Bitdefender Internet Security 2015: Review

An effective and result-oriented security suite is the requirement of every PC, especially in light of the fact that these days cyber crimes have become so common and frequent. Taking the cue, even the developers of antimalware software have upgraded the standard of their products. Latest security suites are not just capable of detecting and defending against malware but can perform a lot more related to security and protection. 

Bitdefender has recently released its Internet Security Suite 2015. The brand Bitdefender has always remained one of the top choices among the customers looking for a comprehensive and complete security arrangement for their PCs. As the new version is out so let us check out the new improvements that have got implemented in to Bitdefender Internet Security 2015.

Quick points

·         Price: $ $69.95 for one PC, $89.95 for three PCs, $139.95 for 5PCs, $229.95 for 10 PCs

·         Activation period: 1 Year

·         Compatibility: Windows XP and Vista, 7, 8 and 8.1

·         From where to Download: Official site of Bitdefender's website

·         Total time of installation: Approximately 10 minutes 

Interface

In terms of interface, as such no big changes have been introduced. This is perhaps deliberate because continuity in the interface allows the users to relate to brand Bitdefender. The interface is easy to grasp: a green checkmark means your PC is completely secured, yellow exclamation mark hints that some smaller issues are prevailing and the red X mark ensures that the PC is at big risk and hence needed to be scanned for the virus and malware detection. 

In the Tools section, you can see three groups of tools: 

• Tuneup: It includes OneClick Optimizer, Startup Optimizer, PC Clean-Up, Disk Defragmenter, Registry ICleaner, Duplicate Finder and Registry Recovery.

• Profiles: Here you can tweak with Standard, Work, Game and Movie configurations. Also, you can adjust the Battery Mode setting

•  Safego

Protection features

In the main interface, there is a large protection icon. Clicking on it, you can initiate the scanning process. The Protection section has another tool called Vulnerability Scan. This tool checks whether you're up to date on your Windows security patches. This feature is a helpful reminder irrespective of which protection suite you are using, it is important that your Windows are updated. 

Moreover, there is Web Protection tool that constantly runs in the background. This tool protects your PC while you surf the Internet. Bitdefender Total Security 2015 is also capable of scanning for fraud and phishing across all leading Web browsers.

Privacy features

To offer privacy, the 2015 version of Bitdefender has introduced four tools: 

• Data Protection: It keeps  the data of your PC protected when you are online

• Safepay: Safepay is a browser, a highly protected one with virtual keyboard and thwart key logging malware. You can use this browser to make your online payments

•  Wallet: The eCommerce websites these days offer the option of keeping your credit card information stored with the website so that next time you can go for a quick purchase. This avoids the need of feeding the credit card information again and again. But, this is perceived as risky by many customers. In that case, you can make use of the Wallet features and keep your credit card information more secured. 

• D Theft Protection

Security performance

Bitdefender's 2015 security suite brings to you a collection of security products:

•   Antivirus Plus
•  Internet Security
• Total Security

All these products use the same malware detection engine and deliver the same security performance. The latest Bitdefender antimalware engine performs very well. In the laboratory test done by poplar websites, it scored 100% in detecting zero-day exploit malware, whereas the industry average is of 94%. 

System impact

Bitdefender Total Security 2015 has some new features. Profiles and OneClick Optimizer are two such new added features. OneClick optimizer improves PC's performance. 

File Encryption

The File Encryption feature is capable of creating encrypted volumes called "secure vaults" on the PC. These volumes can be used to store sensitive documents. First you need to create a secure vault and determine the amount of storage space it should have. Each vault can be protected with a unique password. It’s very important to keep the password safe as Bitdefender has no arrangement to restore the locked data. However, while creating the vault, Bitdefender doesn’t warn you of that risk. 

Bottom line

Bitdefender Total Security 2015 is a dependable security suite because of its wide range of features. Bitdefender's new Profile feature is highly commendable as it is capable of automatically adjusting your computer's performance based on what you are working upon, like whether you are watching a movie or playing a video game. Its security arrangements and features are also unarguable.

