Xoom vs. Transformer vs. Iconia a500 vs. Galaxy Tab Anyone?

I don't have a Tablet but I think the key thing to look at is what will your father use if for. 

Is this something he might use in connection with work or only for personal use? 

Does one of these have features that your father would appreciate?

Is he a book reader?  (you want one that has a screen that can be read outdoors as well as indoors)

I think you can see where I'm going with this.  All too often we want to get the best item and one that we like, not the one that will be useful to the person whom we are giving it to.

It's for personal use. Haha... yeah, I know what you mean. If it were up to him, he'd tell me not to get it since he thinks I should save my money and he doesn't need it. But.. my mind's made up and I'm stubborn. =D. 

As for being a book reader, I'd say he's the farthest thing from that. He'll probably do much more video viewing and internet surfing. Indoor and outdoor use would most likely be 50% each and I know the Xoom has some issues with glare. But the appearance is a little more pleasing to the eye, IMO. The Samsung Galaxy just seems to be lacking when I compare the camera megapixels and etc, but it's so much lighter.

Ohhh.. decisions decisions. Regardless, thanks for your help. Appreciate it.

What would also help you in making a decision is if you can go to one place, like Best Buy, and they would have all the tablets there.   You can then get a hands on feel for what each offers.  Worth a try. 

Give him the gift of appreciating/accepting his wishes and save your money.

Get him something HE wants ...;)