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iPad FAQ: Which is Better for Traveling - the iPad or Good Old Fashioned Paper Products? Part 2
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Which has more “stamina”, the iPad or paper products? In other words, which will last the longest while traveling?
Well, the iPad is limited by its battery life. It's battery life is impressive, at around ten hours of usage on a full charge. Still, if you do not have access to an electrical source, after those ten hours it will run out of juice. Paper products obviously do not have that issue to contend with, as they can last until you burn them. On the other hand, when you are done reading a book or magazine, that is it. It's over and played out. The iPad is a never-ending source of entertainment and features. If you are stuck in the boondocks and run out of power after a while, the paper products have the advantage here. Otherwise, the iPad definitely has more longevity.
It seems like the iPad obviously offers more features, but how durable is it compared to books and the like?
The iPad is an electronic device, which means it leaves the door open for warranty issues, malfunctions, etc. It can get scratched, dirty, and you definitely do not want to drop it on a hard surface. You can protect it with a case or sleeve, which will reduce some of the risks of damage, but it still could be deemed as a fragile device you will want to take extreme care of. I wouldn't call it the ideal device to bring while you are backpacking out in the forest or are exposed to the elements. Books and other paper goods are much cheaper and you can manhandle them without having too much worry. Even if you damage them, their replacement cost is significantly lower. Paper goods win this one in a landslide.
Books and magazines are so simple. Is the iPad user-friendly?
Many people are accustomed to books from very early ages and won't hit electronics until older. Obviously paper products are easy to use. The iPad does take some time to get used to, but once you immerse yourself in what it has to offer, it becomes much more user-friendly. If you need to access a topic immediately, you can do a search that is much easier than constantly flipping through pages of a book. The iPad's technology, while having more of a learning curve, gives the iPad the advantage in being more user-friendly.
The Verdict
As with the laptop versus iPad debate, it comes down to the user as to which product is better for their travel needs. In the long run, the iPad is multi-faceted and has much more to offer than a traditional paper product. Its up front costs are higher, but it will pay itself off in the end. If you truly want to get the most out of your travel experience, the iPad is a great companion to have. Its technology and features can really add another dimension to your journey. Plus, think of all the storage space you will save in your home or luggage!
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