AllYouCanTech

Evaluating iPadOS 26: Is the iPad Now Operating as a Computer? [Video]

The moment Apple unveiled iPadOS 26, it seemed as though iPad users had at last been acknowledged. For years, the iPad was always “almost there.” It possessed the robust hardware, yet the software limited the experience for most users. With iPadOS 26, that discrepancy is nearly resolved. The updated windowing system, enhanced multitasking, and improved file management make the iPad feel more computer-like than it ever has before.

Thus, the next logical question arises: can an iPad serve as your sole computer? Let’s dissect this.

A significant reason this notion surfaced is that the current M4 MacBook Pro is listed on Amazon for $1299 (incredible value). The M4 iPad Pro retails for $1199. This comparison is worth examining.

### Internal Specs

Let’s begin with the “on paper” comparison. Both the M4 iPad Pro and the M4 MacBook Pro utilize the same chip, so their raw performance is essentially indistinguishable.

– **Geekbench single-core:** ~3700 for both
– **Geekbench multi-core:** ~13,500–14,500
– **GPU score:** 50,000–60,000 depending on conditions

From a performance perspective, there is no disadvantage on either device. However, regarding RAM in the base models, the iPad Pro starts with 8GB of RAM, and you can only access 16GB of RAM if you upgrade to the 1TB storage variant. In contrast, the base M4 MacBook Pro comes standard with 16GB of RAM. Therefore, while raw power is equivalent, the MacBook Pro offers slightly more capacity when comparing the base models.

### External Hardware

This is where the distinctions between the devices become evident. One is a tablet at its core, while the other is a conventional laptop.

– **iPad Pro:** Ultra-slim at just 5.1mm, boasting one of the finest displays across all price ranges, featuring Promotion Tandem OLED. It includes one Thunderbolt USB-C port, and with the purchase of the Magic Keyboard, you gain an additional port in the hinge for charging.

– **MacBook Pro:** Bulkier yet relatively slim for its power. Its display features a 120Hz promotion mini-LED display. The MacBook truly excels in I/O with two Thunderbolt 4 ports, HDMI, an SD card slot, MagSafe, and a headphone jack.

Battery life is another factor. The iPad Pro offers 8-12 hours of usage depending on tasks, while the MacBook Pro can easily extend to 16 to 20 hours.

### iPadOS 26 vs macOS 26

While iPadOS 26 has revolutionized the iPad, the two operating systems remain somewhat distinct. The iPad is a touch-centric computer, so much of the iPadOS 26 UI and UX retains that emphasis, but it also integrates some of the finest elements from macOS.

#### iPadOS 26

**Strengths of iPadOS 26:**

– New windowing architecture with infinitely resizable floating windows
– New multitasking arrangements: split view, triple split (both vertically and horizontally), quad view, and up to 12 floating windows
– Expanded dock accommodating up to 29 apps (previously limited to 18 apps)
– Revamped files app with background downloads, customizable columns and filtering, pinned folders and files in the dock, and new color tagging for folders
– Supports one external display with perfect scaling
– Supports cellular data
– Provides access to millions of iOS and iPadOS apps in the App Store

**Limitations of iPadOS:**

– No terminal access
– Lacks support for multiple external displays or clamshell mode
– Missing some desktop applications such as Final Cut Pro, Logic Pro, Xcode, and comprehensive Photoshop

#### macOS 26

**Strengths of macOS 26:**

– Capable of running traditional legacy applications like Final Cut Pro, Logic, Xcode, and the Adobe Suite
– Terminal and automation capabilities
– Multi-monitor support (up to 2+ external displays)
– A mature software ecosystem with decades of desktop-class applications

**Limitations of macOS:**

– No touch input
– Lacks pencil or tablet mode versatility
– No cellular connectivity
– Limited app store regarding the number of applications available

In summary: iPadOS 26 makes the iPad Pro feel more akin to a Mac and enhances the iPad’s computer-like qualities. However, the MacBook Pro is the more reliable choice if you depend on professional applications, coding, or extensive multitasking.

### Final Thoughts – Which is Best for You?

Ultimately, the iPad Pro is designed for versatility. It can