iPad as a laptop replacement

G8AMB · Oct 18, 2012, 06:03 AM

Just wanted to do a quick poll on people's thoughts.

I have a three year old Mac mini and a four year old MacBook (the rare aluminium one that was only on sale for a few months).

I use an iPhone and so i'm familiar with the simplicity of apps.

So I was thinking of updating the laptop, but am now wondering if an iPad might be a better investment.

The laptop is working fine but obviously outside of AppleCare now.

The laptop mainly gets used for:-
Basic photo editing (cropping)
Basic word processing (letters)
Basic video editing and burning to DVD
Guitar practice (via garage band)
Video/catchup TV
Email
Browsing

With the exception of the DVD burning which I can always do on the old Mac mini or MacBook I think I should be ok with an iPad as a primary device.

But I was wondering if anyone had made this switch and loved it or regretted it?

Lindsford · Oct 18, 2012, 06:09 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by G8AMB

Just wanted to do a quick poll on people's thoughts.

I have a three year old Mac mini and a four year old MacBook (the rare aluminium one that was only on sale for a few months).

I use an iPhone and so i'm familiar with the simplicity of apps.

So I was thinking of updating the laptop, but am now wondering if an iPad might be a better investment.

The laptop is working fine but obviously outside of AppleCare now.

The laptop mainly gets used for:-
Basic photo editing (cropping)
Basic word processing (letters)
Basic video editing and burning to DVD
Guitar practice (via garage band)
Video/catchup TV
Email
Browsing

With the exception of the DVD burning which I can always do on the old Mac mini or MacBook I think I should be ok with an iPad as a primary device.

But I was wondering if anyone had made this switch and loved it or regretted it?

Ipad is an amazing device for traveling. Extremely slim/light. Don't have to take it out of your bags when going through Airport security (huge plus for me) and amazing battery life. I've been without a laptop since last year and have managed fine. I don't do any video/photo editing on the go. Have my desktop for that

Mrbobb · Oct 19, 2012, 02:24 AM

By ur description an iPad would be just fine for you.

A couple of months ago I came to the same fork road, I went for a new laptop.

(1) My old laptop is barely usable, too old. I do have a desktop but that's really a file server and not suitable for everyday desktop use.

(2) I can't picture myself using an iPad for a long period of time, because I type, even on my lap, and I type with two hands. I can't see myself type with 1 hand for an extended period of time because my other hand would be holding the iPad. An iPad with external keyboard doesn't work on laps.

Eventually I may get an iPad but at this point in time, the choice for me was an updated laptop for the cited reasons and usage.

qbricc · Oct 19, 2012, 03:28 AM

Many more people are posting threads like this, it shows that the iPad is coming of age when it shifts sales away from PCs. The iPad is a great computer for modern life and has many pro's over a laptop.

If you try and use the iPad in the same way as a laptop ie keyboard centred data input then prepare to be disappointed. If you imbrace the touch screen and lack of file system and change how you do certain tasks then it is a great choice.

I would avoid jail breaking and research apps carefully to aid your personal usage.

Also wait till after the 23rd incase the iPad gets an upgrade.

Good luck and have fun.

HowardSmith · Oct 19, 2012, 05:19 AM

If Apple would just give the iPad a little more "freedom", it could be so much more.

In the mean time I still need a laptop and two desktops (office and home).

I am hoping that after MicroSoft introduces WIN8 tablets they will get Office for the iPad out soon after! Still need the ability to store files on my iPad, this is my biggest gripe! Looking forward to the Surface PRO!

reputationZed · Oct 19, 2012, 05:42 AM

I tried this a while ago. It was doable, but frustrating in some situations. My check list would be
1) do you need to frequently switch between apps? For example writing a paper in a text editor, while citing sources from multiple PDF's or websites

2) is the task you are performing better done with a mouse and cursor than with a touch interface.

If the answer to either is yes then I'd recommend sticking with a laptop

docal97 · Oct 19, 2012, 07:03 AM

I think that the ipad is an amazing device, and for many users, can serve as their primary computer. I agree, the built in keyboard on the ipad is a limitation for those that need to do extensive typing. I have gotten around this by using a zagg folio 2 keyboard/case, which is amazing. It gives you a full keyboard and case which is lightweight. You can then use the ipad to its full potential.

