Meet the Other Phone. Child-safe in minutes.

Meet the Other Phone.
Child-safe in minutes.

Buy now

Please or to access all these features

Chat

Join the discussion and chat with other Mumsnetters about everyday life, relationships and parenting.

Does anyone use an iPad as a laptop?

9 replies

bendmeoverbackwards · 17/04/2026 10:18

I’ve got an old iPad and an even older Apple desktop computer (that I rarely use because it’s cold in that room).

Thinking of replacing both with a new iPad and Apple keyboard. Can you create and store word documents on an iPad as on a laptop?

I mainly use it for internet and streaming services but also documents. Is there any reason an iPad won’t suffice?

OP posts:
ThirdStorm · 17/04/2026 10:34

I predominately use an ipad for all my shopping, banking and browsing needs. But I keep a windows laptop for using microsoft office and I keep important documents and back up photos, etc on a usb drive.

bendmeoverbackwards · 17/04/2026 10:44

But you can use Microsoft office on an iPad, no?

OP posts:
BlooomUnleashed · 17/04/2026 10:47

Me. I teach online and create teaching materials (including interactive) on my iPad.

Haven’t used a laptop in years.

No external keyboard on this iPad but when I upgrade to a reconditioned, higher spec one, I might get one.

Really want an apple pencil.

Not saying I need it. But want it.

ThirdStorm · 17/04/2026 11:04

In my experience, excel and word documents are viewable but I can't use them like I would on a laptop. But honestly I have no experience, there must be apps available.

DancingLions · 17/04/2026 12:11

I will say my ipad pro has outlasted any laptop I ever owned. I've had it 11 years now and still going strong! I use it every day but I don't create documents on it, so can't answer that aspect. I wouldn't have got one but my ex got it for me and now I wouldn't be without it. It certainly outlasted the ex!

Somersetbaker · 17/04/2026 12:57

The basic word app for Ipad will only let you view not edit documents, to edit you need an Office 365 subscription. So yes it can be done, it may be ok for occasional use, but to be honest it will never match a laptop with a decent external monitor and keyboard.

clearlyy · 17/04/2026 13:06

I do, and my sister told me she uses hers for a laptop. Very common. I also have an Apple Pencil because I do digital art.

MuffinCoffee · 17/04/2026 13:08

Check out the new Mac Neo - it sort of between an iPad and a simple laptop. I use my iPad a lot with a Logitech keyboard which also has a trackpad. I do have an office 365 subscription.

TheDenimPoet · 17/04/2026 13:14

BlooomUnleashed · 17/04/2026 10:47

Me. I teach online and create teaching materials (including interactive) on my iPad.

Haven’t used a laptop in years.

No external keyboard on this iPad but when I upgrade to a reconditioned, higher spec one, I might get one.

Really want an apple pencil.

Not saying I need it. But want it.

I got a dupe one for £4.99 from Temu and it's absolutely perfect!

New posts on this thread. Refresh page
Swipe left for the next trending thread