Well, a MacBook lacks touch and cannot detach the keyboard. That is the nice thing about this accessory, that it converts your tablet into a laptop, you still can use it as a tablet though. But you already name the important difference, why a MacBook (and yes, the 12" was a really nice form factor) is better for many tasks: because of the software limitations of the iPad, but they are completely artificial. One could have an iPad as usefull as a Mac if Apple allowed it.

And yes, at least I would hope that if Apple offers an ARM based Mac, it would be close to that MacBook. Though the new Air isn't that much larger.

I never used the old MacBook, long time Linux and Windows user. But then I started using an iPad for flying (was mandatory, no other platform provided), now an iPad Pro. First I used it only for flightplanning with the official apps, but since I have a keyboard for it I no longer bring a laptop and just use the iPad Pro + keyboard as my "computer" when in a hotel as well.

90% of normal people usage works fine. For coding I use remote desktop to AWS, it's actually nicer to work with than the average laptop because you get so much more CPU power and bandwidth.

I’m always curious about those who use the iPad as a terminal for coding on AWS/etc. Do you use a keyboard with FN keys (e.g. F1, F2)? This has been the main drawback for me on using an iPad to code: the attached keyboard/case combos for iOS never have FN keys. I realize I could carry a separate physical keyboard, but that takes away a good bit of the portability.

I live in vim, write mostly python, and don't need function keys. An iPad gives me a range of vim ports, shells, python environment and one really good gift client.

Also the Smart Keyboard is simply the best shape for typing on a seat-back tray table.

IntelliJ works fine without F-keys, but I prefer a bit bigger keyboard over the folio ones so you an almost normal keyboard.

Which remote deskop are you using?

Have you ever tried to process RAW pictures (including pictures from Hasselblad and Fuji medium format cameras, or Canon and Sony full frame cameras) and/or edit 4K 60p video on a MacBook? Well, me neither, because it's simply impossible. Surprisingly enough, that's what I do on a regular basis on an iPad Pro. The power of the ARM setup on that machine is unbelievable. So, there you go, that's single-handedly a reason why this kind of computer makes more sense to Apple (and to me) than an underpowered Intel MacBook. I do agree that the keyboard and trackpad setup is bullshit though, as it won't really improve the apps I use for what I mentioned above--they're built for touch, not for a mouse pointer.

As always, it's a matter of what's your purpose. As a developer you'll be much better off with a MacBook Air, for that measure, which I think is a much better piece of hardware than the 12" MacBook.

Yes I have both. It’s not “impossible”. Why on earth would you think that? It’s just slower. That Macbook Air you recommend uses the same processor as the 12” MB did.

Not quite true, the 12" had <5W chips and didn't even need a fan. The airs draw a little more and need active cooling.

I recommend a MBA if you're using it as a development machine, not for photography! :)

FWIW I was processing RAW pictures on a Core 2 Duo Mac Mini 10 years ago, so I don't believe this is "simply impossible" on any modern Mac.

Hm I was processing Fuji RAW images last night on my 2019 MacBook Air with darktable quite happily. I'm sure it's not the fastest but given I'm am amateur in the field it seems like a perfectly fine way to work.

Fuji GFX 100 Raws? Because that's what I meant :D

Ah indeed! Yes, that tiny machine may struggle.

Well, the other issue is that the Macbook was bad for document reading. I ended up carrying round it and an iPad a fair amount of the time.

I still think hinged convertables can work even if a lot of the industrial design on existing models sucks.

I agree, the discontinued MacBook is perfect for light weight travel and coding. I left mine at home for two weeks of holiday travel because I am only working on a book right now. The Apple keyboard is light weight and travels well with an iPad Pro.

BTW I could not find the weight of these trackpad keyboards, and I looked. Weight is an important feature and should be listed.

They also have reliability issues with the CPU and SSD. I got a 2016 with an i5 series y processor and 512 Gen of SSD for around $615 about a year or two ago on the used market.

I have a 2015 one. it was great form factor but eventually with the exception of web browsing I went on 2018 13" due to lack of power. my MBA 13.3" 2013 is still my fav machine from last years.