Google’s Android operating system has given birth to a barrage of mobile phones in the market. From smartphones that would rival a small PC to phones that are just good enough to run Angry Birds, In the same way, there have been a slew of tablets entering the market that come in every size, color, and price point under the sun. This GITEX Shopper I was amazed at the number of new tablets that were being promoted at nearly every booth – some were about good enough to watch some HD video, while some were just a glorified paperweight. But today I’m experimenting with the Axtrom Axpad V1, a tablet powered by Android Ice Cream Sandwich.

Build quality & design

The Axpad isn’t designed to be very flashy or for that matter attractive. It’s mostly glossy plastic body is easy to smudge, but thankfully Axtrom have included a faux leather case which you can carry the Axpad around in, making it much easier to handle.

The only buttons that the Axpad has are the power and volume rocker at the top of the device – everything else is available in the touch-OS. On the right hand side you’ll find a number of ports, including power, microSD, headphones, USB, mini-HDMI, Mini-USB, and microphone. The USB port can be used to plug in a flash drive to access files, and can also connect to a 3G dongle to provide internet access.

The front of the device sports a large black border around the screen, and a 1.3 megapixel front-facing camera at the top right of the device. As far as looks go, the Axpad looks quite ordinary, and feels a bit weighty for a 7” device.

Specifications

In order to keep the Axpad at a lower price range, the specifications here won’t be the greatest. They’re decent enough for most tasks and apps, albeit with the occasional hiccup.

CPU: VIA WM 8850 Cotex-A9 1.5GHz Multi Core
RAM: DDR3 1GB
Screen: Capacitive LCD (Multi-Touch Panel)
Storage: Built-in 8GB Flash (External Micro SD Card Extendable up to 32GB)
OS: Andriod 4.0.3 Ice Cream Sandwich
Camera: 1.3 megapixels (Front Camera)
Network: Built-in Wi-Fi module, External 3G Ready
PC Connection: Standard USB 2.0, HDMI
Battery: Built-in Lithium Battery: 3.7V 3000mAh
Accessories: 1x Premium Leather Case, 1x Earphone, 1x USB Cable, 1x Charger (2 pins + 3 pins)