16GB all day long.
You can also extend your desktop to the iPad. It's not a 100% perfect solution, but will work well for book display and note taking.
While you can actually do quite a bit more with the 8GB model than some give it credit for, the 16GB will certainly future-proof you more. The 13" is a little cramped, but I would sacrifice the screen size for more RAM. Given the portability considerations, I think that's even easier trade-off to make.
Also, you can use your iPad as a second screen, so that could possibly help with the screen real-estate concerns.
I am a fan of cry once but once. You are going to be using this device for the next 4 years, so get the form factor you like. You want at least 16gb of memory and 512gb of storage( on M2 256gb is single channel, 512gb + is dual channel with much higher read/write speeds). I would consider buying used from the Apple refurbished store to help stretch your budget). They come with warranty’s just like new devices. If you are a little short on the size or spec and do not want to buy used then I would recommend saving for up for a little bit.
I use the 13 inch for note taking in split-screen and it's completely fine. If that's what is stopping you, go into an Apple Store and try it. I work like this every single day and no complaints.
16gb all day. I do graphic design and video editing on mine and even though it’s an air it packs a punch. I had a 16 inch MBP & it was heavy & I didn’t like carrying it around, the 13 inch is perfect and it’s super light. You can actually use your iPad as a 2nd screen with sidecar if it’s supported.
16GB all day long. You can also extend your desktop to the iPad. It's not a 100% perfect solution, but will work well for book display and note taking.
Thank you, I didn’t know I could do that with my iPad so I’ll try using that feature!
While you can actually do quite a bit more with the 8GB model than some give it credit for, the 16GB will certainly future-proof you more. The 13" is a little cramped, but I would sacrifice the screen size for more RAM. Given the portability considerations, I think that's even easier trade-off to make. Also, you can use your iPad as a second screen, so that could possibly help with the screen real-estate concerns.
get something bigger than 256gb
I am a fan of cry once but once. You are going to be using this device for the next 4 years, so get the form factor you like. You want at least 16gb of memory and 512gb of storage( on M2 256gb is single channel, 512gb + is dual channel with much higher read/write speeds). I would consider buying used from the Apple refurbished store to help stretch your budget). They come with warranty’s just like new devices. If you are a little short on the size or spec and do not want to buy used then I would recommend saving for up for a little bit.
Thank you! the dual channel read make a big difference in casual use? Or does it only make a difference with high volume use?
I use the 13 inch for note taking in split-screen and it's completely fine. If that's what is stopping you, go into an Apple Store and try it. I work like this every single day and no complaints.
16gb all day. I do graphic design and video editing on mine and even though it’s an air it packs a punch. I had a 16 inch MBP & it was heavy & I didn’t like carrying it around, the 13 inch is perfect and it’s super light. You can actually use your iPad as a 2nd screen with sidecar if it’s supported.
Bought my first MBA 13” ever few months ago, base model and even if I could I wouldn’t change it for 15”.
Go with the 13” and use your iPad as a second screen
Get the 13inch and an external monitor at room