Krazy Bill · Oct 19, 2012, 09:35 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by HowardSmith

I am hoping that after MicroSoft introduces WIN8 tablets they will get Office for the iPad out soon after!

I know this iOS version of Office is a strong rumor but I'll believe it when I see it.

If MS were strictly a software company, I'd say go for it because if they can't sell iOS People the Windows OS then at least they can sell them iOS Office. However... now that MS has gotten into the tablet biz I don't understand why they'd provide a flagship software product for a competitors device.

If iOS Office does happen the only reason I can figure out is MS and Apple worked out some patent agreements which required iOS to be developed. (Which we may never know).

Abazigal · Oct 19, 2012, 09:56 AM

From experience, the ipad can be both better yet worse at certain tasks.

For example, I tend to check my email on my phone more than on my ipad, even when both are within range. My iphone is just handier to whip out in a pinch, unless I happen to be on my ipad when an email gets pushed/fetched.

I have successfully used iworks to craft simple yet effective documents, which then get printed out via printopia (on my imac) or emailed to colleagues in pdf format. The touch interface lends itself better to poster-like design where you have to position and drag images around. Likewise for keynote presentations. Numbers as a glorified checklist for tracking my students' homework submissions (I am a school teacher).

Browsing is a mixed bag. I prefer surfing on my ipad, but typing lengthy forum replies can be a pain without a conventional keyboard (unless you invest in a bluetooth keyboard for such purposes).

No experience with photo-editing or garageband.

Basically, my imac is used for the heavy-lifting and prep work, and my ipad delivers the goods.

reputationZed · Oct 19, 2012, 05:19 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Krazy Bill

I know this iOS version of Office is a strong rumor but I'll believe it when I see it.

If MS were strictly a software company, I'd say go for it because if they can't sell iOS People the Windows OS then at least they can sell them iOS Office. However... now that MS has gotten into the tablet biz I don't understand why they'd provide a flagship software product for a competitors device.

If iOS Office does happen the only reason I can figure out is MS and Apple worked out some patent agreements which required iOS to be developed. (Which we may never know).

I'm a bit hesitant on Office for the iPad. My fear is that rather than design separate apps with similar features for the desktop and mobile as Apple does with iWorks MS will try to shoehorn a single app into both rolls.

JCstudios · Oct 19, 2012, 06:06 PM

I still prefers doing heavy duty works on a Laptop or desktop.

E3BK · Oct 19, 2012, 10:36 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by G8AMB

Just wanted to do a quick poll on people's thoughts.

I have a three year old Mac mini and a four year old MacBook (the rare aluminium one that was only on sale for a few months).

I use an iPhone and so i'm familiar with the simplicity of apps.

So I was thinking of updating the laptop, but am now wondering if an iPad might be a better investment.

The laptop is working fine but obviously outside of AppleCare now.

The laptop mainly gets used for:-
Basic photo editing (cropping)
Basic word processing (letters)
Basic video editing and burning to DVD
Guitar practice (via garage band)
Video/catchup TV
Email
Browsing

With the exception of the DVD burning which I can always do on the old Mac mini or MacBook I think I should be ok with an iPad as a primary device.

But I was wondering if anyone had made this switch and loved it or regretted it?

Honestly, you should get a MacBook Air. Light & portable yet you can be very productive as you would be on a regular laptop. I love my MBA. I do have an iPad 1 and I hardly use it except to use as a 2nd screen, tweeting, watching movies on a plane, etc. I like being able to multitask on the MBA. Excellent device. Battery life isn't nearly as long but it's a good trade off for my needs.

Infinitewisdom · Oct 20, 2012, 12:51 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by E3BK

Honestly, you should get a MacBook Air. Light & portable yet you can be very productive as you would be on a regular laptop. I love my MBA. I do have an iPad 1 and I hardly use it except to use as a 2nd screen, tweeting, watching movies on a plane, etc. I like being able to multitask on the MBA. Excellent device. Battery life isn't nearly as long but it's a good trade off for my needs.

