Seriously considering returning the iPad...

[tigres]

Bought one for my wife

Well I bought one for my better half, as I have not decided for myself. She does more of the email and book reading thing than I.

Be that as it may, she has had it for 3 days and has asked me to return it. She likes the iPhone and her MB better, but what she really dislikes is the screen being so slippery and slimy feeling. She sees it constantly having the screen dirty and it's always smudgy.

I am actually typing this right now on it and the thing is pretty dirty on the screen even though I cleaned it this am. Maybe a screen protector is in order.

I told her to give it a week and make a decision. Maybe she will find it more attractive, but her initial impression is that it's too much money for her to appreciate as much as her iPhone. She's not too techie...

Either way, I too am finding it a little cumbersome to work, and as I am even posting this, I have inadvertently hit areas of the screen and kept typing away in the wrong paragraphs above. PITA.

I like the MBA better for the forums I think, who knows maybe I will like it and keep it if she passes. Just not sure yet.

 

[PCClone]

I believe Apple created the iPad For the netbook user, giving them a better option that leaps out of the category and makes netbooking obsolete. If you compare with a netbook i believe you will find the difference but comparing with a macbook... that is just wrong (kind of like comparing a Toyota Corola with a Toyota Camry)

Does this mean the iPad will get recalled for going to fast?

 

[eRondeau]

So let me get this straight -- you're upset because your $500 iPad is not quite as fast and smooth as your $1500 MacBook Pro? IT COSTS TRIPLE THE PRICE! Allow me to run with this for a moment. You're probably also upset because your $20,000 Ford isn't quite as fast as your $60,000 Corvette. And your $100 iPod shuffle doesn't hold as many songs as your $300 iPod touch. And your $2 Wendy's Single doesn't have as much beef as your $6 Wendy's Triple. And your girlfriend's $1000 nosejob doesn't look as good as her sister's $3000 nosejob (but they both prefer your buddy's 9" p*nis to your 3" one.) And your $500 TV set isn't as big or sharp as your brother's $1500 TV set. And your $50,000 salary doesn't buy as much stuff as your bosses $150,000 salary. And you get drunk faster on 90-proof rum than you do on 30-proof wine.

You should probably just take the iPad back to the store and wait for one to come out that costs three times as much. I'm sure you'll be much happier with it.

 

[rtay]

Funny everyone should say how much more secure macs are, i just read this article like a week ago. http://www.gizmodo.com.au/2010/04/celebrity-hacker-microsoft-leads-industry-in-security/ . looks like its only more secure because nobody uses macs. maybe you should try windows 7, its 1000x better than vista, and i think puts it pretty close to on par with OSX.

On to the OP's dilemma. I think you would be best to return it if you don't have a very big investment in it. I have about $150 in apps, cause i spent like $30 on logmein, $10 on pages and keynote, etc.. plus the movies i bought for it. It will be nice to be able to take avatar wherever, that movie just looks so dope. As an entertainment device, with abc and netflix, and soon hulu, ipad is as good as it gets.

As a production device, it is hugely disappointing. Taking notes really does kinda suck if you want to write them, you cant do any research on it while writing a paper due to no multitasking, you cant look at any pdfs while writing the paper, etc.. Multitasking is a necessity on a device this big, and it just completely dropped the ball. You can't even download attachments, but i think i found an app that fixes that and allows me to download things off my schools website. Its the blackboard app if you are in college, i am sure it will be extremely useful.

For me, the only reason i see not to keep your ipad is it is hugely limited right now, and it will be extremely frustrating when the new iphone comes out with MUCH more features than the ipad, like a front facing camera, multitasking, folders, all kinds of useful things that should have been on the ipad from the get go. But, it is a top flight entertainment device, you will have netflix and all your personal movies with air video, and hopefully everything will be in the cloud for OS4, maybe thats why ipad isnt getting the update until fall? Personally, i am selling my dell studio, which i might not do, i may keep it because it runs awesome and i have had 1 virus problem from downloading music, getting another ipad, buying a mbp13 (if i sell the dell) to write and research all my papers and powerpoints, and edit, surf, and watch videos on the ipad. Notes will be between whichever one i feel like bringing. Hope this helps you find a good use for the ipad.

