Here's my advice: opt for the $499 Retina display model. The densely packed pixels forming the screen dissolve into an image rivaling high quality magazines: images appear as backlit photographs, high resolution movies look nearly like film, and text looks crisp and rich.

Granted, the iPad isn't as flexible as a machine running the full version of Mac OS X, but for many people, it doesn't need to be. Make sure to check that the applications required to get work done are ready for the iPad, or have equivalents available, before making this purchase. I'm sure you will be surprised at the wealth of high quality iPad apps that are currently available.

If the threat of virus and malware is a factor in wanting a Mac over a PC this year, the iPad (with the Apple-approved apps from the App Store) is an even better investment.

Before pulling a trigger on an iPad, carefully consider getting one with cellular connectivity. Much of the iPad's popularity has everything to do with the portability factor; having cellular makes your iPad that much more capable, especially if you use the machine to go. As a bonus: the cellular models offer GPS, as well.

Instant on; slim chance of installing malware due to App Store policies; thousands of apps available for free and purchase; least amount of troubleshooting compared to other devices