It’s a bit difficult to find out the exact specs of some Windows 8 systems.  Manufacturers often list only the specifications that show their system is superior in a particular way.  Sometimes it’s the Screen Resolution, sometimes it’s the Processor Model and Speed, etc.  I dug into different tablet models by going to the manufacturer’s site, shopping sites and download any brochures I could find.

So I’ve listed the specs that we think are important (and why) and that you should be aware of.  Before you buy you should check out the particular model in detail to make sure you haven’t been misled.  This list is only to give you general guidelines.  Specs change, so double-check our findings before you buy that particular model.

So the specs you need to know:

OS: Windows RT, Windows 8 and Windows 8 Pro.  Supposedly there has been confusion about RT.  It’s really simple. RT will NOT run your old Windows apps.  Windows 8 and Windows 8 Pro will.  Double check the specs on this. Some Manufacturer aren’t clear enough.  You also have to worry about 32bit and 64bit systems. 64bit will run 32bit legacy apps, but 32bit will not run the new 64bit stuff.

Screen Type:  Touch or Non Touch.  Also, ‘Multi-touch’ doesn’t mean 10 fingers. there are some 5 finger (and even 2 finger) touch systems out there. If you are looking to play a game on a tablet against someone else, you’ll probably want the 10 finger variety. Generally, if a PC is under $500, it doesn’t have a touch screen at all.  Many manufacturers are trying to get rid of their old model and offer Windows upgrade at $14.95.  If you don’t care about touch, then go for it.  If you do, then get another PC or tablet.

Screen Resolution: Minimum is 1366 x 768. Typically the lower-end models have this resolution.  Better resolution would be the 1600 x 900 or even 1920 x 1080.  The higher the resolution, the more cost.

Screen Size: Use the screen size in conjunction with the resolution.  Ensure you are getting both in the combination you want.  Typical sizes include 14, 13.3, 12.5, 11.6, and 10.1.  If you are an old geek like me, the largest screen size and highest resolution is what you want.

Memory: Can be 2GB to 8GB.  Windows 8 Apps using use less memory, but if you are getting a tablet with the full version of Windows, the more memory the better.

Hard Drive:  SSD or Regular Hard Drive.  Most tablets are coming with 128GB SSD (Solid-State Drive) to reduce the weight and power requirements. If you are planning to get the full version of Windows and loading up all your old apps, better look for a model with a regular hard drive, 500GB or above.  Soon the 256GB SSDs are going to be more price competitive.  So if you can wait, you can get the best of both worlds.

Processor: From NVidia Tegra to Intel I-7, there are a lot of processor models out there.  Here’s a table of the most common ones found in Tablets.  Also Futuremark has a great site that you can select different processors and compare the Intel and AMD processors yourself: Futuremark Community Site.

Please note that the number of cores and speed between NVidia and Tegra are not directly comparable and a good indication of speed difference between the processor models.

Cameras: Not all have 2 cameras and the resolutions different greatly.  If you want to do video chat/conferencing, make sure you have the cameras that you want AND a processor that can meet the demand.

Battery Life: Especially with the new Windows 8 Pro systems coming out, battery life is a hot topic.  Don’t expect more that 4hrs out of a Windows RT pro (being released in January 2013).  But many manufacturers claim 8-9 hrs. of life.  Be aware.

Wi-Fi:  B/G/N should be what your are looking for.  Most networks, including your home network run on B.  But if you have an N router, make sure your new systems has N built in.  Most do, but some don’t state.

I've put a spreadsheet together that has specs on some of the most common systems out there.  It should make your search a little easier.  HOWEVER, CHECK THE MANUFACTURER'S INFORMATION BEFORE YOU BUY.  This is just a guide to get you through the muddied waters.