Laptops and iPads are, without a doubt, convenient devices, and these devices help bring the world to your fingertips. Anyhow, you may sometimes choose between a laptop and an iPad. So, you have to consider a laptop vs. an iPad is better for you?
Both a laptop and iPad come with their benefits. Therefore, you must think about your needs. Normally, laptops are preferred for their strong processors – letting them work faster and multitask, and iPads are ideal for those who want portability.
Difference Between An iPad And a Laptop
Laptops and iPads will let you do the same thing. You can open the web, access apps, and work using MS Word or Excel software using these devices. However, the two devices still hold vast differences. These devices hold contrasts in size, storage space, version, etc. To virtually uncover their contrasts, you want to look at their key features. These have;
Size
IPads are smaller than laptops. The smaller sizes, iPads also weigh less than laptops. Further, an iPad weighs about 2 to 3 lbs, while a laptop weighs 5 lbs. Yet, the size difference between the two devices brings its uses. Being small and lightweight, iPads are portable and compact, making them ideal for people who are often on the go or travel a lot.
Laptops tend to be bigger because of both their physical and performance components. A laptop must be large-sized to combine a keyboard, cursor, and even a larger screen.
Design
IPads feature a touch screen interface design, making them difficult to use if you type a lot. A touch screen interface works best for those who want to navigate the device. For example, if you use the device for social media or to watch videos, a keyboard isn’t necessary.
Sure, an iPad offers an on-screen keyboard option. But, this is not close to what you will get when you use full-sized laptop keyboards. After all, even with an on-screen keyboard, you will still have to deal with the smaller, restrictive iPad size.
Storage
All about iPads involves low-cost design. The low-cost design is what helps keep their costs down. Thus, iPads have smaller storage space due to their smaller functioning capacity. IPads use a solid-state storage memory to help store their data and program. So, in general, an iPad will have storage space of between 16 and 128 GB.
Laptops integrate hard disk drives, which give them a larger storage capacity. Depending on the design and budget, laptops offer storage space between 500 GB and 1TB. Yet, both iPads and laptops offer options for extra storage space. They have added features such as USB ports and microSD card slots.
Batteries
IPads and laptops have different battery designs, and iPads integrate an internal lithium-ion rechargeable battery. When paired with their low power needs, iPad batteries offer utmost efficiency. An iPad doesn’t have internal parts, but its battery takes up most space, giving them a much longer battery life.
You can use an iPad for about 8 to 10 hours before it needs recharging. On the other hand, a laptop has a bigger battery. However, it takes up less space – sharing it with more internal parts. With a larger battery, you can do more with your laptop. But, the result is that the battery’s life doesn’t last long. You can use your laptop for about 4 to 5hours before it needs recharging.
Cost
Cost-wise, laptops, and iPads may overlap. You find cheaper iPads and more costly laptops on the market. Further, you can find budget or used iPads costing as low as $100, and some iPads are extended to about $1000 new. On the other hand, laptops are available for around $300 to $400 or less for budget, and more expensive run up to $3000.
Performance
Laptops integrate internal parts to improve their overall processing. The result? More capacity, faster working for multitasking. Using a laptop demands more tasks such as HD graphics and even multi-app usage. IPads perform better with more basic tasks, and you can use them for web browsing and social media.
The working of both laptops and iPads affect their software running. For example, laptops and iPad may have the same windows software. However, the software’s functionality on each device will vary a little. Due to its smaller capacity, the windows software will run slower on iPads. Also, iPads and laptops run iOS apps. You will notice that iPads have some features to cut out to cater to their smaller capacity.
IPad vs. Laptop: Pros and Cons
Laptops and iPads have their benefits and limits. These are some pros and cons of each device;
IPad Pros
- Flexible design
- Lightweight and portable – travel friendly
- Longer battery life – up to 8 to 10 hours on a single charge
- iPads enable virtual contact – by offering a range of communication apps such as WhatsApp
- Some iPads offer both WiFi and cellular modes- letting you activate cellular data service
- You can make and receive calls using an iPad
- iPads can be cheaper than laptops (If used or older generation)
- iPads are less weak to virus attacks due to their closed system designs
IPad Cons
- Function by focusing on a single app at a time
- Smaller storage capacity
- They run a little slow, during complex tasks, due to their smaller and uncooled processors
- They are not ideal for high tasks such as graphics
- They don’t have keyboards – not the best option for people who type a lot
- Little gaming experience – only ideal for simple games
Laptop Pros
- Built with good functioning keyboards and screens
- Larger space – up to 1TB HDD storage
- Offer a better gaming experience – you can use them for heavy-duty gaming
- You can even connect them to TVs due to their HDMI ports
- Offer an all in one desktop experience instead of focusing on a single app
- Offer more functionality for high-performance software such as Photoshop
- Run high capacity and high-speed software with more efficiency
- The larger screen size makes them comfy to use
Laptop Cons
- Laptops are large-sized – they may not be the best option for people on the go or those who travel
- Not all laptops are touch screen
- Less battery life
Which is Better, iPad or Laptop?
