iPad mini 6 extended-use review – There’s no substitute for portability [Video]
I’ve been using Apple’s dramatically redesigned iPad mini for about two months now, and my biggest takeaway is that it’s a great device for reading and note taking. But as you’ll see in my iPad mini 6 extended-use review, it’s not without compromise.
Although the 2021 iPad mini isn’t without its flaws, its strengths – namely, portability and pound-for-pound capability – have made it an integral part of my workflow. Should you consider making it a part of your technology stack? Is it worth the 100 price increase over the outgoing model? Watch my hands-on video as I discuss the merits of Apple’s pint-sized tablet after some extended usage.
The obvious things
The 6th-generation iPad mini is extremely small, but that is immediately obvious. The tablet is shorter than the 5th generation iPad mini, fitting into a more compact form factor, yet it features a larger screen (8.3 inches) with more resolution than its predecessor (7.9 inches).
This screen size increase inside a smaller form factor isn’t a new phenomenon for modern Apple devices, and it’s one that we’ve seen before in redesigns of the iPhone and the larger iPad tablets. The so-called edge-to-edge display makes it possible to cram a larger screen area inside a smaller surface area, which contributes to the device’s increased portability. That said, the iPad mini is slightly thicker than the outgoing model, and eschews the tapered edges that previously helped mask thickness in favor of flat edges.
Apple offers the iPad mini 6 in four hues, including the standout starlight color, which is like a subtle mix of gold and silver. Additional hues include pink, purple, and, of course, the dusty and worn-out space gray.
Video: iPad mini 6 extended-use review
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And after using the 2021 iPad Pro and now the iPhone 13 Pro Max on a regular basis, one of the things about the iPad mini that stands out like a sore thumb is the lack of ProMotion. ProMotion is Apple’s marketing name for its variable refresh rate technology, which can ramp up or scale back the display’s refresh rate according to what’s happening on screen.
One of the key benefits of ProMotion, besides less impact on battery life when the refresh rate throttles down, is the super-smooth experience when scrolling through text-heavy websites and documents. On the iPad mini’s display, the lack of ProMotion makes text appear blurry when scrolling, not to mention the so-called jelly scroll effect that’s common on LCD displays.
Of everything that the iPad mini may lack when compared to its bigger brothers, ProMotion is the feature that I miss the most by far. Even after extended usage with the iPad mini, the lack of ProMotion was still readily apparent when scrolling through text.
A solid electronic reader
At just 0.65 pounds (Wi-Fi model), the featherweight iPad mini, at 7.69 inches tall, 5.3 inches wide, and 0.25 inches thick, is a portable powerhouse. Compare that to the iPhone 13 Pro Max’s 0.52-pound weight, and it’s easy to see why the iPad mini 6th-generation is a beacon for portable productivity.
What I most appreciate about the iPad mini is just how balanced it is. The way the 0.65 pounds is spread throughout the device makes the tablet easy to hold with one hand – even with just a few fingers – which makes it work well for extended reading sessions.
Over the past two months, I’ve been using the iPad mini as my full-time reading device, using it to catch up on my Feedbin feeds, eBooks, website articles, Apple News, etc. One can debate the merits of e-ink technology found in Kindle devices over LCD technology, but this is my preferred reading device due to its wealth of capability combined with a relatively large display in such a compact and light chassis.
Writing, note taking, and artistry
In addition to reading, the iPad mini 6 is also a more capable note-taking device, thanks to the arrival of second-generation Apple Pencil support. To be clear, the previous 5th-generation iPad mini sported Apple Pencil support as well, but only for the older rounded-style first-gen Apple Pencil.
One of the biggest issues with the first Apple Pencil was that it was hard to keep up with unless you owned a case that included a for storage. The second-generation Apple Pencil features enhanced functionality, but most importantly, it magnetically attaches to the long side of the iPad mini for storage, and to facilitate pairing and recharging. Having the Apple Pencil attached to the side of the iPad mini means that it’s always available, which greatly ups the likelihood of it actually being put to use.
Unlike the bigger iPad models, the iPad mini isn’t great for long-form typing, as there’s no first-party attachable keyboard, and the virtual keyboard is way too small for long-form projects. But again, this serves to elevate the value of the Apple Pencil, which can be used for text input using iPadOS features like Scribble.
Throughout the last month, I found myself using the Apple Pencil to write notes, annotate video scripts, and create storyboards for upcoming video ideas in the Notes app. Artists may particularly enjoy having a portable digital canvas using popular apps like Procreate, Linea Sketch, Affinity Designer, and more.
Granted, the iPad mini lacks the screen real estate for someone who may want a tablet primarily for artistry, but its portability makes it a great travel companion for artists who often find themselves inspired while out and about.
USB-C flexibility
One of the biggest new additions to come to the iPad mini is the adoption of USB-C connectivity. Not only is USB-C used for recharging the iPad mini, but it also features faster USB 3.1 (Gen 1) 5Gbps connectivity for speedy offloading of photos and videos. It’s not as capable as the iPad Pro, which features faster Thunderbolt connectivity and works with a wider away of products, but even plain old USB 3.1 opens up a litany of peripheral options at more usable speeds.
