Since the iPad was released on April 3, tech pundits lined up to compare the device to existing netbooks and notebooks. Even though it’s an impossible comparison, I continue to see it happen. People seem convinced that the iPad can fit into one of the existing categories of computing devices, but the fact is it can’t. It’s like trying to fit a square peg in a round hole.

Instead of taking a step back and realizing that it doesn’t fit, some have decided to pretend it fits and continue on with the comparisons.

The iPad does have a competitor — the next iPad. Currently, that’s all there is. Apple has successfully created a new category of computing products and much to the chagrin of its competitors, they are the only one with a product in it.

The iPad is not meant to replace a notebook, although for some people, it certainly could. I look at the iPad as a lifestyle device that complements the devices I already have.

In fact, the iPad has changed my daily routine quite a bit. I can write on it, post stories, check email, surf the Web — in other words, I can get things done. I don’t need the processing power of my MacBook Pro all the time, especially if I have something as compact as the iPad that I can use.

I still use my MacBook Pro too. I can’t edit images, create music or do other processor intensive tasks with the iPad, but I knew that when I got it.

There are some that knock the iPad because it doesn’t compare favorably to a netbook. I like my iPad better than any netbook I’ve ever seen.

Typically netbooks are underpowered and do not provide users with the features they expect. In fact, according to a study by NPD in 2009, 60 percent of people that purchased a netbook thought they were getting a smaller notebook.

When 60 percent of your customers don’t understand your product, you have a problem.

The netbook comparison just doesn’t stand up. And to compare the iPad to a notebook is just too much of a reach.

This isn’t the first time Apple has successfully created a new product category. They did it with the iPod and again with the iPhone. Apple integrated technologies from both of those projects to make the iPad.

I have no doubt that Apple’s competitors will make tablet devices to compete with the iPad in no time at all. They will have to make sure they get by Apple’s legal team, who will no doubt scrutinize all new entries into the market, but they will come.