 

[rtay]

So let me get this straight -- you're upset because your $500 iPad is not quite as fast and smooth as your $1500 MacBook Pro? IT COSTS TRIPLE THE PRICE! Allow me to run with this for a moment. You're probably also upset because your $20,000 Ford isn't quite as fast as your $60,000 Corvette. And your $100 iPod shuffle doesn't hold as many songs as your $300 iPod touch. And your $2 Wendy's Single doesn't have as much beef as your $6 Wendy's Triple. And your girlfriend's $1000 nosejob doesn't look as good as her sister's $3000 nosejob (but they both prefer your buddy's 9" p*nis to your 3" one.) And your $500 TV set isn't as big or sharp as your brother's $1500 TV set. And your $50,000 salary doesn't buy as much stuff as your bosses $150,000 salary. And you get drunk faster on 90-proof rum than you do on 30-proof wine.

You should probably just take the iPad back to the store and wait for one to come out that costs three times as much. I'm sure you'll be much happier with it.

3g64 gb + around 890 with tax. Plus some accessories, bring it easily to the $1000 range. Thats computer money whether you like it or not. Just because you are cheap and got the 500 model doesnt mean everyone did, its gimpy for a computer and you know it. You cant say its not a computer either, a netbook is a computer, and steve himself said its going to replace netbooks. so.....

 

[nStyle]

So let me get this straight -- you're upset because your $500 iPad is not quite as fast and smooth as your $1500 MacBook Pro? IT COSTS TRIPLE THE PRICE! Allow me to run with this for a moment. You're probably also upset because your $20,000 Ford isn't quite as fast as your $60,000 Corvette. And your $100 iPod shuffle doesn't hold as many songs as your $300 iPod touch. And your $2 Wendy's Single doesn't have as much beef as your $6 Wendy's Triple. And your girlfriend's $1000 nosejob doesn't look as good as her sister's $3000 nosejob (but they both prefer your buddy's 9" p*nis to your 3" one.) And your $500 TV set isn't as big or sharp as your brother's $1500 TV set. And your $50,000 salary doesn't buy as much stuff as your bosses $150,000 salary. And you get drunk faster on 90-proof rum than you do on 30-proof wine.

You should probably just take the iPad back to the store and wait for one to come out that costs three times as much. I'm sure you'll be much happier with it.

What? This is dumb. For $1500 I get WELL more of the computer than I get for a $500 iPad. The 'pad is essentially a dumbed down computer, in that it will do nothing more than a computer. Price is not the issue, anyway. I am considering how much the iPad will actually get used in the future, and I'm starting to think very little.

I think the iPad and MBP are DEFINITELY comparable. They are both portable, and the MBP does everything the iPad does, plus a lot more. How are they not comparable?

I think a Toyota Corolla and Camry are VERY comparable. They are both cars, except one is nicer and faster. I would rather have the Camry.

To recap: I'm not upset about anything. I'm saying I feel like I am settling for less when I use the iPad.
You are also missing one big point. I own both the iPad and MBP...Essentially, I own both the "Ford and Corvette", its just that i'd rather drive the Corvette.

 

[rtay]

Don't bother with logic rtay. The person you're responding to has reading comprehension problems as evident by his last few posts.

Your point was similar to mine - that "per capita" - it's easy to say Windows/PCs have issues compared to Macs. I don't see why some people think that pointing this out is bashing or insulting Apple. The whole Mac vs PC thing is not only old, but stupid. Some people on these forums, however, feel the need to feel superior by insisting they use the best. I couldn't care less as long as the device does what I want/need or at least I'm able to live with the limitations.

At the end of the day - that's all that matters.

Haha i know its funny, especially when i say in my post that i am thinking of buying a mbp. I should have went back and read this guy's posts, i kinda set myself up i guess haha

 

[Dammit Cubs]

I wouldn't compare the macbook pro vs a Ipad. That's not what Apple wants you to do and they are completely different.

I would think of Ipad as more of a PDA then a full scaled computer. It's a personal digital assistant to your life. Just like your iphone. But with an ipad, you just get bigger boobs.

Who doesn't want bigger boobs.

 

[wombat888]

3g64 gb + around 890 with tax. Plus some accessories, bring it easily to the $1000 range. Thats computer money whether you like it or not. Just because you are cheap and got the 500 model doesnt mean everyone did, its gimpy for a computer and you know it. You cant say its not a computer either, a netbook is a computer, and steve himself said its going to replace netbooks. so.....

