Should I buy a notebook/MacBook or an iPad?

I got this question over and over from my friends and I thought there might be other people having this same question too. The answer may or may not be obvious, but basically, it entirely depends on what your needs are.

Most people would want to get an iPad because it looks so..magical. It’s a sleek device and it makes your mouth watered. However, you should also consider the benefits for having a notebook (or a MacBook) compared to an iPad.

Why you should buy a notebook/MacBook than an iPad

• You can write or create documents (and spreadsheets) easier on a notebook/MacBook. Typing on an iPad is alright but nothing can beat a physical normal-sized keyboard in terms of comfort and speed. There are iPad cases with a built-in Bluetooth keyboard, but it’s still easier to type on a notebook/MacBook’s keyboard.
• You can copy files easily when you are travelling to friends’ places (through Wi-Fi or by borrowing a friend’s USB flash drive temporarily)
• Similar to the point above, the iPad does not have a USB slot, so think carefully whether you are going to need one. There are apps that can transfer documents or other files but they are quite tedious.
• A notebook/MacBook can do so much more than an iPad – such as a better video or photo editing experience.
• You can play more epic and hardcore games (considering you buy a high spec notebook)
• If you don’t have a desktop, then a notebook/MacBook is a must (in my opinion). An iPad is cool but you have more options and things to do in the long run with a notebook/MacBook. If you blog, then I’d recommend to grab a notebook/MacBook – things are much easier (such as managing image files, etc).

Why you should buy an iPad than a notebook/MacBook

• You like to read digital magazines, e-Books, or PDF documents. Having to read them on an iPad is much easier and better in every ways.
• An iPad is still cheaper than a notebook/MacBook (unless if you go for a cheap notebook of lower spec).
• You commute via train or public transport a lot and need to kill the time. iPad is the perfect device for this.
• You have a kid (or kids) and would like them to learn or have fun with an iPad. There are many good story-telling or educational apps in there and an iPad is so easy to use that even a 2-year-old kid doesn’t need any help.
• You want to travel light when you go to lectures (save the lecture notes on an iPad and carry it away!)
• If you want simple and fun games, iTunes Store has tons of them. They are cheap too compared to a Windows or MacOS game.
• An iPad can be sold again later with a good price still. A notebook/MacBook can get obsolete fast.
• An iPad has a longer battery life than notebook/MacBook. If you travel long flights frequently, an iPad might be a better choice to kill time in those flights.

You may or may not have to agree with my points above, but they should keep you thinking. You need to really identify your needs carefully (want vs need). I own both of them, so I know what I was talking about.

“Should I buy a notebook/MacBook or an iPad”?” At the end of the day, I cannot decide for you. You have to make that decision based on your needs and your needs only. Make that decision wisely. There’s also an interesting read at BrotherSoft News on “It’s not iPad’s fault for weak PC sales“.