Can The IPad Replace A Laptop?
Apple has had a few winning moves with the iPod, iPhone and iPad, though their naming convention may need improving. Having sold millions of each for many reasons, below is a comparison as to the nature of whether the iPad replace laptop argument is valid. Steve Jobs has on more than one occasion claimed laptops are a dying breed. Below is a few important comparisons to be made before agreeing.
Design
The iPad definitely wins in terms of size and weight; it is a full pound, if not more, lighter than most laptops and less than half the thickness of many compact laptop options. There are some issues with having to hold the iPad for hours on end, but Apple has helpfully released a carrying case that can also act as a stand. As the iPad's primary design is to provide web surfing and eBook usage, it might not seem to be a direct competitor with laptops. Designed like a clam, laptops are thicker and heavier than Apple's new gadget, but unlike them, do not leave their monitor exposed to damage. The laptop's primary usage sees a versatility that cannot be matched. It can be used for web surfing and eBooks if the user so wishes, but also programming, gaming and many other, more intensive applications.
Interface
Never let it be said that the iPad is unfriendly to its users, as it features a very intuitive touch-based system. While it may cost a hefty $499, the iPad provides the largest of app databases. The simple tap on an app will run it and various movements of the fingers can manipulate items to do as you please. The larger screen allows for more advanced usage of certain programs, but it's limitation of only running one program at a time severely reduces its multi-tasking ability. Laptops begin to show superiority in this aspect, providing a peak in multi-tasking capabilities with multi-core processors and an operating system capable of running dozens of different programs at once. The touch ability in Windows 7, however, is bad compared to the iPad. It is held back by incompetent software. You may have to decide between multi-tasking or user friendliness at the end of the day.
Hardware Highlights
The iPad is not so friendly when it comes to hardware features, as it doesn't even have an SD card slot and lacks the inbuilt camera most phones have and even many laptops. For any of the extra features, such as connecting to a monitor, an external dongle for SD card and USB connections, expenses will have to be paid. Laptops on the other hand provide several USB slots, webcams, bluetooth, a VGA port to connect to an external monitor, FireWire and integrated memory card readers, providing massive amounts of features. It is clear the laptop wins this one.
If you're in the market for iPod touch games, take a look at all our iPhone app reviews. Plus, we have a huge selection of the best ipad apps that we give away every week in our Featured App Giveaway!