If you want something cheaper than an iPad or Xoom, but a little more reputable and reliable, look at devices like the tablet, or the --which costs $450 full price, but is available from T-Mobile at $200 with a two-year contract.

The bottom line is that you don't have to spend $500, $600, $800, or more to get in on the tablet revolution. You just have to work harder to find a decent tablet at a cheaper price, and you need to come to terms with the fact that there are some tradeoffs in performance and functionality when you bargain shop.