Should I buy an iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch all at once?

Hi everyone,

I’ve never owned any Apple devices, but I work as a software engineer and develop apps for macOS and Apple platforms. I’ve always been curious about Apple products but never used them in my personal life.

I take a lot of notes, usually on my laptop, which means I have to carry it everywhere. My current phone is an Infinix Hot 20, which some of you might not even know exists.

Here’s what I’m thinking of buying:

  • iPhone 16 Pro Max
  • iPad Pro 11" M4 (2024)
  • Apple Watch Series 10

I’m drawn to the iPhone for the design, USB-C, and thin bezels. The iPad appeals to me because of its OLED screen and minimal bezels (the iPad 10th gen and Air don’t appeal to me). The Apple Watch seems practical for notifications and emails when I’m away from my phone or laptop.

I’d buy all three on a 24-month installment plan for about 140 euros a month. As a tech enthusiast, I’m excited about the ecosystem, but is it worth getting all three at once?

What are your thoughts based on my use cases?

I’d say skip the iPad. I have one, and while it’s great, I only really use it on vacations or for specific tasks like filing taxes once a year. If you’re looking for a work device, maybe consider a MacBook instead of the iPad Pro.

I’d personally pass on the Apple Watch. I got an iPhone and iPad and don’t regret those at all, but the Watch felt like more of a status symbol. Most people I know who got one either don’t use it or ended up selling it. Stick to the phone and iPad if you ask me.

@Bailey
What’s your main use for the iPad, if you don’t mind me asking? I’m worried I won’t use it much because of the phone, but I’ve never owned one, so I’m not sure.

Techwhizkid said:
@Bailey
What’s your main use for the iPad, if you don’t mind me asking? I’m worried I won’t use it much because of the phone, but I’ve never owned one, so I’m not sure.

I use my phone for calls, texts, and work emails. My iPad is for everything else—social media, shopping, bills, personal notes, and even my calendar. It’s my main device, and the phone is just there as a backup.

@Bailey
I agree the Watch isn’t essential, but I love my Ultra 2. It’s great for music since I don’t need my phone with me all the time. It’s like having an iPod on your wrist.

I have the iPhone 16 Pro Max, Apple Watch Ultra 2, and AirPods Pro 2. I’d say the iPad and Watch aren’t necessary for most people. Even the Pro model iPhone might be overkill. A regular iPhone is perfectly fine.

I love my Watch because I use it as an iPod, but it’s more of a luxury. The iPad? I barely touch mine.

If you genuinely need a phone, tablet, and watch at the same time, then go for it. But keep your expectations realistic. iOS isn’t inherently better than other systems—it’s just what I’m used to.

I use my iPad mostly for YouTube and the occasional app, but note-taking feels clunky. As for the Watch, it’s sitting in a drawer. I realized I almost always have my phone nearby, so I didn’t need notifications on my wrist. Most people I know just use it as a fancy step tracker.

If you decide to buy all three, just know it might not revolutionize your life.

Why is this in tech support?

No.

Yes… unless it isn’t.