• by Mark Walsh  @markfwal, December 18, 2012

When Google launched the 10.1-inch Nexus 10 in early November, it made its bid to go head-to-head with the category-leading iPad. Sure, Google also released an updated Nexus 7 tablet, but could it hang with Apple when it came to a full-size tablet?

According to Consumer Reports, the answer is “yes.” In its latest tablet ratings, the consumer guide said the Nexus 10 was the first device to match the iPad among Wi-Fi only models. The Google device actually scored 1 point higher than the iPad.

“At $400, the 16GB Nexus 10 costs $100 less than a comparably configured fourth-generation iPad, earning it a CR Best Buy. While it equaled the iPad in most areas of performance and has a slightly larger display, its battery life did fall short of the iPad's,” stated a CR blog post Monday. 

The publication also gave high marks to the Nexus 7, though the iPad Mini came out on top in the 7- to 8-inch tablet category. Still, the proliferation and improvement in Android tablets has helped Google and its manufacturing partners like Samsung make inroads against Apple in the tablet market.

Research firm IDC projects Apple’s global tablet share will drop to 53.8% this year from 56.3% in 2011, while Android increases to 42.7% from 39.8%.