iPads are no longer iPhone extensions. Many of them, especially the Pro versions, have similar processors and massive storage capacities as most MacBooks. One advantage that iPads have over Apple’s laptops is their weight. The heaviest iPad is lighter than the lightest MacBook. That is probably why many people – students and professionals – prefer having a tablet to carrying a MacBook.
It’s undoubtedly more convenient to work on a laptop than a tablet. But what happens when you want to type a 10-page document or design something on your iPad? How easy is it on a tablet compared to a MacBook with a large keyboard and trackpad? However, converting your iPads into MacBooks with the right accessories is now possible.
Let’s consider what you need to carry out this transformation. The items include
- A keyboard
- A stand to raise the iPad
- A USB Hub for connections.
These three things essentially differentiate a MacBook from an iPad Pro. You might want to ask: Are these three items available for purchase? Of course, they are! Apple released the powerful Magic Keyboard Case that magically converts your iPad Pro 11 or 12.9 into a MacBook. It doesn’t require any special connection; just put your iPad in the space for it, and the powerful magnets in the case help it to stay connected.
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The keyboard automatically works with the iPad Pro, and you can connect a USB-C hub to your iPad via the space on the keyboard. Once you ensure this arrangement, you can use your iPad like a MacBook. The keyboard does not stop the on-screen functions of the tablet, as you can use your hands on the screen or, better still, a stylus pen.
The major setback is the price of the iPad keyboard case. The Apple Magical Keyboard Case costs a whopping $300, and if you need to get an Apple pencil and a USB-C hub for it, that can bring the total price to $500. Spending such an amount on accessories may be too expensive for most people. But do you know you can get all the necessary accessories to make your iPad Pro work like a MacBook for half that price or less? Yes, there are viable alternatives to the very pricey Apple keyboard.
See below our recommendations for these essential accessories and their prices.
Accessories To Convert Your iPad Into A MacBook
Features
- 450mAh built-in battery
- Apple Pencil support
- Adaptive protection
- Adjustable stand
If you have an iPad Pro 11-inch and considering transforming it into a MacBook, here’s a keyboard case you can trust. Whatever height or angle you want, this keyboard case allows it. The case’s magnetic components support your Apple tablet’s horizontal and vertical placements. So, when you need to make video calls, and it has to be a portrait, you can trust this accessory to support it.
It’s gratifying to note that the case is detachable from the keyboard. So, without having to move the keyboard around, you can still safely carry your iPad. The case’s back is not slippery, so it keeps your tablet firm in your hands while in transit. What about the keyboard trackpad? It is simply precise and smooth. It allows seamless navigation of your iPad, while the keyboard also allows smooth typing. Perhaps this keyboard case’s most significant benefit is its built-in 450mAh battery. It can last for two months at a single full charge if used during the day. But for night usage, it may not go beyond two weeks.
Features
- 800mAh long-lasting built-in battery
- Support Apple Pencil fully
- Auto Sleep/Wake
- Strong Magnetic Latch
- Adjustable view
This keyboard case is arguably the best in terms of practicality and productivity. It gives many shortcuts that a standard MacBook does not have. The first attractive feature of this keyboard case is its floating cantilever. It allows you to adjust the iPad to your best viewing position, so you don’t stretch your neck unnecessarily. Everyone knows that iPad Pro 12.9 is a bit heavier than its 11-inch counterpart, but the powerful magnets of this case keep it steadfast.
The back of this keyboard case is not slippery, making it movable quickly. The trackpad is ultra-responsive and allows you to navigate as you develop your presentation, edit documents, or even surf the web. It’s 800mAh built-in battery lasts for three months if you use the keyboard only during the day but two weeks if used at night consistently.
- 8-in-1 Portable Stand USB-C Hub– $59.99
Features
- Lightning-Fast data transfer
- Adjustable for a perfect view
- Foldable for easy carriage
- Eight connections in a single plugin
- Stable base
Connection is often the significant setback of most Apple gadgets, iPads inclusive. For instance, an iPad Pro 12.9 or 11-inch doesn’t have an HDMI port, USB-A, or other ports necessary to receive files from external hardware. That is where a USB-C hub becomes useful. By plugging one end of the hub into your device’s USB-C port, you can expand it to accommodate several others.
This portable stand is most beneficial to office workers with iPads. It’s a convenient and secure way to position your iPad Pro and enjoy multiple hardware connections that the ports afford. With a 45 to 100W PD adapter charger, this hub’s 100W USB-C PD port quickly charges your iPad Pro in a few minutes. Here’s good news: you can fold this stand and safely carry it in your backpack.
Conclusion
As I have explained in this article, making a MacBook out of an iPad Pro is possible. However, one point one cannot hide is that it requires spending extra bucks on accessories. Depending on the brand and type you go for, you can spend up to $500 on buying accessories that will make your iPad a MacBook replacement.
I recommended three of the most affordable and best-designed products you need for this purpose. Just one of this three may be OK for you depending on where you work and what you need to do with your iPad Pro. Let me know if you found this article helpful or have specific questions.
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