Need iPod wisdom!

[Rue]

The good news! We just won an iPod...hubby made the raffle ticket out in my younger son's name...and he's off to University this fall - so that was timely. Normally I'd buy him (like I did the others) a laptop as their grad present...but if he won this, can I just buy him paraphernalia? Or will he still need a laptop?

I was wondering if I could buy him a keyboard, and it the device will otherwise function fully for school use (essays, etc.).

Any other accessories I'd need to buy him if it's doable?

He does NOT need two computers just to have two.

[~firefly~]

Are you talking about an iPad or an iPod? iPods play music (they aren't a substitute for computers or laptops).

[Rue]

LOL...sorry...typo on my part. Definately an iPad....

[Rue]

...we all have iPods already...so I do know the difference...

...but we're not AppleMac afficionados (sp?)...outside of the iPods...

[Strider199]

My daughter has an iPad (tablet) and it's basically an Apple computer. You can buy a case/ keyboard extension but the iPad has a decent key board on the screen. The only thing I haven't tried is to hook it up to a printer.
It's basically a laptop which you can use iTunes cards to purchase applications for from the on-line Apple store.
I would google (utube) iPad functions and see if a printer can be accessed with it.

[Rue]

I have heard some people complain that it's impractical to use an iPad touchscreen for serious typing...so if he has a 10 or 20 page essay to write...you need a regular keyboard, and a screen prop, etc.,

That's in part why I'm happiest with a regular laptop...a do a lot of typing, both for work and recreationally.

I like my touchscreen phone, but I hate the touchscreen keyboard...

[JudiJetson]

Definitely get the keypad for the iPad, our sales staff use them and they're great when more typing is required. Also look into the wireless printers if papers need to be printed out and turned in.

If you have an android phone look into "swype" keyboards, much easier to use than the standard type (I use SlideIT), takes a little getting used but soooooo much easier in the long run.

[talldutchie]

I'd flog it and get a gently used Lenovo T-series instead. Way more durable and so much better for typing on.

[Aeonflame]

Honestly for serious schoolwork I would just recommend a good notebook.

[Rue]

My daughter has an iPad (tablet) and it's basically an Apple computer....

I forgot to ask, what does she use it for?

Definitely get the keypad for the iPad, our sales staff use them and they're great when more typing is required. Also look into the wireless printers if papers need to be printed out and turned in.

If you have an android phone look into "swype" keyboards, much easier to use than the standard type (I use SlideIT), takes a little getting used but soooooo much easier in the long run.

Thanks! I will look into that! :D

I'd flog it and get a gently used Lenovo T-series instead. Way more durable and so much better for typing on.

I think a laptop is better too...but that's my preferred route. I just didn't want to be too narrow minded in my thinking.

Honestly for serious schoolwork I would just recommend a good notebook.

Me too. But what possible use is the iPad then? I really don't want him having it just to have it (without a practical purpose...and yes, I'm parenting here)...I don't want it, hubby doesn't want it...my older kids don't need it...

I can try selling it...but where we live selling anything is a PITA...unless I can sell it to a coworker. I'd put the money towards the younger son's laptop and accessories if I did that.

Who knew winning an iPad could be such a downer? ;)