Choosing between an iPad and MacBook is becoming challenging, with Apple adding more features to its iPad by the day. Apple’s iPad features a powerful operating system, and its continuously growing power and versatility can leave you in a dilemma on whether you should buy one even when you already own a MacBook.
So, do I need an iPad if I have a MacBook? There is no need to have an iPad if you already own a MacBook that uses Apple processors and not Intel ones, as well as having the MacOS version of Big Sur (11) or later. As this allows the MacBook to run the iPad apps from the App Store.
You may need an iPad if you have a MacBook with a MacOS version older than Big Sur (11) or uses processors from Intel instead of Apple. As this will make it difficult to get iPad applications to work. Using the same applications on two devices may also incur additional costs, as the application may only be licensed for one device.
It’s also important to consider that applications you use on a MacBook may be better as they are designed for a laptop and offer full features. Whilst the same application may only be available in a cut down version on the iPad.
Whether you need an iPad in addition to a MacBook depends on your individual needs, preferences, and the tasks you perform. Both devices have their unique strengths.
MacBooks are more powerful and versatile, with a full desktop operating system (macOS) that can run more complex applications, multitask more efficiently, and handle heavy computational tasks. They’re equipped with a larger screen and a built-in keyboard, making them more suitable for extensive typing, programming, video editing, and other professional work.
iPads, on the other hand, are more portable and offer a more touch-centric, intuitive interface, thanks to iOS. They’re excellent for sketching and drawing with the Apple Pencil, reading, watching videos, and other media consumption. The iPad’s app ecosystem, while not as extensive as macOS, is robust and features a multitude of high-quality apps optimized for touch input.
If your work involves heavy typing, multitasking, or complex applications, a MacBook might be all you need. If you value portability and enjoy a touch-based interface for media consumption, note-taking, or digital art, an iPad could be a great addition. Some people also find that an iPad works well as a second screen for a MacBook with the Sidecar feature. Ultimately, the decision depends on your personal usage patterns and requirements.
An iPad and MacBook feature differences in hardware and software, each standing out in different aspects. Hence, depending on your nature of work, you may or may not need an iPad.
Apple’s iPad is a popular tablet for its advanced features compared to other tablets. It is usable by teachers, students, artists, content creators, and kids. Depending on your needs, you may or may not need an iPad, and I will help you understand how your iPad and MacBook can satisfy them before purchase.
You will need an iPad even if you have a MacBook depending on the tasks you want to handle. However, this may not apply to you if your MacBook runs your iPad apps just fine, and you are more productive on your MacBook with the keyboard and mouse than on a touchscreen. If you are into content creation, you may require an iPad for its camera and other editing app features.
Before getting a new iPad, start by confirming whether your MacBook can meet the needs you want. For instance, while a MacBook features larger storage than an iPad, its cameras are not high quality, hence unsuitable for photos, scanning documents, and video calling. Investing in an iPad may be useful for recording videos and editing if you are a content creator.
In terms of experience, a MacBook will give you a laptop experience given its hardware components. This makes the MacBook suitable for office work and school, as you can easily navigate the web and read, given its large display.
Also, you can store your documents conveniently on your Mac, given its larger unlimited RAM. On the other hand, an iPad will give you an advanced touchscreen smartphone experience. However, you will have space limitations as you can use up to 6GB of the RAM and leave the rest for the device’s core functions.
If you want a laptop experience on your iPad, you will have to invest in Apple accessories, such as the mouse and keyboard, which significantly increase the overall cost of your iPad.
In terms of portability, both iPads and MacBooks are portable. However, a MacBook battery power is higher and may be more suitable if you are away from areas with power supply for extended periods.
Do I Need Both an iPad and a MacBook Air?
Apple’s introduction of the M1 processor from MacBook to iPad Pro in 2021 combined the laptop power with a tablet’s portability. Hence, you can access similar functionalities to your MacBook Air on your iPad. This move left many wondering whether buying a new iPad is more feasible than the MacBook Air, and I will help you know whether it is worthwhile.
If you own a MacBook Air but need a touchscreen smartphone experience on a bigger display, you might as well invest in an iPad. Other reasons you may want to consider an iPad while you still own a MacBook Air include the price, versatility, usability, and function.