I second this. I've tried to shoehorn the iPad into all of my work activities, but it's just more effort than it's worth. There's no question that touch based devices are here to stay, but some things just are much better served with a mouse and keyboard.

G8AMB · Nov 23, 2012, 01:20 AM

I have started to think that a new flash drive based MacBook is the best way forward, trouble is I look at the Air and then think 13" retina then I see I can get a 15" retina with graphics card and quad processor for £100 more. Then I think 512GB ssd then I look at the total price and think I can't lay down well over £2000 on a laptop

Fattytail · Nov 23, 2012, 08:50 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by G8AMB

I have started to think that a new flash drive based MacBook is the best way forward, trouble is I look at the Air and then think 13" retina then I see I can get a 15" retina with graphics card and quad processor for £100 more. Then I think 512GB ssd then I look at the total price and think I can't lay down well over £2000 on a laptop

So then just stop thinking after you look at the Air.

Tried using an iPad for more than it was initially intended and it doesn't work. For my purposes, I still need an able laptop or desktop. The problem is really the software and not any limitation in the tablet form factor.

G8AMB · Nov 23, 2012, 09:26 AM

Yep agree it is a classic case of set your budget and then look at the options

mattopotamus · Nov 23, 2012, 09:30 AM

I use the iPad as a laptop replacement. I have a normal sized ipad that I leave at home and a mini I take on the go. Combined it was cheaper than buying just an air. I use a stand and wirless keyboard if I need to do any hardcore typing. Since I am done with college a regular laptop is not needed. I can accomplish anything with this combo.

Oct 18, 2012, 06:03 AM	#1
G8AMB macrumors member Join Date: Jan 2008 Location: Lincolnshire, UK	iPad as a laptop replacement Just wanted to do a quick poll on people's thoughts. I have a three year old Mac mini and a four year old MacBook (the rare aluminium one that was only on sale for a few months). I use an iPhone and so i'm familiar with the simplicity of apps. So I was thinking of updating the laptop, but am now wondering if an iPad might be a better investment. The laptop is working fine but obviously outside of AppleCare now. The laptop mainly gets used for:- Basic photo editing (cropping) Basic word processing (letters) Basic video editing and burning to DVD Guitar practice (via garage band) Video/catchup TV Email Browsing With the exception of the DVD burning which I can always do on the old Mac mini or MacBook I think I should be ok with an iPad as a primary device. But I was wondering if anyone had made this switch and loved it or regretted it? __________________ Macbook (2.4GHz), Mac Mini (2.66GHz), iPhone 5, iPod Nano, iPod Shuffle, Apple TV, Airport Extreme and Time Capsule
	0

Oct 19, 2012, 03:28 AM	#4
qbricc macrumors member Join Date: Jul 2007	Good but not the same as Many more people are posting threads like this, it shows that the iPad is coming of age when it shifts sales away from PCs. The iPad is a great computer for modern life and has many pro's over a laptop. If you try and use the iPad in the same way as a laptop ie keyboard centred data input then prepare to be disappointed. If you imbrace the touch screen and lack of file system and change how you do certain tasks then it is a great choice. I would avoid jail breaking and research apps carefully to aid your personal usage. Also wait till after the 23rd incase the iPad gets an upgrade. Good luck and have fun. __________________ Qbricc
	0

Nov 23, 2012, 01:20 AM	#14
G8AMB Thread Starter macrumors member Join Date: Jan 2008 Location: Lincolnshire, UK	I have started to think that a new flash drive based MacBook is the best way forward, trouble is I look at the Air and then think 13" retina then I see I can get a 15" retina with graphics card and quad processor for £100 more. Then I think 512GB ssd then I look at the total price and think I can't lay down well over £2000 on a laptop __________________ Macbook (2.4GHz), Mac Mini (2.66GHz), iPhone 5, iPod Nano, iPod Shuffle, Apple TV, Airport Extreme and Time Capsule
	0

