One-to-one computing programs are at an all-time high with the two most popular devices being the Chromebook and the iPad. Understanding which device is best for your school means understanding the head-to-head comparison of the Chromebook vs. iPad in the classroom.
While not immediately apparent, both devices have a lot in common. Both devices:
- Have their own unique operating systems
- Are extremely secure (more secure than a Windows laptop or MacBook)
- Feature their own unique classroom management systems (Apple Classroom and Google Classroom)
- Last throughout the day on a single charge
- Power on quickly
- Are easy to deploy
- Are lightweight
Today, we’ll look at the Chromebook and iPad head-to-head to see which device is right for your school.
What is an iPad?
Debuting in 2010, the iPad was the first computer tablet introduced by Apple. Since its introduction, Apple has launched multiple derivations of the iPad: mini (2012), Air (2013), and Pro (2015).
iPads run on iPadOS, the rebranded version of iOS introduced in 2019. iPads do not have a built-in pointing device or keyboard. They can be used with or without a stylus. While iPads support up to 128GB of local storage, they also feature cloud capabilities. The iPad’s combination of hardware and software translate to an extremely secure device. Another unbeatable feature for iPads—they are easily paired with other Apple devices.
What is a Chromebook?
Introduced in 2011, the Chromebook is a type of laptop that runs Chrome OS and relies heavily on the internet. Most work is completed through web-based applications and stored via the cloud on Google Drive. While there is local storage, it is usually a fraction of what other laptops have.
Chromebooks have fewer moving parts and components which make them lightweight and often less expensive than a Windows laptop or MacBook. Chromebooks have a built-in QWRTY keyboard, but their modifier keys may vary from a Windows or Apple keyboard.
Like iPads, Chromebooks are extremely secure devices. They receive regular updates and vital security patches via Google Chrome. Since the majority of work occurs over the internet, this also makes them more secure.
Chromebook vs iPad in the Classroom: By the Numbers
As of 2019, 40 million educators used Chromebooks worldwide. According to a 2018 survey, 31% of schools used Chromebooks and 26% of schools used iPads in the US.
Both the Chromebook and tablet (iPad) markets grew significantly during 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Worldwide, Lenovo and Apple led the market in computer and tablet shipments in Q4 of 2020 and annual growth (41% and 42% respectively) as well as market share.
For Chromebooks, 2020 was a year of exponential growth, ending with four times as many Chromebooks shipped in Q4 of 2020 as compared to Q4 of 2019. This trend has continued into 2021, with shipments growing 275% in Q1 2021 over Q1 2020 and Chromebooks showing the highest growth over any other computer device.
Tablets saw 52% growth in Q1 2021 over the same quarter last year. Apple led tablet shipments in Q2 2020 with almost 20% growth from the previous quarter in 2019 and held a solid 38% of the market share. Apple sold the most iPads in 2020 since 2016 and almost 14% more iPads than in 2019.
Chromebook vs iPad: Which is best for your school?
There are couple features and differences to evaluate when comparing Chromebook vs iPad in the classroom.
Type of Device
Most immediately, these are two different types of devices. The iPad is a tablet, and the Chromebook is a laptop (with certain models that can convert to a tablet).
Age of Student
Another item to evaluate when discussing Chromebook vs iPad in the classroom is the age of the student. Generally, iPads are best suited for younger learners in elementary school while Chromebooks are best for students in middle and high school.
Price
Often the biggest constraint, price is a factor for most districts. While most believe that the iPad is the more expensive device, the costs can actually be quite comparable depending on the Chromebook model your district chooses. K-12 Chromebooks range in price, generally between $200 to $600. There are many education models between $200 and $300. There are even 2-in-1 Chromebooks in this range. iPads for education start at $309.
Be sure to factor in the cost of peripherals and accessories. This more immediately affects schools that deploy iPads and purchase keyboards or mouses.
Expiration Date
Often misunderstood, all Chromebooks come with an Auto Update Expiration (AUE, formerly EOL). This is the date that Google will no longer provide vital security patches and updates via Chrome OS. This does not render your Chromebook unusable, but updates will no longer be supported to protect your device. AUE is generally six to eight years from manufacture date, so Chromebooks still carry a long shelf life. Google has been known to extend AUEs on older models as well.
There is no similar concern for an iPad. However, older iPads may not be able to support the latest OS updates from Apple.
Model Options
Naturally, there are more models available in the Chromebook than the iPad. More manufacturers mean far greater specification and thus more options.
The iPad is exclusively an Apple product. There are four model options with different specification options.
Spec Comparison
Now that we’ve covered the key differences between Chromebooks and iPads, let’s look at their specs side by side. Since there are various Chromebooks available, we’ve chosen the HP Chromebook x360 11 G3 EE—a recently released, convertible Chromebook at a similar price point.
iPad, starting at $309
Processor: A12 Bionic Chip
Battery: Up to 10 hours
Storage: 32GB, up to 128GB
Screen: 10.2”
Resolution: 2160 x 1620
Weight: 1.08-1.09 lb
Ports: (1) Smart Connector (1) headphone jack
HP Chromebook x360 11 G3 EE, $309
Processor: Intel Celeron N4020
Battery: Up to 12 hours
Storage: 32GB
Screen: 11.6”
Resolution: 1366 x 768
Weight: 3.19 lb
Ports: (2) USB-C ports, (2) USB-A ports, (1) headphone/microphone combo jack
Chromebook vs iPad in the Classroom: Conclusion
At the end of the day, it all comes down to the needs of your school and students when discussing the benefits of each device. Be sure to weigh your biggest constraint alongside what your school needs most. Don’t be afraid to deploy both devices for different age groups. Good luck!
AGiRepair is a leader in mobile device repair, protection plans, parts, device buyback, and white glove provisioning services, offering comprehensive solutions for school districts, repair depots, and other organizations. For more information, contact us today!
