Be prepared to shell out a lot of money for content too: My PCWorld colleagues who picked up iPads today have already made significant dents in their wallets from purchasing apps. Apps for the iPad, ranging from free to $20, are typically a bit more expensive than the equivalent iPhone apps. And if you plan on scooping up books through Apple’s iBooks Store, expect to pay around $12 to $15 (though there are a few cheaper titles as well as free iBooks). As an avid reader and a fan of really ridiculous iPhone games, I don’t think I’d be able to support my habit on the iPad.

Hefty Hardware

Another thing to consider is how you’re going to transport the 9.6-by-7.5-by 0.5-inch thick iPad around. Unless you invest in a pair of , you can’t exactly toss it in your pocket. And personally, I’m not a fan of hauling around a lot of stuff on me, so the iPhone is a more ideal form factor. While 1.5 pounds doesn’t seem that heavy, I think carrying the iPad around all day might take a toll on my shoulders. Also a protective case is a must: Do not throw this thing unprotected into your backpack among your other junk. The display can crack and the back scratches easily. Don’t believe me? Check out our video. I’m constantly dropping my iPhone so I’m afraid of how I’d handle the iPad.

On the upside, the iPad’s multimedia features trump the iPhone’s. Obviously, watching videos is superior on the iPad’s 9.7-inch display. And have you ever tried listening to music via your iPhone’s external speakers? Music sounds weak and slightly tinny—definitely not ideal for an audiophile like me. I was pleasantly surprised by the iPad’s speakers, however. My music sounded loud and the quality was pretty clean.

And while I’m satisfied with Web browsing on the iPhone, there’s definitely a joy in being able to comfortably view a full page on the iPad.