Lenovo Miix2 8″

“With its attractive, compact design and sub-£300 price tag the Miix 2 8 is one of the new Windows tablets that provides a more affordable alternative to the Apple-Google duopoly. It can't go head-to-head with the iPad and Android tablets in terms of apps, but the Miix 2 8 may well appeal to Windows users who want a pocket-size tablet that will also allow them to view their Office documents when they're out and about.”

“For a small tablet that's easy to hold and carry around, the Lenovo Miix 2 8 doesn't get much wrong. It's certainly one of the nicer 8-inch Windows 8.1 tablet's we've tried.For simple tasks and running full-screen apps, the Lenovo Miix 2 8 performs well. But you'll need to keep your expectations in check, as the Miix 2 8 struggles under more intensive workloads.If you're happy with a tablet that you can quickly whip out to read the news and check your emails, then this is a great choice with a respectable price tag. But if you want a more versatile tablet that can also run normal Windows programs then we advise you to look elsewhere.”

“Pushing Windows 8/8.1 onto a broader array of devices is a smart move on Lenovo’s part. It offers greater compatibility between its products and a unique level of flexibility over mobile-centric rival offerings using Android and iOS, but there are drawbacks…The demands of full Windows tax the Miix 2 from the get-go, particularly in the storage and screen departments. The desktop side of Windows 8.1 is awkward to manoeuvre on that tablet’s 8-inch screen and although the ability to support full Windows applications is impressive, the lack of space snubs the potential benefits on offer.At under £250, the Lenovo Miix 2 has a lot to offer and in many ways out-paces pricier rivals, but if you’re after a budget tablet, this is certainly not the only option worth considering.”

“With some adjustments, the Lenovo Miix 2 8in may have been a contender: it’s well equipped, attractive and fast. However, the washed-out display, insubstantial build and the lack of a video output sour its appeal. In a market where competition is fierce, and prices cut-throat, this tablet simply hasn’t got it where it counts.”