iPad as a laptop replacement

[jmgregory1]

I’ve been using my iPad Pro (2018 12.9”) as my laptop replacement since iPadOS allowed for trackpad use. Prior to that, I used the iPP as my travel “laptop”, instead of lugging my 15” rMBP around with me. It wasn’t ideal, especially for spreadsheet creation / manipulation, as the half screen touch, half keyboard interaction was just so slow and clumsy. Even now with the Magic Keyboard, while at my desk, I’m using a Magic Trackpad 2 for most of my screen interactions, given I like the large size compared to the much smaller trackpad on the keyboard.

I will be getting the M1 12.9” 256gb cellular tomorrow, and passing my current iPP to my mother in law, who has been pining after the iPad Pro for the past year, as she’s wanted to simplify from her MacBook Air. So it’s a win win for both of us - I’ll get the new model and she’ll get what she’s wanted.

 

[mrklaw]

Lots of talk about office apps. How does eg word/excel iPad app compare to using word/excel online in safari or chrome? Does that give you access to more features?

 

[Digitalguy]

Lots of talk about office apps. How does eg word/excel iPad app compare to using word/excel online in safari or chrome? Does that give you access to more features?

not really.... for me it's even worse

 

[Ludatyk]

not really.... for me it's even worse

Worst? How so? I think Office apps compared to online Office is more responsive. Microsoft has done well trying to incorporate mouse support for the iPad.

Does that give you access to more features?

I honestly don’t think it provides more features.. I believe you get the same across the board, however… I could be wrong. I mostly use Office on the iPad, but there are rare cases I’ll need it online.

 

[sparksd]

Worst? How so? I think Office apps compared to online Office is more responsive. Microsoft has done well trying to incorporate mouse support for the iPad.


I honestly don’t think it provides more features.. I believe you get the same across the board, however… I could be wrong. I mostly use Office on the iPad, but there are rare cases I’ll need it online.

There are functional differences between the web-based apps and full Office365, e.g. with Word:

https://support.microsoft.com/en-us...e3-e82c-4211-8f97-5b33c36c55f8#__toc304841573

If you need full Office365 (as I do) then the iPad and web versions are both inadequate.

 

[Ludatyk]

There are functional differences between the web-based apps and full Office365, e.g. with Word:

https://support.microsoft.com/en-us...e3-e82c-4211-8f97-5b33c36c55f8#__toc304841573

If you need full Office365 (as I do) then the iPad and web versions are both inadequate.

The question at hand isn’t comparing full windows to web based Office, but Office iPad to web based Office.

 

[sparksd]

The question at hand isn’t comparing full windows to web based Office, but Office iPad to web based Office.

The limitations in the web version described in the link are very much like the same limitations on the iPad.

 

[Ludatyk]

The limitations in the web version described in the link are very much like the same limitations on the iPad.

I think you are missing the point. I said that features are the same across the board for iPad Office and web based Office.

My thoughts between those two differences… were responsiveness.

 

[Digitalguy]

Worst? How so? I think Office apps compared to online Office is more responsive. Microsoft has done well trying to incorporate mouse support for the iPad.


I honestly don’t think it provides more features.. I believe you get the same across the board, however… I could be wrong. I mostly use Office on the iPad, but there are rare cases I’ll need it online.

I meant that the web version doesn't really offer more, if anything it's worse than the iPad version, but I suspect that's not what you understood because my sentence was very short and maybe not very clear either...

 

[el-John-o]

I’ve been using my new M1 iPad Pro with Magic Keyboard for a couple of hours now. It’s the best 13” Laptop I’ve ever owned. Both as a laptop and as a tablet, it’s fantastic. And; sorry Apple; I DO reach up and touch the screen when I use it in laptop mode, and I like doing it!

Software support will always be what holds it back. If I could have full Adobe Lightroom, and full Premiere Pro; including the ability to connect to, import to, and edit off of external drives (I already do this with my laptop now; so the whole ‘portability’ thing is moot), then I’d be 100% set. I don’t think I’d really use my 2016 MacBook Pro much anymore.

As it is now, this is my portable computer. Just as my previous iPad Pro (first gen) was that this replaced. It’s what goes with me on airplanes, goes with me to other states/countries, etc. Because it does everything I want to do in a portable computer really really well. My 16” MacBook Pro rarely comes with me anywhere; and these days spends the vast majority of it’s time sitting on a desk attached to external storage and used for photo/video editing. And again, if I could genuinely do that with the iPad Pro (and the only reason is software; this iPad Pro has a faster CPU and GPU and much better display than my MacBook Pro), then it wouldn’t even fill that role anymore.

