Not too long ago we reported that the HP Slate 7 wouldn’t be making it into stores until June. The good news is that HP kept its original promise to deliver the slate in April after all, with the tablet popping up on HP’s retail site for just $170.

As a refresher, the HP Slate 7 is powered by a dual-core Cortex A9 processor. Other specs include 1GB RAM, 8GB storage, microSD, a 1024×600 resolution 7-inch LCD display and Beats Audio technology. The tablet runs on Android 4.1 Jelly Bean out of the box.

So should you consider snatching up the HP Slate 7 or are you better off spending the extra $30 to get yourself a Nexus 7? While the Nexus 7 is clearly more powerful for little more money, it really depends on your needs. If you are looking for a basic tablet for net usage, social networking and lighter weight apps, the HP Slate 7′s dual-core configuration will handle the job. Additionally if you absolutely need a microSD card, the HP Slate 7 could be what you are looking for.

To get a better look at the Slate 7, check out of First Look video from back at MWC.

What do you think, interested in the Slate 7 or is it a better idea to just put a little more cash upfront for a more powerful tablet instead?