How to Choose a Tablet Computer

Compare prices and features of five popular models before adding one to your Christmas list.

Apple iPad 2 (3G Version)

Cost*: $629 to $829

Dimensions and weight: 9½ by 7⅓ by ⅓ inches; 1.35 pounds

Battery life: About 9 hours

Pros: Stellar graphics; runs faster than many other tablets; syncs with free online hard drive iCloud; exclusive, carefully vetted apps not available on other devices.

Cons: Can run only one app on the screen at a time; not all iPhone apps are perfectly adapted to the iPad.

RS verdict: An excellent all-around pick. (Hey, it’s the most popular tablet for a reason.)

*These are the prices at press time. The range is based on specs, including memory capacity and wireless access.

Starting next month, you can read Real Simple on one; go to iTunes.com to download our app.

Featured November 2011