I could be wrong but I have this feeling that a majority of folks are buying tablet pcs or tabs for status symbol reasons and not for practical reasons. And this is based solely on my observations of people in my hometown. What is the reason one would opt for a tab? And why would one go for a tab over a regular laptop? Is it worth the effort and price?
I’d think that if you have a desktop or notebook and you wanted a secondary option then yes you may look at a tab. It’s compact, it’s handy and it’s easy to slip into a cover and carry it. If you want to use it for an hour or two in a cafe or while traveling in a train or plane – perfect!
But would you choose it as your primary computing device? Not me! I hear some people saying “notebooks are passe and no longer something to be desired! Err….. Why and how come? I am in the market for a new laptop to replace my now over 2 year Lenovo. I’d go for a laptop now and later if I have some cash lying around I’d get a tab as well. I don’t have the cash to be like this one person I saw – walking around with a laptop, a netbook, a tab and an iphone! I ain’t that rich$$$
I really do want the iPad. Like badly. Even if it’s just for killing time and calming my nerves in all of my damn doctors offices.
I love my netbook. It travels well, has decent processor speed, and does all that I ask of it. But, for reading on the train or in coffee shops, library, or whatever, I do get the idea of the tablet. I do have an iPod Touch that I use as my primary ereader and it’s great too.
To be honest, I’d be nervous using an iPad on transit. There have been a few thefts and muggings and hey, why take that chance is you don’t have to? I think I’ll stick to my wee iPod for on the go and my netbook for home.
I think you’re right though, that status thing with the iPads is kind of funny to watch. On the train, when someone pulls out their iPad most of them have a quick look around to see who saw them bring it out. Hilarious.
I probably get one later in the year or by Jan/Feb but upgrading to a new laptop for my main PC is the priority.