Apple’s iPad is making a splash in the techno world. You may be wondering whether the device is one that you should be rushing out to purchase. As with any electronic device, particularly those that affect operating systems and technology, there are certain to be ongoing discussions about whether or not an iPad is necessary in your portfolio of devices for communication. When you determine what your needs are, you can then check out the iPad advantages and disadvantages to see whether there is a good fit. Some of the features that you should consider before purchasing an iPad include quality of the build, external connections, weight, display, the ability to hold the device easily, learning curve, applications, keyboard and file management ability.

The quality of the construction of an iPad is excellent. Nothing feels cheap or fragile. The back of the device is aluminum with a good feel. You can connect the iPad via headphones and for a microphone, depending upon the application that you are using. The audio speaker is located on the bottom of the unit by the Home button. Some users complain that the audio quality is only mediocre. The maximum volume output is less than satisfactory, but you can get around this problem by using headphones with the iPad. This may make those nearby more accepting of the iPad as well. The location of the volume control is accessible. When the iPad player is in use, the volume control is also active.

The weight of the iPad is higher than might be comfortable for extended usage. With a weight of 1.5 to 1.6 pounds, a user might get tired of holding the unit after a few minutes. With this a price similar to high end phones, you would expect substantial quality and the iPad doesn’t disappoint. Checking the technical specifications will show that there are many features that are positive reasons for spending the extra money. If you want excellent quality in an electronic device, you will do well with the quality of this unit.

An important advantage of an iPad is the display. The resolution is 1024 x 768 with a relatively lower pixel count when compared to some top-quality Smartphones. The display is still very bright and sharp. Colors are quite brilliant and the contrast is excellent. The brightness is consistent from most viewing angles. Using the iPad in direct sunlight can be problematic, but not more so than with other display screen devices. If the image is b right, you will be able to see it easily, but other, darker images will be hard to see.

Some complaints about the size of the bezel are perhaps unwarranted. Appearance alone dictates a thinner frame, but a narrower bezel means you are likely to touch the screen with either your thumb or a finger. Holding the device and touching the screen will interfere with interface functions. Holding a unit with a narrow frame while avoiding touching the screen can be very tiring.

The learning curve is another feature that could be a problem with some individuals. If you are used to an iPhone or an iPod, you probably won’t even notice the issue. There is a similar appearance and feel. You will be able to make the iPad do what you want it to do very quickly. Alternatively, if you have not used similar devices, you might expect a longer time to learn how to effectively use its features. The iPad is an excellent example of touch interface, so with determination, the device can be learned and used productively.

In spite of claims to the contrary, it is unlikely that someone who is not techno savvy will be able to pick up and use the device easily. It may not be the best device to present as a gift to an elderly relative. The functions are very appealing, but there may not be the ease and comfort in using it that has come to be accepted with other technological advances. Some forecasters believe that most similar devices for the future, including computers will be manufactured with a touch screen rather than keypads or a mouse.

Using the iPad for reading magazines, books and newspapers has mixed results. There is no consistence in either the number of reading sources or the quality of the display. As with most advances, there is likely to be a growth in inventory of materials as more individuals purchase the devices. Reading magazines requires several different sets of interface rules, and you won’t get consistent operation of the display. Books are much more positive as an experience, although there are still some bugs to be worked out. Newspaper subscriptions are similar to magazine subscriptions. The prices are high and the smooth operation of the device is a struggle at time.

As far as the negative aspects of the iPad, there are several. The keyboard is not intended for extended periods of typing. It is small, although it is better than a Smartphone. Casual typing might be okay, such as for a short email reply, but longer messages can be frustrating and slow. Typing speed for a skilled keyboardist will usually be sixty words per minute or less as compared to eighty words per minute on a full-size keyboard. This may be a minor detail if you are not a speedy keyboardist, but very frustrating if you sail along at major speeds while using a keyboard.

Perhaps the major negative element when listing iPad advantages and disadvantages is the inability to manage files. For example, you can open a . Pdf file that you have sent to yourself, but you won’t be able to save the attachment. You can’t same photos in some areas, although they can be dumped in the photos directory. Other negatives and complains about the iPad include the fact that there is no USB port, no camera and no multi-tasking capability for 3rd party applications. No flash and no wide screen display are the other major complaints associated with the iPad. There will be revisions in the future for some of these aspects, but at present, you will be limited by these disadvantages.

Find More Ipad Articles