Netbook vs ipad

Wow, I just realized we don't have a computer forum.

OK for the experts: what's the best option for surfing the internet outside of your home (i.e. beer garden, park, bus) on a fairly big screen (i.e. not iphone or droid)?
I'm debating Netbook vs. ipad. Aside from the cost of the device is a 15$ monthly fee with Apple more reliable than a dataplan with a phone company?

Any advice?

Thank you!

iPad is not available yet with cell service based connectivity, only WiFi

I do have a netbook and it is just fine for web surfing, not great, but ok. I've only used it with WiFi but you can get a wireless card for it from all the major players or tether your cell phone to it.

Do you visit websites taht use flash? I don't think the iPad supports flash

I have the 3G iPad (came out a few weeks ago). Unlimited data is $30/mo. 250MB/mo is $15/mo. Since you're using the same AT&T 3G service as everyone with an iPhone, you'll see that same horrible performance. But, I don't think it's THAT bad (unless I'm in a hurry for something). Plus, I jump on wireless whenever I can.

I love it. I take it with me everywhere I go. Fits nicely in my purse. Though, it's heavier than I thought it would be.

I've never used a netbook, so I can't really compare the two.

I stand corrected, didn't know the 3G had come out already.

Is this like choosing between a small Windoz laptop and a big iPod?

I agree the iPad is just a big iPod touch, with 3G if you choose that version. But, I don't have a smartphone or an e-reader so it was perfect for me.

i personally love my netbook.

Hmmm...this really is a bit like the Coke vs. Pepsi discussion. I believe there should be only one correct answer to make my life easier.


It's Coke, btw.

Christina wrote: Hmmm...this really is a bit like the Coke vs. Pepsi discussion. I believe there should be only one correct answer to make my life easier.


It's Coke, btw.

No, the correct answer is Vernor's, or at least Dr Browns Cel-Ray

don't join the evil apple empire!! its a close system.

I'm happy with my netbook. It can do lots of cool things that an ipad just can't do. Like play flash videos. Or be attached to a printer and actually print something onto paper. Or burn/play dvd's....

plus I paid far less for the netbook than even the entry level non-3G (ugh! AT&T!) ipad.

armchair_warrior wrote: don't join the evil apple empire!! its a close system.

You're only allowed to rail against one "evil empire" at a time.

squindar wrote: I'm happy with my netbook. It can do lots of cool things that an ipad just can't do. Like play flash videos. Or be attached to a printer and actually print something onto paper. Or burn/play dvd's....

plus I paid far less for the netbook than even the entry level non-3G (ugh! AT&T!) ipad.

Why would you have to be "attached" to a printer to print something? My laptop hasn't been connected to my printer by a wire in years!

apple has been evil since the days of the computer format wars, and the pc(x86) won!!! now apples are built on the x86 architecture!! it's trying to do the same with the less than a laptop and phone market it did with computers.

Apparently just needs velcro

Can't beat this for the cheapness factor:

http://www.wired.com/gadgetlab/2010/06/the-37-laptop-for-real/