Murena /e/OS Tablet Review: Privacy for a Price [2025]

Finding a device that respects your privacy often feels like an impossible quest in today's tech landscape. While privacy-centric phones have emerged, tablets have lagged behind—until now. Enter the Murena /e/OS tablet, a collaboration with German-based Volla, designed for those who want to escape the clutches of Google.

TL; DR

Privacy Focus: Built on /e/OS, the Murena tablet offers a Google-free experience.
Usability Compromise: While privacy is prioritized, some features may lack the polish of mainstream systems.
Technical Specs: Decent hardware for everyday use, though not top-tier.
Best For: Privacy enthusiasts and tech-savvy users willing to trade convenience for security.
Bottom Line: A unique offering in the tablet market that prioritizes user privacy over seamless integration.

The Murena Tablet excels in privacy and storage options but faces challenges with app compatibility and update frequency. (Estimated data)

A Google-Free Tablet Experience

The Murena tablet runs on /e/OS, an open-source operating system derived from Android but stripped of all Google services. This is a big deal for privacy advocates who want to use a tablet without feeding data into Google's ecosystem.

Privacy-First Approach

One of /e/OS's standout features is its commitment to privacy. It replaces Google services with alternatives like Micro G, which mimics essential Google services without the data collection. This means apps that depend on Google's ecosystem can still function, albeit with varying degrees of success.

QUICK TIP: Enable advanced privacy settings in /e/OS to control app permissions and limit data sharing.

Hardware Overview

The Murena tablet doesn't aim to compete with high-end devices like the iPad Pro or the latest Samsung Galaxy Tab. Instead, it offers solid, mid-range specs:

Display: 10.1-inch Full HD
Processor: Octa-core processor
RAM: 4GB
Storage: 64GB, expandable via micro SD
Battery Life: Up to 10 hours

These specs are sufficient for most daily tasks, such as browsing, streaming, and light productivity. However, power users might find it lacking for intensive applications.

A Google-Free Tablet Experience - contextual illustration

The Murena tablet offers a good balance of privacy and usability, scoring 7 in privacy features and 8 in usability. Estimated data.

Setting Up the Murena Tablet

Getting started with the Murena tablet is straightforward, but there are some nuances due to its Google-free nature.

Initial Configuration

Upon powering up, you're greeted with a familiar Android-like setup process, but without the obligatory Google login. Instead, you create a local /e/ account, which allows you to sync data across devices without using Google's servers.

Create a /e/ Account: This enables cloud syncing for contacts, calendar, and files.
App Installation: Use the /e/ App Store to download apps. It aggregates apps from various sources, including open-source repositories.
Privacy Settings: Customize privacy settings to your preference, focusing on permission management and data sharing.

Setting Up the Murena Tablet - contextual illustration

Daily Use and Performance

Using the Murena tablet for day-to-day tasks offers a generally smooth experience, though there are noticeable differences compared to mainstream Android tablets.

App Compatibility

While most apps run smoothly, some that rely heavily on Google services may encounter issues. For instance, Google Maps works in a limited capacity, but alternatives like OsmAnd provide a comparable experience.

Micro G: A free and open-source project that allows Android apps to run without Google Play Services by providing alternative implementations.

Battery Life

The tablet's battery life is commendable, lasting a full day with moderate use. Streaming videos, browsing, and using productivity apps didn't significantly drain the battery.

Daily Use and Performance - contextual illustration

Murena Tablet vs High-End Tablets: Feature Comparison

The Murena tablet offers competitive mid-range specs, making it suitable for everyday tasks. However, it may not match the performance of high-end tablets like the iPad Pro and Samsung Galaxy Tab for power users.

Privacy Features in Detail

Privacy is the core selling point of the Murena tablet. /e/OS's approach to user data is fundamentally different from traditional Android.

Data Protection

No Google Services: Prevents data from being sent to Google.
Privacy Score: Each app is rated based on its data collection practices.
DNS Over HTTPS: Encrypts DNS queries to protect from surveillance and tracking.

Security Updates

The Murena tablet receives regular security updates, although they might lag slightly behind Google's official Android updates. This is a trade-off for using an independent OS but ensures that vulnerabilities are patched over time.

Privacy Features in Detail - contextual illustration

Pros and Cons of the Murena Tablet

What We Liked

Privacy-First Design: Complete Google-free environment.
Decent Performance: Handles everyday tasks with ease.
Expandable Storage: Micro SD slot for additional storage.

Areas for Improvement

App Compatibility: Some apps may not work as intended without Google services.
Update Frequency: Security updates can be delayed compared to mainstream Android.
Limited Ecosystem: Lack of native support for some popular apps.

