iPad vs. MacBook: Which Should You Buy?
There are an estimated 563 million Mac users worldwide, who use a total of 1billion different devices. Apple is one of the biggest tech companies worldwide for a reason.
Using an Apple product is a sign of quality. But deciding which apple products to invest in can be challenging.
A new Apple product is an expensive undertaking, no matter what you choose to go with. One of the toughest decisions is the iPad vs. MacBook conundrum.
That’s why we’ve gone into iPad vs. MacBook pricing, whilst also comparing iPad capabilities with MacBook capabilities.
What iPad and Macbook Models Are Currently Available?
The first thing to understand about iPad vs. MacBook is that there are different models of each on the market today.
In terms of iPads, Apple has a number of notable models that you can purchase at the moment. These are as follows:
- iPad 10.2in, released in 2019 with 32Gb of data.
- iPad mini, also released in 2019 with 64Gb of data.
- iPad Air, also released in 2019 with a total of 64Gb of data.
- iPad Pro 11, released in 2020 with 128Gb of data
- iPad Pro 12, also released in 2020, with 128Gb of data.
These have been listed based on the current expected market price, which we’ll get into later. As a general rule, the specifications improve the further down the list you go. Again, we’ll get into that later.
In terms of Macbook options, Apple currently markets the following options:
- MacBook Air 13 inch, with 256Gb of data and a 1.1Ghz core processor
- MacBook Pro 13 inch, with 128 Gb of data and an Intel core i5 processor.
- MacBook Pro 16 inch, 512 Gb of data and an Intel core i7 processor.
These represent the most recent models of these two Apple devices. But you could also look for older models second-hand, or in some technology-focused retail outlets.
As you can see by the above, the iPad has seen more recent options when compared with the Macbook. But this is thanks to the fact that the different iPads available serve different functions based on your requirements, which we’ll discuss momentarily.
First, let’s go into the question of price.
iPad vs. MacBook Pricing Comparison
Let’s go into the pricing first, to get it out of the way. Both of these represent premium tech products, so you’re going to be paying several hundred dollars no matter which you choose to go with.
In terms of pricing for the most recent model, iPads cost anything from around $329-999 in total for a brand new device. This depends on which model you choose to go with based on the list above.
The price of MacBooks differs fairly significantly. For a brand new MacBook, of the latest models, you’ll be looking to spend around $999-2,399 in total.
This means that overall, the MacBook is a considerably larger investment when compared with the iPad. This is something that you’ll need to factor into your decision, based on how much price and budget is a factor to you overall.
If you’re really looking for a budget solution, then a cheaper iPad may be better for you than a state-of-the-art MacBook.
But to fully understand what device you actually need, you need to ask yourself what you need to use it for. It’s only by answering that, and looking at specifications, that you’ll learn which of these devices to invest in.
iPad vs. MacBook Specifications and Usability for Buyers
The iPad is a tablet, whereas the MacBook is its very own laptop. Thanks to this fact, MacBooks always have more usability than iPads do.
The question then becomes ‘how much more usability do MacBooks offer?’
For starters, MacBooks have an integrated keyboard into their design. This typically makes them better for those who need to type a lot on their device.
As technology for students, for instance, MacBooks are usually the superior option. However, you can purchase separate keyboards which can then sync with your iPad.
You can even get an iPad magic keyboard case, to keep your keyboard safe at all times.
This can improve the functionality of an iPad, and means that for typing assignments, it can be a suitable replacement. If you’re a coder, a graphic designer, or someone with a more advanced skillset though, you may run into issues.
This is because the MacBook has a more advanced processor overall. This also makes it better for playing the latest AAA videogames, whilst iPads can only usually run games that function as mobile apps.
You need to ask yourself just how much power you need. the iPad is simple but versatile, the MacBook is comprehensive but also expensive.
iPad vs. MacBook Portability
The final comparison point is how portable these devices are. This is for those who travel often, or who need to carry their device to school or work.
The iPad is smaller overall, and a very compact, lightweight device. It can even fit in your pocket if you have one large enough.
Meanwhile, the MacBook is slightly larger thanks to the larger screen size. However, it is also very slim and lightweight.
That means that both can serve as great portable solutions, depending on your needs. Make sure to take into account the screen size of the device you’re purchasing though if portability is a factor.
Where Can I Find Out More About Apple Products?
You should now know the answer to the question of iPad vs. MacBook, or at least in relation to your personal life. There’s no right or wrong answer to this question, it must be based on your individual needs.
Figure out what exactly you need to use your device for, and the right answer will reveal itself.
If you’d like to read more about apple products and tech, make sure to read through some of the previous posts on our website.