Section 1.1: Distinct Roles of Each Device

To clarify, this isn't a comparison of which device is superior. It's widely recognized that the iPad has certain limitations regarding software. You can't perform all tasks on an iPad as you would on a MacBook. This distinction is logical and not a drawback since both devices cater to different needs.

In my personal Apple ecosystem, I own two iPads — a 6th-generation iPad mini and a 12.9-inch M2 iPad Pro. While the iPad mini is crucial for my personal use, I will focus on the iPad Pro for this discussion.

My workflow typically involves assigning specific tasks to each device based on efficiency. The iPad Pro excels at typing tasks. With my Magic Keyboard, I can type at remarkable speed, making it my preferred device for blogging. I draft all my Medium articles on the iPad Pro, occasionally utilizing the iPad mini when I'm out and about. If I use my own videos, I can perform light photo editing in Lightroom and organize my ideas in Goodnotes 6 — all on the same device.

For tasks that are less convenient on the iPad, the MacBook is readily available. This includes creating presentations (I've designed numerous slide decks this past year), graphic design in Adobe Illustrator (for larger projects), writing my Ph.D. thesis (due to reliance on citation management tools), and document formatting.

Now, let's explore the advantages of using the MacBook and iPad together.

Section 1.2: The Benefits of Integration

Benefit #1: A Mobile Dual-Screen Setup

Admittedly, I often take both my iPad and MacBook to the office. Why? It creates a highly mobile, albeit heavier, dual-screen setup. Thanks to Sidecar, I can wirelessly extend my MacBook’s display onto my iPad.

This feature is particularly beneficial for online presentations. I can display my presentation slides on the MacBook while keeping all background windows on the iPad’s extended screen. It’s also advantageous when managing numerous windows or applications.

Benefit #2: Enhanced Control with Universal Control

With the introduction of iPadOS 15.4 and macOS Monterey 12.3, my devices can now communicate more effectively through Universal Control. This feature allows me to utilize a single keyboard and mouse to control both the iPad and the MacBook.

For instance, I can navigate my iPad using the MacBook’s keyboard and trackpad, and vice versa. Personally, I prefer this method over Sidecar because it operates smoothly even with a slower WiFi connection, which I have found Sidecar struggles with.

This setup is particularly useful for research tasks. During my webinar preparation, I worked on my file on the MacBook while referencing older presentations on the iPad. If I needed text or images from the iPad, I could easily drag my cursor from the MacBook to the iPad, copy what I needed, and paste it back into my MacBook presentation.

This combination is not only effective for mobile work but also for tasks at home. When writing my Ph.D. thesis, I often use a triple-screen setup with Universal Control.

Benefit #3: Complementary Functions

By using both devices, I benefit from two distinct operating systems that enhance each other’s capabilities. The MacBook runs a full-fledged operating system with powerful software, while the iPad focuses on touch interaction and supports the Apple Pencil.

There are software limitations on the iPad, which the MacBook compensates for. Conversely, the iPad offers unique applications like Procreate that the MacBook lacks. This seamless transition between devices simplifies my workflow.

For example, while preparing my webinar presentation, I had to edit images on the iPad using Procreate with my Apple Pencil, create graphs in Numbers on the MacBook, and take screenshots for inclusion in my presentation — all while enjoying the ease of switching between devices.

Benefit #4: Task Segmentation

This benefit aligns with the previous one. When I work on my iPad and MacBook without Sidecar, I often divide my tasks between them. Unlike the integrated use of Universal Control, here I engage with both devices on different tasks without the same level of connectivity.

For instance, while writing my Ph.D. thesis, my primary focus remains on the manuscript on the MacBook, utilizing citation management software. When I need additional references, I conduct research on the iPad, and I can easily transfer relevant information back to the MacBook using Universal Clipboard.

While I don’t utilize this method as frequently, it offers substantial potential by minimizing workflow friction and allowing for mental task separation. I can focus solely on literature research before returning to my manuscript.

Benefit #5: Continuous Workflow

The limitations of one device are easily mitigated by the other. The iPad and MacBook have consistently provided a seamless workflow. During my presentation preparation, I often switched between devices whenever I encountered obstacles.

With this duo, it becomes effortless to maintain fluid workflows, regardless of location. If I have an iPad with cellular capabilities, I can quickly create a WiFi network for my MacBook and work from virtually anywhere.