Nov 23, 2012, 09:26 AM	#16
G8AMB Thread Starter macrumors member Join Date: Jan 2008 Location: Lincolnshire, UK	Yep agree it is a classic case of set your budget and then look at the options __________________ Macbook (2.4GHz), Mac Mini (2.66GHz), iPhone 5, iPod Nano, iPod Shuffle, Apple TV, Airport Extreme and Time Capsule
	0

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Oct 19, 2012, 02:24 AM	#3
Mrbobb macrumors 68030 Join Date: Aug 2012	By ur description an iPad would be just fine for you. A couple of months ago I came to the same fork road, I went for a new laptop. (1) My old laptop is barely usable, too old. I do have a desktop but that's really a file server and not suitable for everyday desktop use. (2) I can't picture myself using an iPad for a long period of time, because I type, even on my lap, and I type with two hands. I can't see myself type with 1 hand for an extended period of time because my other hand would be holding the iPad. An iPad with external keyboard doesn't work on laps. Eventually I may get an iPad but at this point in time, the choice for me was an updated laptop for the cited reasons and usage.
	1

Oct 19, 2012, 05:19 AM	#5
HowardSmith Banned Join Date: Sep 2012	If Apple would just give the iPad a little more "freedom", it could be so much more. In the mean time I still need a laptop and two desktops (office and home). I am hoping that after MicroSoft introduces WIN8 tablets they will get Office for the iPad out soon after! Still need the ability to store files on my iPad, this is my biggest gripe! Looking forward to the Surface PRO!
	0

Oct 19, 2012, 05:42 AM	#6
reputationZed macrumors 65816 Join Date: Mar 2011 Location: 34°55′42″N 80°44′41″W (34.928201, -80.744835)	I tried this a while ago. It was doable, but frustrating in some situations. My check list would be 1) do you need to frequently switch between apps? For example writing a paper in a text editor, while citing sources from multiple PDF's or websites 2) is the task you are performing better done with a mouse and cursor than with a touch interface. If the answer to either is yes then I'd recommend sticking with a laptop
	1

Oct 19, 2012, 07:03 AM	#7
docal97 macrumors 6502a Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: Southampton	I think that the ipad is an amazing device, and for many users, can serve as their primary computer. I agree, the built in keyboard on the ipad is a limitation for those that need to do extensive typing. I have gotten around this by using a zagg folio 2 keyboard/case, which is amazing. It gives you a full keyboard and case which is lightweight. You can then use the ipad to its full potential.
	0

Oct 19, 2012, 09:56 AM	#9
Abazigal macrumors 68000 Join Date: Jul 2011 Location: Singapore	From experience, the ipad can be both better yet worse at certain tasks. For example, I tend to check my email on my phone more than on my ipad, even when both are within range. My iphone is just handier to whip out in a pinch, unless I happen to be on my ipad when an email gets pushed/fetched. I have successfully used iworks to craft simple yet effective documents, which then get printed out via printopia (on my imac) or emailed to colleagues in pdf format. The touch interface lends itself better to poster-like design where you have to position and drag images around. Likewise for keynote presentations. Numbers as a glorified checklist for tracking my students' homework submissions (I am a school teacher). Browsing is a mixed bag. I prefer surfing on my ipad, but typing lengthy forum replies can be a pain without a conventional keyboard (unless you invest in a bluetooth keyboard for such purposes). No experience with photo-editing or garageband. Basically, my imac is used for the heavy-lifting and prep work, and my ipad delivers the goods.
	1

Oct 19, 2012, 06:06 PM	#11
JCstudios macrumors member Join Date: Sep 2012	I still prefers doing heavy duty works on a Laptop or desktop.
	0

Nov 23, 2012, 09:30 AM	#17
mattopotamus macrumors 601 Join Date: Jun 2012	I use the iPad as a laptop replacement. I have a normal sized ipad that I leave at home and a mini I take on the go. Combined it was cheaper than buying just an air. I use a stand and wirless keyboard if I need to do any hardcore typing. Since I am done with college a regular laptop is not needed. I can accomplish anything with this combo.
	0