With a single USB-C cable you can easily connect external drives, microphones, audio interfaces, and more. Having this sort of flexibility present in the I/O removes workflow roadblocks associated with iPads sporting Apple’s slow and outdated Lightning connector. Especially for photographers and videographers, who regularly offload photos and videos, the presence of the ubiquitous USB-C connector makes a huge difference in productivity.
iPadOS 15 should also not be overlooked in this area, because it features an upgrade to the file transfer interface, with Finder-like time remaining statistics that are clearly inspired by the Mac. Having better insight into in-progress file transfers is priceless when transferring large files to and from the iPad mini.
Camera and video
The 12MP ƒ/1.8 camera on the iPad mini 6 presents a significant improvement over the 8MP ƒ/2.4 camera in the iPad mini 5. Not only does the camera feature a 50% boost in resolution, but it also gathers more light, resulting in cleaner photos and videos with less noise. The small size of the iPad mini makes it easier to shoot with than larger iPads. I don’t regularly take photos or videos on my iPads, but in a pinch, and more importantly, with the right lighting conditions, it’s quite doable.
Like its direct predecessor, the iPad mini 6 Liquid Retina display maxes out at 500 nits of brightness, meaning that it doesn’t support HDR video playback. This won’t be a big deal for most people, but for me, someone steeped in HDR workflows, it’s one of the first things I noticed about the iPad mini’s display, and it’s still something I miss after extended usage.
The lack of brightness capability also means that HDR videos shot on an iPhone 13 or iPhone 12 cannot play back in full HDR luminance when viewed on the iPad mini 6. Again, this probably isn’t a huge deal for the majority of people, but it will be quickly noticed by people who care for such things.
Regarding the camera, one of the most impressive technologies is support for Center Stage with the front-facing camera. Center Stage, which is specifically designed for video calls like FaceTime and even third-party apps like Zoom, automatically pans the camera to keep you centered in the frame. As you move about the frame, the camera moves with you, and as multiple people appear inside the frame, the camera will zoom out to ensure that each subject is well represented.
Obviously, there is no moving camera with variable focal length inside of the iPad mini, so Apple makes the Center Stage effect happen via a wider camera, clever software tricks, and machine learning powered by the A15 Bionic’s faster Neural Engine. It starts with the new ultra-wide 12MP camera with 122-degree field of view, compared with the wide-angle 7MP camera found in previous iPad mini models.
Thanks to the huge increase in the field of view and greater resolution, Center Stage can capture a larger scene area and use machine learning to digitally pan around the frame without a drastic loss in resolution. Although I was sure this feature would be a gimmick when I first tried it on the iPad Pro, I ended up loving it. It lends a dynamic look and feel to video calls that make them feel less static and robotic, and I especially appreciate this during the video call renaissance that the world has gone through recently.
Everything else
In the past, I’ve usually started my iPad reviews by raving about the performance and talking about the latest system on a chip. However, after using the iPad mini for well over a month, specs tend to take a back burner, and overall usability comes to the forefront.
The iPad mini 6 is a major step forward in performance over the 5th-generation model. And, as mentioned, the iPad mini is indeed slightly faster than its larger brethren, the iPad Air.
With the A15 Bionic’s slightly increased GPU performance over the A14 in the iPad Air, most Apple Arcade games run great, but almost no one should buy the iPad mini solely as a gaming machine. Considering that the entry-level iPad mini with 64GB of storage costs as much as modern-day flagship consoles, it’s not a good buy for that purpose. However, if gaming is a secondary use case, the iPad mini makes for a solid portable gaming machine, especially for those who subscribe to Apple Arcade.
For watching videos and even editing videos via apps like iMovie and LumaFusion, the iPad mini 6, with its 8.3-inch display, provides a better experience than an iPhone 13 Pro Max, for instance. But the iPad mini is only available in either 64GB or 256GB configurations, which can quickly fill up when working with high-fidelity ProRes video. Couple that with the 500 nits max brightness, and it’s clear that Apple thinks serious video editors should opt for its pro-designated tablets instead.
A few other things: There are stereo speakers, which are available when the device is oriented into landscape mode. The speakers are nowhere near iPad Pro level, but they are good enough for such a pint-sized device. You do, however, lose access to the 3.5mm headphone jack found on the previous iPad mini. While this omission won’t affect most users, if you have a tried-and-true workflow that depends on the headphone jack, it’s something to take into consideration before purchasing.
5G connectivity is also an option, although I purchased the Wi-Fi-only model. Apple charges a hefty 150 premium for 5G capability, which I couldn’t justify based on how I’ve been using my iPad mini. With that being said, there’s a certain sense of freedom that you get from a cellular-enabled iPad, not to mention a faster 5G cellular-enabled iPad. If you plan on using your mini on a regular basis while traveling, opting for the cellular model makes perfect sense.
Conclusion
The iPad mini 6 is hands-down the best portable tablet on the market today. It’s a portable device that can pretty much do everything well, but it isn’t necessarily amazing in any one area. For example, it’s a wonderful reading device because of its large screen and lightweight, balanced design, but it suffers due to the lack of ProMotion. And the screen is larger than the iPad mini 5, but there’s no jump in screen fidelity, color, or brightness.
