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Why Are iPads So Expensive? – The Real Explanation

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Tablets are the new computers, or so the marketing slogan goes. These devices blur the lines between actual computers and mobile phones. The slate form factor allows for more productivity while keeping you mobile.

Some accessories practically turn them into computers, with the camera prowess of smartphones. A tablet may be the only device you need for work and play in most instances.

The only exception would be people needing computers for niche work. You would also think higher computing power is a factor, but with what the latest iPads pack under the hood, that’s a past concern.

Most desktops pale in comparison. While iPads are relatively cheaper than high-end phones, no other tablet compares. So why iPads so expensive? Let’s find out.

Why Are iPads So Much More Expensive Than Other Tablets?

iPads are tablets made by Apple, the makers of the legendary iPhones. Apple’s mission is to produce quality products for its customers in a closed ecosystem where all these devices work perfectly.

The company isn’t shy about this mission or charging high prices for said products. The iPad illustrates these two objectives well.

Raw Computing Power

The latest iPad, the Apple iPad Air (2022), uses the M1 chip, a processor made in-house by Apple. The M1 chip is so powerful that Apple stuck it in the 13-inch MacBook Pro. Therefore, no other tablet can match the sheer computing power of the new iPad Air.

Keep in mind that 8GB RAM supports this performance. The best iPad thus far, the Apple iPad Pro 12.9 (2021), has the same M1 chip but with up to 16GB of RAM. This iPad performs better than several high-end Windows gaming laptops.

So it’s easy to understand why Apple asks for at least $1099 for the 12.9-inch and $799 for the 11-inch display variants. Furthermore, not many tablets can perform power-hungry tasks like video rendering without breaking down.

It’s an Apple Product

Apple is known to charge steeply for its products, and the iPad is no exception. You’re also right in thinking the brand dictates the price.

However, Apple doesn’t just sell its name. The company backs it up with excellent craftsmanship, durability, and seamless application in the Apple ecosystem.

It makes sense to add a tablet to complete the equation if you have an Apple computer, phone, and watch. Subscribing to Apple services such as Apple TV, Music, and News with multiple Apple devices maintains close connectivity.

This means you’re always enjoying seamless continuity between devices. The competition is still struggling to deliver such a complete user experience.

That Lovely Display

The Apple iPad Pro 12.9 (2021) has a 12.9-inch Liquid Retina XDR mini-LED LCD. The screen has a 120Hz refresh rate. Moreover, it’s capable of HDR10, Dolby Vision, and 1,000 nits of typical brightness with 1,600 nits peak brightness.

Its excellent color rendering means you can comfortably watch movies on it or work on professional-grade media.

With its 120Hz refresh rate, scrolling through media or articles is super smooth. That refresh rate also makes scrolling feel faster, spoiling you for any display with a lower refresh rate.

iPadOS

The latest operating system for Apple tablets is iPadOS 15.4.1. iPadOS fully utilizes the tablet form factor while bridging the gap between smartphones and computers.

The highlights of the OS include a beautiful interface design, mouse and keyboard support, and multi-tasking.

Since tablets are for content consumption and productivity on the go, the OS retains all the qualities of a mobile device while adding a work-oriented theme to the experience.

History

The fact that Apple builds its tablets to last add to their hefty price tags. Moreover, Apple continues to support its old iPad releases longer than most others.

An example is the fifth-generation iPad from 2017, which has the latest Apple tablet operating system.

In addition, Apple devices are benchmark kings, with an iPad from two years ago beating the performance, quality, and longevity of the latest Android tablets. With proven life and assured support, Apple can afford to charge more for its latest tablets.

Why Is the iPad Pro So Expensive, in Particular?

The iPad Pro’s starting price is $799, going up to $2,399 for the 12.9-inch, 2TB, Wi-Fi plus cellular variant. If you add on the Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard, the price becomes a crazy $2,877 before shipping.

To be fair, you’ll be getting a more mobile version of the 13-inch MacBook Pro. However, a MacBook Pro with similar specs retails at a lower $2,299.

The point here is that price affords you the performance of one of the best computers. However, the steep price is justifiable to an extent. Instead of having a separate tablet from your computer, this one device does it all.

Consider the other benefits, such as portability, excellent battery life, and convenience, especially for creatives.

