If you’re interested in exploring what the tablet hype is all about but do not want to lock yourself to Apple’s iTunes and App Store, there are many alternatives for you to consider.
While Mac fans will be encouraging you not to consider any other tablet than the iPad, keep in mind that the iPad does not have a built-in HDMI port or a memory-card slot to add storage, and still has no Flash support. Also, take a look at these 3 Problems with Apple’s iPad.
Here is a review of 4 tablet alternatives to the iPad.