It’s also a powerful mobile video solution, but it lacks the higher-end storage tiers, more capable Thunderbolt connectivity, and HDR playback.
One thing I failed to mention was battery life, which Apple touts as being all-day capable. I don’t use my iPad mini in that way for hours on end, but a single charge has regularly lasted me for several days of intense reading and note-taking. I was more than satisfied with the battery life, and I think if you’re reasonable in your expectations, you will be as well.
The one area where the iPad mini particularly excels is in its note-taking capability, largely thanks to the support for the 2nd-generation Apple Pencil, which attaches magnetically to the side of the tablet. But with that said, it lacks the screen real estate that some artists and note-takers might desire.
All in all, the iPad mini is an amazing device for portability, and it’s really the only option for those looking for a portable tablet with class-leading software support, that can do pretty much everything that its more powerful brothers and cousins can do. However, with that portability comes compromises in various areas. Personally speaking, I’m more than willing to live with those compromises, because there’s nothing that comes close to the iPad mini in a comparable form factor.
Because of the iPad mini’s portability, I found that I was more willing to take it with me while traveling, because why not? It can easily fit inside my glove box or center console when not in use. I can even fit it easily inside of an oversized coat Because of its size and weight distribution, I also find that I prefer to use it over the iPad Pro when reading in bed.
Even if you already own the 5th-generation iPad mini, I think it’s a worthwhile upgrade. You get a much faster tablet, support for a much better pencil, a larger display, and 5G connectivity as an option. That makes the iPad mini 6 a pretty good upgrade over the older mini models.
What are your long term thoughts on iPad mini 6? Sound off down below in the Комментарии и мнения владельцев with your thoughts.
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Is the iPad Pro Suitable for Photo Editing?
If you’re editing photos here and there, there’s no doubt you’ll be gravitating towards a laptop – but it might not be the best fit for you. While laptops have gotten more powerful over time (I think it may have been a few years before my old desktop PCs stopped running Photoshop), there’s a new editing powerhouse on the block.
The iPad Pro M2 is that powerhouse, and in our time review We found that while it’s a difficult tool to recommend in many situations (more on that later), it really shines when you’re editing images at your desk, a coffee shop, or away from civilization in general.
As a photographer, you likely already have a fair amount of kit, whether it’s an astrophotography camera for photographing the night sky or a wildlife camera for taking pictures of animals in their natural habitats, so editing with something that’s even lighter than a laptop is a real boon.
We’ve looked at the advantages and disadvantages of ditching the laptop or MacBook in favor of the iPad Pro for your portable photo editing.
worth
Latest 12.9 inch iPad Pro. (Image credit: Future)
The iPad Pro with the M2 is the best iPad, but it’s not cheap, starting at 799 for the 11-inch, or 1,099 for the 12.9-inch we’ll be discussing here.
Add to this the option of an Apple Pencil (129) and a Magic Keyboard (299 to 349), and it’s worth much more than just buying the MacBook Air M2.
So, why choose a tablet? Well, if you’re a photographer who edits at a desk, you shouldn’t. You’ll get a lot more out of a laptop that you can connect a monitor to (Stage Manager on the iPad is improving, but it’s a ways off right now), and you’ll save some money in the process.
However, if you’re always on the go, the iPad Pro could be an amazing new studio setup for you.
Today’s Best iPad Pro Deals
portability
The iPad Pro is the most travel friendly option for photo editing. (Image credit: Future)
The main reason to consider a tablet as compared to a laptop is portability. Tablets are very small and easy to carry. But is this distinction so important these days? The ultralight laptops and MacBook Air are quite compact in their own right.
There are two models of iPad Pro – 11-inch and 12.9-inch model. The iPad Pro 11-inch measures 9.74 x 7.02 x 0.23 inches and weighs 466 grams (470 with the Cellular version), while the iPad Pro 12.9-inch measures 11.04 x 8.46 x 0.25 inches and weighs 682 grams (685 for the Cellular version).
By comparison, the latest MacBook Air M2 13-inch measures 11.97 x 8.46 x 0.44 inches and weighs 2.7 pounds / 1.24 kg. So, the MacBook is twice as thick and, as a result, twice as heavy as the iPad Pro.
Both are great portable machines, but if you really want to reduce the amount of weight you’re carrying, the iPad Pro is the clear winner.
Display, Display and Software
The display of the iPad Pro is great. (Image credit: Future)
As you can imagine, the biggest conversation starter here is the iPad Pro’s display. The 11-inch variant has a screen with 2388 x 1668-pixel resolution, while the 12.9-inch has a 2732 x 2048 display. Both operate at 264 pixels per inch, which beats the 224 pixels per inch you’ll get on the 13-inch MacBook Air M2 we looked at earlier.
The 12.9-inch XDR variant offers 1,000 nits of screen brightness, up to 1,600 nits for HDR content, which is very impressive indeed. The Mini LED also allows for a 1,000,000:1 contrast ratio – which is huge for shooting on black or dark backgrounds. Even the 11-inch SDR screen offers 600 nits, which beats the 13-inch MacBook Air’s 500 nits.