The high refresh rate of the already perfect display also adds to the price tag. Furthermore, cramming the MacBook Pro’s innards into the iPad’s slim profile is a feat altogether. You’ll also find the 12mp wide and 10mp ultra-wide cameras a great addition to the package.

The only way to explain why the iPad Pro is so expensive is by comparing it to a MacBook. No other tablet matches its qualities to the extent that only one of the best laptops will do. And that is in itself another reason for the high asking price.

Is the iPad Worth Buying?

Yes, the iPad is a worthy purchase. However, it depends solely on your usage. You can buy several new iPads for sale online.

Currently, Apple sells the iPad Pro, iPad Air, vanilla iPad, and iPad Mini. The vanilla iPad starts at $329. The variety of specs and performance means there is an iPad that meets your needs without breaking the bank.

Besides the official Apple website, you can get new or refurbished iPads from Amazon and eBay. The refurbished options are cheaper and include older models that Apple still supports.

iPads provide the best tablet experience money can buy. Your sole concern should be financial and whether you need so much power.

Those who need a tablet will love the productivity of the Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard. While these are expensive add-ons, they play a major role in improving the device’s efficiency. You’ll practically use the tablet as a competent laptop.

Therefore, in terms of pricing, buying an iPad is worth it. The vanilla version is more than capable compared to Android or Windows alternatives.

Adding a few accessories will give you a laptop or design pad for better productivity. Moreover, no other tablet looks as cool or carries as much prestige and brand recognition.

Reasons to Not Buy an iPad?

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  • Buying an iPad won’t be as practical if you aren’t part of the Apple ecosystem. You can use the iPad as a standalone device, but with fewer perks. In recent years, Android has adopted Apple’s approach of selling the experience alongside the product. There is now an element of continuity in the Android world, with your tablet and phone working hand in hand. You would lose continuity altogether while using an Apple device with an Android.
  • In addition, buying an iPad for media consumption only seems like overkill. The sheer power and price of the device, especially the newer models, means such simple tasks do not utilize the device’s full capabilities.
  • It is also not wise to buy an older iPad that Apple does not support. The lack of software updates and parts means losing your money if something goes wrong. Similarly, you’ll miss out on the whole Apple experience. Apple add-ons and services generally optimize for supported devices only.

Can You Use an iPad as a Laptop?

Yes, an iPad can serve as a laptop as long as you buy the suitable model. The iPad Pro, new iPad Air, and vanilla iPad are compatible with the Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil.

They also have screens as large as those of smaller laptops. Furthermore, their performance rivals Windows laptops and is comparable to an average MacBook.

The only time you’ll miss an actual laptop is if you want a larger screen. Those who prefer a 14 to 17-inch screen may have to look elsewhere.

In addition, you can’t increase the iPad’s internal memory and storage. You’ll have to connect an external drive through a dongle or store your data in the cloud.

Then there is the issue of app compatibility. While most programs have iPadOS versions, some still lack fluid compatibility. If those are critical programs in your line of work, you’ll still have to invest in a Windows laptop.

However, Apple is working hard to ensure app compatibility across all its devices. Therefore, it’s only a matter of time till this stops being an issue.

Is It Worth Getting an iPad if You Have a MacBook?

The short answer is no. Unless you are an artist, the touchscreen isn’t handy for productivity. Most apps that work best on a MacBook are still under development in iPadOS.

The MacBook also has better cooling and more I/O options. Moreover, its design is more ergonomic for work than an iPad.

At the same time, a MacBook also has better speakers. Therefore, consuming media through native speakers is better on the MacBook. You’ll only miss out on portability and a lightweight chassis.

However, if you have a MacBook that’s beginning to age, you should consider upgrading to the iPad. Please do so as long as you don’t plan to rely on it solely for productivity.

Additionally, you may consider getting both. You can upgrade your MacBook while selling the old one to get some money to buy a basic iPad on the side.

Conclusion

iPads remain the best tablets in the world. No other tablet has sold as many units or has as many active users as the iPad. While there are some great and affordable options from the Android world, none seem capable of dethroning the iPad.

The only drawback to iPads is their relatively hefty price tags. However, most models justify their price tag with value, but it can be hard to convince the masses.

The collective quality of Apple devices and the nature of the Apple ecosystem add to the appeal of iPads. Although you may wish to go for the latest iPad, it would be wise to consider your needs first. Only then should you shell out your cash for one of the best devices on the market.

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