Best Device for Digital Planning: Top 5 Options

I love digital planning and I love technology, so what’s better than combining the two? I’ve used all of these devices and want to share which is the best device for digital planning. (If you have questions about your own situation and need further guidance, I’m always happy to help!)

When you are starting digital planning, the first thing you need to determine is which device you want. (Next is choosing the app and the planner.)

So which is the best device? It depends on your personal preferences to a degree, but overall here are the top 5 devices for digital planning that I’ve found so far:

1. Apple iPad Pro 13
2. Samsung Tab S9 Ultra
3. Surface Pro 11th Edition
4. Onyx Boox Tab Ultra C
5. reMarkable 2

If you want a device that is “distraction-free,” go with reMarkable 2. Otherwise, look at your budget and determine if the other four options are feasible. I’ve listed them in the order I recommend them, with iPad being the #1!

Why the iPad Pro 13 is the Best Device for Digital Planning

The Apple iPad Pro 13 stands out as the best device for digital planning for several reasons:

• Superior Display: The 13-inch Liquid Retina XDR display with ProMotion, True Tone, and P3 wide color gamut offers the best visual experience, making it perfect for detailed planning, viewing documents, and editing images.
• Powerful Performance: The M4 chip provides unmatched speed and efficiency, ensuring smooth multitasking and quick responsiveness, even with demanding apps.
• Apple Pencil Integration: The Apple Pencil Pro is highly precise and responsive, making handwriting, drawing, and annotating seamless and accurate.
• Extensive App Ecosystem: The iPad Pro is compatible with a wide range of planning and productivity apps such as GoodNotes, Notability, OneNote, and more, providing flexibility and options tailored to various planning styles.
• All-Day Battery Life: With up to 10 hours of battery life, it supports extensive use throughout the day without needing frequent recharges.

Visit the OneNote Planner Shop
Visit the GoodNotes/PDF Planner Shop
Visit the reMarkable Planner Shop

Pros and Cons of Each Device

Warning: Some “techy” speak in 3…2…1…

1. Apple iPad Pro 13

Pros:

• Superior Display: Excellent resolution and color accuracy. The best.
• Powerful Performance: M4 chip ensures smooth and fast operations.
• Extensive App Support: Wide range of productivity and planning apps.
• Apple Pencil: Highly precise and responsive for writing and drawing.
• Battery Life: Up to 10 hours on a single charge.

Cons:

• Price: One of the most expensive options on the market.
• Operating System: iPadOS might not integrate seamlessly with non-Apple devices.

2. Samsung Tab S9 Ultra

Pros:

• Large Display: 14.6-inch Super AMOLED with 120Hz refresh rate for vibrant visuals.
• Strong Performance: Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor ensures smooth multitasking.
• S Pen: Comes included, providing precise input.
• Battery Life: Long-lasting battery with fast charging.
• Android Ecosystem: Compatible with a wide range of Android apps.

Cons:

• Size: Larger size may be less portable.
• Software Updates: Android devices might not receive updates as quickly or as consistently as iOS devices.

3. Surface Pro 11th Edition

Pros:

• Windows Environment: Seamless integration with Microsoft Office Suite and other Windows applications.
• Performance: 11th Gen Intel Core processors for robust performance.
• Surface Pen: Provides a natural writing and drawing experience.
• Versatility: Functions as both a tablet and a laptop.

Cons:

• Battery Life: Up to 10 hours, but may be less under heavy use.
• Price: Can be expensive, especially with accessories like the Surface Pen and Type Cover.

4. Onyx Boox Tab Ultra C

Pros:

• E Ink Display: Gentle on the eyes, ideal for long planning sessions.
• Battery Life: Exceptional, lasting several weeks on a single charge.
• Android Support: Access to a variety of Android planning apps.
• Portability: Lightweight and easy to carry.

Cons:

• Performance: Not as powerful as other options; suitable for less demanding tasks.
• Display: E Ink displays are not as vibrant or responsive as LCD/AMOLED screens. No color.

5. reMarkable 2

Pros:

• Paper-like Display: 10.3-inch CANVAS display provides a very natural writing experience.
• Battery Life: Lasts up to two weeks on a single charge.
• Simplicity: Focused on note-taking and planning without unnecessary distractions.
• Lightweight: Easy to carry and handle.

Cons:

• Limited App Support: Minimal third-party app integration.
• Performance: Less powerful than other devices; mainly suitable for note-taking and simple planning tasks.
• Features: Lacks some advanced features found in more versatile tablets.

No matter which device you choose, pairing it with the Key2Success Digital Planner will undoubtedly enhance your planning efficiency and productivity, making it easier to achieve your personal and professional goals.

Visit the OneNote Planner Shop
Visit the GoodNotes/PDF Planner Shop
Visit the reMarkable Planner Shop