So, while you can get the MacBook Air M2 for less when you look at accessories, you get a better display on the iPad Pro, and when you’re talking about image editing, display quality is everything. You can also use the iPad Pro in Reference Mode to help colorize your images. All you have to do is connect it to the Mac.
It’s not just the display that lets you do real creative work, though, as the M2 chip powers pretty much everything on the App Store. Not only does this mean you can enjoy some Netflix or Disney Plus in the corner of your screen while planning your next setup in Freeform (Apple’s infinite canvas/whiteboard app), but it also means you can run an (almost) fully functional instance of Photoshop.
Of course, there are some caveats. no photoshop on iPad pro extremely It has yet to live up to the standards of its macOS or Windows counterparts, and requires a dongle to plug into many devices in order to be able to drag and drop files from external storage.
touch screen and Apple pencil
iPad Pro set up with keyboard on. (Image credit: Future)
Besides portability, the touch screen is the biggest advantage of the iPad. For many users, touch screens feel more enjoyable and natural than clicking. That’s why your first smartphone felt so freeing after years of number pads and that pesky nub thing on the Blackberry.
Naturally, keyboards, trackpads, and mice are still fair game. As you’d expect, Apple’s options are expensive, but there are plenty of third-party options out there that will work with the iPad Pro. Really, any Bluetooth option will work, turning your tablet into a portable workstation.
Then there’s the Apple Pencil, which arguably takes on new significance with the iPad Pro alongside the M2. That’s thanks to a new feature called Hover, which can highlight elements in apps or iPadOS’s UI before your Apple Pencil even touches the screen — you just hold it near and see what it’ll do.
For many, it’s a curiosity that may offer a glimpse of what’s to come with the Apple Vision Pro headset. For an editor working with small details and fine margins, this allows for greater surgical precision in editing.
What about iPad Air?
iPad Air M1 – Our top pick for tablets, but probably not for photo editing. (Image credit: Lloyd Combs)
As discussed in our iPad Pro M2 review, the biggest complaint with the iPad Pro is that it’s harder to push back than the iPad Air M1—which, incidentally, is the tablet we recommended in our review. iPad Buying Guide,
Then, why don’t you grab an iPad Air for your photo editing? You can, of course, thank the power of the M1 chip, but you’ll lose the larger display and its quality (the iPad Air lacks the mini-LED display of the larger iPad Pro). It also doesn’t get as bright, which could be a problem if you’re shooting late at night or early in the morning.
There’s also a big difference in file transfer speeds, with the iPad Pro transferring those huge DSLR images much more quickly thanks to its Thunderbolt 4 USB-C port.
Is the iPad Pro Suitable for Photo Editing?
So how does the iPad Pro stack up as a photo editing machine? The answer is surprisingly good, with the caveat that this is for a specific use case – people who value portability but don’t want to sacrifice on power or display quality.
The iPad Pro weighs half the weight of even the lightest MacBook, and that matters a lot when you’re already carrying around bulky camera equipment. And while there’s still the possibility of heavy photo editing to be done when you’re back home, being able to view, edit, and post your photos while you’re out in the woods or on vacation is a huge advantage.
If you’re editing your photos at home, we’d say stick to a laptop, or even a desktop PC, but if you’re looking to edit photos on the go then we think the iPad Pro is a really attractive option.
Today’s Best iPad Pro Deals
Is the iPad Pro the Perfect Travel Computer for Photographers?
In my mind, the iPad was a thing that parents gave their toddlers to occupy them, the thing that grandparents used to repost on. that thing that tourists inexplicably use as the “perfect sightseeing camera”. In true Dunning-Kruger fashion, I underestimated the potential. I was an idiot.
Of course, I didn’t know that I was an idiot until later on that year when I played with one. Immediately, I recognized how powerful the M1 processor was and the more I explored the opportunities, the more convinced I was that this was something that would benefit my workflow, particularly when traveling. So, after a busy summer of travel, I thought I would share some of my thoughts on what the iPad does well, and areas that still have room to grow.
Traveling
While I travel less frequently now than when I was a full-time professional, I still travel often enough to appreciate anything that makes the experience a little better. I always try to travel with as little as possible; that applies to clothing and equipment. I assess the reason for travel, consider the job requirements if there are any, and pack only what is needed. Even with a pseudo-minimalist approach, arriving with your equipment intact at your destination can be a challenge. Those reading this who have experienced the unyielding joy of the TSA checkpoints in the United States or the every-man-for-himself approach to security standardization in Europe know this pain.
In general, I aggressively avoid checking my equipment. I love my Pelican 1510 cases because they fit in the overhead compartments and are practically bulletproof. My favorite case has a built-in laptop sleeve and padded dividers. I have found this to be the most versatile and adaptable to the different needs I encounter. The problem that I have run into is not what will fit in the Pelican case, but how much the case weighs, particularly once I switched to the GFX system from Sony and started using an assortment of Pentax 67 and Hasselblad V mount lenses. Bigger batteries, bigger lenses, bigger everything. Now the 22-pound maximum carryon weight for Ryanair is a real consideration.
