I love my iPad

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Portable, convenient and powerful

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Ten years ago today, Apple introduced the iPad. I’m normally a late adopter, but I ordered one on the first day they were available. I haven’t used an iPad continuously since then, but our family has gone through a number of models over the last decade.

Right before the holidays, I added a new iPad to my computing mix: the base 10.2-inch model with a Smart Keyboard. Since then, I’ve used it as my primary computer for blogging and school work. Here’s what I love about my iPad:

  • Smart Keyboard. I’ve been using an iPad off-and-on for ten years, but I’ve never had a keyboard case of any kind. It makes a world of difference for me. It’s convenient to use in class or at the coffee shop when I’m studying, but I can take it off when I don’t need it.

  • Improving apps. I use Ulysses for writing. It’s a fabulous app and syncs across all of my devices. But Ulysses is far from the only app that shines on the iPad. I use Affinity Designer and Darkroom for more creative projects, and honestly, Microsoft Office is solid on the iPad. I have pretty much everything I need on my iPad.*

  • Lightweight. When I’m packing my bag for class or work, my iPad, the Smart Keyboard and the charger weigh significantly less than my work laptop and its massive power brick. Plus the iPad charger uses a Lightning Connector so it can charge my phone and AirPods, too.

I’ve enjoyed using this setup more than I thought I would. And I haven’t even purchased an Apple Pencil, yet. (I’m planning to pick one up soon.) Assuming things continue to go well, I imagine that I’ll start thinking about upgrading to an iPad Pro later this year.

* What’s missing? The statistical packages I need for research and type design software. So I can’t go without a traditional computer, yet.

Bob Wertz writes about design, technology and pop culture at Sketchbook B. Bob is a Columbia, South Carolina-based designer, researcher, college instructor, husband and dad. He’s particularly obsessed with typography, the creative process and the tools we use to create.