Windows 8-Intel tablets with 4G/LTE still scarce in 2014

The Surface 2 is one of the precious few exceptions of a Windows tablet with 4G. Problem is, it runs Windows RT not the full version of Windows 8.Microsoft

Apple started making cellular-capable tablets in April 2010, but four years later most Windows-Intel tablets are still Wi-Fi only. One would charitably call that being late to the tablet party.

The tablet isn't a novel device anymore. You might even call it a mature market. IDC said Thursday that worldwide tablet shipments (including 2-in-1 hybrid devices) showed only 3.9 percent growth over the same period a year ago.

And 2014 will be a "challenging year ahead for the category" with the "the rise of large-screen phones," IDC added.

So, what's the state of the Windows 8.1 tablet in 2014 ? While there are some decent new designs from the likes of Dell ($249 Venue Pro 8) and Lenovo ($399 ThinkPad 8), there are precious few with 4G/LTE.

For instance, the relatively-comprehensive Microsoft Store tablet page shows no Windows 8.1/Intel tablets with 4G. And Best Buy lists one among dozens. Verizon lists none. Ditto AT&T.

There are exceptions. Lenovo says its new ThinkPad 8, which has received good reviews, will come with a 4G option. Problem is, that feature is not listed on the current ThinkPad 8's spec sheet and, moreover, a 4G model is not being sold by Microsoft.