3g with 64gb represents two significant options. You can get an iPad below $500 if you want. You can also get a laptop over $3000 if you want, not even including software (which you have to pay for on a laptop also).

A 64gb 3g iPad beats a $1500 laptop in terms of battery power, mobile computing (unless the laptop has 3g service also), and has a big touchscreen that the laptop lacks.

The laptop beats it in CPU, total storage, RAM, and other things more geared toward traditional computer use.

I think the key is to understand what you're getting and how it may fit into your life. A laptop or desktop will always be better for some things.

 

[ABG]

Did you even read? The point of the person's text you were quoting was to prove I wasn't contradicting anything.

I know - its ironic and tragic all at the same time.

I think you can like something while admitting it has many limitations, some which may merit returning. Anything wrong with this?

I find the perspective interesting, but then I don't feel personally threatened by someone's comments about a consumer product they own.

On the other hand Apple zealots only want to hear praise of everything Apple (which I honestly think is worth some Ph.D research - turning brand loyalty all the way up into a psychological disorder is impressive.)

 

[TW!SM]

Hows that bs? 10% of the computer market can pretty much be stated as no one. You see them in college campuses, and big cities. Most businesses do not use them, a huge part of the market. Even the guy that is one of the top hacker says it. Its too small of a market to care about. Stop being such a fanboy.

I agree with this. Who wants to waste time on 10% of the market.

On the flip side I do think that given the chance and choice a lot of people might switch to a MAC. The business side might be more tricky as most of the places I have worked for in IT like to buy Dell, HP, etc... and they are cheaper than giving everyone a MAC. Plus the huge learning curve for everyone that users them.

Being in IT support you are amazed how far some people are behind when it comes to PC technology and you would hate to totally swap it out and move to MAC.

 

[carlosbutler]

A lot of this thread has gone off topic. To answer your question:

Do what I do with nearly every decision - do what comes to mind first that sounds reasonable. Thats it, if you dont want it take it back, if you want it keep it, you are bound to find a reason for one over the other and visa versa.

Just do what comes straight in to your head and decide right now...

 

[Andrmgic]

You seemed surprised that the iPad was not better than your computer at anything.

The iPad is meant for situations where you don't really want to carry your computer. If you want to do some light web surfing while listening to music and maybe type a short letter or play a game, you don't really need your dual core macbook pro to handle those tasks.

Sure, the MBP can handle better looking games, has a bigger display and of course is faster for surfing the web and has a physical keyboard, but the iPad is not the same category of device.

If you find carrying your 5-6lb macbook pro around to be agreeable, then by all means do so. If you want to carry a lighter device that can do a lot of the same things, but not as quickly, then carry the iPad.

 

[MacBOS]

Does this mean the iPad will get recalled for going to fast?

Right, now how did i not se that one coming

 

[wombat888]

A lot of Mac users talk about computer viruses the way suburbanites talk about urban crime. Like they think walking down the avenue in New York = being mugged.

 

[bowlerman625]

Why keep something you're not happy with? Especially when it cost $600.
Return it. It will go to someone who will enjoy it!

 

[mikethebigo]

It's definitely a tough decision because now matter how you look at it, it is a really cool device. I'm returning mine though. It's just too limited for me, and between a macbook pro and an iPhone, too redundant. There are also too many other good things to use the money for.

 

[HXGuy]

I agree in some aspects and have said similar in the past...I feel like a lot of people, myself included at times, are going out of their way to use the iPad when a computer would do the same task much easier and faster. Its like scratching an itch on you left cheek with your right hand while reaching above your head to do it...when it would just be easier to use your left hand (try to visualize it )

One example I've seen is people using it in class to type notes. Really...if you have a desk to set it down on, why would not not use a real keyboard? I can understand the weight of carrying between classes vs a netbook but aside from that? Really?

The first week or so that I had the iPad I was using it A LOT...doing all my browsing and even some picture editing and uploading to my server off it...it works and it does a good job of it...but it still takes longer then doing it on a regular computer, there is no way around it.

Even web browsing...as great as it is to hold in your hand...for things like forums, a regular computer is still better for me. Typing is simply easier and faster on a physical keyboard. For READING the web, the iPad is superior I think.