So should you buy Bitdefender Total Security 2015? If you are concerned about PC security & Internet security and hence looking for a top-notch protection, then Bitdefender Internet Security 2015 is dependable antimalware software available in the market.

How to Install Windows 8.1 On A Virtual PC?

With the arrival of virtualization, virtual servers and Cloud, computing practices have got changed considerably. Now, virtual PCs are getting excessively in use. If you are also using a virtual PC and want to run Windows 8 on your virtual PC, then you can get that done. Actually there are different ways of getting this done but these tutorials talk about how to install Windows 8 on a virtual PC using VMWare Player.

To get it done, perform the following steps:

Download VMWare Player
 

Visit the VMWare Player website and click the Download button on its Web page. You can choose the download for Windows 64-bit and 32-bit. After downloading, run the VMware-player downloaded executable file. This will launch the VMware Player Setup Wizard, click next and simply follow the steps of the setup that have been discussed below. 

Create New Virtual Machine

Look for the VMware Player icon in your desktop. You need to double-click the icon to launch it. You have to accept the license agreement to initiate the process. Then click on the option “Create a New Virtual Machine.”

ISO Browse

At the Welcome screen, you are recommended to keep the first option, i.e. “Installer Disc” selected if you want to burn the Windows 8.1 ISO file onto a DVD. You will need to insert the DVD for this.

Otherwise, you can opt for the second option and select the second option, i.e. the “Installer disc image file (ISO).” By choosing the second option, you will download the ISO file on your PC and get it installed directly from that file. For this, you have to select the location of the ISO file and choose it by using the ‘Browse’ button. Then click ‘Next.’

Select OS

At the ‘Select a Guest Operating System’ screen, make sure that the option “Microsoft Windows” is chosen. Now click on the dropdown menu for Version and then choose Windows 8 x64, if you’re installing the 64-bit version or Windows 8X 32-bit, if you are installing the 32-bit. Then Click ‘Next.’

Choose Name

Next is the Virtual Machine screen, where you are required to enter a name for your virtual machine. You can choose any name of your choice, suppose “Windows 8.1.” Next, confirm the location for the virtual machine. For this click on the ‘Browse’ button and choose a location of your convenience. Now, again click ‘Next.’

Choose Disk Space

Next is the ‘Specify Disk Capacity’ screen. Here you are required to set the maximum disk space your PC has. If you have enough free space in your PC, then you can continue with the default setting of 60GB. Otherwise, choose the amount of gigabyte you have. Then select the “Store virtual disk as a single file” option. Choosing this option is recommended if you want to keep your virtual machine on your current PC and want to receive best possible performance from it. Then click ‘Next.’

Choose Memory

Next is the ‘Ready to Create Virtual Machine’ screen. Here, click on the ‘Customize Hardware’ button if you want to customize the settings. You can just leave the settings to its default except the ‘Memory’ one. You need to tweak it. Use the vertical slider bar and modify the amount of memory you can allocate to your virtual machine. At least, you have to allot 2GB of memory and if you can afford allot up to 4GB. Click Close, and then click Finish.

Start Setup

After this, VMware Player will take you back to the Home screen. But this time, the newly created Windows 8.1 virtual machine will remain automatically selected and will display the information like, the Windows version, its name and memory as shown in the above figure. Click on the option “Play virtual machine.” This will kick off the normal Windows 8.1 set up.

Enter Product Key

Now the introduction screen will be flashed. Click ‘Next’ and then click the button “Install now.” This will open the product-key screen.

Now, enter the product key for Windows 8.1. You can get this key in your downloaded Windows 8.1 ISO file. Then accept the license terms and click ‘Next.’

Type of Installation

  

Next screen will ask you “Which type of installation do you want?” Select the second option, i.e  “Custom: Install Windows only (advanced).” Next is the “Where do you want to install Windows?” screen. Here, click ‘Next’ to accept the default of the unallocated space. After these steps, Windows 8.1 will start getting installed. The following screen will appear during the installation process.

