Question by FF: IPAD: Is it a good investment?
I was wondering how good an Ipad really is in terms of portability. Unlike a 10 inch or smaller net book, it doesn’t have a built-in web cam, USB, ethernet (cat5e) or VGA, HDMI connection. I know it would be impossible to have all these connections in a slim Ipad but doesn’t it defeat the purpose of an all-in-one device. If someone doesn’t have a wireless network set up at home, won’t there be any way to connect the Ipad to the broadband with a wire. It’s like having a larger Iphone or Ipod touch. I want to the find out more about the advantages of an Ipad besides having several applications and using it as an ebook. I saw a video on youtube showing how it’s not compatible with a USB key or an external hard drive, not to mention you have to buy an external USB adaptor to connect an external device to it. Again, with the web cam, you have to get a mac compatible one along with the adaptor. The netbooks give you all the connections you need built in and they’re light weight as well. The only thing is they’re not touch screen and sleek looking as an Ipad. My laptop is dying on me and I’m looking for advice as to what I should replace it with, hence the inquiry about the Ipad. But if a netbook is more affordable and gives me more options, to hell with the Ipad right?
Best answer:
Answer by Arie
Your initial thought is wrong, as you are comparing a netbook with a tablet. A tablet is not a netbook. A tablet serves a different purpose and crowd. If you require a small computer like device, purchase a netbook. If you require a tablet to perform simple tasks as browsing the internet, reading books and your e-mail, then purchase an iPad.
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iPad is certainly better looking and will draw more eyes , however, it has many shortcomings compared to a netbook. No USB ports or any ports for that matter so you cant plug a memory card from a camera into it. You also need a computer at home because an iPad cannot take the place of a computer. Personally, I would opt for the netbook but make sure it’s not HP because they have giant failure rates. Go for an ASUS.
I love my iPad, but it’s definitely a toy, not an investment.
For what you probably want to do a net book would be better because it has all the stuff you mentioned and can be carried around with you. If you want a device that can be used for the office and like an iPod touch then you should go with an iPad.
Remember when you buy an Ipad, you are buying “glam” piece of equipment. A PC laptop half the price will do what an Ipad can do AND more.
You are just buying a branded gadget from a rip off corporation!
Much like buying a designer peice of clothing, you can get the same quality somewere else for much less, your are simply paying more for the lable