5 Best iPad Apps

Like most Apple products, the iPad isn't just a tool for its intended use. There are plenty of informative, entertaining, convenient iPad apps floating around that can help you organize your day, take in the news, or otherwise make your life less complicated.

1- Kindle for the iPad

Does anyone else marvel at the number of eReaders available today? If you don't want to purchase another reader in order to enjoy the books you've purchased, you can install the Kindle app. This is one of the best iPad apps because it saves you money and because it's well-designed. For many, the iPad is easier on the eyes than the Kindle, so this is a win-win download.

Cost: Free (but you have to buy the books)

2- Epicurious

If you find yourself struggling with ideas for tomorrow night's dinner, Epicurious might be the best iPad app for you. This repository of more than 25,000 recipes will keep you out of the fast-food line, and the iPad is perfect for sitting on the counter as you prepare meals. The interface is easy to read, even when standing over the iPad with flour-covered hands. You can also prepare and e-mail shopping lists.

Cost: Free

3- Netflix

As if Netflix wasn't already convenient enough, now you can stream movies and TV shows to your iPad. Just down load the app and choose what you want to watch; you can even connect the iPad with a video cable if you prefer. The Netflix iPad app is easy to use and great for people who are always on the go, and you don't have to worry about screwing up your viewing schedule. If you pause a movie on your computer, you can pick right back up on the iPad.

Cost: Free (but you have to purchase a Netflix account)

4- Instapaper

How often do you run across a news story online that you just don't have time to read? Rather than clicking away in regret, the Instapaper iPad app allows you to bookmark the article and read it later from the device. No missing out on news, no long hours in front of your computer. You can read whether you're riding the train home or lounging in bed.

Cost: Free or $4.99 for Instapaper Pro iPad app

5- Weather Channel

I don't know how I survived before the Weather Channel was available on the Internet. Maybe I called Time & Temperature. But if you're as addicted to checking up on the weather as I am, the Weather Channel is one of the best iPad apps. View forecasts, interactive maps, weather videos, and a lot of other content directly from your iPad.

Cost: Free

There are plenty of other great iPad apps to try out, depending on what you use your iPad for. There are games, media powerhouses, music downloaders, sports updaters, and free and paid utilities. And more apps are made available every day.