Turtleknife's Online Marketing Blog

Since you already have an iPad, I would not be so concerned about portability issues and suggest you look for a desktop Mac and keep your iPad. I do a lot of my writing and planning away from the desk using my iPad, only to transfer it later for further work.

If you are planning on this being a real business, a desk and desktop computer should be your first option. When I travel, I can do most things on my laptop, but it is not a professional solution for all tasks in my opinion. You need to consider storage, hardware, RAM for software, headphones and cams, and also your physical ergonomics when working late hours. I have the most powerful MacBook with the i7 and anti-glare screen and use it a fraction of the time I am on my iMac desktop. In fact, I use it LESS than the iPad!

You can also get more computer power and screen space of course if you buy an iMac. If cost is an issue, check the refurbished deals on the Apple website or slightly used iMacs on Craigslist (ONLY BUY LOCALLY). Also an often overlooked option is the Mac mini which is great if you already have an old PC monitor to hook it up to. I recently changed my wife's Dell PC to a Mac mini using her current keyboard, monitor and webcam. She didn't miss a beat.

Here is the thing. You could load up and buy the very best laptop right now, but 6 months to a year from now, you will be looking to a desktop for your business solutions. If you are planning to do anything with video, you can cut that rethinking down to about 3 months before you realize what you really need.

About Mac and IM software, the ones stated above are by no means industry standard. Market Samurai does work on AIR platform and I use it on my iMac all the time whenever I need to do keyword research. I also use SEOLinkvine, which is web-based.

Now I do have two PCs in my office as well, so I am not saying one solution for you is better than the other, but just that a desktop should be your first option.