20 reasons why I'm done with iPad

[maflynn]

So much trolling in here from people who can't stand cons of any product they own.

Seems more like you're unwilling to accept that you're negatives are not everyone's negatives. People have disagreed with the list of disadvantages you posted yet you seem unwilling to accept that your list is opinions and not fact. No on is ruining the thread, but rather like you, giving their opinion.

I get that you don't think the iPad has arrived yet in form and function to do the things you thought it should by now, but you're projecting that opinion on everyone and making it like what you wrote is fact and that's simply not the case.

As others have said, in various forms, one size does not fit all. What you like and works for you, may not work for everyone and vice versa.

 

[bnmcj1]

Seems more like you're unwilling to accept that you're negatives are not everyone's negatives. People have disagreed with the list of disadvantages you posted yet you seem unwilling to accept that your list is opinions and not fact. No on is ruining the thread, but rather like you, giving their opinion.

I get that you don't think the iPad has arrived yet in form and function to do the things you thought it should by now, but you're projecting that opinion on everyone and making it like what you wrote is fact and that's simply not the case.

As others have said, in various forms, one size does not fit all. What you like and works for you, may not work for everyone and vice versa.

Many have agreed with the list or points as well, and I don't mind the disagreeing opinions. There are just way too many posts bringing nothing to the thread, but no point of arguing further as they don't seem aware of the opportunities for iPad for other people with e.g. small enterprise needs. While I accept their consumer needs, they seem unwilling to accept that other people have other needs outside pure consumption and consumerism.

 

[The-Real-Deal82]

Many have agreed with the list or points as well, and I don't mind the disagreeing opinions. There are just way too many posts bringing nothing to the thread, but no point of arguing further as they don't seem aware of the opportunities for iPad for other people with e.g. small enterprise needs. While I accept their consumer needs, they seem unwilling to accept that other people have other needs outside pure consumption and consumerism.

Maybe your points should be aimed more at the iPad Pro? That is the device that is designed for more professional usage. The standard iPads serve the purpose. I don't want to see prices skyrocket like we're potentially about to see with the iPhone. The iPad is a family friendly device.

 

[akash.nu]

Many have agreed with the list or points as well, and I don't mind the disagreeing opinions. There are just way too many posts bringing nothing to the thread, but no point of arguing further as they don't seem aware of the opportunities for iPad for other people with e.g. small enterprise needs. While I accept their consumer needs, they seem unwilling to accept that other people have other needs outside pure consumption and consumerism.

From the perspective of Small enterprise, it really depends on the business model and what one does within the business. These days I use my iPad as a business horse when I'm out and about instead of my MacBook Air. I've hardly ever faced a situation where I needed something to do that I can't achieve with my iPad, when I'm out and about.

My MacBook Air stays at home and I can travel freely without having to carry a bulkier bag.

 

[bruinsrme]

I have tried almost every iPad (also mini and pro) since iPad 3 (2012 ish?), and I have used iPad as my primary computer since finishing my degree in the beginnning of 2016 (kept a laptop and have work laptop as well though).



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UPDATED WITH MORE REASONS:

All in all I agree with your assessment. especially the office apps. They are pitiful at best.

 

[spiderman0616]

Many have agreed with the list or points as well, and I don't mind the disagreeing opinions. There are just way too many posts bringing nothing to the thread, but no point of arguing further as they don't seem aware of the opportunities for iPad for other people with e.g. small enterprise needs. While I accept their consumer needs, they seem unwilling to accept that other people have other needs outside pure consumption and consumerism.

I use my iPad Pro for all of my work and consumption needs. That includes:

Recording podcasts
Writing and recording music
Creating Office and iWork documents
Long form writing (using Apple Smart Keyboard)
Sketching/Drawing/Painting/etc. using Apple Pencil
Email (both work and personal)
Keeping track of and updating projects in Salesforce
Creating and submitting expense reports
Making and receiving calls (work and personal)
Scanning, printing, marking up, and signing documents

The list is longer than this and I do all these things without feeling like I'm compromising. In fact, when I do any of these things on my Mac, it's starting to feel like "the old way".

