Macbook vs iPad? - STEM at sixth form/uni Medicine

So I've recently started sixth form (studying maths, bio, chem and psychology) and have really taken onto the appeal of an iPad, which would allow me to take handwritten notes using an apple pencil. However, since it's obviously quite costly, I need to ensure this will be the best option for uni as well as sixth form.

I already own an iMac ,which is why I want to stick to an apple product (even though I MAY consider getting a regular tablet). I want to study medicine, and I would just like to know exactly how uni life works. Would it be possible for me to take notes on my iPad during 6 still have my iMac at home or in my dorm for any essays to type? Is there any time when an iPad wouldn't be suitable outside of my dorm?

Im also concerned regarding the size. Apparently, an iPad can be difficult to work or type with at times if it's too small. I've asked, and a friend has told me that an iPad should be perfect if I get a 13". Does anyone else have advice regarding this?

I'd love anyone to share any opinions/ experiences to help me make my decision.

Reply 1

MillieeM2

You should get an iPad and you could always buy a keyboard which basically turns it into a laptop

Reply 2

Ellejules

I pad! It’s very easy to use and you can just buy a keyboard attachment. It’s also not as heavy as a laptop and i found it really useful especially when it came to making flash cards and diagrams for biology and chemistry.

Reply 3

TNGFR

If you already have an iMac and plan to take it to uni with you, and iPad will be fine as a note taker, as you can use that on the go and use the imac for proper work.

If you'll be moving away for uni and leaving the iMac behind, get a MacBook. Even the best keyboard covers on iPads will be significantly worse than a proper laptop keyboard when it comes to the essays and dissertations that will be such a big part of your uni life.

(edited 1 month ago)

Reply 4

Winged Patgronus

Thanks for all the advice! I'm nearly certain I'm going for an iPad, but do you think an 11" will suffice?

Reply 5

ChiefBrody

My daughter had similar needs in year 1 at Uni, she really didn't want an iPad (long story) but eventually admitted they are far better than anything else for hand written note taking (there is a £30 app that makes it even better because the Apple handwriting app isn't great, cant remember the name sorry).

Its 11" and works really well. Her boyfriend does engineering and uses the 13", he likes it she thinks its too big - guess you will have to go look?

FWIW she still has a "normal" laptop for typing up assignments etc but that's just a habit, I don't think its essential for everyone

Reply 6

Winged Patgronus

Original post by ChiefBrody

My daughter had similar needs in year 1 at Uni, she really didn't want an iPad (long story) but eventually admitted they are far better than anything else for hand written note taking (there is a £30 app that makes it even better because the Apple handwriting app isn't great, cant remember the name sorry).
Its 11" and works really well. Her boyfriend does engineering and uses the 13", he likes it she thinks its too big - guess you will have to go look?
FWIW she still has a "normal" laptop for typing up assignments etc but that's just a habit, I don't think its essential for everyone