I am trying to figure out the best communication device for my needs, and condense it all down to one device if possible. I know that I can't rely on a phone size screen long term for as many hours as I spend reading online, communicating, education, researching, planning, etc... A smart phone is out of the question for me when it comes to screen time. I need something bigger for my eyes and I need a keyboard. It's not something I am willing to sacrifice or be without. So the question "for me" is laptop or a tablet?


My experience is with Iphone's and PC's (laptops). My current laptop is on it's way out and for what it would cost to fix it, it's probably not worth it, and it's at tad on the heavy/bulky side. My iphone is dated. It's probably time to get everything down into one. I am tech savy, but don't keep up on the latest and greatest all the time. Usually a few generations back. So the iphone and laptop has to be replaced at the least. I also really don't want to be without a keyboard at all.


I know that there are tablets now with phones built into them. I plan on touring for a while and was thinking this might be my best option if I can come up with a keyboard solution. I prefer a big full, agronomic keyboard, but if I am touring, I can live with something like these if I have to. So that solves the keyboard option. The Ipad solves the weight problem for the most part, but the cost is quite high for the newer stuff, and I don't know enough about older tablets that much and what I will start to look at.


The nice thing about a laptop is that I can get a descent one for pretty cheap if I do it right. Maybe $200-$300 range. The laptop also resolves my "small screen" fears. Being on small screens for extended periods of time, when that is all you have, can be taxing on me. It also gives me a bigger keyboard to work with, which still isn't my preferred size, but much better than the ones listed above. If I go that route, then I have to get another Iphone to catch up and be able to stay current with the latest IOS. A cobination of iphone and laptop is probably the most affordable cost, still putting it probably cheaper than the cost of a descent tablet. I am putting a lot of money into a build right now, so I don't have a lot to put into electronics, but have to come up with some solution to stay connected while on the road. Mostly for youtube, google, and places like this. I would like the ability to utilize electronics to keep planning and researching ahead. I know this can be done on a cellphone just as well, but a bigger keyboard and screen is better for me, but then I have more weight and bulkier stuff to carry, and it also draws more attention for the size in general.


I guess in a more round about way, is there a tablet that will cover all these needs, that is affordable, that people use and like for being on the road, known for this fit and need, or are many folks carrying a smart phone and laptop still? I know some folks might say go without, but I don't want to. I know if I find a camp or a place I want to hang out for a bit in, and relax for a while, I am going to want descent screen time/size. If you are like that, what are you doing or using?


Suggestions?