Am I doing something wrong here? It seems like you think my iPad Pro is just not suitable for all the things I'm using it for. Maybe I just haven't realized the error of my ways yet. Ah well.....some day I'll see the light I suppose and go back to full time laptop use. But as of right now, that sounds horrid.

By the way, I typed this whole post with absolute ease using the 10.5" iPad Pro's onscreen keyboard.

 

[TinaBelcher]

It all comes down to your own personal experience and need for the device you're using.

I remember buying the iPad Air in December 2013 with the intention of using it as laptop but was left disappointed and regretful with my purchase. after having used iPad for almost 4 years I've finally ordered the pro 12.9. Why? Because I actually don't want to use my laptop anymore. I still need it and will continue to use it for certain things such as school, downloading etc, but I don't enjoy it. iOS has come a long way and iOS 11 will make the iPad experience even better. I enjoy the fact that iPad is so simple to use to the tip of your finger. Random comparison but thing of microwaved noodles vs boiling noodles in a pot, lol. Does that make me sound lazy? Probably. Whenever I use my laptop it feels like Groundhog Day. I cannot wait for iOS to continue to evolve it into a "laptop" without making the software heavy.

I do understand where you're coming from, and you should be happy that you still have love for your computer. Nothing will beat the functionality of a real computer! iPad's poorly writing experience on Word/Pages and no ability to download a MP3 file is what bugs me the most.

 

[Geekbabe]

I agree totally, my iPad, iPhone & rMBP are companion devices. My MacBook lives on my desk, my iPhone goes everywhere & my iPad does too. I have cancer, having a device that is easy to hold is important. Also I sit on the porch a lot, dragging a laptop outside is not something I am willing to do, iPad works perfectly for this!

 

[maflynn]

they seem unwilling to accept that other people have other needs outside pure consumption and consumerism.

I think that's point you're unwilling to accept; many people have successfully used the iPad for content creation, not just consumption. I hate to beat a dead horse, but just because it doesn't work for you, means it fails to work for everyone.

 

[spac3duck]

I have tried almost every iPad (also mini and pro) since iPad 3 (2012 ish?), and I have used iPad as my primary computer since finishing my degree in the beginnning of 2016 (kept a laptop and have work laptop as well though).

But here are the reasons why I think people should ask themselves if they really do need or want an iPad at this time - and also the reasons why I am simply done after trying to make it a laptop alternative through years.

1. iPad is in my opinion a very bad consumption experience except for reading - and for reading e-ink is better. Regarding browsing see p. 5 below. Even for videos I miss infinity angle as a laptop and even the screen size on iPad Pro 12.9 is a little small for video with 4:3 ratio. BLACK BAR HELL HELLO. And then again the 12.9 is bad for many for reading and provides gorilla arm for desktop use.

2. It is a third device to maintain and upgrade once in a while.

3. Since release of iPad we've had some great fanless laptops with great battery as well as bigger phones which negates the need for iPad

4. Things take too long on an iPad except maybe photo editing.

5. Browsing experience is very bad if you - like me - hate mobile optimized websites. And NO, I won't use some third party browser.

6. You have to hold it. No really. Think about it. If you are not holding it, it is even more a pain to use. Kickstand anyone? (though I will not buy a Surface either)

7. Developers have not released its potential yet and there are still many unoptimized apps for pro versions which don't take advantage of the screen real estate or power

8. You still need a laptop and if you really think of it, you may not also need an iPad

9. New models are very expensive

10. Things take too long on an iPad

11. Things just take too long

12. Things take way too long. Try download your tax information, retirement information etc., make a budget, draft an email and setup a meeting (with bank in this case). Takes FOREVER on an iPad. Few minutes on a laptop.

