I went through the same questions a few months ago. I did buy a Samsung tablet as it was preloaded with MS Word, Excel and powerpoint. I wanted something portable so I could access a work excel file if I was away from home for several hours during busy times and wanted to be able to access online weather info on the go. I can read books on it; access internet; get email, etc. It's not the easiest to type but does have a bluetooth keyboard available. It also can use an SD card (similar to cameras) for file storage or up/downloading. I like it. But am not getting rid of the laptop or desktop at all. All 3 have their advantages/disadvantages. I don't have a smart phone and don't pay for a data plan on the phone or the tablet so I need to rely on public networks for internet access when I am away from home but that's okay for me.