Tablet or not to tablet...

As a technology junkie, I've been conducting endless online research on the new tablets available for about 6 months now. I'm hooked, but trying to justify spending money I don't have and matching it with the tablet I won't be bored and dissatisfied with in a short amount of time is truly a challenge.

I actually physically went into the local Apple store, mistake #1, the service/information received was wonderful. I also visit Apple online just to continue my electronic love affair with the Ipad. It appears to the epitome, in my opinion, of the tablet/reader/laptop world of today. If I had $500+ to spare, I would not hesitate to purchase this item. So, now reality.

At a recent Kaplan University (South Portland, Maine) faculty meeting I attended, I noticed that one of my colleagues was sporting the Kindle. I strolled next to her to ask if she was enjoying her new "toy". Well, enjoying is certainly an understatement. She was not able to list one single "con" from the features to the cost.

The Kindle, with its zippyness, is said to be the best e-reader on the market today! Short list of reasons to pick the Kindle: has built-in wi-fi to download ebooks, has a 6" display, is very light with ink quality, no glare screen, and long battery life. Visit Amazon for a more comprehensive list. It is quite impressive if you are looking for an affordable electronic book reader which will offer a few games too. This item might find its way to my daughter's house for her birthday.

Or, should I invest a little more money and purchase the NookColor by Barnes and Noble???? The Nook is half the price and size of the Ipad, with many of its features making it a cross between a reader and tablet. It does give you web browsing capabilities, but the prime focus is that of a reader, with anti-glare assistance which does not meet the standards of the Kindle. See both the b/w and color versions with wi-fi and 3g capabilities at Amazon.

If you go to a Best Buy store, you can touch, feel and test drive both these models. Keep in mind your end usage focus and a decision will come more easily...