13. Simple things take too long

14. Things take too long even though the device is fast. It is the workflows of it all.

15. You may be better off with a laptop and phone combo

16. Complicated things take too long

17. On screen keyboard covers much of the screen

18. iPads are in my opinion not great for work except drawing

19. Even office apps - the most basic personal computer apps from way back - are not comparable to full PC versions and a pain to use with external keyboard and no trackpad

20. In a few years a 2-1 combo or iPad itself should be more ready. Don't put up with having to own that many devices in 2017

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UPDATED WITH MORE REASONS:

21. Multitasking is so bad compared to a laptop

22. Connectivity is bad and USB C should be the port

23. The mouse/trackpad is a big missing part for anything work related

24. Charging is slow and the quick charger should come with it

25. The camera bump is not a sensible disposition

26. The Smart Keyboard is okay to type on, but stupidly one angled, and I would not call it full size on the 10.5 inch

27. The raw power is still behind the best laptops

28. Memory is still limited even with 4 GB. I would say we should hit at least 8 GB for acceptable memory at the price

29. Many apps are first on phones. Even well established apps on iPhones are not on iPads years after iPhone

30. The 10.5 is heavier than 9.7 inch without bringing enough useful to the table to compensate for the weight. The screen isn't that much bigger

31. Tablets are limited by lack of competition from Android or MS side

32. They should have OLED screen for the price by now

33. The ppi is not high enough when you are used to phones

34. Games are underdeveloped and do not reach PC level entertainment

35. I dislike freemium

36. The pro's almost doubled the price and left no real alternative for previous Air 2 buyers that do not need a pro

There are a lot more reasons...

Over 1/3rd of your list of opinions is related to the perception of time and how fast someone should be able to accomplish a task.

 

[ericwn]

Don't forget accessories like keyboard and case. For all you are almost at laptop costs.

Don't forget to get a fancy bag to carry the laptop around too. Accessories are very personal choices and not everyone goes down the same path.

 

[bnmcj1]

Over 1/3rd of your list of opinions is related to the perception of time and how fast someone should be able to accomplish a task.

Untrue. See updated list.

 

[spac3duck]

Untrue. See updated list.

If it makes you feel better, I’ll ‘update’ my comment in light of your ‘updated list’.

Fact:
35% of the opinionated reasons, listed by the OP in their ‘original’ list, are related to the same issue; the perception of time and how fast someone should be able to accomplish a task.

Now, how about you update the title of the thread to reflect what this post actually is about? Here's an example:
“36 opinionated reasons why I’m done with iPad”.

Otherwise, let's conclude this thread and allow you to move over to the appropriate forum here or here.

 

[bnmcj1]

If it makes you feel better, I’ll ‘update’ my comment in light of your ‘updated list’.

Fact:
35% of the opinionated reasons, listed by the OP in their ‘original’ list, are related to the same issue; the perception of time and how fast someone should be able to accomplish a task.

Now, how about you update the title of the thread to reflect what this post actually is about? Here's an example:
“36 opinionated reasons why I’m done with iPad”.

Otherwise, let's conclude this thread and allow you to move over to the appropriate forum here or here.

Fact: It does not matter if some points are alike, as there are plenty other reasons, and as stated before, it was only rhetorical, you know - repetitions, humor and such.

Fact is that you did not have your facts correct.

 

[spesifikbrush]

I always prefer my iPad Pro for watching videos, browsing the internet, some light gaming, writing, messaging, drawing, note taking etc. It is the ultimate device for me. I only have a MacBook Pro because I’m studying Software Engineering. It fits right into my messenger bag, I can pull it out and use it everywhere, easily. I’m even considering to get ASK, because I do typing a lot.

And, since I moved into a dorm, I don’t have to worry about the safety of my iPad. Because, I take it everywhere with me. It’s that portable.

 

[masotime]

The OP has conveniently ignored my post where I evaluated each one of his points (I actually bothered to agree with a few) and asked for further clarifications.

Thus, I have conveniently ignored the OP, which has the very pleasant side effect of hiding any threads started by the OP.

I recommend others do the same. There are more rational ways to discuss the pros and cons of the iPad Pro in professional use, but feeding this thread is not it. Out of sight, out of mind, let the troll die and open a more fruitful discussion / thread.

 

[bnmcj1]

The OP has conveniently ignored my post where I evaluated each one of his points (I actually bothered to agree with a few) and asked for further clarifications.

Thus, I have conveniently ignored the OP, which has the very pleasant side effect of hiding any threads started by the OP.

I recommend others do the same. There are more rational ways to discuss the pros and cons of the iPad Pro in professional use, but feeding this thread is not it. Out of sight, out of mind, let the troll die and open a more fruitful discussion / thread.

