I think I’m due or almost due for a new tablet or laptop because I’ve had an Ipad 4th generation for almost five years and it can’t run some of the programs or websites that I need to access for school. It also freezes up on me a lot (I don’t know If this is because of all the apps I have or because it is an older tablet).
It seems like a great investment to have a new tablet or laptop but I don’t want it to be too expensive. What are good deals for tablets and laptops? If I got a laptop I would want one that can switch between laptop and tablet. I do like Apple but I’m open to other types of tablets and laptops.
I’d recommend the Microsoft Surface if you really need something that can switch between tablet and laptop mode. There’s several options/configurations, so there’s likely one that will fit your budget. Several of my CS professors had Surface devices. It was nice to see instead of the usual sea of Macbooks I encounter in a typical classroom My personal computer was the Surface Book. It suited my needs well, but I also had a tight budget so I had to finance it with Surface Plus.
I’d get a 10.5" 12.9" iPad pro . They are extremely fast, and actually have more CPU power than a 13" Macbook pro. The larger screen is excellent for note taking and multi-tasking and the keyboard is acceptable. You can use something like Microsoft RDP if you want to access a virtual machine to run a PC program, or use a cloud app.
Personally, I prefer the larger model with the cellular add-on. Practically speaking, the 10.5" model is a lot more portable. You can get unlimited data service from AT&T for $30/mo (stand-alone plan) , or $20 with an unlimited plan from AT&T or Tmobile. That can double as internet service at your apartment/home.
If you are doing any content creation or programming, your should get a Windows or Mac laptop instead. I would not recommend a Surface device because they are extremely unreliable. Get an Apple, Dell, HP etc. device. Consumer reports has reliability and support ratings, which I would consult before purchasing.
There are also excellent options without spending a fortune. I love my Kindles and see a laptop version is available. Recently, I purchased a large s seen Acer that I totally l love. I also buy my computers from Amazon . I sort what I need and want, then check models by cost and rating. It is important to distinguish reviews related to the machine versus packaging in the comments sessions. I have multiple Kindles that are arranged topically (download) with snazzy covers (finite)/ Multiple small machines provide a more convenient size for carrying and multiple machines keeps me from massive loss from a loaded murdered computer.
F you want a new Ipad , then go for it. But there are good alternatives. After nothing but Apple for20+ years, I found cheap options and do color.
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I would try one of those tablet-laptop combos in a store where you can pick one up. Because all the hardware is behind the screen (so the keyboard detaches) the weight and balance are very different from a typical laptop. There’s a “leg” behind the screen to use the device on a table, but they’re very awkward to use on a lap or on the go (such as doing homework on a bus).
For a bargain if money is tight, look for a refurbished device.
My personal computer was the Surface Book. It suited my needs well, but I also had a tight budget so I had to finance it with Surface Plus.