By using modern technology such as iPads and Chromebooks, educators and students gain more flexibility in learning and teaching. With fast-acting and intelligent tech on their side, people can make use of various unique apps to make learning fun and accessible for everyone.
Considering an iPad vs Chromebook for school? We weigh in below.
Before analyzing whether a Chromebook vs iPad Pro is best for a school environment, we need to break down what they both are. iPads are touchscreen tablet PCs created by Apple that were launched in 2010.
There are three types to choose from, but each runs Apple’s iOS mobile system. iPads have great WiFi and 4G or 5G connectivity while being portable and efficient to use.
Why would teachers and students choose an iPad for classroom learning? iPads are quick to turn on with a variety of apps to make learning and administration simple and fun.
It is possible for students to take notes by hand or text and syncing classroom information is a breeze. iPads are best for running small tasks, so checking emails and typing up assignments is easy to do.
Related: iPad Vs Laptops For School
iPad Benefits
iPad Drawbacks
Pros & Cons Of Using Chromebooks For School
To continue, we break down why someone would have trouble choosing between Chromebook vs. an iPad in the classroom. Chromebooks were laptops launched in 2011 by Google. The portable and lightweight laptops run Chrome OS and rely on internet connections for proper function as they utilize web-based applications.
Storage is limited as Chromebooks rely on the Cloud for the bulk of their storage. These lightweight models are cheaper and have wider model varieties than iPads. Google helps keeps your Chromebook secure with regular updates and patches to keep you going.
Why would teachers and students choose a Chromebook? Chromebooks are flexible and easy-to-use tools that can make working on projects and syncing across devices a breeze.
Google’s various applications are widely used and are often a go-to for schools and offices. These lightweight and portable Chromebooks are perfect for working on assignments, grading tests, or working on group projects.
Chromebook Benefits
Chromebook Drawbacks
iPad Vs Chromebook For School: Which Is Best For The Classroom?
For Teachers
Which is better – iPad vs Chromebook in education? The best laptop choice for teachers will heavily depend on your personal or school budget as well as the school’s digital goals.
iPads allow you to have flexible learning techniques and the ability to walk around the classroom while teaching. The variety of apps can make administration and teaching a smoother and more enjoyable experience.
However, iPads have less battery life, no USB connections, and no ability to print without AirDrop printers, making them a potential liability in a less tech-focused environment.
For IT Departments
IT department choices will also depend on your school’s budget and goals. But what about iPad vs. Chromebook security methods? Both iPads and Chromebooks can be easily deployed en mass to students and have various customer support and security methods.
For example, Apple has 24/7 support, but you may need to take it to a store regardless, meaning you may need to purchase extra tablets just in case.
For Kindergarten And Middle School Students
Either an iPad or a Chromebook would work for kindergarten and middle school students. Your school’s technological ability as well as your budget will play a factor, but both are lightweight and compact options for flexible learning.
If overloading your child’s backpack is a concern, iPads are slimmer and more lightweight than Chromebooks and are equally easy to use. At this stage of their education, they will not necessarily need tech that can handle complex tasks. Compare with others in your child’s class and consider discussing with their teacher before deciding.
For High School And College Students
For high-schoolers and college students, whether you choose to get a Google Chromebook vs iPad for school will depend on a few factors.
As with the other categories on this list, the technological ability of your school will play a factor, as well as your budget and desired major or degree. However, if possible, we would recommend potentially getting both for optimum flexibility.
We also comprised a list of the best Lenovo laptops for high school and college students if you need additional models.
iPad Vs Chromebook FAQs
Are iPads compatible with Google Classroom?
iPads that run iOS 11 or later will get the latest version. However, older models may be able to run older versions of Google Classroom up to a certain point.
Is 4GB RAM enough for a Chromebook for school?
4 GB and an i3 or later processor should be more than enough for most school activities. However, most Chromebooks have 16 GB or more of onboard storage as well as the Cloud.
Is an iPad fast enough for school?
That depends on your school’s tech goals and abilities. The newer the iPad model, the faster it will be; most iPads should be able to keep up with school activities.
Conclusion
Overall, whether you choose to get an iPad vs Chromebook for education depends heavily on what your school or college utilizes in terms of technology as well as your digital habits and budget.
Consider your goals and read customer reviews carefully to find a model that fits within your budget. If you are struggling, talking to your child’s educator could help you decide.
Jake Redman is a UK-born-digital nomad & founder of Ultimate Quality Content, a collective of high-end copywriters formed to provide detailed insight into everything technology-related. Jake is the definition of a man-nerd. He gets excited over things like processor architecture, ray-tracing, & is an avid E-Sports fan, specifically League of Legends. When he isn’t writing detailed tech-related articles, Jake can be found performing fire-breathing shows & wields a dragon staff, or on the sofa playing Mario Kart.