Personalize Windows 8.1

After a few reboots, now you will be opened to customize your Windows 8.1. 

VMware Player Windows 8.1 Virtual PC

With these simple steps, your new virtual machine with Windows 8.1 is all set up in your computer. To run Windows 8.1, you simply need to click the VMware Player icon on your desktop and launch it. Then, you need to click on the “Play Virtual Machine” option. 

The VMWare Player comes with lots of tools that you can use to make your Virtual PC work better. These tools facilitate you in managing Windows size, Screen Mode, addition of removable devices, creating snapshot of your virtual machine and lots more.

Dell Venue 11 Pro i5: Review

Dell has launched its Venue 11 Pro i5 Windows hybrid tablet targeting the businesses needs. Thus the device focuses more on productivity as compared to its looks and media element. It’s a versatile device meant for performing variety of tasks. Removable and swappable battery is its one of the strong points as it makes the device more apt for long business trips. The device is available with numerous configuration options in terms of storage that include 32 GB, 64 GB, and 128 GB. It costs $429.99 for 32 GB, $459.9 for 64 GB and $799.99 for 128 GB. 

Design & Build Quality

Dell Venue 11 Pro has been designed with an intensive focus on functionality than style. Its back panel has soft-touch texture which makes gripping over the device strong. It is smudge and fingerprints resistant as it doesn’t have the glossy plastic surface. A magnesium alloy frame surrounds the soft-touch panel, which offers further strength. 

Apart from offering a great build to the device, Dell has also tried to induce versatility into the device. It is one of the few tablets featuring a full-size USB 3.0 port. For further connectivity, it also has a microSD card slot and HDMI connector. Dell Venue 11 Pro i5 is perhaps the only or one among the very few tablets with a removable rear that supports swappable batteries allowing you to have power backups during your long trips. 

Dell Venue 11 Pro i5 is a bulky machine that weighs 772g, which is in fact 200g heavier than the Asus Transformer Book T100. But taking advantage to the weight, Dell has kept the display wider, i.e 10.8 inch. While the wide screen allows you to enjoy your movies and graphics in a better way, it is also true that this device is too large to be handled with one hand for a long time. But if that is not your concern and you have no issues in using your both hands, then you will love working on this slate. 

Screen & Sound Quality

Thankfully, Dell Venue 11 Pro i5 doesn’t have the firmware issues, which earlier versions of Venue devices had and as a result those devices had dim screens. The issue has got fixed now. This slate has 1,920 x 1,080 IPS Full HD screen with 389 nits. The quality of the display delivers impressive results but not of the standard that Retina-searing Surface Pro 2 has. Surface Pro2 has 422 nits brightness. However, the contrast ratio of the new Dell venue is 992:1, which is close to Surface. This means, you can enjoy broad range of colors on the display. 

This Dell slate has sRGB gamut coverage of 94.5%, which means its screen is very much capable of handling image-based work. Dell has not designed Venue 11 Pro as a media machine perhaps that is why its two speakers in spite of producing high-volume audio doesn’t get extraordinary in terms of quality. 

Performance

Our Venue 11 Pro is packed with Intel Core i5-4210Y which is of course one of the best processors available in the market. It has the latest Haswell hardware with modest specifications: Hyper- a Turbo peak of 1.9GHz and Threaded cores clocked to 1.5GHz. The device can perform satisfactorily as its Core i5 chip is strong enough to get the job done, but you can’t get too demanding with this tablet. The Windows 8 OS operates without any lag and even Metro-based apps run smoothly. Office apps and other apps run smoothly but the tablet gets little compromising against too sensitive software. 

Battery Life

The device has a 36Wh battery, which has been augmented by a 28Wh unit. It can last for around 11 hours and 55 minutes if the screen brightness is set at 40% brightness. With its 11 hours of battery, you can do web browsing, run productivity tools and also play videos. Thus, in terms of battery Venue 11 Pro delivers great results as it easily beats the eight-hour capacity of the Microsoft Surface. But if you use sole battery behind the screen, then Dell’s lifespan might get dipped by 1 hour or so.

