The Google Pixel Slate i5 aims to blend the simplicity of a tablet with the productivity of a laptop. This 12.3-inch 2-in-1 runs Chrome OS and represents Google's vision for a modern computing device. Let's examine what the Pixel Slate i5 brings to the table as both a tablet and laptop replacement.
On the tablet side, the Pixel Slate i5 touts a stunning Molecular Display with crisp 293 PPI resolution. The thin bezels and widescreen aspect ratio give it a sleek, upscale look. Weighing 1.6 pounds, it strikes a balance between portability and a large enough display for immersive streaming, web browsing or gaming. Eight megapixel front and rear cameras cater to today's video calling needs. Dual front-firing speakers with the headphone jack provide robust sound. The electrostatic tactile keyboard should deliver a responsive and accurate typing experience. With up to 10 hours of battery life, it can handle a full day of use without charge. The sleek, minimalist design in a midnight blue aluminum chassis is both sophisticated and subtle.
As a laptop replacement, the Pixel Slate really depends on its keyboard cover accessory. The backlit keyboard attaches securely via magnets to add a more traditional clamshell laptop feel. The responsive trackpad and variety of viewing angles from the kickstand keep the workflow flexible. Inside, the 8th Gen Intel Core i5 processor and 8GB of RAM provides enough horsepower for most common tasks, but the 128GB storage is on the smaller side. Still, between the Chrome browser, Android apps via Google Play Store and Linux app support, there's a healthy variety of programs and multitasking potential. The Pixelbook Pen stylus enables drawing, taking notes and precision input if needed. Weighing 2.4 pounds altogether, it's incredibly portable compared to many laptops.
Google engineered the Pixel Slate i5 to deliver a simplified computing experience. Chrome OS is designed for speed, ease of use and security, with convenient cloud integration. Set up takes just minutes thanks to your Google account automatically syncing Gmail, docs, photos, browsing history and more. The user interface is clean, intuitive and fits the touchscreen operation perfectly. Voice dictation via Google Assistant makes search faster. Automatic updates keep things secure and running smoothly behind the scenes without interruptions. For many users, Chrome OS could eliminate the need for traditional antivirus software, backups and OS headaches.
For all its versatility, the Pixel Slate does have some limitations. The absence of a headphone jack on the keyboard means you'll need Bluetooth headphones or a USB-C adapter. Chrome OS doesn't support many AAA gaming titles or creative programs like Photoshop. Some users may prefer macOS or Windows for top-tier productivity. However, the Slate i5 aims to cover the core needs like web access, communication, documents, media consumption and light creative work for many customers.
At $799 bundled with the keyboard and pen, the Pixel Slate i5 hits a reasonable price point compared to other 2-in-1 hybrid devices. Google makes a compelling case that the Slate can pull tablet and laptop duty while remaining easy to use and portable. For the right customer, it may just deliver laptop-class flexibility coupled with tablet simplicity. The Pixel Slate i5 earns its place as a modern, adaptable computer with Google's signature minimalist style.