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Is a laptop still better for productivity even with Split screen multi-tasking?
- Thread starter Samtb
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If splitscreen on iOS works as well as multiwindow on Android or Windows 8.x then yes, I'll be able to increase my usage of an iPad for productivity.
The point is not to replace a laptop but to extend the reach of the iPad. I look forward to a new iPad (maybe a Pro) with iOS 9. It will allow me to do more things with the iPad but I wouldn't consider for a moment giving up the rMBP.
I don't get why people keep wanting to replace their laptops with iPads. It's not like they are so expensive that you can't keep both...
Needing one device is better than needing two. I suspect it's more about convenience than cost for most people. Microsoft may be on the right track in the long run with the Surface line.
Yes, this. For a while I had both and what happens is that one ends up getting way more use than the other. So you have resources tied up in something that does a lot of sitting around. It doesn't take long for each person to realize which device they use more often. Whatever one that is, that's the one you keep.
Most people can easily get by with just one or the other. I will say though that these laptops are getting so thin and easy to handle that it is possible that next time around I'll just go with a MacBook or something since it can be a real computer should I need it but will be super easy to carry around like a tablet.
Hmmmmm.....
This is exactly where I disagree. I don't see any issue in relying on one device 95% of the time and going to a second device for the special needs at the remaining 5%. Computers and tablets are tools with slightly different purpose, and it is perfectly fine to keep multiple tools when you don't use every tool to the same extent.
For me, convenient is when I have multiple devices at my disposal, and I can choose which ever one that suits my needs the most.
The only time that I need to pick is when I'm traveling, but I usually end up bringing both, although only my iPad remains in my carry-on.
Well, the iPad is a productivity device already. Although it's not good for heavy task, but for light editing or doing some following up... It's very useful.
But at this point SplitView just opens up more creativity in terms of what devs will be able to implement for it. I believe this is by far the most compelling feature the iPad has gotten thus far. I'm just awaiting to see what apps like Drafts, Editorial, Pixelmator, WorkFlow, Office, PDF Expert, GoodReader & other useful apps pull off for iOS 9.
The way I see it, the iPad was never intended to replace the laptop. For me, the tasks I do on my iPad is quite different from what I do on my laptop or desktop, and as such, I am glad the iPad doesn't try too hard to be like a PC.
Do you always eat with a spork?
Completely agree. You can use a screwdriver to hammer a nail but that doesn't mean it's ideal.
For long trips, I bring both laptop and iPad (and Kindle). I wouldn't trust my laptop to check-in luggage, though. That remains in my carry-on.
The iPad can serve as an alternative to a laptop, but comparing it to a desktop... Wouldn't be entirely fair. I don't have a laptop... I'm sure there are plenty out there that use a iPad to serve their needs as a laptop.
Although, I use a desktop to do certain tasks.... But I can always remotely login into it using my iPad. And with iOS 9 Apple is bridging that gap, but I don't think Apple would ever cross it.
I've used my last 2 iPads (a 4 and Air1) as my sole portable computer. I mainly use iWork, Worpress and Social Media apps in my day job. There is the occasion where I do need my desktop but it's rare. My iPad is light and easy to use when I'm working with people outside my office or at meetings. I have been eyeing the new Macbook. It might sway me back to a laptop but so far my iPad serves me well.
Now, for my personal home projects? My iPad doesn't cut the mustard. I need my desktop 100% of the time. I think it comes down to what do you need? I know people who's work would be hampered by using a laptop. (They need big horkin' dual screen setups!...DROOL) But for some, that would be overkill. Find what fits your workload, ergonomics and economics and you'll be a happy camper.
You place your notebook in checked-in luggage?!
I have more notebooks, tablets, and hybrids than anyone should be allowed to own. There are quite a few options out there that are somewhat-close to being perfectly balanced hybrids that can serve as both notebook/"full computer" and tablet.
I believe that Apple is in the best position to offer a true hybrid device that will serve a large percentage of their customers and use cases.
If the mythical iPad Pro is what I hope it to be, then I'd be able to take that and that alone on my trips and not skip a beat in being productive or entertained. Right now I end up taking both my 11" MBA and iPad 4 but it isn't out of the realm of possibility to have a converged device.
Theoretically, the iMac offers a lot more computer than even a MacBook Pro. If an inexpensive iPad serves the "I need to use a lightweight computer from anywhere" niche, you can justify having a non-portable powerhouse on your desk for those other times.
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The first mobile phones weren't intended to be media players, internet devices, gaming devices, GPS, etc. either. I'm not saying that the iPad needs to be able to replace laptops, but I think the more functionality you can get out of a device the better.
The iPad without a real file cabinet system is a poor replacement for any computer when it comes to getting work done. For me my iPads are mostly recreational as they could not replace a real laptop for me. Even the iPad Pro will likely be "dumbed down" by Apple forcing me to look at the new Surface Pro 4 this fall.
those who use laptops alot are you business types who need it? as i havn't needed a laptop for years. tablet does the job for me
Business type? Nope, not at all. Despite that, while the iPad works fairly well for consumption, there are times when a laptop is just better. Working with spreadsheets for one (for personal finances, etc). Another thing, limited storage on the iPad kind of necessitates reliance on a good internet connection - something that might not be readily available depending on where you're located. I've got Plex Media Server installed on my laptop (with 2TB HDD) so it acts as a mini-Netflix whenever I'm stuck somewhere with poor internet connection.