Can the 2020 iPad Replace Laptops? A Deeper Dive
The 2020 iPad model has introduced a new wave of excitement as it has been equipped with Apple's M1 chip, traditionally reserved for MacBooks. This raises an intriguing question: can the iPad Pro truly replace laptops? The answer, however, is more nuanced and depends on several factors.
Powerhouses in Your Pocket
The latest iPad Pro, bolstered by the M1 chip, demonstrates a significant leap in performance. This makes it more than just a tablet, blurring the lines between a laptop and a tablet. In theory, with such powerful computing capabilities, it becomes plausible to envision a scenario where the iPad could take on many tasks typically reserved for laptops. Nonetheless, this does not necessarily mean that it will fully replace laptops.
Love your iPad 9th generation, but realize that it cannot serve as a complete replacement for your MacBook. Many hardware and software limitations still prevail, making the iPad less suitable for certain use cases compared to laptops.
Software Capabilities and Compatibility
Software plays a critical role in determining whether an iPad can replace a laptop. Many applications are cross-platform, designed to function well on both devices. Generic applications like office suites, video calling apps, drawing/notetaking apps, web browsing, web streaming, and more, can run on an iPad without issue.
However, there are some applications that are deeply rooted in specific operating systems and industries. Certain professional tools, such as CAD software, animation software, IDEs, and games, require specialized hardware and software environments. In these scenarios, an iPad, due to its limitations, stands out as less ideal than a laptop.
Performance vs. Versatility
Performance is just one aspect that differentiates tablets from laptops. The iPad, despite its improvements in performance, loses several key advantages that laptops offer. For instance, a 3000 i3 laptop with an SSD drive is likely to have superior connectivity, portability, and upgradability. Laptops support a vast array of external devices, including keyboards, mice, displays, and external hard drives, smoothly and efficiently.
The iPad, while supporting Thunderbolt drive connections, struggles with mouse support. Most external mice and drives require specific formatting and do not guarantee full access. Furthermore, the iPad lacks industry-standard software applications, such as Premiere Pro, FCPX, VS Code, Android Studio, FL Studio, AutoCAD, and more. These applications are crucial for professionals in various fields and cannot be replaced by iPad apps.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while the iPad, especially the 2020 model with the M1 chip, offers significant advancements in performance, it is not yet a full substitute for laptops. The iPad excels in tasks that do not require specialized hardware or specific operating system requirements. However, for tasks that demand robust performance, seamless multitasking, or access to industry-standard software, a laptop remains the better choice. The iPad and laptop will continue to coexist, each serving its unique purpose in the digital landscape.