The day is coming when an iPad is genuinely the only computer you need. It’s not here yet, I don’t think; for a lot of content creators, developers, etc., but it’s coming!

 

[sparksd]

I meant that the web version doesn't really offer more, if anything it's worse than the iPad version, but I suspect that's not what you understood because my sentence was very short and maybe not very clear either...

Yeah, I thought the conversation was regarding functionality. Unfortunately, both versions are really inadequate for a lot of tasks and I doubt MS is much interested in improving either one. Processing power has not been a limiter so the M1 doesn't change the equation.

 

[arian71]

I have a ipad pro 2nd gen 12.9 and is great as media consumer , but had macbook pro M1 for a week, first time user of MacOS and really really blown away at how much better macbook is at just browsing the net, youtube experience. The only thing hold me back is the screen . Hopefully the next macbook machine will be a brighter screen.

 

[el-John-o]

Yeah, I thought the conversation was regarding functionality. Unfortunately, both versions are really inadequate for a lot of tasks and I doubt MS is much interested in improving either one. Processing power has not been a limiter so the M1 doesn't change the equation.

This exactly.

The M1 is impressive because it means an iPad is one of the fastest portable computers you can buy at any price point. It’s faster than top-tier mobile i7 and i9 CPU’s from Intel and even most of their desktop CPU’s (in single and lightly threaded tasks).

But, for the last several years the iPad has always been amongst the top of the heap. It‘s always been as powerful as a mid-range to high-end notebook. Software developers have just not been motivated to incorporate full functionality into their apps.

 

[purdnost]

I replaced a desktop and laptop computer with a 12.9-inch iPad Pro a few years ago and never looked back. For me, the iPad doesn’t pose any limitations. I mainly use it for Lightroom, internet browsing, music, and other basic apps. I much prefer a touchscreen over a keyboard/trackpad. Interacting with the iPad as opposed to a laptop or desktop computer is just more of a joy for me.

 

[rukind2]

I choose the above quotes just for representation of the ongoing discussion/rants/comment/etc. about Laptop and iPads (*emphasis in the quotes is mine).

That out of the way: as always, all this written by others and what I’m writing here now is personal opinion/usage scenario, isn’? Apparently it is difficult for some people to imagine and to accept that there are quite a lot people out there who, by having completely other personal requirements regarding iPads, get things done. My educated guess is, that’s the silent majority 🤓

Before now someone throws additional scenarios around which perchance are not possible on iPadOs - yes, you are probably right. But then there are the other usage cases where a 2020 iPad Pro is pushed to it’s limits and the new 2021 configurations are eagerly awaited.

That you - for personal reasons - can’t “imagine” or “do not have the desire” has no meaning to many if not most.

would it be great to get additional “pro”-software on the iPad? Yes. Bug fixes? Of course. Additional features which I can imagine but will as a surprise fit perfectly in my workflow? Please.

But for what I bought an iPP in 2020 this probably has not much impact. I bought it because it did things I do e.g. faster for a lower price than most MacBooks at the time (I know that argument is futile in 2021, but I have more than that reason to use an iPP 😎). And I ordered one of the new 2021 ones because I sometimes actually push the 2020 iPP to it’s limits. Yep, hardware wise. What I need software wise is there… or there is an app for that. 🙃🙂

I’m glad you took time to reply. This forum is about expression of opinions, sharing experiences, and community. There is no need to denigrate other opinions that you don’t agree with.

 

[limesmoothie]

I’ve been using my new M1 iPad Pro with Magic Keyboard for a couple of hours now. It’s the best 13” Laptop I’ve ever owned. Both as a laptop and as a tablet, it’s fantastic. And; sorry Apple; I DO reach up and touch the screen when I use it in laptop mode, and I like doing it!

Software support will always be what holds it back. If I could have full Adobe Lightroom, and full Premiere Pro; including the ability to connect to, import to, and edit off of external drives (I already do this with my laptop now; so the whole ‘portability’ thing is moot), then I’d be 100% set. I don’t think I’d really use my 2016 MacBook Pro much anymore.