What typically happens is that I am placing my laptop in my small backpack (Camelback Rim Runner 22) along with my other travel essentials. It fits but takes up precious space and is difficult to retrieve should I go through security checkpoints where my TSA PreCheck does not apply. Pair that with the oversized charger required, and my perpetual social anxiety of being the moron holding up the line, and I wanted an alternative.
What I Loved
I debated which size and storage variant to purchase for longer than I care to admit. I ultimately purchased the M1 iPad Pro 11” with 512GB of storage and 8GB of RAM. I also purchased their Magic Keyboard and the Apple Pencil bringing the total cost to a little over 1500.00 USD. While the price tag is hefty, I found a surprising number of things I really liked about it.
Size and Weight
I was very concerned about ordering the smaller version of the two considering I am 6 feet 3 inches tall and have yet to find gloves that fit my hands well. My laptops have been 15-inch screens, and I imagined the 12.9-inch was going to be a sacrifice. A friend of mine recommended that I interact with one in person and I’m so glad that I did. The 11-inch has proven to be a fantastic size. It is small, but not uncomfortable to see or use.
The weight is 1.3 pounds with the keyboard compared to the sizable 4.8 pounds of the 16” MacBook Pro. I am not the enthusiastic backpacker who saws off the handle of their toothbrush to save weight, but when sprinting to my next flight, pounds matter a lot to my shoulders and arms.
Battery Life and Charging Time
Apple claims “up to 10 hours for surfing the web or watching video.” I found this to be closer to 8 hours of surfing and about 6 hours of photo editing. I hate editing, so being limited to 6 hours is actually a pretty nice excuse! I have been really impressed with how quickly it charges. With the 20watt included charger, recharging averaged about two hours from the 20% mark. Considering this quick recharge time, battery life concerns have been a non-issue for me even with heavy use.
Performance
While it has the same M1 chip as the MacBook Pro, iPadOS cannot fully utilize the power of the chip. I opted for the 8GB of RAM because the operating system for the iPad can only take advantage of 5GB of RAM max per application at this time. While this may change in the future operating system updates, I would caution anyone that is thinking about this as a complete laptop replacement to temper their expectations a bit.
It is fast, really fast… for a tablet. I did not find myself annoyed with the available power or wishing for more. It does the job of editing in Lightroom, Photoshop, and Affinity Photo very well. It just doesn’t have the same maximum RAM capacity that your laptop might. I would also like to offer one more thought. The M1 MacBook Pro is a crazy fast and capable processor, so even if this doesn’t live up to that performance, the iPad Pro is still an incredible piece of hardware compared to where we have been in computing over the last few years.
Mobile Digital Asset Management
This was a huge factor for me. I need to be able to edit and cull on the go, but backing up files may be the most important function of a laptop while traveling. This is part of my daily ritual; every evening, I back up that day’s work to an external drive.
I purchased a small USB-C hub from amazon that allows me to copy files from my SD card and put them directly onto my Samsung T7 SSD. These two pair together to offer a very fast and compact option for my needs. When the transfer is completed, I place the SD card with files still intact into the Pelican memory card case to serve as a duplicate.
Software
I have been very impressed with the traditionally desktop software options available for iPadOS. Both Lightroom and Photoshop are available and work in a similar fashion to what I am used to. Affinity Photo is also a very nice option and arguably a better experience if you have the Magic Keyboard than Photoshop. While they aren’t exactly the same in menu layouts and tool options, in my experience I was able to do most general editing with no major objections.
Until very recently, Capture One was not available and at this moment, tethered shooting is not an option. I originally listed this as a con as I almost always tether to Capture One when working in the studio. However, last month Capture One demoed a future update that will include this feature that will hopefully be available soon. Cascable is still a great option if your camera version is supported and you need tethered shooting.
Native Apps
While it has taken some time to get used to, I have really enjoyed having native applications like Amazon or Netflix. I still frequently open chrome and navigate to these services, but that habit is becoming less and less frequent. I think that the wave of mobile-first design somewhat hindered desktop UX/UI FOCUS and often times these applications offer a more streamlined experience. In many ways, they have provided a productivity boost that I had not originally anticipated.
Pencil
The Apple Pencil is amazing. It is expensive at 129 but works extremely well. As much as I like the Magic Keyboard, using the trackpad for editing is too clunky. The Pencil adds Wacom tablet control and I have found it to be an absolute must-have if you do targeted corrections using masking in Photoshop or similar software.
Outside of editing, note-taking with Nebo or Concepts has become an indispensable tool for me. I purchased a PaperFeel screen protector to add a bit more analog feel and I love it. As a Moleskine fanatic, it has been a difficult transition for nostalgia’s sake, but having organized notes that are converted to text is incredible.
Office Tasks
I feel confident in saying that most people despise emails and bookkeeping. As great as the iPad has been, this is one area that has not been made better for me. However, I’m not sure anything other than hiring someone to do it for me would. It isn’t made better, but the Office Suite and Google Docs work as well as on a laptop. If you access Cloud-based software, I have been pleasantly surprised to find the desktop pages are typically fetched automatically and work seamlessly.
