The iPad is the only tablet worth buying, argues a tech expert
After years of using Apple's iPad alongside other tablets, a technology writer shares why it's become his top pick and the only one he recommends.
Whitson Gordon
Whitson Gordon
When I bought my current iPad — the 2016 9.7-inch iPad Pro — I planned on using it for comic books, games and computer magazines (yes, I’m a huge nerd). A big screen was a must for me, but if you’re just looking to read ebooks, browse Facebook and take your tablet anywhere, the smaller 7.9-inch iPad Mini could be an alternative.
The iPad Air, as its name implies, is slightly thinner than the regular iPad. But the real improvement comes in a faster A12 Bionic CPU, more available storage (up to 256GB) and extra features like a wide-color, anti-reflective, True Tone display for a more natural-looking image.
At 12.9 inches, the iPad Pro is closer to the size of a laptop and has a higher price tag (though there is a smaller and more affordable 11-inch model). This is the iPad for people looking to replace their computer and thanks to the most powerful processor in an iPad — the A12Z Bionic — and up to 1TB of storage, it will work well for all your digital creations.
Android and Windows tablets can do similar things to an iPad, but the feel of using the device is why I chose an iPad. Android has struggled to get its tablet interface feeling as smooth and usable and many Android apps — from big names like Spotify to various magazines and lots of smaller third-party tools — are similar to phone apps blown up to fit the size of a tablet. Plus, a lot of apps come out on iOS before reaching other platforms, which can be frustrating if you have to wait for a new game to launch for your Android product.
I also prefer the iPad over Microsoft’s tablet. The app interface isn't comparable and I end up spending most of my time in a browser, which just seems silly for the price.
When it comes to longevity, I find that iPads last a relatively long time. Now, Android tablets might not get future updates since Google stopped manufacturing their own Android tablets. In addition to the actual product, I find that there are far more iPad-focused accessories like fold-out keyboard cases, than there are for any given Android tablet. Android and Windows tablets do have their advantages, of course.
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