Tablet PCs are the new technological marvels of the modern world. Though they are a very recent phenomenon, they seem to have caught on the fancy of young and old people alike. The fact that they are sleek and portable adds on to their utility and relevance, especially in the present day scenario. They are now available in various shapes and models to suit the needs of different kinds of users.

1.Slates: This Tablet PC is in the shape of a writing slate and usually does not have a keyboard, though it can be attached later. The keyboard cannot be rotated and the screen cannot be folded over the keyboard. They have small LCD screens and are the perfect device from the mobility point of view, because the user has fewer components to carry. It can be used as a rugged model. This type is popular amongst students and professionals in the healthcare, education and field work.

2.Thin-Client Slates: These tablet PC consist of a touch screen and an integrated wireless connection device that transmits data to a remote server for processing. This PC is extremely thin and lightweight, with provision of more data storage and a longer battery life.

3.Convertibles: These PCs look like the conventional laptop because they have an attached keyboard with the base body. This makes them heavier and larger than conventional Tablet PCs. The base is attached to the monitor at a single joint. This joint is called the swivel or the rotating joint. This joint enables the display monitor to rotate 180°and even fold upon the top of the keyboard. This too comes in rugged models. Some manufacturers are coming up with a sliding design where the screen slides up to become a laptop. This is one of the most popular, widely used models. Most people are still not comfortable with the idea of using a digital pen, and hence go for this model since it comes with a keyboard.

4.Hybrids: This type of Tablet PC brings together the features of a slate and a convertible. It comes with a detachable keyboard. Once the keyboard is attached, it becomes functional as a convertible PC. The keyboard can be rotated around and the screen can fold over the keyboard.