google Pixel Slate i5: Is It a Buy?
Buy it if…
The Google Pixel Slate i5 is the ideal tablet if you need a powerful processor and ample RAM to handle demanding tasks easily. Its high-quality display provides vivid, sharp visuals.
Furthermore, with the Chrome OS operating system and access to the Google Play Store built-in, this model meets all requirements. Lastly, its fast storage and quick boot times make it ideal for active users; its sleek modern design also makes it convenient to carry around while keeping up with tasks on the go.
Don’t buy it if…
The Google Pixel Slate i5 may not be ideal if you’re on a tight budget. The tablet is pricey compared to other options on the market, and its battery life is average — not lasting an entire day of usage.
Users who frequently store large files may want to consider other tablets since the Pixel Slate i5 only provides 128GB of storage space. Lastly, those needing multiple ports may want to consider other tablets since only two USB-C ports.
- Google Pixel Slate 12.3-Inch 2 in 1 Tablet Intel Core i5, 8GB RAM, 128GB, Aspect Ratio 3:2
- 12.3- inch 3000x2000 resolution display
- 10-hour battery life
- Chrome OS
- Two front-facing speakers provide superior audio quality
- Fingerprint reader for secure access
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The image featured at the top of this post is ©iStock.com/Aleksandr Koltyrin.
