Choosing the Right iPad for High School Students: 64 GB vs 128 GB vs iPad Pro

When choosing an iPad for high school, the decision between 64 GB and 128 GB, or even waiting for a newer model like the iPad Pro, is a common consideration. This article will help you make an informed decision based on the needs and usage patterns of a high school student.

Why 64 GB Might Not Be Enough

Many modern apps and cloud services necessitate a significant amount of storage. High school students often use a variety of applications such as note-taking apps (like GoodNotes or Notability), productivity tools (such as Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Excel), and music streaming services (like Spotify) on their iPads. These apps and services rapidly consume storage space, and a 64 GB iPad might fill up quickly, leaving limited space for other essential files and updates.

Personal Experience and Advice

Based on personal experience, a 64 GB iPad is often insufficient. For instance, I typically recommend at least 128 GB and even 256 GB for a smooth user experience. Trying to manage with less storage requires frequent deletions and management, which can be cumbersome and time-consuming. If your primary needs are email communication, online browsing, research, and streaming content, a 64 GB iPad Air 4 might suffice if used sparingly. However, given the future demands that high schoolers might face, waiting for the iPad Pro 128 GB is often a better choice.

Why iPad Pro 128 GB is Recommended

The iPad Pro offers superior processing power and more storage, making it a more future-proof choice for high school students. With an 128 GB iPad Pro, you can avoid the pitfalls of running out of storage prematurely. Coupled with advanced features and better performance, the iPad Pro 128 GB ensures a more enjoyable and efficient learning experience. For instance, high schoolers might need to download and work on large files, such as research papers, presentations, and multimedia projects, which can quickly fill up a smaller storage capacity.

Alternatives and Considerations

For those on a tight budget, buying a near-mint used iPad on eBay or similar platforms can be a cost-effective solution. However, it's crucial to ensure that the device meets your current and future requirements. If upgrading your storage needs or capabilities in the future is a priority, the iPad Pro 128 GB or 256 GB might be the better long-term investment.

Conclusion

For the duration of high school, an iPad Air 4 64 GB might be barely enough, especially considering the rapid consumption of storage space by various apps and services. While it's possible to wait for the iPad Pro 128 GB, the higher storage capacity and better performance may offer a more sustainable and enjoyable learning experience. Ultimately, the choice depends on your specific needs, budget, and expected future requirements. Whether you choose an iPad Air 4 256 GB or an iPad Pro 128 GB, thoroughly evaluate your usage patterns to ensure you make the right decision for your high school journey.

Note: The availability and storage capacity may vary based on the region and time of purchase.