Laptops have to be removed from carry-on bags, but the TSA explicitly says on its web site that a tablet does not. But the TSA also likes to confuse people and have different requirements at different airports from time to time. But in the U.S. you don't have to take your ipad out of your carry-on unless you are asked to do so.

In the rest of the world you must always take your ipad out of your carry-on and follow the same rules as with a computer.

True, Doug. And more than once I've asked to ( or rather TOLD to). I suppose if you want to argue with TSA, the answer to the original question is no, but I certainly am not willing to fight or argue with TSA.

My husband had to take his iPad out while flying over Labor Day leaving Boston. But I think they must have been on high alert that day. Both of us had our carry-ons searched and everyone around us was being searched as well.

I have asked TSA and been told to leave the iPads in their bags. I believe the difference is that iPads do not have 'moving parts', as does a laptop with hard drive. Same reason we don't have to take out our cell phones.

But in some cases, I think security is heightened, and they might want iPads set out. Just ask, and/or observe.

Not in San Francisco or New York.

Just came thru O'Hare yesterday and it was very clear that laptops *only* had to be removed. We have one iPad and will get another one soon. SO MUCH easier than fumbling w/computers!! Not so great for business travelers but really nice for those of us who don't need to take the computer.

PS to Newb, at both Logan and O"Hare, in these last few days the TSA workers were specifically announcing that you did *not* have to take out tablets.

Yes, Tab, that is my understanding as well. A tablet cannot do what a computer can do....

Yes, sharona, that was during the high alert time.....

Why laptops do and iPad's don't - from my link which is to a TSA blog:

"Basically, tablet computers, netbooks, and e-readers are less dense than your typical laptop, so it’s easier for our X-ray operator to inspect your bag. However, larger laptops and game consoles appear more dense and need to be removed in order for the X-ray operator to get a good look at your bag. With that said, there are still times that tablet computers, netbooks, and e-readers have to come out. If our Officer can’t get a good look at your bag or if they see something out of the ordinary, they’ll have to remove it.

The larger the laptop, the more stuff you can hide in it. Items have been found concealed in laptops in the past, so we have to be able to get a good look at them.. Our officers have about 3 seconds to make a call in order to keep lines moving, so the less clutter, the easier it is to clear your bag and get you on your way."

I always leave my tablet in my purse. However, it seems that every airport, and even every trip, things are different. I just try to do what I am told, keep my mouth shut and get through the line.