What is the Difference Between an iPad and a Tablet? Let’s Discover Who Wins 

Last Updated on: 1st August 2023, 07:59 am

Enter the world of technology to see the ongoing conflict between tablets and iPads. Ever pondered the genuine differences between these two svelte touchscreen wonders? The difference, though, goes beyond just the brand name; it’s a tale of divergent ecosystems, features, and user experiences. On the one hand, there is Apple’s renowned iPad, praised for its superior design, unflinching security, and user-friendly interface.

On the other hand, there is a flexible selection of tablets—Android, Windows, you name it—recognized for their adaptability, affordability, and availability in a wider range of brands and models. The choice between an iPad and a Tablet will therefore influence your digital journey, whether you’re a creative professional looking for a flawless digital canvas or a computer enthusiast demanding freedom. Together, let’s solve this technological puzzle!

What is an iPad?

The iPad is a revolutionary tablet created by the tech giant Apple. Imagine having a stylish, mobile gadget that is as powerful as a PC but more portable than a notebook. This cutting-edge piece of technology allows you to browse the internet, take beautiful photos, sketch like an artist, and even communicate face-to-face across the world thanks to its brilliant, touch-sensitive screen.

The iPad is your constant friend, acting as your window to the outside world for everything from the morning news to a bedtime book. There is an iPad for every computer enthusiast, artist, student, and professional, available in a variety of models. With its distinctive form and simple user experience, the iPad truly puts the future at your fingertips!

What is a Tablet?

A tablet is a compact, portable, and powerful digital dynamo that seamlessly blends laptop power with smartphone convenience. It offers endless entertainment, e-learning, creative pursuits, and work on-the-go. With a robust processor, ample storage, and a user-friendly operating system, it’s a digital diary, entertainment hub, office, art studio, and library.

What is the difference between an iPad and a tablet?

A short and quick Summery

There is a difference between an iPad and a tablet. Both have advantages and disadvantages but the utility it is providing to the customers is phenomenal. Here is a small and quick summary of the differences between the two.

From the above data, you can see the major difference between the two. iPad is more considered official and secure as compared to the generic tablet. But the current era is very much competitive for the two.

Apple is in a continuous battle with the generic tablet giant companies for the market hold.  Here is a comprehensive idea of which one is the best and what is the key difference between the two stand out.

Operating System

iPad

An iPad operates on Apple’s proprietary iOS, now called iPadOS since 2019, which is a version of iOS specifically designed for iPads. This operating system offers a sleek and intuitive user interface and is optimized to work smoothly with the iPad’s hardware. iPadOS features robust security measures, and comprehensive parental controls, and is renowned for its consistency across all devices. It has a curated ecosystem where all applications are vetted through the App Store, which can lead to higher-quality apps, but also limits user options in some instances.

iPadOS is exclusive to Apple devices and has excellent synchronization with other Apple products, such as the iPhone, MacBook, and Apple Watch, thanks to features like Handoff, iCloud, and Continuity. One key characteristic of iPadOS is the support for multitasking and the recent inclusion of better support for widgets and an app library.

Tablet (Android)

Tablets from other manufacturers, often referred to generically as “tablets,” usually run on Google’s Android operating system. Android offers a high degree of customization, allowing users to tailor the user interface and experience to their preferences. It supports a wider range of hardware due to its open-source nature, leading to a broader range of devices at varying price points.

Google Play Store hosts Android apps, with fewer restrictions compared to Apple’s App Store, leading to a wider range of apps but potentially a higher risk of low-quality or insecure apps. Android’s integration with Google’s suite of services like Google Drive, Gmail, and Google Photos is smooth and convenient for users heavily invested in the Google ecosystem. One of Android’s distinctive features is its support for multiple user accounts on the same device.

Latest versions (as of July 2023)

App Ecosystem

iPad

The app ecosystem of an iPad is typically considered curated and highly regulated. With iPadOS, users can only download apps through Apple’s App Store, where each app undergoes a review process to ensure it meets Apple’s quality and security standards. This process promotes a high degree of trust in the safety and reliability of apps but might limit the variety to some extent.

iPads also enjoy first preference from developers when it comes to launching new apps or updates, given their uniform hardware and software standards. In terms of app revenue, iPad users are often seen as more willing to purchase apps or make in-app purchases, making the platform attractive for developers seeking monetization.

Tablet (Android)

Android tablets, on the other hand, are known for their flexible and diverse app ecosystem. The primary source of apps is Google’s Play Store, but users are also allowed to install apps from other sources, which leads to a wider variety of applications to choose from.

However, this flexibility can sometimes pose security risks, as apps from outside the Play Store do not undergo the same rigorous vetting process. Additionally, due to a large number of different Android devices with varying screen sizes, resolutions, and hardware capabilities, developers may find it harder to create apps that work perfectly on all devices, which can sometimes lead to less polished apps.

Differences (as of July 2023)

Manufacturer

iPad

iPads are manufactured by Apple Inc., a multinational technology company based in Cupertino, California. Apple is known for its design-centric approach, integrating hardware and software to provide seamless user experiences. The iPad product line is streamlined and consists of a few distinct models, such as the iPad, iPad Mini, iPad Air, and iPad Pro.

