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iPad FAQ: iPad or Laptop, Which is Better for My Travel Schedule? Part 3
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Which is better for viewing media, the iPad or laptop?
The iPad has a beautiful 9.7-inch display that produces crisp graphics and color. It also offers wide viewing angles so that others in your group can see what's on-screen without too much distortion. Of course, one disadvantage to these wide viewing angles could be lack of privacy. You may not want others in a seat behind you or to your side to see what you are viewing if on an airplane, for example. Also, if you do not have a stand for the iPad, you will have to prop it up for ideal viewing. Another issue with the iPad's display is glare. If you are in a bright room, you could see annoying reflections off its screen. This takes away from the viewing experience. To counteract the glare, you will need to buy a screen protector, which will set you back around $20.
Netbooks and laptops can offer bigger displays, ranging from around 10 to 16 inches on average. Some may not offer you wide viewing angles. Depending on the model, they might have the same glare issues as the iPad if they do not come with a matte finish. They are good for viewing in terms of their form factor, as their displays can be adjusted easily to different angles. This category leans towards the laptop.
Which can keep me more entertained while traveling, the iPad or Laptop?
The iPad has tons of apps and games to offer for download that span every category imaginable. Unfortunately, it lacks an optical drive. This means that you cannot insert any of your DVDs, game discs, or CDs you may have with you. If you are a fan of gaming joysticks, you are out of luck, as you won't be able to plug one in. The iPad's touch-screen usually works well with games made for the device, however. One area that the iPad is superb is its e-reader capabilities. It is an ideal reading device through its iBooks app that lets you download virtual books from a huge catalog. The digital versions even look like real books on the iPad's screen.
Optical drives on laptops allow you to pop in your favorite DVD, game, and CD. Netbooks do not have optical drives due to their small size, and are really meant more as devices for common computing tasks and productivity. As reading devices, laptops and Netbooks are not up to snuff when compared to the iPad, as they really are not optimized for that function. This area seems to be a draw between the two groups.
The Verdict
So, in the end, which is actually better for your travel needs, the iPad or laptop? The answer to that question is that it really depends on your personal needs. The iPad is extremely portable and has solid entertainment value. Laptops, on the other hand are bigger but offer a convenient form factor for typing and viewing without the need for a stand. In terms of price, you can find many Netbooks cheaper than the base $500 iPad, while most quality laptops will be more expensive.
In the end, it is up to you. Personally, I find the iPad to be perfect for traveling. It won't replace my PC fully, but as an extra device for fun on the road, it cannot be beat.
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