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MacBook or iPad❓

MacBook or iPad❓

Our buying guide goes over the pros and cons.

Lewis Wallace
May 18, 2024

With the iPad becoming more capable every year, Apple’s tablet looks more and more like a viable MacBook replacement. This weekend’s new buying guide compares the two devices to help you make a decision about which portable computer is right for you.

You can read the written version or watch our video to get the lowdown.

Also in this edition of The Weekender:

What kind of person buys a gorgeous iPad Pro and immediately tries to bend it? BTW, the first reviews of the new iPad Pro and iPad Air make the tablets sound like fantastic upgrades.
Our friends at CdkeySales.com offer excellent prices on software every day of the year. But during the company’s May Sale, you can save an extra 30% with promo code CULT.
Samsung took a (very weak) swing at Apple this week, releasing an ad designed to capitalize on the controversy over the “Crush!” video for iPad Pro.
OpenAI’s amazing GPT-4o demos made Siri look even dumber than usual. Let’s hope Apple can tap into some of that AI magic.

Enjoy your weekend!

— Lewis Wallace, managing editor

Buying guides

Should you buy a MacBook or iPad?

Should your next computer be a MacBook or an iPad? Here are the pros and cons of buying Apple’s latest tablet or laptop.

Space gray vs. silver MacBook [Buyer's guide]

After you’ve settled on the specs, there’s still one more crucial decision to make before you buy a MacBook Pro: silver vs. space gray.

Should you upgrade to the 2024 MacBook Air M3?

If you still use an Intel MacBook Air, it's time to upgrade to the new M3 MacBook Air. But what about M1 and M2 owners?

News

M4 iPad Pro review roundup: Slim, gorgeous but a bit limited

Discover the pros and cons of the M4 iPad Pro in early reviews. From its slim design to its amazing screen, find out if it's right for you.

Plus, more on the new iPads:

This Apple Pencil Pro feature surprises and delights users

To their delight, Apple Pencil Pro users are discovering an unpromoted feature. The stylus casts the shadow of the selected tool!

Super-slim iPhone could be Apple's most expensive ever

Apple reportedly found ways to "significantly" slim down the iPhone. The upcoming handset will be for the luxury market, with a high price.

Plus, more Apple rumors:

iOS 17.5 helps detect unwanted Bluetooth tracking tags

iOS 17.5 updates bring cross-platform tracking notifications about pesky Bluetooth trackers plus new Apple News+ features for subscribers.

OpenAI's amazing GPT-4o could be the next Siri

Take a look at OpenAI GPT-4o, an AI chatbot that's remarkably humanlike. It's possibly coming to iOS and macOS.

Plus: ChatGPT finally gets an official Mac app

Apple showcases amazing new accessibility features like Eye Tracking

Apple touts cool new accessibility features coming to its devices, including Eye Tracking, Music Haptics and Vocal Shortcuts.

Samsung mocks Apple's controversial 'Crush!' iPad Pro ad

With its new "UnCrush" ad, Samsung takes a dig at Apple's widely criticized "Crush!" ad for M4 iPad Pro ad. Watch Samsung's ad now.

How-tos

How to download Apple Maps for offline use

iOS 17 allows Apple Maps users to download maps for offline use and generate turn-by-turn directions with them. Here's how to set that up.

How to play ‘Quartiles,’ the new daily word game in Apple News+

There’s a new daily word game for Apple News+ subscribers called “Quartiles.” Here's how to play it, plus tips to maximize your score.

How to get the latest HomePod software update

HomePod Software 17.5 is out. Here’s how to make sure your Apple smart speaker has the latest software version.

Deals

CdkeySales May Super Sale brings Windows 10 Pro for just $17

The CdkeySales May Super Sale brings you excellent deals on Microsoft software like Windows and Microsoft Office.

This wireless CarPlay adapter lets you watch videos on your car's screen

Get turn-by-turn navigation, listen to YouTube and watch movies with this wireless CarPlay adapter and in-car streaming device.

Delete junk files and free up space on your Mac with MacCleanse

Don't know how to clean your Mac storage? MacCleanse deletes junk files, cookies and caches to free up space and help your Mac run smoothly.

Plus, more software and services from Cult of Mac Deals:

Elevate your iPad with an adjustable 8-port docking stand, on sale for $54.99

Why search for an iPad dongle? This adjustable tablet stand and dock station combo comes with eight useful ports to keep your iPad connected.

Don't let water douse your beats: Save $59 on a waterproof Bluetooth speaker

A little music goes a long way, and the Treblab HD-360 waterproof Bluetooth speaker certainly has the little part down.

Reviews and recommendations

Best clip-on game controller is ready for the latest iPhone [Review] ★★★★★

Take your mobile gaming to the next level with the Backbone One USB-C game controller. Get more fun out of your iPhone (or Android).

RetroArch and PPSSPP join growing list of retro game emulators for iPhone

Play classic retro games on your iPhone with new, free emulators. RetroArch and PPSSPP support a wide variety of consoles.

Enjoy classic PlayStation games on iPhone with Gamma emulator

The just-released Gamma retro game emulator brings original PlayStation titles to iPhone and iPad.

Setups

Developer's M1 Max MacBook Pro cranks out the work

An iOS and macOS dev’s setup showcases the longevity of Apple hardware.

KRK Rokit 5 speakers excel in music production

This iOS and macOS developer who dabbles in music production really loves these powerful studio monitors.

This is a top microphone arm for good reason

An excellent streaming and podcasting setup pairs M3 Max MacBook Pro and Studio Display with the well-liked Elgato Wave Microphone Arm.