Since the pandemic, schools have had the choice between having their students have an iPad or a Chromebook. Some districts use an iPad, while others prefer a Chromebook. Schools should either have a Chromebook, or all districts should standardize to an iPad or Chromebook.

Having an iPad for school has a couple of pros and cons. One pro is that compared to a Chromebook, they’re much cheaper, with an iPad averaging around $200 and a Chromebook around $400. Another advantage is that students are used to using their iPads, so they will most likely already be used to the technology. 

However, schools also buy accessories to extend the lifespan of an iPad. The items include a case, screen protector, and keyboard, which, when combined, can cost more than a Chromebook, which already has most of its accessories. 

Another disadvantage is that when you get a Chromebook, you already have most of the features included in an iPad. You already have a keyboard and a case included with a Chromebook. Why bother spending more money when purchasing a Chromebook at the same price as an iPad?

In my opinion, the Chromebook is superior to the iPad because you don’t have to add more accessories to the Chromebook. The Chromebook already has a keyboard and is priced similarly to an iPad with the accessories. 

Chromebooks also have the added benefit of having the ability to have more storage compared to iPads. While the Chromebook can run out of storage, you don’t have to purchase more storage compared to the iPad. 

Districts should standardize all technology into Chromebooks because buying an iPad can inconvenience students.