DID YOU KNOW: Over 70% of Android apps rely on Google Play Services for notifications and updates, posing a challenge for devices running alternatives like /e/OS.

Privacy Features Comparison: Murena Tablet vs Traditional Android

The Murena tablet excels in privacy features such as 'No Google Services' and 'DNS Over HTTPS', scoring higher than traditional Android. Estimated data.

Comparison with Other Privacy-Focused Devices

While the Murena tablet offers a unique proposition, it's not the only player in the privacy-focused tech space.

Feature	Murena Tablet	iPad with Privacy Apps	Graphene OS Phone
OS	/e/OS	iOS + Privacy Apps	Graphene OS
Google-Free	Yes	No	Yes
App Compatibility	Moderate	High	High
Price	Moderate	High	High
Security Updates	Regular	Immediate	Regular

Graphene OS vs. /e/OS

Graphene OS is often compared to /e/OS for its privacy features. However, Graphene OS is primarily focused on phones and offers more robust security features, such as verified boot and enforced SELinux policies. It's great for those who prioritize security over usability.

Comparison with Other Privacy-Focused Devices - contextual illustration

Future Trends in Privacy-Focused Tech

The demand for privacy-centric devices is only expected to grow as more users become aware of data privacy issues. Here are some trends to watch:

Increased Open-Source Adoption: More users are turning to open-source solutions for transparency.
Hardware Privacy Features: Expect to see more devices with hardware switches for cameras and microphones.
Privacy-First Ecosystems: Companies might start offering a suite of devices that work together within a private ecosystem.

QUICK TIP: Stay informed about /e/OS updates and community developments to make the most of your Murena tablet.

Recommendations for Potential Buyers

If you're considering the Murena tablet, here are a few things to keep in mind:

Assess Your Privacy Needs: If privacy is your top priority, the Murena tablet is a solid choice. However, if you're heavily reliant on Google's ecosystem, you might face some challenges.
Join the Community: Engaging with the /e/OS community can provide valuable insights and solutions to common issues.
Test App Compatibility: Before fully committing, test your essential apps for compatibility.

Common Pitfalls and Solutions

App Functionality Issues

Problem: Some apps may not function correctly due to the absence of Google services.

Solution: Look for open-source alternatives or apps that do not rely on Google Play Services. Additionally, check /e/OS forums for user-recommended solutions.

Security Update Delays

Problem: Updates may lag behind mainstream Android, leading to potential security risks.

Solution: Regularly check for updates and consider joining the beta program for faster access to patches.

Common Pitfalls and Solutions - visual representation

Conclusion

The Murena /e/OS tablet is a compelling option for those who value privacy over seamless integration with Google's ecosystem. While there are trade-offs in terms of app compatibility and update frequency, the benefits of a Google-free device are significant for privacy-conscious users.

Ultimately, the Murena tablet represents a step forward in the realm of privacy-focused devices, offering a viable alternative to mainstream tablets for those willing to embrace its unique approach.

FAQ

What is the Murena /e/OS tablet?

The Murena /e/OS tablet is a Google-free device running on /e/OS, designed for privacy-conscious users.

How does /e/OS ensure privacy?

/e/OS replaces Google services with alternatives like Micro G, minimizing data collection and enhancing user privacy.

What are the benefits of a Google-free tablet?

A Google-free tablet offers enhanced privacy and security, reducing data tracking by Google and other third parties.

How is app compatibility on the Murena tablet?

Most apps run smoothly, though those reliant on Google services may encounter issues. Alternatives are often available.

Can the Murena tablet replace my current device?

It depends on your reliance on Google services. If privacy is your priority, it's a viable alternative with some compromises.

How often does the Murena tablet receive updates?

The tablet receives regular security updates, though they may lag behind Google's official Android updates.

What are the hardware specs of the Murena tablet?

The tablet features a 10.1-inch Full HD display, octa-core processor, 4GB RAM, and 64GB storage, expandable via micro SD.

Is the Murena tablet suitable for power users?

While it handles everyday tasks well, power users may find it lacking for intensive applications.

How does the Murena tablet compare to other privacy-focused devices?

Compared to devices like Graphene OS phones, the Murena tablet offers a balance of privacy and usability but may lack some advanced security features.

What trends are emerging in privacy-focused tech?

Trends include increased open-source adoption, hardware privacy features, and the development of privacy-first ecosystems.

Key Takeaways

Murena /e/OS tablet offers a Google-free user experience.
/e/OS prioritizes privacy by replacing Google services.
Mid-range hardware sufficient for everyday tasks.
App compatibility can vary without Google Play Services.
Ideal for privacy-conscious users willing to trade some convenience for security.
Regular security updates, though not as frequent as mainstream Android.