# iPadOS 26: Constraints That Prevent It from Serving as a MacBook Alternative
iPadOS 26 has shown notable progress in improving the iPad experience, yet it still lacks in various aspects that hinder its ability to serve as a genuine substitute for a MacBook. Here are five key limitations that users should keep in mind when considering an iPad Pro versus a MacBook.
## 1. Absence of Terminal Access
A major drawback for developers and software engineers is the lack of Terminal access on iPadOS 26. While applications like Textastic and Swift Playground facilitate basic coding, they do not offer the complete array of development tools found on macOS. The inability to utilize Xcode or develop apps directly on the iPad can discourage those who depend on command-line interfaces for their tasks. For users seeking comprehensive development features, the iPad simply falls short.
## 2. No Multi-User Functionality
Another notable limitation is the absence of multi-user functionality on iPads. Unlike Macs, which permit multiple user accounts with distinct apps and data, iPads are intended as personal devices linked to a single Apple ID. This limitation can be quite significant for families that share devices. While there are alternatives such as custom focus modes, they do not afford the same degree of privacy and separation that multiple accounts provide on macOS.
## 3. Restricted External Display Capabilities
Even though iPadOS 26 has enhanced external display support, it still does not permit a genuine multi-monitor setup. Users can connect an external monitor, but the interaction is restricted to one additional display. Moreover, the lack of a clamshell mode means that closing the iPad will also deactivate the external monitor, which can interrupt workflows for users who favor a streamlined setup.
## 4. Limited Peripheral Customization Options
The options for customizing peripherals on the iPad are considerably constrained compared to macOS. Although some peripherals can connect and function, the absence of dedicated software for customization means users forfeit features that enhance productivity. For example, Logitech’s software for adjusting mouse settings is not available on iPadOS, which can impede the user experience for those who depend on specific settings for their devices.
## 5. Restrictions in Audio Management
Audio management on iPadOS is yet another domain where the system falls short. Unlike macOS, which enables users to play audio from multiple sources at once, iPadOS limits audio playback to one source at a time. This constraint can be exasperating for users who wish to mix audio from different applications, such as editing videos while enjoying background music.
## Final Thoughts
Despite these shortcomings, iPadOS 26 has implemented substantial enhancements that have blurred the lines between tablets and conventional computers. For many users, the iPad Pro can act as a primary device. However, those with specific requirements—particularly in development, shared environments, and peripheral customization—might discover that a MacBook remains the superior choice.
As discussions about what defines a computer persist, prospective buyers should evaluate these limitations against their individual needs. The cost disparity between iPads and MacBooks also plays a significant role in this choice, with Mac models frequently being more budget-friendly.
What are your opinions? Are there additional limitations of iPadOS that influence your choice between an iPad and a MacBook?