Keyboard & Trackpad

There are indeed no cons about the Venue 11 Pro's keyboard, in fact it is good. Its scrabble-tile keys are placed with enough space in between. The keys are big enough and allow you to do rapid tapping. The typing comfort offered by this slate is strongly impressive because not many ultrabooks have been able to deliver the typing comfort of that standard. The same appreciation goes to the touch-screen keyboard, but out of two, the physical keyboard is better. The Venue is also the match of the physical keyboard included with the Asus Transformer.

The track-pad complements the keyboard very well as it is very wide and its smooth surface lets you work on it conveniently. The two buttons are large and strongly responsive just like the track-pad. 

Technical Specification

Product Type:     Tablet PC	Processor Manufacturer:     Intel
Graphics Controller Manufacturer:     Intel	Graphics Controller Model:     HD Graphics
Bluetooth:    Yes	Wireless LAN:     Yes
Maximum Battery Run Time:     10 Hour	Solid State Drive Capacity:     256 GB
Storage:    32/64/128	Operating System Architecture:     64-bit
Front Camera/Webcam:     Yes	Processor Model:     i5-4300Y
Colour:     Black	Operating System:    Windows 8.1 Pro
Screen Size:     27.4 cm (10.8")	Screen Resolution:     1920 x 1080
Standard Memory:    8 GB	Width:     297.7 mm
Depth:     176.8 mm	Screen Mode:     Full HD

Wrap Up

If you are looking for just a performing hybrid tablet, then undoubtedly, Dell is offering a great deal in form of Dell Venue 11 Pro i5. It is a high-end business device that got enough power, thanks to its swappable battery. Moreover, it has a good screen with 389 nits, apart from its keyboard that works pretty well. Dell offers the device with several options in terms of specifications, prices and accessories. In one word, this Windows 8.1 tablet is a cheaper and excellent alternative to Surface Pro 2.

How to Create a Local Account to Run Windows 8.1?

Have you updated your personal computers and laptops to Windows 8.1? If you have done so, you must be delighted to see that how the upgrade happens smoothly in most part of the installation process. The upgrade is easy and gets done without making you wait for too long. It is highly recommended that those who are using Windows 8 must upgrade to Windows 8.1 for better Windows experience.

However, there is one caveat that you must have experienced upon. While upgrading to Windows 8.1, during the installation process, you will be asked to sign in to a Microsoft Live account. But after creating that Microsoft Live account, there is no way to move past the screen, which means you end up having the Microsoft account only. But if you wish to run your Windows 8.1 through a local account, then on the first go it appears as if this is not possible, at least not apparently possible. 

But there is a trick using which you can easily create a local account apart from the Windows Live account and easily run your Windows 8.1. As directed by the installation wizard, click the “Create New Account” link and then in the new open screen, check for the link at the bottom that lets you cancel the process. Click on that link and thus you can cancel the process.

Now what?

Here, many users feel like getting trapped within the poorly implemented log in process and they end up creating a Microsoft account or even if they already have one. They use that to log in to their new Windows 8.1 operating system (OS). But if you want to log in to your Windows 8.1 OS using your local account, then perform the following steps:

•          Go to the Start Screen
•          Type "users" in the Search and get the search results
•          Click the first item in the search results
•          This will open a screen similar to Figure A given below.

 

Figure A

  

•          Now, click the ‘Add an account’ box
•          This will open the next screen shown in Figure B

Figure B

•  Now, Microsoft wants you to create a new account with them. But if you check towards the bottom, you will see the link, which reads ‘Sign in without a Microsoft account.’ But it is followed with a ‘not recommended’ warning that many users take up very seriously and try to play safe by creating an account with Microsoft. But you can choose to ignore the "not recommended" advice.
•          Click the ‘Sign in without a Microsoft account’ link
•          This will open a new ‘Add a user’ screen shown as shown in Figure C.

 

Figure C

•          Click the “Local account” button.
•          After this, a new screen will open as shown in the Figure D.