This focused approach allows Apple to provide regular updates and support to all its devices, ensuring the longevity of its products. iPads also have the advantage of being integrated with the larger Apple ecosystem, allowing them to pair and sync seamlessly with other Apple devices like iPhones, MacBooks, and the Apple Watch.

Tablet (Android)

Android tablets, in contrast, are manufactured by a multitude of companies from all around the world. Companies like Samsung, Lenovo, Huawei, Asus, and many others each produce a variety of models, leading to a wide range of tablets with different specifications, sizes, designs, and price points. This diversity allows users to choose a device that best fits their specific needs and budget.

However, due to the large number of devices, manufacturers may not provide consistent updates or long-term support for all models. It is also worth noting that, while all these tablets run on Android, manufacturers often overlay the operating system with their own user interface, leading to differing user experiences across tablets.

Differences (as of July 2023)

The Customizability of iPads vs Generic Tablet

iPad

The customizability of iPads, while being a subject of improvement in recent years, is relatively limited due to the closed nature of Apple’s iPadOS. Users can change wallpapers, arrange apps, create folders, and with newer versions of iPadOS, incorporate widgets onto their home screen.

However, deep changes, such as the ability to install custom ROMs or significant interface modifications, are not officially supported. iPads are designed to offer a streamlined and consistent experience, with a focus on usability and design rather than extensive customization.

Tablet (Android)

On the other hand, Android tablets offer a high degree of customizability. Users have the freedom to change almost every aspect of the system, from simple changes like wallpapers, widgets, and app placement to deeper customizations like installing custom ROMs, changing boot animations, or even replacing the entire user interface with a custom launcher.

These options allow users to tailor their tablet experience to their individual preferences but also require more tech knowledge to exploit fully.

Differences (as of July 2023)

Hardware and Software Integration

iPad

Apple is renowned for its seamless hardware and software integration, which is a key strength for iPads. Both the iPadOS and the iPad hardware are designed and developed by Apple, allowing for a level of optimization and synergy that is difficult to match.

This integration contributes to the smooth, consistent user experience that Apple devices are known for. It also results in better power management, leading to excellent battery life. Furthermore, because Apple maintains control over both the software and hardware aspects, iPads tend to receive regular software updates for many years after release.

Tablet (Android)

Android tablets, while offering great versatility, can’t match the hardware and software integration seen in iPads. With multiple manufacturers developing the hardware and Google developing the Android OS, there are inevitable variations in how well the software is optimized for different devices.

Some manufacturers customize Android to better fit their hardware, but this can lead to inconsistent user experiences across devices. Additionally, the timing and frequency of software updates can be inconsistent, depending on the manufacturer and specific model.

Differences (as of July 2023)

The powerhouse differences between iPad and Tablet:

iPad

iPads are powered by Apple’s custom-designed silicon, the A-series and now the M-series chips. These chips are designed specifically for iOS and iPadOS devices and offer robust performance, often outperforming many competitors in terms of speed and efficiency.

For instance, the M1 chip, used in the latest iPads as of 2023, includes an 8-core CPU and an 8-core GPU, offering a significant boost in performance over previous models. Apple’s control over both hardware and software allows for better optimization, resulting in impressive performance even with less RAM compared to some Android tablets.

Tablet (Android)

Android tablets use a wide range of processors, from various manufacturers such as Qualcomm, MediaTek, Samsung (Exynos), and others. The performance can vary significantly, with high-end models often matching the speed and power of iPads, while lower-end models may not offer the same level of performance.

Unlike iPads, Android tablets often boast higher amounts of RAM, which can offer smoother multitasking. However, the efficiency and optimization of these components can depend heavily on the specific manufacturer and model.

Differences (as of July 2023)

Physical Differences between iPad and Tablet:

iPad

iPads are recognized for their high-quality build and minimalistic design, following Apple’s signature aesthetic. They feature an aluminum or sometimes glass body, with rounded corners and edges for a comfortable grip. As of 2023, all iPads have adopted a bezel-less design with a larger screen-to-body ratio, featuring either Face ID or Touch ID for biometric security.

iPads come in a limited range of sizes and color options, typically featuring high-resolution Retina Displays. They also have proprietary Lightning or USB-C connectors for charging and data transfer. Most models lack a traditional 3.5mm headphone jack but support wireless audio devices.

Tablet (Android)

Android tablets come in a vast array of shapes, sizes, and designs due to the multitude of manufacturers. They can range from premium devices with high-quality materials and high-resolution displays to budget models with plastic bodies and lower-resolution screens. The location and type of biometric security (fingerprint sensor, face recognition) can vary greatly.

Some tablets might feature standard USB or USB-C ports, and many still include a 3.5mm headphone jack. Android tablets can offer a variety of color options, and some may include additional features like water resistance, expandable storage via MicroSD card slots, or stylus support for note taking..

