I got the S2 Nook yesterday at Barnes & Noble. I had a Tab S and really liked it but returned it to the store when I learned the S2 was being released. I was ready to preorder the S2 but held off when I read the Nook was going to be released. I have had Nook tablets and e-readers in the past but the last Samsung Nook was a real disappointment and had no interest in it. This Nook variant is physically exactly like the regular S2 except has the Nook software and apps in addition to all the regular Google and Samsung apps and services. The S2 Nook only come in black and B&N has it's own cases but it still has the tabs on the back for Samsung's own book covers. The Nook version comes with the three free books from a list of twenty, three Nook magazines, $5 B&N credit, in-house support and 10% off for being a B&N member. Another thing I discovered is B&N offers TWO years accidental damage warranty for $79 while Best Buy offers ONE year for $79. Samsung also offers a Kindle for Samsung app with free books too, so I don't feel I am giving up a Kindle offer for a Nook. I used Tab S primarily as a color e-reader for books, magazines and comics and I'm already invested in Nook for me the S2 Nook was the obvious choice.
I knew the S2 was thin but in person it is really impressive. The screen quality, 4:3 aspect ratio and light weight make the 8-inch version perfect for reading books, magazines and comics. I noticed some lag on the Tab S but the S2 is fast and fluid. I've read reviews that have knocked the S2 for not having the latest processor but I'm not sure what practical difference that would make. I could be wrong but the speakers seem louder on the S2. The only disappointment is battery life, which isn't bad but probably isn't going to make it through a long international flight, and Samsung didn't include fast charging like on their new phones. I know there are cheaper alternatives for a small tablet but the S2 really is a nice device and the Nook variant is perfect for my needs.
I knew the S2 was thin but in person it is really impressive. The screen quality, 4:3 aspect ratio and light weight make the 8-inch version perfect for reading books, magazines and comics. I noticed some lag on the Tab S but the S2 is fast and fluid. I've read reviews that have knocked the S2 for not having the latest processor but I'm not sure what practical difference that would make. I could be wrong but the speakers seem louder on the S2. The only disappointment is battery life, which isn't bad but probably isn't going to make it through a long international flight, and Samsung didn't include fast charging like on their new phones. I know there are cheaper alternatives for a small tablet but the S2 really is a nice device and the Nook variant is perfect for my needs.