by Joe Cooler » 6/19/2011, 5:06 pm
I think it depends on what kind of user you are. If you are a power user, a tablet device like the iPad any Android device will never be able to completely replace a laptop. If you just want to surf the web, email and play with a few cool apps then maybe a tablet is best. However, if you decide to go the tablet route, stay away from Android or Windows 7 tablets that try to be laptops. I truly believe that manufactures that approach tablets like touch screen laptops will fail while those that approach it as a separate platforms with separate conventions will succeed. I think Apple's iPad is the industry leader for this reason.
However, Androids open source environment will give you more freedom than the iPad. If you are careful, this could certainly be a good thing. Conversely, while many people bemoan Apple's "hedged garden" approach to the app store, it ensures that nothing you install will negatively effect your device.
I've used the iPad as well as a few Android tablets. I liked both, but I found that the iPad was quite a bit snappier than the tablets I tried. Of course, I was borrowing tablets from Android users who loaded their device with all the bells and whistles imaginable so that might of hindered them.
Considering how late this reply is, you've probably already made your decision. I'm sure you will enjoy whatever you chose.