Thinking iPad? Got Cash?

Think iPod on steroids.

Apple's latest device is slick, quick and multi-functional. It won't make phone calls, but otherwise this is the best of the iPhone and iPod, taken to new levels.

There are bigger, more-advanced applications. Websites render fast and are easy to read and navigate on the 9.7-inch touch screen. And speaking of reading, this thing is a full-service library you can carry with you (it only weighs a pound and a half, and is just a half-inch thick), with downloadable eBooks available in a flash.

Add some music and movie files, and you've got a perfect companion for long trips, coffee shop visits or downtime at the office.

One of the biggest complaints about the iPhone is that the digital keyboard can be difficult to use. iPad has a larger keyboard; although the key spacing is still not equivalent to a desktop computer keyboard, it is much easier to use than the iPhone's keyboard.

There's no question the iPad is cool, but is it worth snatching up?

Depends.

The base model has 16 gigabytes and costs $499. If you plan to load a whole bunch of music, movies, books and apps, 16 GB won't get you very far.

So double the space to 32 GB for $599, or go for the 64 GB version for $699.

But what about download speeds? To ensure you're getting the best and fastest downloads and website rendering possible, you'll want to opt for the 3G version, which is available at each size for an additional $130.

And that's not including the 3G network plan you'll have to purchase, which, through AT&T, will cost $30 a month for unlimited data.

So, the top-of-the-line iPad, with 64 GB of memory and 3G capability, will cost you $829, plus any applicable tax, just to get it out the door. Figure $30 a month after that to utilize that 3G network.

In comparison, a 250 GB Apple MacBook currently sells for $999 at Apple's online store. There's no slick touch screen, and the laptop is certainly bigger and bulkier, but for just $170 more, it'll provide you with far more functionality, including the ability to read eBooks, listen to music and watch movies.

So, is the iPad worth the money? As with many Apple products, the answer is: sure, if money is no object to you.

Assuming money IS an object (because if it weren't you wouldn't be reading my review of the iPad; you'd be playing with your very own instead), then whether this thing is worth purchasing all depends on how you intend to use it. If you can get by with a 16 GB version and plan to use it as a companion to your home or laptop computer, the iPad could be a wonderful addition for about $500.

Consider first, though, whether the limited space and speed is going to bring you down. If you need to get up around $800 to get the version that'll do everything you want, I'd suggest either opting for a laptop or waiting a while.

As with any new technology, there will be tweaks to the iPad and an updated version will be available within about a year, at which time Apple will have worked out any bugs that surface and will have improved functionality.

And remember, within about 18 months of the iPhone launch, new and improved versions were already on the market and price points had gone down dramatically.

So, if you don't HAVE to be among the first to own an iPad, wait a bit.

If you DO have to be among the first, well, as I said, it IS pretty cool...

Sources:
iPad - See the web, email, and photos like never before, Apple
Chris Ziegler, Apple iPad 3G service plans on AT&T, $30 for unlimited data, engadget