If there is one thing that makes the Apple iPad a good purchase, it is because the device does a lot. A lot in the sense that it is not just a glorified web browsing tool or a dedicated eBook reader; it does both and a few other things as well.

That is ultimately what makes the Apple iPad a worthwhile investment.

Right now, there is still no solid market for tablets. Despite the iPad reaching about 700,000 units sold, the fact of the matter is, nobody really “needs” one. What it does however, is deliver the internet, books, media and other content in a manner that we would want: fast and easy.

The iPad is convenient to use. The battery will last for about 10 hours straight which means you can turn it almost anytime and expect to have it running. Using it is simple; no long boot times and no complicated setup screens. If all you need is to go online and check Facebook or a news site, then this is the perfect answer. Lack of Flash does make several sites inaccessible, but fortunately, there are apps for YouTube and other websites to help you out.

For eBook readers, the Kindle is a much better choice. Despite the high resolution, full color display of the iPad, it is heavier than the average eBook reader and the glare on the display get pretty bad depending on the lighting conditions. But that only matters if all you need is a new eBook reader, if you plan to make use of the other iPad functions, then this tablet is the perfect choice.

Overall, the Apple iPad delivers plenty of features on a rough device. Apple will certainly learn to do better with the next tablet they create, but getting this one is still a worthwhile investment.

Read more about the Apple iPad as it compares to the Kindle at Business Week.