Chinese computer manufacturer Lenovo has introduced two new Android tablets into the local market – and pricing is extremely keen. And there’s more to these newcomers than just plain old slate computing.

The two tablets are both branded Yoga, with an 8-inch and 10-inch model comprising the lineup. Pricing starts at R3 699 for the 8-inch Yoga, and R4 499 for the 10-incher. Both entry level versions have 16GB of storage, a microSD slot, Dolby audio, 5MP rear camera, wireless connectivity, Bluetooth, and a native resolution of 1280 x 800. 3G models are also available for those who don’t want to rely on wireless hotspots.

Processing power comes in the form of Mediatek quad-core chips that have more than enough oomph to tide most Android users over – look out for our hands-on and full reviews where we test these bits of silicon and determine if they can also do heavy lifting.

The big deal here, though, is the battery life. Both the 8- and 10-inch models boasts a whopping 18-hours of usable battery life. Despite being smaller, the 8-inch model has a two-cell lithium polymer battery, which gives it the same stamina as the three-cell lithium ion battery in the 10-inch model. Fitting those large batteries in the machines is made possible by the “Yoga” part of the design. One, almost-cylindrical edge of the Yoga tablets houses the battery as well as a sturdy metal kickstand. This lets the device be propped up for viewing movies; rested at an angle for easier typing; or held in the hand, with something substantial to grab onto.

Lenovo says the tablets are on sale from today at select electronics outfits across SA.