64gb vs 256gb iPad for College Students: Which to Buy?
College life is a whirlwind of classes, projects, and social events. A reliable iPad can be a game-changer, but choosing the right one is crucial. The biggest decision often boils down to storage: Should you opt for the 64GB iPad or the 256GB model?
This comparison dives deep into the needs of college students to help you make the perfect choice. We’ll explore how storage impacts your daily workflow, from note-taking and document storage to media consumption and creative projects. Choosing the right iPad can save you money and headaches.
We will break down the key differences between the 64GB and 256GB iPads. We’ll analyze their suitability for various academic disciplines and personal preferences. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of which iPad is the best fit for your college journey.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | 64GB | 256GB |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | 64GB | 256GB |
| Screen Size | Typically the same | Typically the same |
| Processor | Typically the same | Typically the same |
| RAM | Typically the same | Typically the same |
| Operating System | iPadOS | iPadOS |
| Apple Pencil Support | Yes | Yes |
| Keyboard Support | Yes | Yes |
| Front Camera | Typically the same | Typically the same |
| Rear Camera | Typically the same | Typically the same |
| Wi-Fi | Yes | Yes |
| Cellular Option | Available | Available |
| Color Options | Typically the same | Typically the same |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Storage Capacity
- 64gb: Offers a base storage capacity of 64 gigabytes. This may be sufficient for basic note-taking, document storage, and a limited number of apps and media. However, it can quickly fill up with large files like videos or extensive photo libraries, potentially requiring cloud storage.
- 256gb iPad for College Students: Provides a significantly larger 256 gigabytes of storage space. This allows for storing a vast amount of documents, apps, high-resolution photos, and videos directly on the device, without frequent reliance on cloud storage or external drives.
- Winner: 256gb
Price
- 64gb: Typically comes at a lower price point, making it a more budget-friendly option initially. This can be attractive for students on a tight budget.
- 256gb iPad for College Students: Costs more upfront due to the increased storage capacity. While the initial investment is higher, it can save money long-term by avoiding the need for expensive cloud storage subscriptions.
- Winner: 64gb (for budget)
Cloud Storage Reliance
- 64gb: Requires more frequent use of cloud storage services like iCloud, Google Drive, or Dropbox to manage files and free up space. This can incur additional costs depending on the amount of storage needed.
- 256gb iPad for College Students: Allows for more local storage, reducing the dependence on cloud services. This can be beneficial in areas with unreliable internet connectivity or for privacy-conscious students.
- Winner: 256gb
Multimedia Consumption (Videos, Movies, Games)
- 64gb: Limited in its ability to store a large library of downloaded movies, TV shows, and games. Students will need to carefully manage their media or rely heavily on streaming.
- 256gb iPad for College Students: Ideal for storing a substantial collection of downloaded videos, games, and other media for offline access. Great for long commutes, travel, or areas with poor Wi-Fi.
- Winner: 256gb
App Downloads and Software Installation
- 64gb: Can become constrained by the size of modern apps and software updates. Students may need to delete apps frequently to make room for new ones.
- 256gb iPad for College Students: Provides ample space for installing numerous apps, including large productivity suites, creative software, and games, without constant worry about running out of storage.
- Winner: 256gb
Longevity and Future-Proofing
- 64gb: May become quickly outdated as app sizes and file sizes continue to grow. Students may find themselves needing to upgrade to a device with more storage sooner.
- 256gb iPad for College Students: Offers greater longevity. The extra storage provides more headroom for future app and file growth, extending the device’s useful life.
- Winner: 256gb
File Backup and Archiving
- 64gb: Frequent backups and careful file management are crucial to avoid data loss. Limited storage can make backing up large files a challenge.
- 256gb iPad for College Students: Simplifies file backup and archiving by providing more space for creating local backups and storing files for long-term access.
- Winner: 256gb
Potential for Selling/Resale Value
- 64gb: May have a lower resale value compared to the 256GB model due to limited storage capacity, making it less attractive to potential buyers.
- 256gb iPad for College Students: Generally holds a higher resale value because of the desirable storage capacity. This can offset the initial cost difference to some degree.
- Winner: 256gb
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Storage Capacity | 256GB |
| Price | 64GB |
| Long-Term Flexibility | 256GB |
| Downloading Large Media Files | 256GB |
| Budget-Conscious | 64GB |
What They Have in Common
- Operating System: Both iPads run on iPadOS, providing a consistent user experience with access to the App Store and features optimized for tablet use.
- Apple Pencil Support: Both storage options are compatible with the Apple Pencil, allowing for note-taking, drawing, and other creative tasks.
- Keyboard Support: Both iPads support external keyboards, transforming them into more versatile devices for writing papers and other productivity tasks.
- Display Quality: Both models generally offer similar display quality, ensuring a vibrant and clear viewing experience for content consumption.
- App Ecosystem: Both iPads have access to the extensive App Store, providing a wide range of apps for education, entertainment, and productivity.
- Wi-Fi Connectivity: Both models offer Wi-Fi connectivity for internet access and online activities.
