Presently I have a MacMini (M2) and iPad Air 4th Gen

I am a big fan of the iPad for working with GoodNotes and a few diagram programs. I recently used it for school but found myself wishing that I had access to microcontroller software, PLC software and generally a “desktop OS” instead of iPadOS.

I hate the idea of having two portable devices to carry around, but can’t decide if going with a MacBook is better than the iPad. Not all the courses I’ll take will require the MacBook and the iPad is great for working on documents and assignments with the pencil. That said, I find myself more and more wishing that the iPad series had a MacOS option.

Regardless, I am currently trying to sell the iPad Air and look at something with a bigger screen.

Incase it is a factor, I am looking at taking an industrial electrical diploma that works with electrical plant/grid design, motor controllers and plant management (in a nutshell).

I am interested in people’s thoughts, if they’re willing to share. I know that there is currently no ideal solution for me in the Apple scene at the moment, regarding one device that does it all.

  • @TORFdot0@lemmy.world
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    14 months ago

    I am replacing a 2013 MB Air, I will probably be getting an M3 iPad Pro with Magic Keyboard because we don’t currently have an iPad for mom and dad (we have one for the kids but it’s signed in to their account and full of games and videos and has strict screen time controls on it)

    One thing to consider is that if you do feel like you need MacOS but really want to go with the iPad, you can always Remote Desktop to the Mac Mini if you needed.

    • @Daios@lemm.eeOP
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      14 months ago

      True, I often forget about that option. Thank you!

      That’s basically what I was thinking or the Smart Folio so I can flip it around. Being able to remote in should be viable for me with my home upload speeds.