I've got an iPad, and it comes in rather handy in a number of situations. It's definitely, 100% not a computer replacement though. There's a lot of stuff that you need a computer for. Anything typing-intensive will make you want to scream, so if chat is one of your main uses, I'd steer clear. Also, there's no real interface to get to the files themselves that are saved on an iPad, so if you post a lot on image boards, you're going to be out of luck. The only real workaround I've found was to use a photobucket app and then link images.

If you have access to a computer easily enough for certain things, then it's no big deal. They're a really convenient reference for stuff. I bought a motorcycle about a year ago and used the iPad to store all the manuals to fix it up, and being internet enabled meant it was easy to double check stuff. I also use it a lot as a reference for games, its convenient enough to leave it sitting in your lap while you play in case you want to double check something online. I also read in bed a lot with it. Lastly it's literally revolutionized my time in the bathroom. Incredible. Magazines beside the toilet is effing 1990's.