Reimagining the iPad Mini as a Portable Writing Powerhouse
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Chapter 1: The Transition to Minimalism
As my collection of tech gadgets grows, I often find myself reassessing my priorities and contemplating ways to streamline my setup. My recent focus on utilizing my iMac Pro more frequently has diminished my inclination to reach for my MacBook Air as often as before.
Although I still admire the M1 MacBook Air, considering it the best choice for anyone in need of a laptop, I find that its performance exceeds the requirements for many users. For students and professionals alike, the M1 MacBook Air is often more than sufficient, and I still find its responsiveness thrilling.
Initially, I considered selling my MacBook Air. With rumors suggesting the M2 MacBook Air will launch this Spring, I could potentially sell my MacBook Air for around $700, a nice return for a device that has been heavily utilized for a little over a year. However, rather than letting it go, I proposed to my wife that she might want to replace her 2017 MacBook Pro with it, particularly because she prefers the keyboard. We'll see how that transition unfolds this weekend.
Another device I've found myself using less frequently is my Kindle Oasis. I had previously expressed excitement about the iPad Mini serving as a substitute for both my Kindle Oasis and my iPad 8th Generation, and that transition has continued to evolve. Ultimately, I decided to gift my Kindle Oasis to a family member, as I no longer felt the need for it. The iPad 8th Generation has also transitioned into a family device, primarily used by my son for watching shows during long car rides.
What I envision now is a more streamlined setup—one that enables me to perform all necessary tasks without the hassle of choosing between multiple devices. My goal is to establish a desktop environment for most of my writing and work while maintaining a portable workstation for when I'm on the go.
While the pairing of the iMac Pro and M1 MacBook Air once seemed ideal, my frequent use of the iPad Mini prompted me to consider transforming it into a portable writing station. I already had much of what I needed; I just had to find the right keyboard.
Section 1.1: The Essentials of Portability
Although the iPad Mini's screen may appear small compared to other iPad models, I find it sufficiently spacious in portrait mode for typing tasks. One major advantage of using an iPad is that connecting a Bluetooth keyboard allows the on-screen keyboard to disappear, providing an unobstructed writing space.
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The Hardware
During the pandemic, I purchased a refurbished Twelve South Compass stand on eBay for approximately $12. Although I didn't use it much while working from home, it has become an excellent fit for my plans to use the iPad Mini as a writing machine. While I also own an Amazon Basic stand for devices, the Compass is much more compact, making it a preferred option for my bag.
Before discussing keyboards, I want to mention that I’ll likely bring along either an Apple Magic Mouse or an Apple Magic Trackpad. The cursor support on iPadOS is quite effective, so having a pointing device will be advantageous, though I won't rely on it heavily for writing.
Finding the right keyboard is crucial for long travel sessions. I considered several options, including the Apple Magic Keyboard, Logitech K380, Logitech K480, and Logitech MX Keys Mini. While mechanical keyboards are appealing, their bulk makes them less suitable for travel.
I've used Apple Magic Keyboards for years and currently enjoy the Extended version in Space Gray with my iMac Pro. While I know I would be satisfied with the Apple Magic Keyboard for my iPad Mini, I found that other third-party options offer better value for the same $99 price point.
I looked at more budget-friendly choices, such as the Logitech K380 and K480. Although I didn't purchase the K380, I did try out the K480 a few times and found it underwhelming. The design of the K480, which includes a slot for holding the iPad, does not provide an optimal angle compared to the Compass, and the iPad Mini frequently slipped out. Additionally, the K480 felt bulky, and I wasn't impressed with the typing experience.
In contrast, I tested the Logitech MX Keys Mini and was pleased with the results. The tactile feedback from the keys exceeded that of both the Magic Extended Keyboard and the M1 MacBook Air keyboard. While I need more time to determine if I prefer it over those options, my initial impressions are quite positive.
The keys are notably tactile, likely due to their scissor design, offering a more mechanical feel compared to other low-profile keyboards. The keyboard's size is ideal, and while I was initially unsure about the back bump, it ultimately provides a comfortable elevation when typing on a flat surface. Additionally, it fits nicely in my backpack.
What I particularly appreciate about this keyboard, especially when compared to the Apple Magic Keyboard, is its aesthetic. The black and dark gray color scheme, the feel of the key caps, the backlight feature, and the USB-C charging capability all enhance the overall experience. Even if Apple released a Space Gray version of the Magic Keyboard, I believe I would still prefer this option.
The keys feature square caps with a subtle round dimple, allowing for precise touch typing—an essential quality for writing. The convenience of USB-C charging eliminates the need to carry an extra charger, as both the iPad Mini and keyboard share the same port.
My Complete iPad Mini Writing Setup (with Optional Trackpad)
The components I selected for my portable writing workstation include:
- iPad Mini
- Twelve South Compass
- Logitech MX Keys Mini
- Magic Trackpad (optional)
This straightforward setup meets all my writing needs while on the move. I drafted this entire post using this configuration, and even with the Magic Trackpad nearby, I rarely utilized it. When I’m in writing mode, all I require is a screen to view my text and a reliable keyboard to input it. I’m genuinely excited about this setup and don’t foresee missing my MacBook Air.
Section 1.2: Software for Seamless Writing
Although this section will be brief, I want to highlight the software I plan to use for my iPad Mini writing setup. A suitable text editor is crucial for effective writing, and the choice of one that aligns with your needs can make all the difference.
After experimenting with various options, I remain a dedicated user of Ulysses. Its integration with Medium, Markdown support, customizable interface, and cross-device usability make it indispensable. Additionally, the built-in grammar and spell check save me over $100 annually on Grammarly.
One significant advantage of using a text editor that supports iCloud or similar syncing capabilities is the ability to continue work seamlessly across devices. Therefore, employing my iPad Mini as a writing tool won’t disrupt my workflow when transitioning back to my iMac Pro.
Apart from Ulysses, I also utilize Apple Photos for editing images for my Techuisite posts and occasionally Affinity Designer for organizing screenshots. However, Ulysses remains my primary writing application. I plan to create an updated writing workflow for my Mac, and I might do the same for the iPad Mini if I find myself using this setup more frequently.
Chapter 2: Embracing the Dark Mode Writing Environment
Everyone requires a setup tailored to their unique needs. Currently, my primary workspace is my iMac Pro, where I manage my writing and daily tasks. Nevertheless, I always seek a portable solution. Over time, I have realized that the M1 MacBook Air is more powerful than necessary for my requirements. My desktop Mac provides ample power, and I appreciate the routine I’ve established in using my desk.
Since I carry my iPad Mini everywhere and utilize it daily for reading, watching, and researching, it made sense to also explore its potential as a writing tool. I was confident it could meet my needs, but I was pleasantly surprised by how well it performed, especially with the MX Keys Mini keyboard. I found the iPad Mini’s compact display perfectly suitable for composing over 2000 words.
Regardless of whether you own a standard iPad, iPad Mini, iPad Air, or iPad Pro, don’t overlook the possibility of using it as a laptop alternative without investing in the costly Apple Magic Keyboard and Trackpad. With a quality keyboard and mouse, you could assemble an impressive portable setup that rivals other laptops on the market.
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