One feature that I have been surprised to love is how easy it is to convert speech to text. It has been possible to do this with laptops and desktops in the past, but the overlay at the bottom of the screen has the microphone button available and is convenient enough to use more frequently.
What I Didn’t Love
Cost
The configuration I purchased was around 1500 and currently, this is almost the same price as a 13” MacBook Pro with similar storage and ram. The iPad is not a more cost-effective option than a laptop. As I mentioned before, I do not believe that this is a laptop replacement when considering performance. So, if you are weighing purchasing one or the other, you would need to decide whether you need greater portability and the pencil, or greater performance. I don’t know that I could recommend the iPad Pro as the only device for a photographer to have right now, while it is good, the price is quite steep. The M1 iPad Air came out after I purchased the iPad Pro and that might be a reasonable middle ground worth looking into for some.
No Color Calibration
Currently, Apple does not support the creation of.icc profiles like a traditional desktop or laptop would. This means that while the colors of the iPad are nice to look at, they may not be entirely accurate. If you or your customer’s main utilization is for digital display, this is not the end of the world. If you are creating work that will be printed in physical form, you may want to wait to do any critical editing until it can be done on a profiled device.
Top Heavy
This seems really ridiculous to write, but it is one of the things that annoys me about the form factor. The Magic Keyboard is lightweight and slim, so lightweight and slim that the combination is top-heavy. When sitting in a chair or on a couch, it frequently tips over when I shift my weight. Not the end of the world, but it does annoy me.
Sometimes Clunky Software
Because I am typically working with files on an external drive and not stored on the iPad, not all software has a simple way (or any way) to navigate to the external drive. Additionally, you should not expect that all software is laid out the same or has the exact same features as you might be used to. For me, the benefits outweigh the re-acclimatization process, but not everyone might feel the same way.
Lightroom CC Only
In the spirit of not all software being the same, this applies to Lightroom specifically. The only version of Lightroom available is a modified version of Lightroom CC. For my workflow, I typically utilize Lightroom catalogs that are stored on the external drive where the files are kept. This ensures that the catalog and the files are always together and minimizes any re-linking required.
This is not an option for Lightroom and takes away one of the things that would have been the greatest benefit in my mind. I don’t do final editing on the iPad, but it would be nice to sync general adjustments and cull images in this form factor.
Less Than Great Video Editing Options
This may not apply to everyone reading, but not having access to Adobe Premiere has been a little aggravating. I originally did not anticipate video editing as an option, but after seeing the capacity of the processor, it seemed to be more feasible than I originally expected. The problem is not the processor, in this case, it is the software. Adobe Premiere Rush is an absolute nightmare of instability and while LumaFusion is a solid alternative, it has some timeline navigation quirks that drive me nuts. I don’t expect to be able to edit feature-length films here, but doing quick promos for social media distribution would be handy.
No Floating Windows or Apps
At this moment, iPadOS 16 has not come to my device, but when it does it will mitigate one of my greatest aggravations with multitasking. I would love to have the option for floating Windows to speed up simple daily tasks like checking account balances against invoices or researching locations with the Maps app. Once version 16 is released the new Stage Manager application will help tremendously with this, but at this moment, a bit of an aggravation.
Dongle
I am thankful that I can utilize the USB-C Hub for HDMI out, charging, card reading, etc… I did struggle to find a hub that worked well for my needs. Not all hubs are created equal, so when you are looking for one that fits your needs, pay attention to the reviews and consider verifying with Reviewmeta.com or a similar service to make sure you are getting a good product.
No Extensions for Chrome
I am a Chrome Extension junky. From popup blockers to full-screen text grabbers, I love extensions. Currently, there is no option for extensions for Chrome. There are options for extensions with Safari, but at the moment, I have built a network of plugins that works really well for my needs and I miss them.
Conclusion
Even though I feel like the price tag is quite high, I am truly happy with my decision. I do not consider myself to be a technology futurist, but at the current trajectory, I do wonder what mobile computing will look like in 5 years. It seems that Apple has poured substantial resources into the iPad ecosystem and with cute taglines like “your next computer is not a computer” I do not envision them moving away from this direction.
That does not mean however that this is the right choice for you. While initially interested in a travel computer alternative, I find myself reaching for this more times than my laptop. Everything from client and colleague meetings to hotel rooms and the couch at home — it works well for me. I would encourage anyone on the cusp of a new computer purchase to carefully evaluate your needs 3 years from now and be certain that whatever you buy now will help you then as much as now.
About the author: Kyle Agee is a photographer and instructor based in Northwest Arkansas. The opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author. You can find Agee’s work on his website and Instagram.
Can You Download Photoshop on iPad? A Detailed Insight for Mathematicians Statisticians
Imagine the smile that dawned over the face of Sir Isaac Newton as that infamous Apple fell from the tree, a pivotal moment that led to the formulation of his Law of Universal Gravitation. Just like Newton’s discovery, you’re about to unfold revelations of an equally intriguing question, “Can you download Photoshop on iPad?”
