11" Macbook Air VS iPad

[Gwaihir86]

Hi

I was wondering whether you could help me with some little advice. I've got about 850 pounds to spend, which is basically the price of the 11" Macbook Air. I'm basically wondering whether I should go for it or whether I should buy myself an iPad and spend the rest of the money on something else.

Here is some background. I'm a student. I already have a 2010 21.5" iMac which I love (I also have an iPhone). While it's rather mobile, I found it quite difficult taking it with me on my breaks. I would much prefer also having something much smaller that can keep me company while I'm away. I will be mostly using it to browse on the internet and do other standard multimedia tasks, but I would probably also use it more occassianaly use it for typing (such is student life).

iPad
- Not great for typing but it is possible to use it that way with an external keyboard
- Can be limiting but of course the question is whether I will ever feel it. But it's good to think about the future
- Difficult to print with
+ more mobile than MBA because of a smaller size and weight so I would probably be more willing to take it with me even on day trips to entertain be on a train etc
+ Correct me if I'm wrong but it seems better for watching film etc. when traveling on a plane
+ 1/2 the price

Thank you!