Since the iPad‘s introduction, Apple has aimed to position it for productivity use, sparking an intense debate comparing it to the well-established Mac, which enjoys a devoted user base. While this comparison often leaves the iPad at a disadvantage, the true potential of using both devices together as a powerful team is often overlooked. In this post, I’ll share how I leverage both the iPad and the Mac for my work.
Let’s start with the equipment I use: a 13-inch MacBook Pro M1, equipped with 16 GB of RAM and a 512 GB SSD, and a 2018 11-inch iPad Pro with 64 GB of storage. Additionally, I have several accompanying gadgets that enhance my productivity. The MacBook Pro is connected to a Huawei Mate View monitor, and I use the Magic Trackpad, Logitech MX Master 3 mouse, and the Magic Keyboard with Touch ID for seamless navigation and control. As for the iPad, I employ the Magic Keyboard and the 2nd generation Apple Pencil, two accessories that significantly elevate the potential of this device.
By combining the capabilities of the iPad and the Mac, I’ve found a highly efficient and versatile workflow. Both devices complement each other, allowing me to switch seamlessly between tasks and take advantage of the unique strengths each offers. The Mac’s established power and flexibility provide a robust foundation for intensive tasks, while the iPad’s portability and touch interface enhance my creativity and note-taking capabilities.
In conclusion, while the debate between iPad and Mac continues, the real magic lies in using them together as a cohesive team. Their combined potential unlocks a whole new level of productivity and creativity, making them indispensable tools for my work.
My way of working with iPad and Mac together
Now that you have a clear understanding of the devices I use for work, let’s delve into how I utilize them. You’re probably curious about which device takes the lead, but it actually depends on the task at hand. Let’s start with the iPad, which serves as my primary device when I need maximum portability. It allows me to stay organized and productive from anywhere, including writing many of the articles you read on this website when I’m not at my desk. The inclusion of the Apple Pencil makes content organization for my personal projects more convenient and effortless.
Now, let’s turn our attention to the Mac, which is honestly the device I spend the most time working with. Its larger screen, particularly when paired with the Huawei Mate View, offers enhanced comfort. This is crucial, especially when editing videos—both my own and those commissioned by other companies.
However, the true magic unfolds when I use both devices simultaneously. Whether it’s for different tasks or a cohesive workflow, the Universal Control feature allows me to harness the full potential of both devices individually and collectively. Throughout the day, I often have the iPad positioned alongside the Mac, utilizing a shared trackpad and keyboard. This allows me to leverage the unique strengths of each device based on the specific tasks at hand. It’s important to recognize that these two remarkable machines can work harmoniously together, rather than viewing them as competing replacements. They offer distinct advantages and are by no means incompatible. Therefore, we should focus on the immense possibilities that arise when utilizing them as a combined force.