Figure D

•          Simply enter your local account credentials
•          Click the ‘Next’ button
•          Next, click the ‘Finish’ button
•          That is it, your local account has got registered with your Windows 8.1 OS.
•          Now you can easily log in using the local account credential rather than that of Microsoft account.

As you have seen, creating a local account to run Windows 8.1 is very simple as Microsoft has itself made provision for it. But it is not recommended by them hence, many users tend to avoid using their local account for installing Windows 8.1. However, there is no as such harm in using your local account. Had it been risky, this feature wouldn’t have been made available. But none the less, it is better if you can use a Microsoft account to log into your Windows 8.1.

Is Malwarebytes Antimalware the Best Companion for Your Antivirus?

Malware are nothing but some specially programmed software that are targeted towards hampering the performance of your PC and its software and hardware components. Designed and developed by experienced professionals, they silently sit inside your device and aim at disrupting computer operations, collect vital and information, and to provide access to private computer systems. Recording keyboard activities, monitoring website visits, scanning unencrypted documents, and keeping a track on user’s online activities are some of the common areas where such viruses master in.

What is the solution for this and why you should install separate malware detecting software?

Malwarebyte (MWB) is antimalware, and security software that is specially designed to block all such threats that can affect the functioning, performance, and security of the properly running PC. Many users think that does using two antivirus software double the PC’s security? Well, the answer is Yes. If installing an additional RAM will enhance the performance of the device, then what's wrong with the case of security software? Installing two will always be better than having protection from one.

Malwarebytes antimalware is highly recommended by tech experts and geeks to combat all those serious malware that exist freely in the cyber world. Often coined as one of the most popular second security software, the program is capable to track out the malware, which an antivirus fails to detect. The software is efficient in blocking or restricting the malicious codes that perform harmful activities on your PC without seeking your permission or coming into your notice.

Some of the most common activities of malware are stealing passwords, mass spam emailing, recording keyboard and mouse activities, tracking online activities, and many others. Tightly packed with strong program codes and the latest database of malware, Malwarebyte is an antimalware solution that keeps all those dangerous threats away from your computers.

What are the unmatched features of this software?

Often claimed as the best companion for antivirus software by users, Malwarebtyes performs amazingly well with all the antivirus software available in the market, especially the free ones. Updated with the latest list of malware, the software is capable of blocking what most antivirus software miss.  Providing a great Internet protection to users, the program ensures that innocent PC users, kids, and unaware users should not become the victim of stubborn malware.

Some of the unmatched features of the program are mentioned below:

1.       Technical specifications and advanced features

The program is specially developed to block or restrict the entry of any kind of suspicious malware that is trying to attack your PC. Possessing an easy-to-use interface, the antimalware is triggered to spot low, medium, and high rated malware that can affect the PC functioning, software and hardware components, and system’s security and performance.

This antimalware is found to be faster in detecting and blocking Internet viruses, when compared to the antivirus installed on the same device. For keeping its directories, libraries, and database abreast with the latest malware threats, the solution prompts the user to update its definitions and the program version itself. Offered with a cool new icon and simple interface, the program currently runs on version 2.0.

2.       Comes in a free version with optimal performance

The antimalware also comes in a free version without the real time protection shield, however, it functions amazingly well when paired with a free antivirus solution. This easy to install and easy to uninstall software comes with excellent performance by featuring no error(s), problem(s) or crash(es). One of the amazing features of this solution is its ‘Fast Scan’ that takes about 2 minutes to scan your entire device for possible threats.

If you’ve faced issues with McAfee (errors after updating), Windows Defender (delayed enable time after boot up) and Avast (Blue Screen of Death) errors, then this program is a must download for you. Since the antimalware doesn’t come with a real protection shield in the free version, users may have to scan more times to be sure of no malware.

3.       Works excellently to offer second opinion

Offering you amazing performance and security to combat against latest malware threats, the program conducts straightforward operation without flashy graphics. Devices running on Windows take around 15-20 minutes for the full, in-depth scan that presents a detailed report of malware currently existing on the device.

