The iPad’s already on its second generation, and Android tablets are certainly on the rise.  But how are tablets being used for the business sector, an area that’s been touting these new mobile devices as its ultimate productivity tool? According to a Techaisle survey, there are 8.8 million tablet used by SMBs in the US today. The survey demographic, which is composed of 1,356 SMBs, says that over 50 percent purchased the device for business.

The majority of the SMBs don’t have a formal supporting policy for tablets, while 48 percent of SMBs already have. The early adopters of Tablet were reported to be healthcare and financial services providers. Being pioneer of the niche, the iPad is in control of small business. Android, on the other hand, takes down small businesses and medium-sized businesses. Sixty-four percent of early adopter SMBs are single OS adopters.

Tablets are still being used as an additional device rather than a full-on replacement, said 71 percent of the respondents. Seventy-seven percent of the buyers who intend to buy a tablet in the next 12 months are repeat buyers. They also intend to replace netbooks with tablets, however, actual purchases will be analyzed further based on factor such as weight, batter life, instant capabilities etc. Tablet’s PC’s lack of security, keyboard and compatibility are hindrances to the transition.

Many SMBs plan to adopt the tablet for their employees as well, if there are enough applications supporting the business, productivity applications and pricing segments. The results are part of Techaisle’s SMB Mobility Adoption and Trends Reports covering Tablet PCs, Smartphones, Mobile Work Environment and Mobility Applications.

Whether for business or personal use, here’s an infographic comparing the most popular tablets existing in the market today: Apple’s iPad, Samsung Galaxy Tab, ViewSonic G Tablet, Malata PC-A1001 and Dell Streak 5. The factors considered are weight, dimension, screen, features, release and price. A good way to start your tablet journey.  Be sure to also check our weekly round-up of business apps for tablets, spanning iPad and Android OS.