iPad, Netbook or Notebook
The Decision is Yours
By Marc Cohen
Well, here we go again. Sounds like the Blu-ray vs. HD battle a few years ago. In that case, there had to be a clear cut winner. This time, the story is a little different. If you want portability, full computer access, and a keyboard, then the netbook is clearly the winner. For about $300, you can get a reasonably sized screen, all the functionality of a full blown computer, and something that can be stashed in a briefcase or purse.
I’m not a huge netbook fan, though, because I find the keyboard a little too small for my liking, but for functionality and size, it’s your best bet, especially if you don’t like carrying a full-size laptop, which can be quite heavy while making a mad dash through LAX to catch your flight. Laptops, though, allow you to watch a DVD, run a PowerPoint presentation, and enjoy a full-sized keyboard.
Now enter the iPad; the ultimate entertainment system. I really do think Apple does many things right. They have style, performance, and clearly superior marketing. For little more than $500, you will get a giant iTouch that looks spectacular. Personally, I would buy one, but I’m just not sure how many others will find the allure. If you own an iTouch, you basically own the iPad. The real question is, how many people will pony up between $500 and $900 for a larger version?
I find it intriguing. Not owning an iPhone or iTouch, it’s very appealing to have a device that I can take around the house, get a nice large screen, Internet access, and entertainment. I don’t have to carry a six pound, 17-inch laptop from room to room or when I travel. The quality, as expected, is quite spectacular. You can choose between Wi-Fi or a combination including a 3g connection. The 3g will run about $30 per month.
So are you willing to pay $30 a month for your cell phone connection and an additional $30 for the iPad? I have doubts as to how many people are going to do this. Here is what you don’t get with an iPad that you do get with a netbook or laptop:
- Video ChatFlash (Oops, no Farmville!)
- Programming (the ability to add your own software)
- Unlimited storage spaceCD Drive for watching DVD movies
- Only a virtual keyboard
It seems there are lots of minuses and just a few pluses for the iPad. At the end of the day, there is going to be a market for all three products. Personally, I plan to buy an iPad. Why? Because I am a gadget freak! For the rest of those that aren’t nearly as crazy as I am, check out the netbook. It will probably do everything you need and still leave you with enough cash for the next great gadget, coming soon to your local Best Buy.
My biggest fear is that everything that can be invented has been invented. Wait, I just saw this great ad for a new, full sized robot for my house. I will keep you posted…See you on the radio.
Marc Cohen hosts the syndicated show “Computer and Technology Radio” on WS Radio with his co-host Marsha Collier, author of the EBay for Dummies series. www.computerandtechnologyradio.com
