Is it worth it? It is a question many are asking with the release of new iPad models in the recent past, one that has relevance for anyone considering an upgrade or a new purchase. To do this, a professional tech journalist recently shared their experiences exploring this and reflected on the practicality of using an iPad as a laptop replacement. Based on using an 11-inch iPad Pro from 2020 as a primary work and leisure device, this piece was created.
Transition to an iPad as a Main Device
To tell the truth, the iPad Pro was first bought by our tech journalist for educational purposes, for instance, working and taking notes. They started out with a base model iPad paired up with a 1st generation Apple Pencil, but moved to an iPad Pro as well as a 2nd gen Apple Pencil during their master’s degree. The base model iPad turned out to be more than necessary for research purposes — only the annotation of papers, books, and the like had to be done on physical documents and it was not as cumbersome as carrying around stacks of paper.
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We became dependent on the iPad for tasks, for reading, etc. During the study of computer science, however, the iPad could not fully substitute a laptop since actually a lot of practical work in the field was still required. However, it is uncertain whether that has changed with newer models. The iPad Pro grew to be my go-to device for tasks like writing blog posts, editing videos with iMovie and LumaFusion, reading, answering emails, and surfing the web.
Portability and Versatility
Our writer pointed out that the debut of the iPad Pro (as well as the 11-inch model) is substantial given the device’s promise as a sleek, relatively portable option for taking notes, browsing the web, or making solid use of it on the go in a coffee shop or commuting. Still, it does not appear capable of completely replacing a laptop.
Can an iPad Replace a Laptop?
As per our writer, it will, but only as an individual need. The iPad can do just fine for basic things like emailing office work, or maybe casual browsing. And for more complex needs, such as complex photo and video editing, laptops or desktops may still be more appropriate.
While an iPad can serve as a secondary device for a student along with a laptop, that depends on the degree. However, universities may not have or may have only partially, some software required (for example, citation or referencing programs).
The Verdict
Our writer said that, although the iPad Pro became the main tool for many jobs, they would not entirely exchange their MacBook Air an iPad, when working from home. And while we have a multiple monitor setup at home that helps with productivity, there is no way around the fact that the MacBook remains an important part of that setup.
The iPad, on the other hand, is a perfect partner of mobility. Our writer also found that the Apple ecosystem made the iPad the getaway with traveling devices, leaving the MacBook Air at home the vast majority of the time.
Ultimately, TheTechBasic’s writer asserts, lots of things can be replaced by modern iPads, but it’s down to the situation and preferences that you need. While they would not turn their Mac into an iPad, the iPad has now become their main workhorse, both for travel and daily tasks. Especially if you are looking to transition over, a keyboard case (preferably with a trackpad) is recommended for a more laptop experience.
iPad vs Laptop
It is actually more about the argument for using an iPad in 2024 instead of a laptop. Thanks to advancements in tablet technology, an iPad is good enough for the average user. While a laptop, particularly for heavy multitasking and long battery life, may still be needed, the iPad’s portability, focus-driven interface, and versatility make it an appealing alternative.
For the past month, our journalist had their laptop hidden away, proceeding entirely from a personal iPad Air for everything from emailing and online spending to photo editing and entertainment. Here are the key findings:
The Benefits of Using an iPad as a Primary Device
The first was that the portability and convenience of the iPad was evident. An 11-inch iPad Air weighs less than most laptops and weighs as much as an accessory, whether it is used for on-the-move work or enjoying those little freedoms in the house. In addition, the iPad is more intuitive as it has a touch interface with the ability to do things like FaceTime, sending emails, and watching videos.
Second, the iPad is simply a superior experience for entertainment. It is a natural choice for entertainment, whether you are streaming TV shows, reading ebooks, or playing games (the bright, distraction-free display is a pleasure. It is also easier to download content to view offline on an iPad than on a lot of laptops.
Third, the iPad’s weak form of multitasking may actually aid users in improving focus. On a laptop, multitasking is made a little easier but on the iPad’s single task, single mind-centric version design, it is easy to get your concentration in rough shape, especially for tasks like photo editing or creative work with the Apple Pencil.
The iPad is finally a versatile device that can replace a laptop for many users. Forgoing multitasking and specialized software is not everyone’s cup of tea, but it is a fine alternative to the iPad for those who do not need that kind of power on the go.
The Drawbacks of Using an iPad as a Main Device
Nevertheless, there are faults. However, on a laptop, the multi-tasking still remains better where you can have multiple windows open, you can drag and drop files and you can work with non-App Store software. This is a big drawback for professionals who are relying on complex workflows.
Clocking in at only 0.16 inches thick, that level of portability comes at the expense of battery life which laptops, especially the MacBook Air, trump on iPads. The MacBook Air’s battery itself can get up to 18 hours while the iPad puts in about 10 hours of life, which is, again, not enough for a long journey with no charge.
iPad vs Laptop: What’s the Best Choice?
By the end of this month-long experiment, the journalist would say they would continue balancing the two, however, the personal laptop made its way into the drawer. If you are using an iPad for casual use, it is often more than enough to fulfill your daily tasks, and it comes with portability and a basic distraction-free interface.