Understanding the Basics: Photoshop on iPad
In the realm of digital image manipulation and graphic design, Adobe Photoshop has solidified its position as the leading software. However, the question arises whether it can be used seamlessly on portable devices like iPad. Good news! Adobe introduced Photoshop for iPad in 2019, providing users with a rich platform for creating and editing images wherever they are.
Acquiring Photoshop on your iPad
To download Photoshop on iPad, simply head over to the App Store, search for “Adobe Photoshop”, and press Get. The app is free to download, though usage requires a subscription to Adobe’s Creative Cloud.
Significance for Mathematicians and Statisticians
As mathematicians or statisticians, your field might seem distant from Photoshop. Yet, data visualizations, graphs, or infographics created using Photoshop can enhance the representation of mathematical theories or statistical data. Adobe Photoshop on iPad exemplifies the idea of dynamic workability, meaning you can create and edit on the go.
Navigating Photoshop on iPad
You’ll find it fascinating how the developers of this mobile software have tried to preserve the desktop experience while accommodating touchscreen interactions. The UI (User Interface) may differ slightly but it incorporates all key features of its desktop counterpart, making it a tool worth exploring.
Creating Custom Shapes: A mathematical delight
As an exercise, let’s consider creating geometric shapes, a task frequently encountered by mathematicians. Photoshop comes with a polygon tool, allowing you to specify the number of sides and draw regular polygons. It also provides the ability to create curves using mathematical functions.
Advantages and Limitations of Photoshop on iPad
Despite its noteworthy capabilities, downloading Photoshop on iPad does come with its own set of pros and cons.
Pros:
Portability and convenience. 2. Cloud integration for real-time updates and file sharing. 3. Intuitive touch controls.
Cons:
Limited capabilities compared to the desktop version. 2. Requires a stable internet connection for most tasks. 3. May not be as effective for intricate manipulations.
Perspective for Future
Remember, just as a single Apple couldn’t unlock the entire universe’s secrets for Newton, the iPad version of Photoshop doesn’t encapsulate all the functionality of the full desktop version at present. However, Adobe is regularly releasing updates, bringing about more features from the desktop version onto the iPad.
So there you have it, mathematicians and statisticians. Not unlike the integration of mathematics with physics led to significant advancements in both fields, integrating Photoshop with iPad has opened new dimensions of creativity and efficiency. If we’ve stirred your curiosity, why not grab that iPad and start exploring Adobe Photoshop today?
As someone who combines the art of software engineering with a thorough understanding of mathematics, I assure you that as you delve into this dynamic discourse between two seemingly contrasting realms – maths and Photoshop, you would uncover intriguing intersections. And perhaps, in the process, make some discoveries of your own.
How to draw with Adobe Photoshop PC on your Tab S6 Android devices
How much does Photoshop iPad cost?
Adobe Photoshop for iPad is available as part of the Adobe Creative Cloud subscription. The stand-alone cost specifically for Photoshop on the iPad is 9.99 per month. However, it’s important to note that this cost may vary depending on the region or any ongoing promotions by Adobe.
Can I download Photoshop for free on iPad?
Yes, Adobe Photoshop is available for free download on iPad from the App Store. However, while the initial download is free, the full functionality of the app is not. In order to access all features, you’ll need to subscribe to Adobe Creative Cloud, which is a paid service.
The free version only includes a limited set of tools and features. For professional use or to get the full array of Photoshop’s powerful image editing tools, the Adobe Creative Cloud subscription would be required. This is generally true for most of Adobe’s software products—they’re available as free downloads but require subscriptions for full access.
Is Photoshop for iPad the same as Photoshop?
Adobe’s Photoshop for iPad is based on the same code as the desktop version and shares many of the same features, but it is not exactly the same as the full Photoshop software available on macOS and Windows.
The iPad version has been built with touch-based input in mind, thus, its interface is designed to be more streamlined and easier to navigate using fingers or a stylus. It also integrates with Apple Pencil for precision work.
However, some features are currently missing in Photoshop for iPad. Adobe has been gradually adding features since the app’s release, focusing on the most powerful and popular tools first, but it is not fully at par with the desktop version yet.
over, file compatibility is mostly consistent between the two versions. You can start a project on your iPad and finish it on your desktop, or vice versa. All edits and adjustments are saved in the Cloud and synced across devices.
To summarize, while Photoshop for iPad offers a similar but streamlined experience, it does not yet match the full feature set of its desktop counterpart. The choice between the two will largely depend on your specific needs and how you prefer to work.
Is Photoshop worth it on iPad?
Absolutely, Photoshop on iPad is worth considering, particularly if you are a graphic designer or a professional who needs editing capabilities on the go.
The iPad version of Photoshop provides a variety of features that are useful for professionals and hobbyists alike. These include robust layering tools, a wide range of filters, precise selection tools, advanced brushes, and more. What’s more, it has a user-friendly interface featuring larger, touch-sensitive areas which makes it perfect for use on an iPad.
Adobe has done a good job in optimizing Photoshop for the touchscreen environment. For example, you can pinch to zoom, swipe to scroll, and do much more with your fingers.
