How much memory do I need

I'm thinking about purchasing an iPadPro after I retire instead of purchasing a laptop computer. How much memory do you think I would need. It would just be to surf the internet, do some shutterfly albums, check email, maybe watch Netflix. Would not be playing any games. But, I don't want to run out of memory. I will more than likely get one that has cellular service.


Thanks!


iPad Pro 12.9-inch, 3rd Gen, Wi-Fi, Cell

Posted on May 6, 2022 1:54 PM

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Posted on May 6, 2022 2:01 PM

Memory (RAM) is a fixed amount based on the storage space you select. It cannot be changed. Storage space of up to 512GB will have the iPad Pro have 8GB of RAM memory. The 1TB and 2TB storage options will come with 16GB of RAM memory.


If you are referring to Storage space, then for what you describe 512GB of storage space should be plenty.


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May 6, 2022 2:01 PM in response to Redhead1954

Memory (RAM) is a fixed amount based on the storage space you select. It cannot be changed. Storage space of up to 512GB will have the iPad Pro have 8GB of RAM memory. The 1TB and 2TB storage options will come with 16GB of RAM memory.


If you are referring to Storage space, then for what you describe 512GB of storage space should be plenty.


May 6, 2022 2:35 PM in response to Redhead1954

Expand upon comments already made by both Phil0124 and IdrisSeabtight…


Whatever model of iPad you choose, you would be well advised to purchase as much internal storage as you can afford - as internal storage cannot be changed, upgraded or extended. The available internal storage is fixed for the entire life of the device. If you run out of internal storage for your documents, photos and other data, you will forever struggle and become a source of frustration. It is far better to have more storage than you need, than to need more storage than you have.


A good rule of thumb is to quantify how much data storage you will need - add a healthy margin - then double it. If you are unable to quantify your data storage needs, it becomes more difficult; whilst I cannot make definitive recommendations, personally I would council against purchase of any iPad with any less than 256GB storage - 512GB or greater offering a greater level of safety.  


Within the Apple Support Communities we see regular tales of woe and disappointment when storage requirements are exceeded, necessitating replacement of the device; by contrast, we never see complaint of having too much available storage. It is relatively easy to fill limited internal storage space; perhaps consider higher tiers of storage as providing room for growth as your needs develop or mature - potentially extending the useful usable life of the device.


As for RAM, this too is a fixed commodity - and will be determined by the iPad model. The current iPad Pro 11” and 12.9” models offer the greatest 16GB configuration - but only with the 1TB and 2TB storage models.


Consider also the functional differences between WiFi Only and WiFi+Cellular models of iPad. Only WiFi+Cellular models include GPS capabilities - which may impact any Apps or features that require accurate and consistent location data, such as Mapping. Purchase of a WiFi+Cellular model does not commit you to using Cellular connections, but provides this flexibility should it be needed.  WiFi Only models of iPad have no Cellular or GPS functions at all.


As such, perhaps the “sweet spot” configuration would be either the 1TB 11” or 12.9” iPad Pro WiFi+Cellular model.


I hope this information and insight proves to be helpful to you.

May 9, 2022 6:18 AM in response to IdrisSeabright

The quote is perhaps only useful where it is appropriately “qualified”…


“It is far better to have more storage than you need, than to need more storage than you have. A good rule of thumb is to quantify how much data storage you will need - add a healthy margin - then double it. If you are unable to quantify your data storage needs, it becomes more difficult”.



May 9, 2022 7:30 AM in response to Redhead1954

All good advice on storage. If you have not already found this out, buying a refurbished iPad from Apple directly will save you money or go to pay for the extra memory and they are guaranteed as if new. I have now bought 2 iPads and an iMac that way and it was always a good saving. You might have to wait for particular model specifications, but not for very long.

May 9, 2022 8:08 AM in response to caspar35

caspar35 wrote:

All good advice on storage. If you have not already found this out, buying a refurbished iPad from Apple directly will save you money or go to pay for the extra memory and they are guaranteed as if new. I have now bought 2 iPads and an iMac that way and it was always a good saving. You might have to wait for particular model specifications, but not for very long.

Also excellent advice!

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How much memory do I need

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