This question is more subjective because it relies on your priority. Let’s have an overall look based on what we have discussed so far.
Laptop Pros
- It has a bigger screen
- A better processor which makes multitasking and gaming possible
- It has more features like a keyboard for an easy use
- Best for those who want to use proprietary software
- It comes with better storage than iPads
Laptop Cons
- Thicker and heavier than iPad and hence not as portable
- It takes time to boot and get started
- It has less battery life than iPad
IPad Pros
- Easy to carry around as it is lighter & thinner
- It has a great display for the liquid retina technology
- Best if you want to create digital art or want to browse the internet
- Better battery life than many laptops
- More secure than laptops
IPad Cons
- iPad does not have a mouse or keyboard, but having them adjust the portability
- It does not have strong graphics or a processor when compared to a laptop
- It does not run the software that laptops do, which is more feature-rich than what the iPad apps have to offer
Should I Buy a Laptop or iPad?
The final decision on whether you should get a laptop or iPad is what you must decide. A laptop is a good investment if you only have the funds for one. A MacBook Pro or a MacBook Air will last for at least five years with great care and will still be usable with current programs.
A five or ten-year-old iPad will be nearly useless, as modern apps will be unlikely to be compatible, and it is so weak compared to a laptop. The only place where iPads can be better than laptops is for photo editing, for the touchscreen and stylus help.
For General Use
An iPad may be a better option for general use at home or work than a laptop. You can access emails, browse the internet, make calls, and even let your kids play games with a laptop.
Performance-wise, an iPad is more than enough. However, you also want to think of the design and what works best for you. Remember, an iPad has a smaller screen and limited storage. So, you have to think of such factors when deciding whether a laptop or iPad works for you.
For Student Use
A student can choose between a laptop and an iPad as the software they support. For example, if you are a design student who needs to use many graphic software options, think of which device supports those best. Most colleges and schools will require students to opt for a liberal arts curriculum. So, they have to explore other disciplines in spare to their core subjects. It means that you have enough research and typing work.
So, view device functionality. In this case, a laptop is a better option. For the same design student, for example, a MacBook allows you to use tools such as Apple Pencil like an iPad. But, when you turn to more tasks such as typing, a MacBook is a better option. You also want to think of the storage for all your complex college work. But, things are not always clear when selecting the right device.
The Apple Pencil software, for example, works for both iPads and MacBooks. But, a touch screen iPad gives a design student more creative freedom using Apple Pencil. In this case, it may be vital to invest in both an iPad and a laptop.
For Professional Use
When it comes to professional use, the needs vary. If your job requires more technology, you are better off with a laptop. iPads help with software you will find on laptops, but they still have feature limits. Further, they perform best and speed for this high processing. Still, an iPad may be a better option for creatives, and an iPad has a touch approach focusing on your fingers as the interaction method.
A laptop focuses on devices such as keyboards or the mouse. So, for more hands-on, creative work, iPads work better. For professional use, it is a good idea to make your decision based on the needs of your work. It is unusable to focus on the advertised features.
Some Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Difference Between Laptops And IPad?
IPad is a device sold by the Apple Company, while Laptops are portable computers, and many companies offer their range of laptops. IPad does not have any other wing and works as a mobile phone. In contrast, a laptop has a keyboard attached to its flip side.
What Is The Advantage Of A Laptop Over An IPad?
Laptops deliver better performance than iPads because big cases can pack in more hardware. Multitasking is easier on a laptop than on an iPad, though iPads offer better multitasking keys.
How Long Do Laptops Last?
Most experts count a laptop’s lifespan to be three to five years.
Can A Laptop Last Ten Years?
Can a laptop last ten years? Yes, indeed.
If you care for your laptop, it could last for more than ten years.
Can IPad Replace A Laptop?
Yes, it can. It has a screen, runs apps, and can connect to the internet.
Which Laptop Has The Longest Lifespan?
The Average Lifespan of Multiple Laptop Brands
Rank Brand Name Estimated Average Lifespan
1 APPLE (The Best-One) 6 to 7 years
2 LENOVO 5 to 7 years
3 DELL 5 to 6 years
4 HP 5 to 6 years
Conclusion
The final line is that both devices provide special computing functions. Their only difference is their portability, functions caliber, storage, and battery life. There’s no bad option, and there’s no better option! Your choice of which device to go for entirely depends on your needs and liking.
As per your needs! But also, go for a laptop if you want more capacity – space, functionality, and efficiency. If simplicity is what you want, you are better off with an iPad.
However, keep in mind that often, laptops stand out as a better option. Their extended software and features allow laptops to offer more value – for students. In fact, in some cases, if you have a laptop, you may want to invest in an iPad as an added benefit.
As seen above, some cases may call for the use of both devices. But, if you are on a tough budget, you are better off sticking to one option. In this case, go for one that completes your needs – be it professional, academic, or general use.