iPad Pro M1 12.9 iPad Pro as a MacBook Pro replacement

[UBS28]

The only reason for using a laptop is better software, but since software on the M1 / M2X MacBook Pro is also limited, it would kinda make sense to go for a high-end PC laptop + M1 12.9 iPad Pro combo?

So the M1 12.9 iPad Pro would be mainly used on the go and the PC laptop for when the software on the iPad Pro fails.

Anyone did the same?.

 

[sparksd]

Sort of. I have the M1 12.9 and a 16GB i7 Surface Pro 7. Usage depends upon the task and at home I use the SP7 more as it works well with my 4K monitor, which the iPad is poor at. The iPad is the better tablet but in a pinch I can use the SP7 in tablet mode. If I had to go with a single device, it would be the SP7.

 

[cupcakes2000]

I do something similar, but forgoing a laptop altogether. An iPad Pro 12.9 plus a Mac Mini. That way, the Mac is more powerful, has more inputs and is always on, and I can remote in from my iPad if I need. Better than carrying two devices if your network can handle it. It’s like having MacOS as an app - You may need to find alternatives to things like airdrop and iCloud for files sharing, but I suppose it will work with windows too in a similar way.

 

[darknetone]

I have an M1 IPAD Pro 12.9 and a M1 MAcBook Pro,... for me the iPad is not a replacement, for what I do, however it might be for you. It comes down to software iPAD OS and OSX ae not the same and neither are the applications. The iPad certainly has the power however it is still hampered by its OS. I will say its nice to have the iPad as a second display, and they each have their own uses a well.

 

[rui no onna]

Really depends what you're used to. I'm not anti-Windows like many on MacRumors are so Windows desktop/laptop + iPad has been my default configuration for years.

I dipped my toes with the M1 MacBook Air last year but frankly, I find the $600 ThinkPad E15 Gen 2 AMD easier to use when a desktop's not available.

 

[tonyz123456]

I do something similar, but forgoing a laptop altogether. An iPad Pro 12.9 plus a Mac Mini. That way, the Mac is more powerful, has more inputs and is always on, and I can remote in from my iPad if I need. Better than carrying two devices if your network can handle it. It’s like having MacOS as an app - You may need to find alternatives to things like airdrop and iCloud for files sharing, but I suppose it will work with windows too in a similar way.

Hi - this might be slightly off tangent but what software + hardware are you using to remotely control your Mac mini? I'm testing out a similar setup using jump desktop and a 4k HDMI dummy I bought. It works but resolution is a bit lacking and I can't find a HDMI plug that will get it to the iPad native resolution. Also tried using sidecar but it's unreliable over wifi vs. jump desktop.

 

[cupcakes2000]

Hi - this might be slightly off tangent but what software + hardware are you using to remotely control your Mac mini? I'm testing out a similar setup using jump desktop and a 4k HDMI dummy I bought. It works but resolution is a bit lacking and I can't find a HDMI plug that will get it to the iPad native resolution. Also tried using sidecar but it's unreliable over wifi vs. jump desktop.

I’m using jump desktop to gain access and then sidecar. Agreed about the resolution of jump desktop, the optimised for ipad default isn’t great. Sidecar res is ideal though.

 

[tonyz123456]

Thanks good to know - looks like there's no better solution until Apple does something native.

 

[Chaparral02]

I have a windows gaming PC with 35" UW monitor and 2021 12.9 pro
I mainly use the 12.9 pro for when am in other rooms of the house to browse the internet, Youtube, Media etc

Am also thinking of buying a 11" pro for better portability for when i go out anywhere

 

[Davelfc]

For what I do I have come to realise that my iPad Pro 2021 12.9 with a magic keyboard has pretty much made my MacBook Pro redundant.

If it where not for the pathetic resale value I would sell it tomorrow, that and the scam artists.

 

[velo]

The notch on the new MBP has eliminated any lingering thoughts of getting a new MBP. Very happy I decided to go with the current 12.9. Hoping they don't stick a notch on these in the future!

 

[Ludatyk]

The notch on the new MBP has eliminated any lingering thoughts of getting a new MBP. Very happy I decided to go with the current 12.9. Hoping they don't stick a notch on these in the future!

I'm curious... do you have the iPhone? And I'm not trying to defend Apple here... but imo, the notch doesn't seem to obstruct the screen from looking at content.

 

[velo]

I'm curious... do you have the iPhone? And I'm not trying to defend Apple here... but imo, the notch doesn't seem to obstruct the screen from looking at content.

I do have a 12PM. Don’t like the notch there either haha. I put up with it because generally I’m not looking at it for a prolonged period of time.

With a “work” screen, hours on end, it would drive me mad.

 

[Hunter5117]

I just decided to go the other way, buying a 13" M1 MBP and if I like it I will sell my 12.9" iPad. I also have an 11" iPad and the 12.9 ends up being used as a laptop all the time anyways. There are some things I prefer on the iPad so I will see how this ends up. I also have a 16" MBP but I wanted to get my feet wet with the M-series chips and the new ones are more than I need until I get rid of the 16".

 

[tann]

Honestly unless you really want a touch screen and pencil get an M1 Air, the battery on the 12.9 is horrible compared to the laptops and they are severely gimped compared to a regular computer.

Not sure what software you use, but that might save you money and also work with everything you need.

 

[Jonathantuba]

I have been iPad Pro only for 3 years now as President of my own international business. I have an iMac I can use if need be in the office, but that is rarely required. I work 99+% doing everything with iPad Pro. The odd occasions I have to use the Mac tend to cause me frustration, and I will never go near if I can avoid. To me the Mac seems out of date, having to operate with a pointing device. I instinctively reach for the screen 😳

 

[xxray]

Any other input on this, especially on whether or not apps and Safari tabs refresh regularly, or if they stay loaded on the background?