Several manufacturers are entering a tablet computer gold rush following the release of the Apple iPad. Blackberry plan to release their answer, called the Playbook soon; whilst the Samsung Galaxy Tab is already available. The latter offers a number of differences over the wildly popular iPad.

The Samsung Galaxy Tab is a highly versatile device.  With every imaginable characteristic you would expect from such a high end device, it is amazing what Samsung has packed into the device.

The dimensions of the Galaxy Tab are 190x 120 mm; however it also remains extremely slimline at just 12 mm.  It is also lightweight at 380 g, and therefore much more portable than its Apple rival.  The TFT capacitive touchscreen measures 7 inches and is capable of displaying up to 16 million colours within the screen which packs 600x 1024 pixels into its dimensions.  This results in top quality high definition display, meaning HD video can be enjoyed by way it is meant to be.  The same TouchWiz UI as found in the Samsung Galaxy S makes another appearance, offering a customizable and easy to use experience.  The screen also comes with multi-touch support which allows functions such as pinch to zoom, whilst an accelerometer sensor is also included along with the innovative Swype text input system.

Both 16 GB 32 GB models of the Samsung Galaxy Tab are available, both of which offer ample storage for the needs of the vast majority of users.  Even so, there is expandable storage in the shape of a micro SD slot which can accommodate a memory card of up to 32 GB.

Unlike the iPad, the Samsung Galaxy Tab actually functions as a phone via a Bluetooth device or handsfree headset.  In order to connect to cellular networks, both GPRS and EDGE are utilised.  A fast and reliable Internet connection is provided courtesy of 3G coverage thanks to an HSDPA connection.  Whenever users have access, they can enjoy an enhanced browsing experience on the Galaxy Tab thanks to Wi-Fi connectivity.

Another feature which its iPad rival lacks is a digital camera.  The Samsung Galaxy Tab boasts not one, but to cameras.  The main camera is located on the back of the device and offers 3.15 mega pixels and comes with auto-focus and LED flash along with the ability to shoot video.  A secondary camera is located on the front of the device which allows functions as a webcam and video calls.

The operating system of choice is Android 2.2 Froyo (upgradable), and this works in conjunction with a 1GHz processor to provide a fantastic user experience which is fast and responsive, yet versatile and customizable.  Users are able to download additional apps from the Android Market, meaning the sky’s the limit when it comes to customisation and adding to the already awe-inspiring levels of performance and functionality.

Samsung has certainly not cut any corners when deciding to stake their claim in a tablet computer market.  The Samsung Galaxy Tab may be the new kid on the block with some very big shoes to fill, at its spec list and design looks like this is one of device which has got what it takes.

Check out the best Samsung Galaxy Tab deals and Apple iPad deals