The MacBook Air, being a laptop, is more powerful and versatile for tasks like multitasking, running heavy software, extensive typing, and programming. It operates macOS, which has a broader range of applications, especially for professional or creative work. Its larger screen and keyboard make it more suitable for tasks like document creation, spreadsheet work, and more detailed projects.
On the other hand, the iPad offers a more portable, touch-oriented experience with iOS (or iPadOS). It shines for tasks like sketching with the Apple Pencil, reading, media consumption, and gaming. Its portability makes it an excellent choice for on-the-go usage. Plus, certain applications, especially those optimized for touch interaction, might provide a better experience on an iPad.
For some, having both devices makes sense. For example, you could use the MacBook Air for work or school-related tasks and the iPad for media consumption, reading, or sketching. The iPad can also function as a secondary screen for your MacBook Air using Apple’s Sidecar feature. However, if your tasks can be accomplished efficiently on one device, it might not be necessary to have both. Evaluate your usage patterns, mobility needs, and budget to make the best choice for your situation.
You may need an iPad and MacBook Air, given their differences in functionality. The user experiences from these devices are different and using both devices may not be workable. Hence an iPad model like the iPad Pro can double as a laptop depending on your needs, while the MacBook Air remains the best laptop for others.
To start with, an iPad will cost half as much as a MacBook Air. At this price, you will get the tablet, hence a touchscreen smartphone experience. A laptop experience on an iPad requires further investment in accessories such as the keyboard and mouse, which come at a cost.
Factoring in these costs, given Apple’s accessory costs, you may want to reconsider your decision as the price will be higher. For an even better experience, you may have to consider the Apple Pencil, bringing the total costs closer to the MacBook Air retailing at $999.
On the other hand, getting a MacBook Air will give you a laptop experience without spending extra cash. You will also enjoy more storage on MacBook Air than an iPad can offer.
Another differentiating feature between the iPad and MacBook Air is the operating system. Personal preference should be your guide between mobile-based and desktop operating systems when deciding on this.
MacBook Air runs the macOS for laptops and desktops, while iPads run the iPadOS. As such, you will experience software limitations on the app store when using the iPad than MacBook Air, where you can install any desktop app. On the other hand, if you have not owned a Mac before, you will be satisfied with the iPhone experience on your iPad’s larger display.
Thus, if you want a more versatile machine with respect to the apps, you may want to stick to your MacBook Air. Moreover, being an M1 Mac, MacBook Air will natively run useful iPad apps like LumaFusion.
As stated earlier, iPad models and MacBook Air utilize Apple’s M1 chip. The MacBook Air runs an M1 chip with a 7-core GPU, while iPad Air, for instance, has an 8-core GPU. As such, these devices deliver greater performance at their prices.
Still, if you want to run CPU and GPU-intensive tasks, you will be better off with your MacBook than an iPad, hence no need for further investments. In terms of memory, there will be no sacrifice as you will enjoy 8GB RAM in both cases.
However, the MacBook Air allows the custom configuration of up to 16GB RAM, hence more storage space. Also, while you can use all your memory on macOS, iPadOS lets you use 6GB of the RAM and leaves the rest for main system functions, which could limit you if you are dealing with heavy data and files.
An iPad may also be necessary if you are into video calls or content creation. Until recently, MacBook had low-quality cameras compared to tablets and mobile phones. With the COVID 19 pandemic, video calls became popular, making quality cameras a priority.
Apple has yet to make quality cameras for its MacBook Air, which currently features a 720p HD camera for video calling. Hence, MacBook Air will be a deal-breaker if you plan to do lots of video calling and other online meetings.
On the other hand, iPads feature a high-quality camera that can support up to 1080p/60fos for smooth video calls. While very few people consider this camera for photography and videography, it is better than a MacBook Air. You can also use your iPad camera to scan documents, saving you the hassle of visiting a cyber for such tasks.
If you are a frequent traveler, both MacBook Air and iPads are feasible devices to carry as they are portable. However, with frequent traveling comes the need for good battery performance, and the Apple M1’s efficiency significantly improves battery performance for MacBooks.
Thus, while the iPad can last for 10 hours, your MacBook Air will go up to 15 hours of web browsing, and you may want to think twice before replacing it with an iPad.
Lastly, the display factor will influence your decision on whether you want more display versus portability. The iPad features a smaller display than MacBook, and depending on your tasks, getting an iPad with its reduced screen size compared to your MacBook Air will not hurt. Still, if you want efficiency and less strain, it is advisable to pick the MacBook Air.
