Choosing between a Google Chromebook and an Apple iPad 2?

With the two heavyweight brands battling it out on the mobile computing front, we take it upon ourselves to find out which has the better offering.
Google Chromebook
With the Chromebook launching on June 15th, the amount of available information is still rather limited and subject to change. What we are certain of, is that Chromebook is trying to take computing into the cloud.
It’s fast
With a boot time of 8 seconds and an instant resume function, it should please any impatient user. Also, it includes a keyboard (full sized!) redesigned for the web, with browser keys (Page Back, Page Forward, Refresh, New Window, Volume, Screen Brightness).
Google Web Store
A place you can currently visit to install apps into your Chrome browser. With apps ranging from Education to Entertainment, Lifestyle to News & Weather, rest assured there will be something for you. Oh, and did we mention that Angry Birds is available too?
However, some commentators have questioned the need for an online app store. Ryan Paul of Ars Technica said on December 9, 2010: "The way that users consume applications in the desktop and mobile world is fundamentally different than they (sic) way that they do it on the Web—where paywalls are often reviled and there is little distinction between content and software. In such an environment, does the application store model make any sense? We are not convinced...Aside from gaming, the idea of an application store in a Web browser—where installation is little more than bookmarking—seems counterintuitive and leaves us with the impression that the entire exercise is a solution in search of a problem.
As a cloud computing device, key emphasis is placed on getting connected to the web. With built-in WiFi and 3G networks, Chromebook automatically connects to the web at boot. As all your apps, documents and settings are stored safely in the cloud server, logging into different Chromebooks will provide an identical user experience with access to all your data.


Apple iPad 2
Compare this with the wildly popular iPad 2. Being the established market leader, the iPad 2 has become sleeker, and more powerful compared to the original.
The iPad 2’s strength lies in general navigation and ease of use, which is definitely much easier than Chromebook or any other non-touch screen device. With this in mind, the iPad 2 scores well as a portable device.
App Store
The Apple App Store takes the cake when it comes to the sheer number of downloadable apps for a device. With over 65,000 apps for the iPad, there is definitely something for you, be it work, play or everything in between.
Contrary to what some might say, typing for extended periods on an iPad 2 proves to be incredibly easy, with the inclusion of the new Smart Cover that props the iPad up comfortably. With this accessory, the iPad 2 is now far more versatile in its use.
Personally, we still prefer the iPad 2 because of its intuitive usage and the wealth of apps for all purpose, but users who like an integrated environment throughout all machines, and can handle working exclusively in a browser environment should really consider the chromebook.