I'm trying to figure out which to get, an iPad or a Macbook. I really like the concept of the iPad with the apps and games, but when it comes around to it, the one I'd want is quite expensive. Might as well shell out more money for a laptop. I already have an iPhone, but the gaming would seemingly be better on an iPad. The one thing I was wondering, is if I were to get an iPad, are the games transferable, in terms of progress if you were to log in with your account? I wasn't too sure on this... Also, an iPad seems like it would generally be updated more consistently, than say, a laptop (minus upgrades to RAM, video cards, etc etc). The usage out of it would mainly be entertainment--games, movies, web surfing, email, and not necessarily work. I'm just afraid if I got an iPad, I'd run out of room. Then again, the Macbook doesn't have apps/games. Those I've asked are pretty split when I've asked others for their opinion, so figured I'd ask here. Any insight would be greatly appreciated since I don't know too much about iPads in general.
Yes you can transfer games through your account, I'm not quite sure about the progress. Some games have saved the progress, but some haven't when I upgraded from my iPod 2. In price wise, if the you can a MacBook that is 100-200 dollars more than the iPad, then you might as well get MacBook. If you get an iPad, get 32gb. 16 hasn't lasted at all for me. Going on the web is better than going on the computer or your iPhone because it's fast and it isn't small as an iPhone yet smaller than a macbook making it perfect. I like the iPad more though because it is more portable than a MacBook. I like the games on the iPad, but since I haven't had a MacBook I wouldn't know if the games are better or not. If you are worried about bringing an iPad around, don't listen to those people who say it is too big to take around and you might get robbed. I carry it around with me when I need it, but I don't take it to the shopping centre. I have carried it around once in a shopping centre, and no one really noticed.
Games that will work on iphone will work on iPAD. If they are universal, they will be crisp and glorious on iPad. At worst, you have to play iphone games in a 2x mode if they aren't universal. "Transferring" progress is a more recent phenomenon and not all games have it. Yet. As to your global question. iPad vs. Macbook. That's really dependent on your requirement, and if you ask me, not a tough choice to make. If your concern is gaming, especially casual to medium hardcore games, iPad is a better choice. You know what I mean by hardcore when used in context with iPad? You get fairly deep experiences with 20-30 even 50+ gameplay hours. Across genres. Racing, RPG, FPS, etc. and the casual angry birds variety. But you arent going to get a Skyrim. If you need a more general purpose computing device, Macbook/Laptop is the way to go. Assuming you have a desktop to satisfy your computing needs, iPad might be a better choice. It's much simpler to fish out... say at an airport, or a long distance drive to read a book or play a game or watch a movie... than a laptop.
I have a laptop, desktop, and iPad. The laptop and desktop are for work and the iPad is for play. Since you are looking to use your upcoming device for entertainment rather than work, I think the iPad would probably be the best choice. It's great for web browsing, email, videos, and games. It's comfortable to use--I think it's more of a laptop than a laptop. You can use it on the couch or laying in bed. It is also a lot more convenient for travel since it is smaller and lighter. I bought my iPad on the day is was released and I have never regretted it (once I got over the initial guilt of spending $700 on a toy... ) I use it a lot more than I ever thought I would. Good luck with your decision!
I was debating between an iPad and Macbook too at the beginning of the year. If you're looking for a computer, the iPad just doesn't cut it. Macs do have apps (and a Mac App Store), although there isn't as much variety and prices are significantly more expensive.
I'd go for the real computer I'm sure I use my netbook a lot more than I would ever have used an iPad, I'd also forget the macbook aspect personally and use the money for a laptop and a kindle fire then you have the best of both worlds. Please note I'm not saying there is anything wrong with macs but windows 7 is pretty underrated and you can get a lot more spec for your money.
I have a MacBook Pro, but if you're just going to use the device you're buying for games, seriously consider a PC. With the price of a MBP, you can get some of the best gaming PCs out there. Playing iOS games on a screen that's 5-6 bigger is definitely a superior experience, but it probably doesn't compare with what you'll get out of Skyrim, MW3, Arkham City, etc. I have a MBP, iPad 2, and 4th gen. iPod. The MBP is pretty useless when it comes to gaming as you said.
Thanks all for the input. I have a desktop Mac and I gave up "hardcore" gaming in general (former WoW player ). I think I'm leaning more to an iPad, but see what others have said in terms of the benefits of a desktop or laptop (Apple or Windows). I'm having a hard time letting go of a disk drive I think...I still like playing CDs and buy DVDs/BDs vs. buying the digital copies. So I think that's my only reason for wanting another laptop. Anyways, thanks again for your thoughts.
Win-win whatever you get. One does this: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E_KYUF6pxR8 The other does this: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RdnSgyoupWg Jam out or slay dragons - it's all good