Should I Have Both an iPad and a Laptop?
Apple products boast high efficiency, hence value for money. The iPad features high versatility courtesy of its features and whether to own it with your laptop is a matter of concern that I will address.
Laptops, whether they are Mac or PC, offer robust computing capabilities, making them ideal for tasks that require powerful processing, such as video editing, gaming, programming, or running complex software. They come with a built-in physical keyboard, making them better suited for intensive typing or work that requires precision cursor control.
On the other hand, iPads offer a highly portable, touch-based experience that can be more intuitive for certain tasks. They’re excellent for media consumption, casual gaming, reading, and digital art, especially when used with an Apple Pencil. The iPad’s form factor makes it great for use on the go or in environments where a laptop might be cumbersome.
Having both can provide a versatile setup: a laptop for heavy-duty work and an iPad for portable, touch-based tasks or entertainment. However, there is considerable overlap in what both devices can do, especially with the advancements in iPadOS and the availability of keyboard attachments for iPads. If budget is a concern, or if you prefer a minimal setup, choosing one based on your primary needs could be sufficient.
You can have both an iPad and a laptop depending on your needs and your laptop performance relative to the iPad. If you are using a high-end laptop, you will enjoy features similar to what an iPad gives, only that an iPad gives a smartphone experience. Hence, when considering whether to own an iPad and laptop, scan reasons such as security, child safety, and performance.
Generally, an iPad is more secure than a laptop. Unlike laptops, which can easily get a virus, the iPad operating system architecture surrounds the apps with a wall, preventing the software from overwriting portions of the other.
Malware will also find it more difficult to access your iPad than a laptop, as Apple has complete control over the App store, which is the only way to add software to your tablet unless you jailbreak it.
With Apple regulating the software that individuals submit for the iPad, it is difficult for malware to get into the App Store, and even if it does, it will not stay there for long before Apple detects it. On the other hand, malware can find its way into your laptop by tricking you into installing it. Afterward, someone else can control your PC remotely, resulting in loss or deterioration of information.
In addition to App Store safety, the iPad has security data tools such as Find My iPad that enables you to track your device in case you lose or misplace it. You can also secure your data with fingerprints on your iPad and lock or wipe data remotely.
Performance is another trigger to owning both an iPad and a laptop. iPad Pro models, for instance, use A9X, A10X, and A12X chips, comparable to a laptop’s intel’s i5 and i7 or even better, guaranteeing exceptional performance.
You will also access better hardware on iPads at a lower cost than the same in laptops. In terms of the cost, the iPad cost will end at the purchase price if you maintain it well, while a PC will not do much out of the box.
If you want to play games, for instance, on your laptop, you might have to buy software, which in most cases can cost up to fifty dollars or more, not to mention the high cost of Microsoft Office. The virus in windows will significantly add to the cost if you want to add protection beyond Windows Defender.
An iPad features more versatility than a laptop, making it considerable. In addition to its software, you will enjoy features including a fingerprint sensor, a good camera, and 4G LTE capability, enabling you to use them where Wi-Fi is unavailable.
An iPad is also more mobile than a laptop and having one will save you portability problems such as frequent back aches from carrying a heavy laptop.
Lastly, if you allow your children access to your laptop, you can consider having an iPad for its child-friendliness, as it is easier to put child restrictions on an iPad. The controls in an iPad come with PG, PG-13, and R ratings, enabling you to select the games, movies, and music your child can access.
Disabling web access on an iPad is also possible if you want your kids to have this device but protect their vulnerability on online sites. The iPad also has learning apps for kids, including the Khan Academy and Endless Alphabet.
Wrap Up
The iPad, MacBook, and laptops are different devices but converge in terms of capability over time. These capabilities have made some people switch to the iPad completely, others to MacBook, yet others keep both for different purposes. Your decision to have one or both will depend on your nature of work and the experience you want to get.
While the iPad features a mobile-based operating system, it can be better than the MacBook or laptop in some cases, such as taking notes, media consumption, and video calling. If you are into creative projects, you will be better off with an iPad, as it can handle every task you throw at it.
For a good laptop experience and value for your money, you can switch to your laptop or MacBook. A MacBook or laptop features a bigger display, and its package comprising all the accessories for this experience ensures you are comfortable while working.
