The ViewPad 7's overall design--which features a flat back and rounded edges--is pleasing, though it's not especially streamlined or sexy. The tablet is a hair thinner than the Galaxy Tab and the , in at 0.45 inch thick, and it weighs 14 ounces--1 ounce more than the Galaxy Tab. Four navigational buttons occupy the bottom of the device (when you hold it vertically): one each for menu, settings, Web search, and back.

The ViewPad comes loaded with a largely stock version of Android 2.2, albeit one that includes such Google mobile services as Android Market and Maps navigation. Integration with your Gmail and other Google apps is quick and simple, thanks to the Google support. The one obvious variation is the vaguely three-dimensional scrolling effect of the apps menu.

Accessing my e-mail on the tablet was quick, and typing on the ViewPad7's on-screen Android keyboard was a pleasure thanks to the screen's responsiveness and the pop-up letters that appeared as I typed. I had no trouble downloading apps and games, either; Angry Birds took less than a minute to download and run on the device.

Preloaded apps include Documents to Go and Aldiko's impressive eReader app (which supports TXT, HTML, E-PUB and PDF, and has an on-board library and bookstore to keep your collection growing).

ViewSonic threw in a leatherette protective case for the ViewPad 7. Though aesthetically pleasing, the case proved to be something of a hindrance because it blocked access to some of the ports and volume buttons.