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Run Windows and Linux
A proper computer can support multiple instances of different operating systems. This can be accomplished with virtualization or a multiple-boot configuration.
Virtualization basically runs an OS on top of an OS, within a virtual machine. For example, you can run a virtual instance of Windows or Linux on a Mac using software such as Parallels or VMWare Fusion. Virtualization is most popular in data centers, where a physical server will often host many virtual servers.
A multiple-boot configuration allows the user to select a different operating system when starting the computer. Apple offers Boot Camp, which allows Mac OS X users to easily install Windows. This actually works well, and many technical users claim that Windows actually runs better on a Mac because Macs often have better hardware than PCs. For about a decade, Macs have featured the same Intel processors found in most Windows PCs. Apple also develops all of the Windows drivers for Boot Camp, which may also explain why Windows runs so well on a Mac. When I used Windows, I would often experience problems with drivers created by some fly-by-night hardware company.
It is possible to install Linux on an iPad, but you must forego using iOS. This means you won’t be able to use any of the excellent apps that are designed specifically for your device. An iPad running true iOS cannot dual-boot operating systems or run virtual instances of Windows or Linux. Jailbreaking your device offers some possibilities, but it also voids your warranty and could expose you to malware. The iPad that most people use — one that runs iOS — cannot run other operating systems.
No Internal Storage Over 128 GB
The top-of-the-line iPad only offers 128 GB of SSD storage space. A notebook or desktop computer can store terabytes (1 TB = 1024 GB) of data on local drives. My Mac Pro has 2.5 TB of disk space.
There are many accessories and external hard drives that can work with an iPad, but none of these are internal. You must either carry the extra device with you or be on the same WiFi network. Furthermore, these devices are not nearly as fast as high performance internal SSD or hard drives found in notebook and desktop computers. You can increase storage by using cloud-based services, but these are even slower than external drives.
The lack of expandable internal storage hinders the iPad’s ability to be a creative tool for professionals. A pro audio or video engineer typically needs terabytes of internal storage to manage assets.
Can’t Customize Gestures
With iOS 8, Apple added new features, bringing customization options such as widgets and extensions to the iPad and other devices. Unlike the Mac, users cannot configure gestures. They are either on or off. Accessibility features offer a few more options, but they are fixed and not customizable.
Can’t Access File System
Apple abstracted away the notion of files and folders in their mobile operating system. Instead of having a file browser, like Finder, users manage documents within each app. There are some apps that can use files from other applications, but there still is nothing like Finder that can explore the iOS file system.
On a Mac, the average user is shielded from any system directories. This is for their own good. They could delete or rename a critical system file, which could corrupt the operating system. Administrators can run a Unix command to gain access to every directory. This cannot be done on iOS. (continue…)