As it is now, this is my portable computer. Just as my previous iPad Pro (first gen) was that this replaced. It’s what goes with me on airplanes, goes with me to other states/countries, etc. Because it does everything I want to do in a portable computer really really well. My 16” MacBook Pro rarely comes with me anywhere; and these days spends the vast majority of it’s time sitting on a desk attached to external storage and used for photo/video editing. And again, if I could genuinely do that with the iPad Pro (and the only reason is software; this iPad Pro has a faster CPU and GPU and much better display than my MacBook Pro), then it wouldn’t even fill that role anymore.

The day is coming when an iPad is genuinely the only computer you need. It’s not here yet, I don’t think; for a lot of content creators, developers, etc., but it’s coming!

I’m at the stage where I’m seriously thinking of elbowing the MBA (maybe replace with an iMac at home), then just use the iPad on the go. I’m only using Office/Productivity apps, so if Apple can get the monitor support sorted, the MBA might be going on eBay.

 

[Surfman]

Selling my late 2015 27” iMac FD tomorrow, will be using my new 12.9” iPad Pro only, it’s faster and nicer to use. See how I go if no good will get the new 24” iMac.

 

[SpitUK]

I am getting my 5G 2021 12.9” iPad Pro 1Tb tomorrow with magic keyboard. It is going to replace my 11” iPad Pro and MBA M1 and become my only mobile computer. I have a 16Gb Mac Mini M1 as my desktop machine. I always leave my Mac Mini switched on so can you recommend any screen sharing apps that would let me use my iPad to access my Mac when I am away from my desk?

 

[DaveOZ]

Why Apple stop the Back to my Mac remote connection? Would be perfect for these new iPads.

 

[frevali]

I am getting my 5G 2021 12.9” iPad Pro 1Tb tomorrow with magic keyboard. It is going to replace my 11” iPad Pro and MBA M1 and become my only mobile computer. I have a 16Gb Mac Mini M1 as my desktop machine. I always leave my Mac Mini switched on so can you recommend any screen sharing apps that would let me use my iPad to access my Mac when I am away from my desk?

Jump Desktop is the screen sharing app I use for this purpose. Works really well.

 

[SpitUK]

Jump Desktop is the screen sharing app I use for this purpose. Works really well.

Thanks, the reviews are awesome.

 

[Surfman]

I am all in for now.

 

[bluespider]

I have to admit, I went back and forth on this the whole time I waited; anticipated, dreamed of my new M1 12.9 1TB arriving. Now that it is finally here, I couldn’t be happier. I have a 2018 11” that I will keep for handheld reading and such but the 12.9 meets and exceeds my expectations. It is so much more comfortable in the lap than my 16” MBP and handles all my regular tasks (I am not an artist so no drawing or film processing). This will easily be my daily driver if only for that screen

I have the MKB and it is fantastic. I can’t wait to see what iPadOS 15 brings to enhance the experience. I just have to say that from a pure form factor, it is fantastic as my 2016 MPB 16” replacement. Each Apple device is designed to fulfill certain needs and for me, it certainly does.

 

[SpitUK]

I have to admit, I went back and forth on this the whole time I waited; anticipated, dreamed of my new M1 12.9 1TB arriving. Now that it is finally here, I couldn’t be happier. I have a 2018 11” that I will keep for handheld reading and such but the 12.9 meets and exceeds my expectations. It is so much more comfortable in the lap than my 16” MBP and handles all my regular tasks (I am not an artist so no drawing or film processing). This will easily be my daily driver if only for that screen

I have the MKB and it is fantastic. I can’t wait to see what iPadOS 15 brings to enhance the experience. I just have to say that from a pure form factor, it is fantastic as my 2016 MPB 16” replacement. Each Apple device is designed to fulfill certain needs and for me, it certainly does.

Brilliant. What apps do you use?

 

[milgauss88]

I am getting my 5G 2021 12.9” iPad Pro 1Tb tomorrow with magic keyboard. It is going to replace my 11” iPad Pro and MBA M1 and become my only mobile computer.

Anything in particular about the MBA + 11 combo that didn’t work for you? The 12.9 has been a laptop replacement for me for over a year but now I’ve had the M1 MBA & IPP 11 for a week, I’m really beginning to like the combo. Having not touched MacOS for nearly 2 years, I understand why so many are reluctant / unable to make the iPad a laptop replacement.