After informing the user about the threat, the antimalware reassures the second opinion with a detailed list of suspected threats. Designed for spotting malware that are often skipped by an antivirus, the software ensures that your computers are OK after being scanned by both antivirus (daily) and Malwarebytes (weekly).

4.       New design and user-friendly user interface (UI)

Malwarebytes Antimalware 2.0 features an upgraded look that is simpler and easier to use. Following a straightforward approach, the solution doesn’t come with too much detailed text appearing on the scanning screen or a flashy button to showcase its functioning. Making use of the modern design, the software’s interface features larger boxes, adaptive windows, fewer tabs, and touch-friendly buttons to keep your system up and running.

5.       Some more features and utilities

The latest version of this antimalware features improved 64-bit support and an inbuilt Anti-Rootkit, which makes it more powerful than its earlier versions. The ‘Settings’ features including access managers, exclusion options, automatic schedulers, and other utilities make this software more usable and ensure optimal security.

6.       Enhanced security

The software designer has tweaked the user flow in order to improve the security and the protection offered by the program. The functioning of the software is designed in such a way that it looks out for outdated versions, prior to running a scan. Malwarebytes' Chameleon technology stubbornly gets this antimalware installed and ensures its functioning on those PCs, which are infected and sometimes block antimalware apps. Offering you excellent protection against the latest malware and online threats, this program can be easily paired up with antivirus (Free or Paid) to optimize the security shield across your devices.

What is Malwarebytes Antimalware Mobile and its features?

To offer optimal security and protection from numerous malware threats existing freely in the virtual world, Malwarebytes has transformed itself into an antimalware app to safeguard your mobile devices. Often coined as one of the most advanced and excellent antimalware, the app can easily detect malware, infected apps, and unauthorized surveillance.

Some of the amazing features of Malwarebytes Antimalware Mobile are mentioned below:

·         Informs, detects and restricts the entry of various malware, including spyware and Trojans

·         Runs periodic scans for malicious code or Potentially Unwanted Programs (PUPs) in your apps

·         Conducts active scans on archived files and external SD card files for complete coverage against malware

·         Informs and stops unauthorized access to personal data

·         Timely checks and scans Android device for security vulnerabilities

·         Identifies and informs about applications, which are tracking your location

Conclusion

All in all, Malwarebytes antimalware is an ideal solution for users looking for a straightforward tool that can block or restrict the entry of malware and online threats into their devices. Made available in free version by the manufactures, the solution can be acclaimed in paid versions for added security and enhanced protection against such threats. Supporting Windows Vista, Windows 7, Windows 8/8.1, and many others, the antimalware solution ensures optimal protection when paired up with a strong and excellently programmed antivirus. Your antivirus solution may be a master in tracking down viruses, but Malwarebytes antimalware holds the potential to figure out threats that your antivirus fails to detect.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S 8.4 Review

Samsung has recently launched its new range of tablets named Samsung Galaxy Tab S. The range has two models - the Galaxy Tab S 8.4 and the Galaxy Tab S 10.5. With these two tablets, Samsung is once again making an entry into the OLED space. Samsung Galaxy Tab 7.7 in 2011 was the last tablet by Samsung with an OLED screen. 

Both the tablets first got launched in New York City on June 12, 2014 with two versions including 3G Exynos-based versions and the LTE versions with Qualcomm Snapdragon 800 SoCs. Let us check out the insight of Samsung Galaxy tab S 8.4 to analyze how well Samsung has played with its newly launched tablets. 

Build, design and display

The overall design of Samsung Galaxy Tab S 8.4 reminds of Galaxy S5, the recently launched flagship smartphone of Samsung. Just like S5, Tab S 8.4 also has the 'perforated' pattern on its back. Samsung logo sits in the center and just above it sits the 8-megapixel primary camera. The rear panel has the perfect finishing that no longer attracts fingerprints. In fact, Samsung has gone innovative with the back side design of its new tablet by incorporating two circular clips that supports the smart cover. Now the smart cover can be clipped quite easily and adds to the overall design aspect of the device. 

