Hello!
On 1678 we have used (and still do) quite a variety in terms of hardware. For android hardware we have had good results with the Nexus 7 tablets, so I will second that suggestion. We used the old MeMO pads at one point, but have replaced almost all of them with Nexus 7s, because the Nexus 7s seem to last longer and be more durable.
I was, however, extremely surprised when I saw you looking to go
from iOS
to Android. If we had the funds on 1678, we would probably move the other direction in an instant. The App Programming team (and mentor) have generally had a much easier time programming for iOS than for Android. iOS programming and legitimate app signing is also now free (Apple recently began giving out free Dev accounts). As someone who has programmed for both platforms, I notice that the XCode development tool is an incredible bonus, and in my opinion while eclipse and Android studio are great tools, XCode knocks both of them out of the park.
I am curious about what you (Underdog_19) meant regarding "control of the process". Were you referring to the fact that programming for iOS is difficult unless you have a Mac computer?
All this is just my 2c, so take it or leave it.
--Bryton
1678 App Programming Lead