Cyber Crazy: Buying the must-have tablet

   Now you know better. Beyond reading, you can do plenty on a tablet. And if you spill coffee on it, you’ll want another.
   A survey published in 2014 by the Pew Research Center showed that half of adults owned either tablets or e-readers. The highest rate of tablet ownership was among those ages 18-49: 52 percent own tablets. Adults in the lowest rate of ownership -- 25 percent -- were 65 or older. 
   The figures may be higher now, as tablets have become more affordable.
   When looking over the options for tablets, consider:

• How many hours the battery will stay charged;
• Whether the tablet has USB ports;
• How much storage it offers.

     Beyond that, there's the matter of operating systems --Apple, Android or Windows. Apple is known for crisp presentation. Android, developed by Google, advertises its ease of use. And a tablet with Microsoft Windows would work best for someone who plans to work on the tablet. (On the other hand, if you plan to use the tablet for work, writing, etc., you may want to consider buying a laptop.)

   From left, the Apple iPad Mini, a Samsung Galaxy Tab 4, which uses Android, and the Nextbook Flexx 8 tablet with Windows.

   The Apple iPad (described on the company's website as "Thin. Light. Epic.") starts at about $799. If you want a tablet for reading and leisure, an Android system will suffice. Many start at $200, although there are models meant for reading and surfing the Web that can be found in the $40-$80 price range.
    Some merchants sell insurance policies: For $40 they will replace your tablet if you break it during a two-year period. (Insurance may not be worth it if you are buying a $50 tablet.)    
    If in doubt, various sellers list reviews and comparisons online.

    Related:

    6 predictions for the Internet in 2025

    Most teens go online daily, survey finds

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