I used Paperlike for a couple of years and it was OK. Then tried Astropad Rock Paper Pencil and found it much nicer to write on. Got a new M4 iPad Pro and just can’t bring myself to apply a protector. When I used one there was a noticeable difference in the screen quality for me & I like the OLED screen too much. Writing on the glass is not as nice but it’s an acceptable compromise for me.
1 Like
That is precisely my concern. My protector hasn’t arrived yet, so I don’t know what I will ultimately decide, but I wanted to try it to see what I think.
A Mac is a pretty expensive iPad accessory if that’s all you’re using it for. I guess the best option for you next time might be a cheap(ish) Mac Mini.
1 Like
+1
I agree, but Apple doesn’t provide or allow real backup software on the iPad 
. So my M1 MBA archives my offline data and backs up everything to Backblaze B2, and I wipe the dust off it from time to time.
1 Like
Yes, I’m seriously considering that, and perhaps a Studio Display with it. We’ll see.
I may have misunderstood this, but I thought iOS 18 allows external backup on the iPad. Am I wrong?
I’m glad I prefer MacBooks to iPads. Makes life simpler.
1 Like
Yes, I am able to manually back up to an external SSD using CCC Mobile (as well as the Files app). And I have the option of using CCC Mobile to back up to a NAS or a Mac. But I only back up to an SSD when I am offsite.
I prefer using Arq on my Mac to backup everything automatically.
3 Likes
That’s true for most people. But I’ve always preferred server based solutions. And I use my MBA as a second “cloud” service so I can use my cellular iPad as my primary computer. But the main reason is I enjoy using an iPad.
After working in I.T. for 30 plus years I find regular computers boring.
I used Paperlike for a few years, it is a good product.
I stopped on my current iPad Pro (bought last October) because I wanted a screen protector after I’d cracked my last 2 iPads. I don’t really consider Paperlike a screen protector - it’s a screen cover or a screen “texture”, but it serves little function in protecting your screen from knocks. That was more of a priority for me.
I draw on my iPad, and I use it daily for note-taking, and to be honest the glass screen doesn’t really bother me anyway. I get why it does bother people, and am not dismissing that, but I personally have found that I don’t find drawing on a glass screen that objectionable. I can draw for hours in one session and am quite happy!
1 Like
Since a glass screen protector is so clear and smooth, you could put a Paperlike over it and probably not notice a difference from putting it directly on the screen.
Absolutely better. I have used both for extended periods and Rock Paper Pencil wins hands down. Much easier to apply, no bubbles and can remove and clean. The pencil tips are an added advantage.
I just ordered it so I can compare the two.
I really was a fan of Rock Paper Pencil (RPP) … until version 2. I loved the writing experience until the metal pencil tip cut the protector. It did NOT scratch the glass, but it did cut the protector so I always felt those cuts whenever I would write. That was not acceptable to me. So I returned to using Paperlike which I was using previously. Paperlike it satisfactory. RPP was better yet I could not deal with that fatal flow of cutting. Maybe that was my fault because of the way I write and I write A LOT on my iPad for note taking and journaling. RPP replaced their product twice and were very cooperative, but the issue kept repeating. So … be careful!
2 Likes
What’s your verdict? With or without a cover? Enquiring minds want to know… 
Still testing. I did not like the rock paper pencil one. While well designed, it made the screen to hazy. The screen on the new M4 iPad is beautiful. I will put the Paperlike on soon to see what I think.
Still keen to hear your feedback - did you keep it?
No. It dulled my screen. I’d rather have the crisp brightness of the screen than a more paper like feel when using the pencil. 
3 Likes
I waited for someone to respond this way so I could agree wholeheartedly and not have to type anything. Though I’m typing this so am I really any better off? 
1 Like
If I used my pencil a lot, which I don’t, then the screen protector may have been worth it, but for periodic pencil use, it is not.