iPad 3: Buy a Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 or Wait for Apple's Next Tablet?

iPad 3 may be here before Spring, but that doesn't mean you have to wait to grab a speedy, lightweight tablet computer like the Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1. Featuring a screen slightly larger than the iPad, and possibly the same size as the iPad 3, Galaxy Tab 10.1 has a bright display and good resolution. iPad 3 is rumored to be a high resolution tablet, possibly featuring a 2048x1536p QXGA display. That would double the existing resolution, but if you were to pick up a Galaxy Tab 10.1, it would come with a 1280x800p resolution WXGA display.

iPad 3 is also rumored to be a 4G-enabled device, and while the Galaxy Tab 10.1 is 3G-enabled, it works fine over Wi-Fi. iPad 3 will no doubt work with Wi-Fi, the point is any data connection would come with monthly service plans and a contract with one of the mobile broadband carriers. If you travel extensively or if money is not really a concern, then 4G would be amazing on a tablet, but most people won't miss that feature if they bought a Galaxy Tab 10.1.

Galaxy Tab 10.1 can last up to nine hours on a single charge, according to Samsung, but that will depend on how you use it. An improved battery in iPad 3 would be a huge bonus, but battery technology is not likely to leap forward in the next 90 days, so a better battery could only be achieved by making it bigger. A bigger battery would take up more space in the iPad 3, so there has to be a compromise either in the weight, thickness or even lack of other features like on board storage. The truth is battery technology simply has not caught up to the smartphone/tablet revolution. Just remember that the expected battery life on any device is dependent on how it's used.

Must Read: Two Next Generation iPad to Debut January 2012: Real Deal or Rumor?