Ive found now that Im using the iPad mostly in the morning in bed for 30 minutes or so before I start my day or at night before bed. When I get the 3G I will also be using it on the road, but we'll see how easy it is to transport vs using my iPhone. My wife does use it for watching movies on Netflix at night in bed as well as reading books. Overall though, I would say it is a little expensive FOR ME for the limited uses that I am getting out of it.

 

[phpmaven]

What? This is dumb. For $1500 I get WELL more of the computer than I get for a $500 iPad. The 'pad is essentially a dumbed down computer, in that it will do nothing more than a computer. Price is not the issue, anyway. I am considering how much the iPad will actually get used in the future, and I'm starting to think very little.

I think the iPad and MBP are DEFINITELY comparable. They are both portable, and the MBP does everything the iPad does, plus a lot more. How are they not comparable?

I think a Toyota Corolla and Camry are VERY comparable. They are both cars, except one is nicer and faster. I would rather have the Camry.

To recap: I'm not upset about anything. I'm saying I feel like I am settling for less when I use the iPad.
You are also missing one big point. I own both the iPad and MBP...Essentially, I own both the "Ford and Corvette", its just that i'd rather drive the Corvette.

If you think that the iPad should be comparable to your MacBook Pro (of which I have both), then you are obviously missing the whole point of the iPad. It's obviously not something that you will be happy with because of the comparisons you are making, so take it back and buy another MacBook. You clearly don't need or want a device that fits somewhere between an iPhone and a MacBook. That is what the iPad is and that is how it's been presented by Apple. Of course, it's far from perfect, but for what it is, I'm very happy with it. Once we get OS 4.0 I'll be even happier

 

[Dammit Cubs]

Return it, Get your 600 bucks back. Go to Bunny Ranch.

See if you regret it now.

 

[JCCash]

I don't want to. But I used the iPad all day yesterday and didn't touch the MBP...

I am now on the MBP. Everything is so much smoother and faster. And comfortable, surprisingly.

Browsing is faster (I tested). I can scroll much faster on the MBP. I can navigate between pages faster, use a swipe of finger to go from a page I'm on to a previous page very fast.

About the comfort issue, I just find the iPad awkward. It seems like accessories are a must have with this (like the case for typing). Once you start buying accessories for it, that make it more laptop-esque, you mise well just buy a laptop.

I don't WANT to return it. I know I will miss it. I love what it is so far, but it needs so much more.

The ONLY thing the iPad does better, imo, than a laptop, is games. I'm having a blast with some of the iPad games. It def is probably the best portable gaming experience. But $600 to play games that could of been made in the 90's?

All I know is I was extremely excited and THRILLED out of my mind when I got my MBP, and started using it. I knew from that moment on I would always have a MBP, whether I still kept my Windows machine or not.

In reality, I will likely still be keeping my iPad, because I really do like it, but I am just not satisfied for the $600 I paid.

I was the iPad for reading a book compared to MBP or a newspaper?

 

[wombat888]

I'm curious how many people can name any virus on any platform that installs without user action. They probably exist (and I'm sure did in the past before security measures became better), but they're rare.

Actually, I'd be curious how many people on this thread have ever had a serious virus or know anyone who's had a serious virus.

In almost 30 years of daily computing, with lax to moderate security, I have had virus issues one time on one computer. This topic really is such a tangent (and I have no real idea how it relates to someone returning an iPad anyway). It's like i's important to some people to believe there's some enormous problem with the consumer electronic device they did not spend money on that does not exist with the consumer electronic device they did spend money on.

 

[Dapper]

If you don't want it send it to me

Seriously, if you are unhappy return the device.

2 cents; This device is consumerism at its finest and the people that consume/use the internet regulary will be its biggest supporters.

 

[Dammit Cubs]

If you don't want it send it to me

Seriously, if you are unhappy return the device.

2 cents; This device is consumerism at its finest and the people that consume/use the internet regulary will be its biggest supporters.

I couldn't agree with you more. It seems this device is catered for the internet users. I'm constantly on the internet. It's no wonder why I fancy this device.

 

[Kibbe17]

The iPad forum on a Mac site needs more balance?

Exactly! +1,

If you want to bash on the products, why would you take your sweet time coming to a website filled with "fanbois" of the product you wish to bash.

Anyway, I SAY, sell it on eBay, you could literally make a profit in some cases, especially selling worldwide, where demand is extreme. Just my opinion though.