Windows 8 forum: Windows 8 Tablet VS Ipad

And some of the stories have me saying to wait it out. For example it looks like today MSFT will only give out part of the API for Windows 8. This is an effort to give the IT Browser it's own edge. Plus there are stories about you can only get apps from the MSFT App Store.

These locked down products are one reason our office went with that other pad OS.
Bob

I needed (well, really "wanted") a new laptop at the end of 2011, and I considered all the various tablets including the iPad and Androids. However I needed to run three Windows programs (machine embroidery, recipe program, & WP) in a PC environment, so I choose the Samsung series 7 slate tablet PC w/ touch screen and stylus.

I wanted a device that would also run W8, and the Samsung is the tablet that MS used to demo Windows 8 in the YouTube video.

Previously I had a convertible laptop (handed down to an appreciative grandson) and really liked the ability to write/draw on the screen with the stylus - making notes, etc. Now I love all the touch features on my new tablet PC. I have an Android phone so have become accustomed to the touch screens.

IMHO, the first question is what do you want to be able to do on a tablet or iPad, and what spedific, if any, programs do you want/need to run? Once you decide what you want to do, then you shop for a device that will do what you want it to do. Do not settle for a device that has limited capabilites if you need more. Do you just want to get your emails and go on the Internet, etc, (very much like a phone) or do you need a PC that will actually run Windows programs?

Janice

It depends on what you'd be using your tablet for. If you want it for music, pictures, and apps then either one will really help. If you want to do actual work on it (either with Word, graphing, or different projects), then in my opinion there is no competition. I would definitely wait for the Windows 8 Tablet.
The new Office 13 programs have no compatability whatsoever with the ipads, while the Surface has a keyboard equipped in the protective case and the ability to use not only these programs but to function almost to the same degree as a laptop. I have not tested out the attached keyboard myself, but I submit that anything will be better than trying to do work on the on-screen keys of the ipad.
I guess you're deciding between functioning ability and a known-brand with known-features. I personally would take the time to wait for the Windows tablet and learn how to use it.

For more of my thoughts on this, check out my blog on this topic:
http://www.cyberstreams.com/the-surface-vs-the-ipad

In my opinion, I don't think that windows 8 will be a huge competition to the iPad. The market already had the iPad and all of the android tablets, and there is not much room. Some people will buy it, but I don't think it will rack up sales like the iPad. It is simply too late.