The front display of the device is made of 2560x1600 WQXGA Super AMOLED screen. It has 359ppi (pixels per inch) density, which is higher than 7.9-inch iPad Mini with Retina Display. In spite of being an 8.4 inch device, the tablet easily fits into in one hand because of its very slim built of 6.6mm and lightweight of just 298 grams. So for holding purpose, you won’t feel the need of using both of your hands. 

With Tab S 8.4, Samsung for the first time took the chance of trying out big and high-resolution Super AMOLED screen. However, while experiencing the display of the tablet, it seems the chance Samsung took has paid off. The display is not at all disappointing rather it’s impressively satisfying with its brightness, viewing angles, contrast and clarity. However, the only impact of having an AMOLED screen is that the colors get a bit oversaturated. 

A fingerprint scanner on the Home button of this Galaxy tablet is one of the new integrations that was first made available with the Samsung S5. However, Samsung has included this feature on a tablet for the first time. The fingerprint scanners support Multi User Mode and 8 users can create their own personal profiles.

However, as always, even the body of Galaxy Tab S 8.4 is made of plastic, while this time it was widely expected that Samsung would do something different. Overall, it can be said that the Galaxy S5-inspired design of Galaxy tab S 8.4 is looking impressively good because it has a good balance between thinness and solidity.

Specifications and performance

Powered by a quad-core 2.3GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon 800 with integrated LTE functionality and 3GB of RAM, Samsung Galaxy Tab S 8.4 delivers strong performance as expected from its strong configuration. It is multi-tasking and hence posed no as such operational shortcomings like lag or week touch response. Opening and closing of apps were fairly instantaneous.

Many things about this tablet is inspired from the Samsung Galaxy S5 such as the software feature called SideSync 3.0. This feature allows users to mirror their smartphones over Wi-Fi direct. This means Galaxy S5 and Galaxy Tab S 8.4 can be synced over Wi-Fi and the calls on the S5 can be received and answered from the S 8.4 tablet. Moreover, content can be shared between the two devices. The other connectivity options on the tablet are Bluetooth 4.0, Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, GLONASS, GPS/A-GPS, and 3G.

Camera

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S 8.4 has an 8-megapixel autofocus camera with LED flash. It takes good pictures of up to 3264x2448 pixel resolution. The front facing camera is of 2.1-megapixel and it delivers descent performance that a 1.2 MP camera is capable of.

In the Super AMOLED display, Samsung Tab S 8.4 looked decent even if these were looked under indoor lighting.

Tech Specifications

·         Status: Released in 2014, July

·         Dimensions: 212.8 x 125.6 x 6.6 mm (8.38 x 4.94 x 0.26 in)

·         Weight: 294 g (10.37 oz)

·         Display Type: Super AMOLED capacitive touchscreen, 16M colors

·         Display Size: 1600 x 2560 pixels, 8.4 inches (~359 ppi pixel density)

·         Internal Memory: 16/32 GB

·         RAM: 3 GB RAM

·         Card slot: microSD, up to 128 GB

·         Wi-Fi : 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct, DLNA, Wi-Fi hotspot

·         Bluetooth: v4.0, A2DP, LE

·         Infrared port: Yes

·         USB : microUSB v2.0

·         Primary Camera: 8 MP, 3264 x 2448 pixels, autofocus, LED flash

·         Secondary Camera: 2.1 MP

·         Operating System: Android v4.4.2 (KitKat)

·         Chipset: Exynos 5 Octa 5420

·         CPU : Quad-core 1.9 GHz Cortex-A15 & quad-core 1.3 GHz Cortex-A7

·         GPU: Mali-T628 MP6

·         Colors: Dazzling White, Titanium Bronze

Wrap Up 

The 16 GB, dazzling white variant of the Samsung Galaxy Tab S 8.4 is priced at $399.99. It is a worth buy because  it looks stylish, has a detailed display, it is lighter than 1 LB, it supports good security with its finger scanner and it can be hold with one hands. As such no drawback has been found considering the price factor. Overall it’s a worth buying a tablet coming from a leading brand like Samsung.