MPN Specials

I was recently in the market for a new computer because one of mine was so old it was just too slow to be productive.  It came down to a choice between getting an iPad or another laptop computer.

I knew I wanted to stick with an Apple based product, and not a PC since my other devices (desktop computer and phone) are both Apple based and they just work so well together, especially when it comes to synchronization. (A great topic for a future post.)

I already use a relatively new Apple iMac as my main desktop computer, so all I needed is a device for when I travel.  I wanted something that was easy to carry and functional.  I quickly narrowed it down to either an iPad or an Apple MacBook Air.

Here are the major Pros and Cons of each.

Advantages Of The iPad

• Small/Convenient
• Very fast at what it does
• Very easy to use
• Great for surfing the web, reading email, and watching movies
• Lots of fun!  Just feel great to use

Disadvantages Of The iPad

• Not full featured
• Not fully compatible with Microsoft Office (can read, but not export to)
• No keyboard (can get an external one, but would be one extra thing to carry)
• Not compatible with all websites – e.g., does not do Flash video.
• Does not do true multitasking
• No built in video camera

Advantages Of MacBook Air

• Small, easy to carry and convenient to use
• Has a real keyboard
• Can run all the same software as any other Mac
• Has a built-in video camera

Disadvantages Of MacBook Air

• Not as fast as a higher-end Mac computer
• Does not have a built in DVD/CD drive
• Fewer external ports, no Firewire Port
• Does not have the “Fun” factor of the iPad

The Final Decision

The Decision was a tough one.  I had to decide what I really wanted and needed the computer for.

Both devices are very small and easy to carry, yet big enough to easily read and be functional.  The question came down to whether I needed the power of a full computer or could get by with the sexy, fun, gadget-like device.

Since I already had a full featured desktop at home, when will I use the laptop/iPad?  I always tell myself I want to be able to work and do everything I need from a coffee shop or when traveling, but in reality do I do that?

I sat down, looked at all the applications on my current laptop and went through them one by one to see which I have used on my recent trips.

After much soul searching, I finally decided: Yes, I want to have the flexibility and freedom to do what I want, when I want, where I want.  The MacBook Air is a great device.  I bought that for now, and someday will hopefully get an iPad 2.0 or later when all the bugs are worked out and it has more of the features I want/need.

I’d love to hear your thoughts.

Cheers,
Richard