Choosing Between a Laptop and iPad Pro 2018 for a Business Major: A Comprehensive Guide
As a business major student, you're often in a tight spot when it comes to deciding which gadget to buy. Two options commonly arise: a laptop or an iPad Pro 2018 (with the Magic Keyboard). This guide aims to help you make an informed decision based on your requirements, budget, and ease of use.
Why a Laptop Might Be the Best Choice
When considering the laptop as your primary tool, there are several compelling reasons to choose it over the iPad Pro 2018. Laptops are renowned for their flexibility in software usage, spacious storage, file manipulation, ease of typing, and expansion capabilities. Furthermore, you can purchase a high-quality laptop with a wide range of features for a relatively lower price.
Laptop as the Ultimate Solution
A well-configured laptop can offer a better value for money, especially if you're looking for additional features such as a 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD, and a 4TB external hard drive. Additionally, a variety of accessories and external storage solutions can be added, making a laptop a versatile and robust option for a business student.
Example of a High-Value Laptop
For instance, an Asus UX501VW laptop with touchscreen, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD, and an expansion hub with a 4TB external hard drive can be purchased for under $600. You can pair it with a software suite like Microsoft Office to enhance your productivity. This combination offers a long-term investment with room for growth and customization.
When the iPad Pro 2018 Might Be the Best Fit
While a laptop is generally the preferred choice, the iPad Pro 2018 (with Magic Keyboard) is a powerful device that can handle heavy tasks. However, it comes with a higher price tag. If you are already invested in the iPad ecosystem and find it much more intuitive to use, then the iPad Pro 2018 may be the right choice for you.
Cost Considerations
The iPad Pro 2018 is an expensive device, especially when considering its age. A 64GB Wi-Fi version with the Magic Keyboard costs around ?75000. This price is significantly higher for a 3-year-old tablet, especially if you prefer more powerful features and longer-lasting performance. If your budget allows, however, the iPad Pro 2018 offers a great combination of portability, display quality, and functionality for tasks such as gaming, entertainment, and presentations.
Recommendations for Business Students
For a business student who needs a reliable and affordable device, a traditional PC from brands like Lenovo, Asus, or Acer is a better option. These PCs are lightweight, compatible with the latest Windows operating systems (Windows 10 or 11 Pro), and can be easily upgraded to meet your growing needs.
Specific Recommendations
Consider a 13-inch laptop with at least 256GB storage, ideally with Windows 10 or 11 Pro. This ensures you have sufficient space for your work and can download additional software as needed. These devices are generally less expensive, making them more suitable for students who have a defined workload to manage.
In Conclusion
The choice between a laptop and the iPad Pro 2018 ultimately comes down to your specific needs, budget, and preference. If you need flexibility, a wide range of software options, and greater storage and expandability, a laptop is likely the better choice. On the other hand, if you are already familiar with the iPad ecosystem and find it more user-friendly, the iPad Pro 2018 can be a powerful tool for your business studies.
Takeaway
Discuss your requirements with your educational institution to ensure that the device you choose supports any apps or software that might be required. A carefully selected laptop is generally the most robust and flexible solution for a business major student in 2023, providing the best balance of features, performance, and cost.