Everyone has a smartphone – so do you really need that iPad? It’s a fair question because, in many ways, smartphone and iPad features tend to overlap.
Both can stream videos, browse the internet and run various apps. So, what’s the point of having both?
Let’s break down the pros and cons of having an iPad – and how it compares to what’s already in your pocket.
What’s So Special About the iPad?
The iPad’s biggest selling point is the bigger screen. Smartphones are great for quick tasks, but the iPad feels like a mini computer.
If you like watching movies or shows, reading, or even drawing, the iPad gives you more real estate to do those things.
For students or professionals, an iPad can be a lightweight laptop. With a keyboard attachment, it’s great for taking notes, typing papers or even attending virtual meetings.
Apps like GoodNotes and Notability make it easier to organize your thoughts or doodle diagrams – which isn’t as much fun (nor as easy) on a tiny smartphone screen.
Another plus is the battery life. Depending on the model, iPads can last 10 hours or more on a single charge.
If you’re traveling or working all day you won’t need to constantly be looking for an outlet.
The Cons of an iPad
Let’s be real, though: iPads aren’t for everyone. For starters, they’re expensive.
The basic model iPad will cost you $300 or more and, if you want the latest Pro version, you’re looking at $1,000 or more. Add in the Apple Pencil or a keyboard… and the costs can add up fast.
Then, there’s the fact that an iPad doesn’t replace your smartphone. You’ll still need your phone for texting, calling and many quick tasks.
If you already have a smartphone with a large screen, like an iPhone Pro Max or a Samsung Galaxy Ultra, an iPad might feel redundant.
Do You Really Need an iPad if You Already Have a Smartphone?
It depends. If your smartphone does everything you need it to, you might not need an iPad. But if you want a better experience for specific tasks, an iPad might be worth it.
Here are a few scenarios where an iPad might make sense – even if you already have a powerful smartphone:
For Work or School
If you’re someone who has multiple work projects, studies, or does any type of online learning, the iPad can be a portable productivity tool.
With apps like Microsoft Office, Google Workspace and even advanced tools like Adobe Photoshop, it’s more than just a toy – it’s a real piece of equipment.
For Creative Hobbies
Love to draw, design or edit videos? The Apple Pencil and apps like Procreate make the iPad a creative’s dream.
Smartphones can’t really compete with the precision and space the iPad offers for these activities. Plus – no need to buy fancy paper, paints or brushes anymore.
For Streaming or Reading
If you watch shows, read ebooks or check recipes while cooking, the iPad feels like the middle ground between a phone and a full sized laptop.
It’s portable and lightweight, but still big enough to enjoy whatever media you’re consuming while those onions are stewing in the pan!
iPad and Security: Is It Safe?
When you’re online, security matters, regardless of whether you’re on a smartphone or an iPad.
Just because you’re not on your laptop doesn’t mean you’re safe from viruses, dodgy websites, phishing emails and other malicious things on the web.
Whether you’re downloading apps or streaming movies, your data’s at risk if you don’t take precautions.
So what can you do about it? One way to stay safe is to use a VPN. For example, if you’re downloading content or streaming from apps that aren’t available in your country, a VPN to download files securely is a no brainer.
It hides your location and protects your personal info while you browse, enter info or download anything. Even on an iPad, this is worth it.
Conclusion
So do you really need that iPad? Maybe. If you stream a lot, work on the go, or love to draw, an iPad is a game changer.
But if you already have a powerful smartphone, mostly watch content on your TV and don’t feel you necessarily need a bigger screen, you might not need to spend more money.
At the end of the day, it’s about how you use technology in your life. For some people, an iPad fills a gap that a smartphone and laptop can’t.
For others, it’s redundant: it’s just another device to carry around (and think about charging once in a while).
Look at your habits, think about what you’d use it for and decide if it’s worth adding to your tech arsenal.