gdgt

This is a phenomenal device, but only if you have the right setup.

I think averaged ratings don't do a device like this justice. For some, this device strikes me as a 4/4.5; for others, it's more like a 2. Here's why:

1.) BB Tethering

Unlike the iPad, this generation of Playbook does not come with 3g. Instead, you have to tether it to your Blackberry phone or content yourself with Wi-Fi. In fact, the device doesn't even come with a native e-mail application unless you tether it to a Blackberry! (I suspect this will change when they release the 4g model later this year.)

On the other hand, for those who do have a Blackberry, the tethering here is awesome! Since it happens through Bluetooth, you don't have to deal with making a hotspot, taking out a new data plan specifically for your tablet, or any other nonsense. Instead, you just scan a little bar-code on the playbook with your BB's camera, and nearly everything on your phone is synched with your tablet. Without increasing your monthly bill (or taking out a new one), you have all the functionality of a tablet device. Even drafts of e-mails are hooked up, so that if get interrupted while writing one on your Playbook, you can simply throw it down, and then finish that very e-mail on your phone. (Or vice versa.)

2.) Very Few Apps

The app selection on the device is still quite limited. However, it should also be said that it comes with a few MSOffice apps that work beautifully -especially Power Point. It also comes with an Adobe Reader that is very fast, and it's browser runs flash videos better than my laptop. (I'm not exaggerating.) Clearly this first generation is targeted toward Blackberry's core, enterprise users.

3.) Fast OS

The overall experience is snappy and responsive: although my experience with the iPad is limited, the Playbook seems to me at least as fast, if not faster. It also multitasks. While I have heard some complain about the effect this can have on the battery life, you should note that the multitasking has options, and can be set to adopt the iPad approach of freezing apps instead of keeping them running in the background.

4.) Size

Lastly, the device is small. At 7 inches, it feels like something in between a phone and a true tablet. Personally, I love the size, but I can imagine others wouldn't.

So, all that having been said, I think this device is a great choice if you (a) have a BB, (b) run a business and want to pair these with BB phones, or (c) are Canadian. (National Film Board app = awesome!) If you fall into one of these three categories (preferably the first two), then the Playbook isn't only a good choice, I think it's probably the best deal out there for a tablet. If not, then it's probably best to either wait for the 4g model (slated for later this year) or to go with something else.