64GB vs 256GB iPad Buying Guide
Storage Needs Assessment
The first step is evaluating your storage requirements. Consider the types of files you’ll primarily store: documents, lecture recordings, multimedia, and software. If you plan to download many large apps, store videos locally, or work with extensive photo libraries, a 256GB iPad is the safer bet. Conversely, if you primarily use cloud storage, stream media, and take notes, 64GB might suffice. Think about your usage patterns over the course of a semester and beyond.
Coursework and Applications
Think about the specific software required for your courses. Some programs, especially those for creative fields like graphic design or video editing, can consume significant storage space. Consider whether you’ll be storing large project files locally. If you’re a heavy user of such applications, or anticipate needing to do so, the 256GB iPad is better. For basic note-taking, document editing, and web browsing, 64GB is likely sufficient.
Media Consumption and Storage
How do you consume media? If you download movies, TV shows, and music for offline viewing, the 256GB model offers a more comfortable experience. Streaming services reduce local storage needs, but consider potential internet access limitations. If you plan on storing a significant amount of media locally, particularly high-resolution videos or large music libraries, the extra storage is a definite advantage. However, for primarily streaming, 64GB is acceptable.
Long-Term Investment and Future-Proofing
iPads are often used for multiple years. Consider how your storage needs might evolve. Your usage may increase over time. The 256GB iPad provides more headroom for future needs, preventing potential storage limitations as your data grows. While cloud storage can help, it relies on consistent internet access. Investing in more storage initially can save you the hassle of deleting files or managing storage constraints later. Consider this a long term investment.
Budget Considerations and Price Difference
The 256GB iPad typically costs more than the 64GB model. Evaluate your budget and determine how much you’re willing to spend. If budget is a primary concern, the 64GB version offers a more affordable entry point. However, weigh the long-term benefits of more storage against the initial cost savings. Consider whether the additional storage justifies the price difference based on your storage needs and usage patterns.
Cloud Storage and External Storage Solutions
Cloud storage services like iCloud, Google Drive, and Dropbox can supplement local storage. Evaluate your comfort level with cloud services and internet reliability. External storage devices, such as flash drives or portable hard drives, offer another option for expanding storage. While these solutions can mitigate the need for large internal storage, they add extra steps. If you prefer a streamlined experience, the 256GB model is a more convenient choice.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy 64GB If…
- You primarily use your iPad for note-taking, web browsing, and consuming media like streaming videos.
- You rely heavily on cloud storage services like iCloud, Google Drive, or Dropbox.
- You don’t plan on storing a large library of downloaded movies, music, or games locally.
- You are on a tight budget.
Buy 256GB If…
- You plan to store a large collection of photos, videos, or downloaded content on your iPad.
- You are a creative professional who needs to work with large files or video projects.
- You want to download a significant number of apps and games without worrying about storage limitations.
- You prefer to have ample storage for future needs and potential file growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the main difference between the 64GB and 256GB iPads?
The primary difference is the storage capacity. The 256GB iPad offers four times the storage space of the 64GB model. This translates to more room for apps, photos, videos, and other files. The 256GB model is more future-proof and better suited for users with heavier storage needs.
Is 64GB enough for college students?
It depends on your usage. If you primarily use cloud storage, stream media, and take notes, 64GB might be sufficient. However, if you plan to download many apps, store large video files, or work with media-intensive projects, you will likely run out of space quickly. Carefully consider your storage needs.
Can I expand the storage on an iPad?
iPads do not have expandable storage through SD card slots. You can use cloud storage services or external storage devices like flash drives or portable hard drives to supplement the internal storage. This offers a workaround, but it’s not as seamless as having more built-in storage.
Which iPad is better for taking notes?
Both iPads are suitable for note-taking. The storage capacity doesn’t affect note-taking functionality. Consider other features like screen size, Apple Pencil compatibility, and processing power. Choose the model that best fits your budget and other needs, as storage isn’t a determining factor.
Does the 256GB iPad have a faster processor?
The storage capacity does not determine the processor speed. Both the 64GB and 256GB iPads will typically have the same processor within a given model generation. Performance differences will be negligible in most day-to-day tasks. Check the model specifications for chip details.
What if I run out of storage on my 64GB iPad?
If you run out of storage, you can delete unused apps, photos, and videos. Utilize cloud storage services like iCloud, Google Drive, or Dropbox to free up space. You can also connect external storage devices to transfer files. However, it’s a hassle and limits the convenience.
Is the 256GB iPad worth the extra money?
The value depends on your needs. If you anticipate needing a lot of storage for apps, media, and projects, the 256GB iPad is worth the investment. It provides more flexibility and prevents storage limitations. If you’re on a tight budget and primarily use cloud services, 64GB may suffice.
Final Verdict
Choosing between the 64GB and 256GB iPad depends heavily on individual needs. While the 64GB model is a more affordable option, the 256GB iPad offers significant advantages for students requiring more storage for apps, media, and projects. Considering long-term usage and the convenience of ample storage, the 256GB model is often the more practical choice for a college student.
Winner: 256GB iPad