'Most people are better off waiting for the technology to mature,' asserts Rob Enderle, the principal researcher at the Enderle Group, a San Jose, Calif.-based technology research firm. First versions of emerging technology are at premium costs and honeycombed with glitches. 'Even the first iPhone owners were pretty unhappy.'

Apple, which didn't reply to requests for comment, charges $499 for 16GB version of the touchscreen tablet with WiFi. 32GB and 64GB go for $599 and $699  respectively ( Later this spring, the company plans to supply iPad models with both Wi-Fi and 3G connectivity for $629, $729 and $829. )

If the costs don't spook you, and you're still anxious to own, you could consider pre-ordering, since demand for popular new widgets tend to eclipse availability. When Barnes & Noble moved to introduce its Nook reader in late 2009, for instance, so many consumers tried to buy, the company had to bump back cargos by up to 2 months and ended up offering a $100 store gift voucher to consumers who were guaranteed delivery by Christmas Eve. Shoppers who order close to the april 3 launch may need to wait.

Not fully sold on the necessity for instant iPad gratification? Hold off. Some of the problems with early adoption are likely to vanish within a few months. Consider these 5 reasons to attend : Keep Reading