Differences (as of July 2023)

Price Range

iPad

iPads generally fall into a higher price range due to their high-quality build, performance, and the premium associated with the Apple brand. As of 2023, the entry-level iPad starts at a few hundred dollars, while the top-tier iPad Pro models can exceed a thousand dollars, especially when adding larger storage capacities or cellular capabilities.

It’s important to note that iPads also have a strong resale value due to their longevity and brand reputation. Furthermore, additional costs can accrue when considering necessary accessories like the Apple Pencil or the Smart Keyboard, which are sold separately.

Tablet (Android)

Android tablets cover a broad price spectrum, from budget-friendly options under a hundred dollars to premium models that rival the cost of high-end iPads. The pricing varies significantly depending on factors like the brand, hardware specifications, screen size, and resolution, build quality, and additional features.

Some high-end Android tablets from manufacturers like Samsung or Huawei offer premium features and performance at a price comparable to iPads. At the same time, many affordable models from other brands provide basic functionality at a much lower cost.

Differences (as of July 2023)

What Advantages Does an iPad Have Compared to a Tablet?

iPads, compared to Android tablets, have several distinct advantages, including:

Seamless Integration:

iPads offer seamless integration with other Apple devices, such as the iPhone, MacBook, Apple Watch, and more. This allows for easy file sharing, messaging, and device pairing.

High-Quality App Ecosystem:

Apps on iPad are generally of high quality due to the strict vetting process of the App Store. Developers often prioritize iOS for new app releases or updates.

Long-Term Software Support:

Apple provides software updates for older devices for many years after their release, ensuring longevity and security.

Optimized Performance:

With the integration of Apple’s custom-designed chips and iPadOS, iPads often deliver smooth, efficient performance.

Consistent User Experience:

Thanks to the closed nature of iPadOS and the limited number of models, iPads offer a consistent, user-friendly experience.

Resale Value:

iPads tend to hold their value well over time, offering higher resale values compared to many Android tablets.

Design and Build Quality:

iPads are known for their high-quality build, premium materials, and sleek design aesthetics.

What Disadvantages Does an iPad Have Compared to a Tablet?

Despite their many advantages, iPads do have certain drawbacks when compared to Android tablets:

Price:

iPads are generally more expensive than most Android tablets, which may put them out of reach for some consumers.

Limited Customization:

Compared to Android, iPadOS doesn’t allow much customization. Users are limited to the features and interface design choices made by Apple.

Lack of Expandable Storage:

iPads don’t come with an option for expanding the storage via MicroSD cards, a feature present in many Android tablets.

Non-Universal Cables:

While newer iPads use USB-C, older models require Apple’s proprietary Lightning cables, which are not as universally available as standard micro-USB or USB-C cables used by most Android tablets.

Limited File System Access:

Unlike Android, iPadOS does not give users direct access to the file system, making certain types of file management more challenging.

Lack of Multi-User Support:

iPads do not support multiple user accounts (except in a managed education environment), whereas most Android tablets do.

App Restrictions:

The App Store’s strict approval process, while ensuring app quality, can also limit the availability of certain types of apps that are more freely available on Android platforms.

Which One Should You Choose?

iPad vs Tablet: Which is Better?

The “winner” between an iPad and a generic Android tablet greatly depends on what the user values most in a device. If the user values integration with other devices, long-term software support, and a high-quality app ecosystem, then the iPad is the clear winner. However, if the user values customization, expandable storage, universal cables, unrestricted file system access, multi-user support, fewer app restrictions, and a more affordable price, then a generic Android tablet would be the preferred choice.

In Conclusion: Personal Preference Reigns

Ultimately, whether you choose an iPad or another tablet, depends on your personal preferences, needs, and budget. While iPads offer a premium, seamless user experience, other tablets provide a spectrum of choices catering to various tastes and price points.

In the realm of tech, it’s essential to remember that one size doesn’t fit all. As consumers, it’s our privilege and responsibility to pick the devices that serve us best.

FAQS

Can iPads and tablets install Flash software to watch online videos?

In September 2021, Adobe officially discontinued support for Flash, and it is no longer available or secure to use on any platform, including iPads and Android tablets. Instead, most online videos now use HTML5, which is universally supported.

Which devices allow for multitasking, iPads or tablets?

Both iPads and Android tablets support multitasking, but the implementation and fluidity can vary. iPads allow for split-view and slide-over functions, while Android tablets offer split-screen and, in some cases, free-form windowed modes, depending on the manufacturer and model.

How do the costs compare between iPads and tablets?

iPads generally fall into a higher price range, reflecting their premium build and features. Android tablets, on the other hand, cover a broad price spectrum, from budget-friendly to high-end models that rival the cost of iPads.

How do you use an iPad as a drawing tablet for a Mac?

You can use an iPad as a drawing tablet for a Mac using a feature called Sidecar. This allows the iPad to act as a secondary display, and when paired with an Apple Pencil, it can be used for precise drawing tasks.

How do you screenshot on an iPad?

To take a screenshot on an iPad, press the top button and the volume up button at the same time, then quickly release both buttons. A thumbnail of the screenshot will appear in the corner of your screen, which you can tap to edit.