However, there are some trade-offs when using the iPad version compared to the desktop one. The iPad version might not have every single feature that the desktop version does. Nevertheless, Adobe is regularly updating Photoshop for iPad to close the gap with its desktop counterpart.
Also, it is important to consider the cost. Photoshop for iPad comes as part of Adobe Creative Cloud subscription, which starts from 9.99 per month. If you’re already a subscriber, you won’t need to pay extra for the iPad app.
In conclusion, Photoshop is definitely worth it on iPad if you need to do complex image editing on the go and you are comfortable with the monthly subscription model.
Is it possible to download and install Photoshop on an iPad?
Yes, it is absolutely possible to download and install Photoshop on an iPad. Adobe has released a version of their popular image-editing software that is specifically designed for iPads.
To download and install Photoshop, first ensure your device meets the minimum system requirements, which are iOS 13.1 or later and a minimum of 2GB of available storage space.
Then, visit the App Store, search for “Adobe Photoshop”, and tap on the “Get” button. Once the download is complete, the app will be automatically installed.
Remember, while the app is free to download, you will need an Adobe Creative Cloud subscription to use the full functionality of Photoshop on your iPad. If you’re already a Creative Cloud subscriber, just sign in with your Adobe ID, and you’ll have access to your Cloud documents on your iPad.
What are the system requirements for downloading Photoshop on an iPad?
To download and use Adobe Photoshop on an iPad, here are the system requirements:
Operating System: Requires iOS 13.1 or later.
Compatible Devices: iPad Pro (all models), iPad Air (3rd generation), iPad (5th generation), iPad Mini (5th generation).
Storage: The amount of storage will largely depend on your usage. Photoshop on iPad requires approximately 2GB of storage space on the device for the application itself, but you’ll want additional space for your files and projects.
Adobe ID: Required for accessing Adobe’s Cloud-based services, including the ability to save projects, access Cloud documents, and sharing your work.
Internet Connection: Photoshop on iPad uses Cloud documents, which requires an active internet connection.
Remember that for the best experience and latest features, always keep your Photoshop app updated to the latest version.
Does Adobe offer a version of Photoshop specifically designed for iPad?
Yes, Adobe does offer a version of Photoshop specifically designed for the iPad. This mobile version of Photoshop was launched by Adobe in 2019. It brings the power and precision of its desktop counterpart to Apple’s tablet while being redesigned for touchscreen workflows. It also offers a streamlined interface optimized for drawing with the Apple Pencil and provides seamless access to your files through Adobe’s Cloud storage.
How does the performance of Photoshop on iPad compare to its desktop counterpart?
Adobe Photoshop on iPad is designed to bring the powerful and creative capabilities of its desktop counterpart to a more portable platform. However, while it does a commendable job for a mobile app, it still doesn’t quite measure up to the full-fledged desktop version.
Firstly, Photoshop on iPad offers a simplified user interface that’s optimized for touch inputs, unlike the desktop version which is designed for precise mouse and keyboard inputs. The interface and functionality differences mean that users can’t expect to have all the tools they’re accustomed to on the desktop version.
The mobile version currently lacks some features found in the desktop version like channels, timeline animations, and 3D editing tools. Adobe has promised to continuously update and add more features to the iPad version, but for now, it may not suffice for complex, professional workflows.
In terms of performance, the iPad version runs smoothly, especially on newer models with more powerful processors. However, if you’re working with high-resolution images with many layers, the desktop version is more capable of handling such tasks. The desktop version can better handle large file sizes and multitasking as compared to the iPad version.
Also, keep in mind that the iPad version relies heavily on Cloud storage. While this makes it easier to work between different devices, it could be an issue if you frequently work offline.
In conclusion, Photoshop on iPad is a fantastic tool for quick edits or for those who want to work on the go, but it doesn’t totally replace the desktop version. It’s more of a companion than a substitute for the Photoshop desktop version.
Are there any limitations or differences in feature sets when using Photoshop on an iPad compared to a computer?
Yes, there are some key differences when using Adobe Photoshop on an iPad compared to the desktop version.
Firstly, the iPad version does not support all of the features available in the desktop version. While Adobe has done an impressive job of transforming Photoshop into a touch-friendly app, some features are still missing. For instance, the iPad version lacks certain filters, blending options, layer styles and color options, among others.
File compatibility is another area where the iPad version falls short of the desktop version. The iPad version only supports RGB images, which limits its usefulness for print design.
In addition, while the iPad version supports layers, there are limitations to this feature. The iPad version only supports up to 5000 layers, and some blending options, such as color and luminosity, are not available.
Finally, there are differences in terms of Interface. The iPad version has a simplified interface, designed for touch input, that doesn’t include all of the tools and Windows available in the desktop version.
However, with ongoing updates from Adobe, we can expect the gap between the desktop and iPad versions of Photoshop to decrease over time. Adobe has been continuously updating Photoshop for iPad with new features and functionalities since its launch.
Author Profile
Fernando Velarde I am a skilled and experienced web designer with expertise in graphic design, UI/UX, server administration, and niche SEO. Throughout my career, I have been passionate about creating visually appealing and user-friendly websites that leave a lasting impression.
