Can an iPad replace my Macbook?

MikeHiow · 16 Feb 2011 at 14:17

I currently have a 13" MBP technically belonging to my employer, now I have the option of purchasing this back at around £600, or giving it back and selling all my accessories/upgrades (Apple keyboard, fitted laptop bag, 4GB Ram, MDP->DVI adapter) towards another laptop or an iPad.

With me being able to sell a few bits, and the iPad being cheaper than buying my MBP, it makes sense to get one if it'll do the job.

Most of the time, the macbook is just used for casual browsing whilst I'm sat in the living room, but if I wanted to do something more advanced is there a workable RDP/VNC client available so I could connect to my PC?

I always have a little Atom netbook if I ever specifically need a PC.

It would be nice to be able to take it around in the car with me, too - currently the MBP isn't quite portable enough (nor is it easy enough to hide!).

Or should I be waiting until iPad2 announcements/reviews appear to make my decision? I'd probably wait for the '2', either way, whether it was to find an original one cheaper, or because I wanted some of the new features.

I guess I'm just looking for a bit of perspective.

Xee · 16 Feb 2011 at 14:28

If just for browsing without need for flash, iPad will be fine.

There are lots of RDP/VNC apps, and it can also be used as a remote/trackpad on big TV with HTPC in the living room. Well my iPhone does all that so I'm sure the iPad can too (and probably better).

CurtGuven · 17 Feb 2011 at 08:55

Yes, for your uses - but be aware, lack of flash (even though Flash on Mac is terrible). I would stick with the MBP if I were you as its more versatile.

MrMoonX · 17 Feb 2011 at 10:26

no ipad is a gimmick, you will get sick of typing on it really quickly

POB · 17 Feb 2011 at 11:24

Current iPad will drive you mad, its terrible for loading more then say one page in Safari, It can't deal with large pages well.

Wait for the new one, when Apple might be a bit less tight with the ram.

Its OK, but would not want to use one for primary web browsing.

Feek · 17 Feb 2011 at 12:50

Mine did and I haven't missed the MBP at all.

Kainz · 17 Feb 2011 at 13:45

Wouldn't advise it. An MB is just a better all-rounder. I still use my iPad more than any other computing device in my possession but POB mentioned, surfing with Safari and the device's 256mb ram will be painful - probably it's onl flaw imo.

LordSplodge · 17 Feb 2011 at 15:20

It depends. Mine can but that is because of what I use it for. I have an 27" iMac for serious work.

If you want to browse the web, read books, play iOS games and so on then it is a great device. Doing lots of typing such as creating Pages documents then the onscreen keyboard becomes a pain.

The only issue I have with the 1st gen iPad is the lack of RAM. It causes problems on long, image heavy web pages...

sarge78 · 17 Feb 2011 at 15:46

Yeah, wait for the iPad 2 (or 3? towards the end of the year?)

Apple's fast14 modded cortex A9 will be stunning, esp if they decide to use a quadcore variant in the top model (similar performance to a 2GHz Core2Duo)

theheyes · 17 Feb 2011 at 18:19

If you don't mind digging out the netbook when you want to do some work then go for it.

Xee · 17 Feb 2011 at 18:21

I prefer browsing without a mouse and physical keyboard.

whitecrook · 17 Feb 2011 at 18:25

Looks like it could. Wait for ipad2, very soon now. And since you still have a small PC this will be needed to sync it / and incase you do need to do something more than the ipad can.