Top iPad Killers

With the worldwide launch of the fabled Apple iPad now complete the clamour for the latest and coolest device from the leaders in chic devices has led many to ask whether or not the iPad is really what the traveling business person needs to satisfy their computer demands on the move. Priced in the UK at £429, which equates to a whacking $150 more than in the US, many are questioning the true value of this already iconic Apple. Well, for those money conscious execs there is a plethora of other options to the iPad. So, here, we look at the potential iPad killers for you to choose from.

Microsoft Courier
Price: Unknown

Leaked photos and documents show the Courier has got gadgets to make the nerdiest of nerds salivate. It has not one, but two 7in touch-screens designed for writing, flicking and drawing on, with fingers or a stylus. It has a rear-mounted camera, is capable of charging and syncing content wirelessly, and is designed for playing games, watching movies and productivity tasks.

www.microsoft.com

Archos 9 PC Tablet
Price: Approx. $700/£410

Well-known for its range of personal media players, the Archos 9 takes things a step further, more a tablet PC. It runs Windows 7, supports full-HD video playback, has a webcam for Skype calls and video conferencing and, unlike Apple, it's compatible with Flash technology. Usability, however, is somewhat clunkier than the iPad, but it has it’s plus points too.

http://www.archos.com/products/nb/archos_9/index.html?country=us&lang=en

Google tablet
Price: Unknown

Google is already taking on Apple on the mobile operating front – its Android operating system and Nexus One handset compete directly with the iPhone. So it’s no surprise it is also building a tablet computer based on the Android platform. Eric Schmidt, Google's chief executive, said his company had been working with several hardware manufacturers, and is thought likely to partner with HTC.

www.google.com

Plastic Logic Que
Price: Approx. $750/£450

Part tablet computer, part e-book reader, the Que grabbed plenty of headlines when it was unveiled earlier this year. Plastic Logic, the British-based company behind the device, say it is aimed at businessmen rather than consumers, allowing them to view and edit documents, download newspapers, manage their schedule and read e-books on an entirely shatterproof gadget.

www.plasticlogic.com

HP Slate
Price: Approx. $500/£359

Steve Ballmer, chief executive of Microsoft, took the wraps off the Slate earlier this year. The HP device is due to go on sale later in 2010. It runs Windows 7, supports the Kindle e-book reader app, it's multi-touch, and can even play games. Priced at around £359 in the UK the Slate really does have a jump on the iPad in terms of value for money.

www.hp.com