Tablet computers have burst onto the scene solely based on the popularity of Apple’s iPad, and it seems like everyone has to have one. Tablets offer a new compromise between portability/convenience and performance. They have screens that are large enough to make watching movies and reading e-books a pleasure, but don’t weigh you down like a laptop or even a netbook. They also offer full Web browsing capabilities, multi-media, gaming, and more.

Competing products are just now emerging – most of them are cheaper than the iPad, and some offer greater flexibility and performance. Apple will be responding soon to these challengers with a new generation of iPads that promise even better performance. Here’s a brief introduction to the world of tablet computers:

Apple

The Apple iPad needs no introduction. Of course, this is the product that might launch a thousand ships… and a whole new product segment in the personal electronics category. The iPad is the current king of the mountain when it comes to tablet computers, and with aggressive marketing and a rabid built-in fanbase, it could remain there for years to come. It lets you surf the Web, listen to music, watch movies, read e-books, and much more. The downside is the price – an iPad will cost you at least $500 (but usually more), and that’s if you can even find one!

Archos

Archos has two models – the Archos 7 and the Archos 9. The A7 is a bare-bones model, little more than a digital A/V player… perfect for the consumer that simply wants to access entertainment on the go. The A9 is much more robust, and offers true competition for the iPad, and includes a 22.6cm screen, Windows 7, a 60GB hard drive, and more. These models typically cost $300-500.

VILIV

These tablets are also called ‘WiFi Hand-Helds’, and they allow virtually unlimited Web browsing. Windows Home XP comes installed, and allows word processing, gaming, and other options. Screen size is relatively small at 4.8 inches, although newer models offer larger screens. Price is around $500.

Lenovo

The line of IdeaPad tablets from Lenovo offer a lot of options, all for around $500. Windows 7, a Web browser, and a large hard drive are all standard – the more expensive models feature a larger screen, increased memory, and faster processors.

Expect a number of competing tablets to arrive soon, most priced much lower than the iPad. Dell is launching the Streak, which is expected to cost $100-200. Smaller companies like G-Link, Bluesky, and Eken are all introducing new, low-priced models in the near future.

The bottom line: if you are already an Apple fan, you won’t be satisfied with anything less than an iPad. Other consumers can save some money by choosing a competing brand, and they might see some better performance as well. The introduction of newer models will push prices down across the board, and soon tablets will challenge the power and versatility of their larger netbook and laptop cousins.