Did not have the time to respond to everybody, but would very much like to as there have been many great points also about what iPad does well.

What I would like to know now is if iPhone X or 8 (plus) will make anyone ditch their iPad?

I have been iPad free for quite some time now, and I must admit that I miss one thing: battery life streaming video (though I do not miss the 4:3 screen for video).

 

[Abazigal]

Did not have the time to respond to everybody, but would very much like to as there have been many great points also about what iPad does well.

What I would like to know now is if iPhone X or 8 (plus) will make anyone ditch their iPad?

I have been iPad free for quite some time now, and I must admit that I miss one thing: battery life streaming video (though I do not miss the 4:3 screen for video).

Doubt so. My iPad is essentially an extension of my iPhone (in that I run largely the same apps on both devices), but each is used in its own unique ways. My iPad for when I am in the classroom, my phone for when I am on the move or in a situation where the iPad is not feasible (say I am standing in the train).

With iOS 11, they complement each other even better than before.

 

[Altis]

Many of the points can be made to tablets in general, not just the iPad.

I do agree with pretty well all of it though.

I don't like using a tiny screen that the keyboard takes up half of, having to hold it, the ergonomics in general.

Things do take much longer on the iPad than on a laptop. Even selecting text can be quite frustrating. iOS is full of input-blocking, refresh/reloads, etc.

Also can't be docked to larger monitor + mouse, use many USB devices, and needs a "workaround" for so many simple tasks that just aren't an issue on a laptop. It's only just now getting some semblance of a file/folder access and cumbersome 'multitasking'.

I can see the iPad being good for some purposes for sure, like using on transit, FaceTime, drawing/art, etc... though not nearly enough for me to get another one. I find either my phone or laptop/desktop can do pretty well any task more efficiently for me.

 

[ivassilis]

I constantly use my iPad mini 2 to advance my Pocket list, read a couple of magazines, watch vidcasts and stored netflix shows, usually when commuting or when in home. Indeed, I prefer my Kobo reader when in bed and I seldom reach for the iPad to do basic stuff, but it still holds a nice position in my workflow, a niche product if you will that is not covered by my iPhone 7 or the MacBook pro and that will occasionally surprise me with a nice app built for a big touch display. Will not update often and do not see regular work done on it though.

 

[throAU]

on the flip side with the pencil and smart keyboard i've ditched my laptop and am mostly ipad plus phone and desktop now.

it does the mobile stuff mostly better than a laptop with better battery life, better portability, can also do stuff the laptop can't do, and the desktop does heavy work better than the laptop.

combine that with the ridiculous pricing on the current macbook pro line and it's a no brainer for me.

edit the "keyboard takes up half the screen" complaint is easily solved with a cover. as is the "need to hold it" complaint.

 

[kristalsoldier]

I have tried almost every iPad (also mini and pro) since iPad 3 (2012 ish?), and I have used iPad as my primary computer since finishing my degree in the beginnning of 2016 (kept a laptop and have work laptop as well though).

But here are the reasons why I think people should ask themselves if they really do need or want an iPad at this time - and also the reasons why I am simply done after trying to make it a laptop alternative through years.

1. iPad is in my opinion a very bad consumption experience except for reading - and for reading e-ink is better. Regarding browsing see p. 5 below. Even for videos I miss infinity angle as a laptop and even the screen size on iPad Pro 12.9 is a little small for video with 4:3 ratio. BLACK BAR HELL HELLO. And then again the 12.9 is bad for many for reading and provides gorilla arm for desktop use.

2. It is a third device to maintain and upgrade once in a while.

3. Since release of iPad we've had some great fanless laptops with great battery as well as bigger phones which negates the need for iPad

4. Things take too long on an iPad except maybe photo editing.

5. Browsing experience is very bad if you - like me - hate mobile optimized websites. And NO, I won't use some third party browser.

6. You have to hold it. No really. Think about it. If you are not holding it, it is even more a pain to use. Kickstand anyone? (though I will not buy a Surface either)

7. Developers have not released its potential yet and there are still many unoptimized apps for pro versions which don't take advantage of the screen real estate or power

8. You still need a laptop and if you really think of it, you may not also need an iPad

9. New models are very expensive

10. Things take too long on an iPad

11. Things just take too long

12. Things take way too long. Try download your tax information, retirement information etc., make a budget, draft an email and setup a meeting (with bank in this case). Takes FOREVER on an iPad. Few minutes on a laptop.

