For a while, the iPad stood alone in the tablet-computer arena. But other companies are starting to offer tablets too.
Consumer Reports tested several tablets, including the Samsung Galaxy Tab and less-expensive tablets.
Ranging in price from $550 to almost $900, the iPad is the most expensive tablet computer but you get a lot of bang for your buck. On the iPad, you can create documents, browse the web, and play plenty of games.
The less-expensive tablets cost hundreds less but Consumer Reports says you get what you pay for.
"One of the drawbacks we've noticed with some of the less-expensive tablets is you don't get access to Android market, which is where you get your third-party apps from. That's a pretty big problem," tester Donna Tapellini said.
Another drawback is that the touch screens on some are less sensitive so it's hard to get where you want.
However, the Samsung Galaxy Tab has a lot to offer. At $500 to $650, it costs less than the iPad and it's smaller and lighter -- so it's easier to hold while reading books.
Consumer Reports' tests show that the Galaxy's screen quality is comparable to the iPad.
And while the Galaxy's small screen might make it less appealing than the iPad for watching movies and TV, it definitely gives the Apple product some competition.
"If you're in the market for a tablet computer, right now your only choices really are the Galaxy Tab and the Apple iPad. And the one you choose really depends on what's most important to you," Tapellini said.
Consumer Reports' battery-life tests show the iPad has more staying power. It's battery charge lasts a full 10 hours, while the Galaxy Tab battery lasts about seven hours.
With a report from CTV British Columbia's Chris Olsen