13. Simple things take too long

14. Things take too long even though the device is fast. It is the workflows of it all.

15. You may be better off with a laptop and phone combo

16. Complicated things take too long

17. On screen keyboard covers much of the screen

18. iPads are in my opinion not great for work except drawing

19. Even office apps - the most basic personal computer apps from way back - are not comparable to full PC versions and a pain to use with external keyboard and no trackpad

20. In a few years a 2-1 combo or iPad itself should be more ready. Don't put up with having to own that many devices in 2017

*****************************
UPDATED WITH MORE REASONS:

21. Multitasking is so bad compared to a laptop

22. Connectivity is bad and USB C should be the port

23. The mouse/trackpad is a big missing part for anything work related

24. Charging is slow and the quick charger should come with it

25. The camera bump is not a sensible disposition

26. The Smart Keyboard is okay to type on, but stupidly one angled, and I would not call it full size on the 10.5 inch

27. The raw power is still behind the best laptops

28. Memory is still limited even with 4 GB. I would say we should hit at least 8 GB for acceptable memory at the price

29. Many apps are first on phones. Even well established apps on iPhones are not on iPads years after iPhone

30. The 10.5 is heavier than 9.7 inch without bringing enough useful to the table to compensate for the weight. The screen isn't that much bigger

31. Tablets are limited by lack of competition from Android or MS side

32. They should have OLED screen for the price by now

33. The ppi is not high enough when you are used to phones

34. Games are underdeveloped and do not reach PC level entertainment

35. I dislike freemium

36. The pro's almost doubled the price and left no real alternative for previous Air 2 buyers that do not need a pro

There are a lot more reasons...

Sounds like you are talking about the more generic tablet category than about the iPad specifically.

As for me, the 3-device workflow works the best. So the tablet is an important device for me.

 

[stlredbird]

The only things i need my laptop for that i cant use my ipad for are too stressing for a thin (comparable size to ipad; macbook, macbook air) laptop can do. Graphics software and gaming. So i use my ipad every day for work (notes, illustrating, a lot of design before i finalize on my laptop), entertainment, web browsing, etc. Love my 12.9.

I will grant you, before the 12.9 and apple pencil came out i did no work on it, it was only a consumption device, but now it has certainly been more than worth the cost for me.

 

[Leo90]

To be honest, I think the OP never really used an iPad. But if you did use one, you totally misunderstood the purpose of the device which in this case is not for you. But in my case, the iPad Pro 10.5 totally replaced my MacBook with the addded benefit of being really fast, light and actually quite fun to work with. The iPad is extremely reliable and always ready whenever I need it being it a word document, excel spreadsheet, scientific paper or for gaming.

 

[IPadNParadise]

Here are my thoughts:
1. In 2015 I bought the very best MacBook Pro offered in a 15” version at that time. I thought I was going to get more heavily involved in photography than I really have. It replaced a perfectly good 2012 MBP gifted to my sweet granddaughter) While this 2015 MBP is certainly still useful, it is quickly on the road toward being outdated. And it was really over my budget at $3000+. I sure don’t want to have to buy another.
2. I just updated my iPad Air 2 with a 12.9” gen 2 and don’t ever mind updating my iPad when Apple comes out with a worthy update even if that be once a year. I spend a lot of my day on my iPad doing many things including using Affinity Photo.
3. I only use my MBP when it is something I need that my iPad won’t do, I don’t enjoy using it as much as I do my iPad. I have a few years left on the MBP before forced retirement and therefore I have faith that Apple will continue to boost the capabilities because I don’t plan to replace my MBP. There is a nagging thought tho, that I don’t know why Apple would push the need for a Macbook out or at least lower the volume of sales. Maybe even tho lower price in the iPad, the volume of sales that could be obtained thru true MacBook replacement with an iPad. And for the heavy hitters, there also will continue to be the need for those higher priced Macs, making up for future very low MBP sales.